Community comes together for Time to Talk Day

Residents, charities and local young people gathered at Bowleaze Cove yesterday to mark Time to Talk Day, a national awareness campaign encouraging open conversations about mental health.

The event brought together Dorset Mind and Dorset Tea at the Chatty Bench, located within the popular greenspace overlooking the bay. The initiative aims to create welcoming spaces where people feel comfortable starting conversations, helping to break down stigma and encourage people to speak openly about their mental wellbeing.

Young people from a local school joined representatives from both organisations, taking part in discussions about the importance of listening, supporting one another and taking small but meaningful steps towards better mental health.

Time to Talk Day serves as a reminder that simple conversations can make a significant difference. The Chatty Bench at Bowleaze Cove has been designed as an inclusive space for everyone — whether residents, visitors or those simply passing by — to pause, connect and talk.

Organisers said the gathering highlighted how community spaces can play an important role in encouraging openness and connection, particularly among younger generations.