Volunteer program launches "Plauderbank" initiative
Bergisch Gladbach Introduces the Chatter Bench: A Step Towards Combating Loneliness
In a bid to foster a sense of community and combat loneliness, the city of Bergisch Gladbach has introduced a unique initiative – the Chatter Bench. This community project, located in Villa Zanders, invites passersby to engage in friendly conversations and break down social barriers.
The idea for the Chatter Bench was developed in collaboration with the city administration, and it has garnered significant interest. At its launch, several employees from the city administration were present to show their support. Annette Kruff, the first chairwoman of the voluntary exchange RheinBerg e.V., which oversees the project, stated that the bench is intended to invite people to chat every day.
The Chatter Bench is designed to be inclusive, welcoming both young and old. Its distinct design and signage make it clear that anyone sitting there is open to chatting, making it easier for strangers to strike up conversations.
The Chatter Bench in Bergisch Gladbach represents a small yet significant step in addressing social isolation, a growing concern in urban settings. By providing a dedicated public space for social interaction, the bench aims to facilitate new friendships, support networks, and raise public awareness about loneliness as a social issue.
The project has been well-received, with Mayor Frank Stein expressing his support at the opening ceremony. He hoped that the Chatter Bench would spread and be well-visited. As a small recognition for the project, Mayor Stein handed over some bottles of red wine from the partner city Beit Jala to RheinBerg e.V.
Similar initiatives have been successfully implemented in various communities across Germany, contributing to improved mental well-being and a greater sense of community belonging. For those interested in the specific details about the Chatter Bench in Bergisch Gladbach, such as its exact launch date or detailed outcomes, further local sources or municipal communications would be recommended for consultation.
Monika Schwenner, the project initiator from RheinBerg e.V., expressed gratitude towards the city administration for the successful project start. The members of RheinBerg e.V. will be available as regular "Chatter Partners" at the Chatter Bench every Wednesday from 2 to 4 PM, ready to engage in enriching conversations with anyone who visits.
The Chatter Bench, an initiative in Bergisch Gladbach's home-and-garden landscape of Villa Zanders, aims to promote a friendly lifestyle by encouraging interactions among passersby. As a result, the project is expected to improve mental well-being and create a stronger sense of community belonging.
