Hope Benches – Your Support
Thank you for taking a moment to pause here.
This Hope Bench was made to give you a quiet, safe place to rest and think. If things feel hard, please know this: you are not alone, and help is close.
What are Hope Benches?
Hope Benches are part of a project created by the Lancaster District Adult Mental Health Forum. They are placed in calm spots so you can sit, breathe, and take a moment for yourself. Each bench shares simple ways to get support if you need it.
Who Made this Bench?
This bench was built by the Lancaster Men’s Hub, a local group who make things to help the community. The project has been funded through LifeFest 2025, supported by the George and Dragon pub. Many local organisations have also helped make this possible.
Do you need support?
If you are finding things difficult, you are not alone. There are people who want to help you.
Visit the Lancaster District Directory to find local groups, activities and support services.
- Search by the type of help you need or use simple keywords.
- Every result has a ‘Find out more’ button with contact details.
- If you need help finding something, you can use the Contact Us page
Positive Futures Crisis Café is a free, friendly place for anyone who is feeling very stressed or in emotional pain.
- Open on weekday evenings (4–8pm)
- Offers face‑to‑face support from trained peer mentors. You can talk to someone who will listen without judgement and help you find ways to cope.
- You do not need a referral.
- On some days you may need to book – you can phone their team on 01524 587223 if you want to check.
If you need help right now
If you feel unsafe or worried you might harm yourself, please get help straight away:
- Call 999 if you are in danger.
- Go to A&E at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.
- Call the Mental Health Crisis Line (24/7): 0800 013 0710.
- Call Samaritans (24/7): 116 123 – they listen without judgement.
- Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, anonymous help any time.
If you are under 18, here are services that can help you:
- Childline on 0800 1111 – free, private and open every day.
- Kooth – an online space where you can chat to a counsellor.
- Calm Harm app – helps manage urges to self-harm (for ages 13+).
- Talk to Frank on 0300 123 6600 for honest information about drugs.
- Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, anonymous help any time.
Survivor Stories
Soon, this page will include short films from local people who want to share their stories of hope, strength and recovery. These stories remind us that tough times can get better, and that asking for help is a brave and positive step.
How You Can Help Others
You can help the Hope Benches project by sharing kind words, suggesting new bench locations, or telling others about this page. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Send us an email at [email protected] to share your story
