Northern Ireland firm offering free benches to communities in mental health initiative

Global manufacturer of materials processing machinery and aerial work platforms, Terex, is offering free benches to community groups across Derry City and Strabane District and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council areas throughout 2024.

As part of its ‘Rest Your Mind’ initiative, Terex Ballymoney and Terex Campsie manufacturing sites are offering the ‘physical space’ seating to local community groups including clubs, societies, schools, nursing homes and other organisations.

More than ‘just’ a bench, this unique project aims to foster community connections and promote mental well-being by providing a space for reflection and open conversations about mental health.

Jonathan Hanna, general manager of Terex Ballymoney and Campsie sites, said: "I am a big believer in the idea that a problem shared is a problem halved. It is crucial to encourage people to talk about and share their issues and worries before they can escalate into something more serious.

"We believe that a physical space, represented by these benches, can serve as a symbolic reminder for individuals to take a moment for themselves, share their thoughts, and foster a sense of community support."

The highlight of these benches, which will be made in Ballymoney, is the laser-cut inscription ‘Rest Your Mind’, a reminder of the initiative's core mission to support mental health and well-being within the community.

Interested groups are invited to visit here and explain in 50 words why they believe they need a bench for their organisation.

Beginning January 2024 and for each month throughout the year, Terex will carefully select two to three of the most compelling reasons and deliver a specially crafted bench to the chosen organisations.