FUNDING for community projects in Burntwood will be discussed by councillors.
Members of Burntwood Town Council’s community and partnerships committee will discuss applications to the Better Burntwood Fund at a meeting tomorrow (7th May).
They include an application from Fulfen Primary School for £547.20 to pay for a Buddy Bench.
A school spokesperson said:
“On returning to school since the isolation of Covid we have noticed some of our pupils find it difficult to socialise with their peers.
“We know only too well how mental health can affect even the smallest of children.
“The benches are colourful, friendly and attractive, they will excite our children and encourage them to talk.
“We want to provide a special place for any child who is feeling lonely, sad or anxious to go to and know that another child or adult will sit with them so that they can talk.”
Burntwood Litter Heroes are also applying for £500 to help pay for insurance and equipment.
The applications will be heard at the meeting tomorrow (7th May).
Its great that people are thinking about mental health it’s still widely ignored in society. But and I stand to be corrected, wont a bench signify that the person requiring a buddy is weak to the bullies amongst them. It will take education and an iron will amongst staff to deal with the problems that may occur. I would suggest basic education in good mental health practices amongst the staff would be a better use of finances.
I think the buddy bench is a great idea. Of course it won’t suit everyone, and it won’t just be lonely people who use it. I see there are already a couple of people on here who wouldn’t use it, but benches such as this exist elsewhere and they are well used. Well done to the school, the litter heroes, and the town council – we should be actively encouraging people to be supportive of each other, not just complaining that they aren’t.