Gardai in Wicklow have launched a new 'chatting bench' initiative where people can talk to an officer for an hour a week.
The chats do not have to be garda related, but if people feel uncomfortable about going to a Garda station for any reason, the benches are a safe place for them to discuss any issues of concern.
The benches will be set up in Wicklow town at the Black Castle and in Arklow at the Parade Ground.
For at least one hour every week, with the time being announced beforehand on the Garda Síochána Wicklow Facebook page, a member of the Gardaí will be present at the benches, available to have a (socially distanced) chat with anyone interested.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District, Cllr John Snell, and Cathaoirleach of Arklow Municipal District, Cllr Sylvester Burke, welcomed the initiative being extended to their towns saying that by just having a little bit of interaction can address loneliness and isolation in our communities.
Superintendent Declan McCarthy said:
“A Garda will be present to have a chat, give advice or just say Hi and the ‘Chatting Bench’ provides the perfect opportunity for people to interact more with the Gardai in a neutral venue other than at a Garda Station”.
People on social media praised the new initiative.
One user said:
"Actually a great idea. Many people can spend entire lives with only minimal Garda interaction. I remember going to get a passport form signed in my local station only to be told by the Garda “He didn’t know me…” Nicer vibe when we see the Garda as an integral part our town…."
