Benches set up to tackle loneliness

The Halesowen bench was first created after the coronavirus pandemic

Benches across the Black Country have been turned into meeting places for people who are feeling lonely.

The initiative is being run to mark Loneliness Awareness Week and the Say Hello benches have been set up in seven locations.

Daily events are also being held to create a friendly atmosphere, including performances from local choirs.

Vicky Rogers is from Halesowen BID said the benches there had been "designed in a way to stimulate natural conversation," with face-to-face seating.

She said her local bench, on Hagley Road in Halesowen town centre, was originally created just after the coronavirus pandemic when "social isolation was seen to be on the rise".

This week, she said they had enhanced their usual offering there, with a series of groups hosting sessions and performances.

A series of events will be held at the benches including performances by local choirs

The other benches can be found in Coseley, Sedgley, Dudley, Brierley Hill, Stourbridge and Huntingtree Park.

They are due to continue operating until 16 June.