Veolia, Solihull Council’s parks maintenance provider, has launched a new mental health initiative to encourage residents to use green spaces, including the introduction of a buddy bench in Malvern Park and the provision of resources to community walking groups.
Veolia is working in partnership with Solihull Council to empower walking groups that use Solihull’s parks as an important tool for improving mental health.
A specially designed ‘buddy bench’ has been introduced at Malvern Park as part of a pilot initiative to help any residents seeking support, which Veolia’s dedicated parks team will maintain year-round. The bench, identifiable by its distinctive green stripe, features a QR code which provides instant access to a comprehensive directory of Solihull's mental health resources and professional support services via the Council’s website. Community walking group leaders have also been provided with reflective bags containing specially designed cards featuring the same QR code to further support park users. In addition, whistles have been issued to enhance safety by allowing walkers to quickly alert the group to issues.
This follows Veolia’s previous work with Solihull Men’s Walking and Talking Group during Mental Health Awareness Week through the installation of positive affirmations on the paths and gates of Malvern Park.
Visitors can access mental health resources and information about local support services at www.lovesolihull.org/mentalhealthawareness
Wayne Rowley, Senior Operations Manager for Veolia Solihull, said: “We understand the vital role that the parks and green spaces play in enhancing community wellbeing and our park maintenance team works hard all year round to keep them in great condition for wildlife and people alike. We are pleased to support the Mental Health Walking and Talking groups that use the parks as a tool in healing by installing a dedicated buddy bench and equipping them with essential safety tools and access to resources.”
Councillor Karen Grinsell, the Leader of Solihull Council, said: “The new Buddy Bench is a great addition to Malvern Park. This beautiful, well kept green space within Solihull town centre is popular with many residents, including our local mental health walking groups for both men and
women. The walk leaders will be able to use the bench to chat to people one on one and help new
people feel that little bit more comfortable the first time they attend.
“At the Council, we recognise how important our parks are for wellbeing and mental health in
Solihull, so thank you to Veolia and the group organisers for helping us to connect in our shared
spaces.”
Keeley Skelding, Solihull Women’s Stride Squad: “The new Buddy Bench in Malvern Park will be such a valuable addition to our community. For many, simply having a welcoming place to pause, sit, and connect can make a huge difference to mental wellbeing. The fact that this bench includes a QR code linking directly to trusted mental health resources means that support is now just a seat — and a click — away.
“At Solihull Women’s Stride Squad, we meet regularly in the park to walk, talk, and support each other. Our members often say these walks help them feel less alone, more active, and more connected. Having the Buddy Bench here will add another layer of comfort and care for anyone who might need it — whether they’re part of our group or just passing through. We’re proud to be part of the launch and to help spread the message that no one in Solihull should feel they have to face challenges alone.”