SERC Launch Chatty Mental Health Campaign

The campaign aims to encourage people to keep connected, and for staff and students to promote and practice positive health and wellbeing in SERC. Anyone who wants to engage in conversation can sit down on a Chatty Bench or Chatty Seat and talk with someone. It is a fantastic opportunity to increase face to face interaction, spark up new conversations and make lasting friendships. 

The campaign was launched during Time to Talk Week. During the week-long campaign, SERC implemented and offered a week of initiatives for both staff and students which ranged from coffee and connect mornings, time to talk walks, and information stands with support services for mental health during SERC Freshers Fairs. 

The ‘Chatty Seats’ are within the reception areas of all SERC campuses, and ‘Chatty Benches’ can be found near SERC Ballynahinch, Lisburn, Newcastle and Holywood campus entrances.  

Here are some ice breaker questions to spark your conversation:  

• What interested you about sitting on a ‘Chatty Bench/Seat’? 
• What’s your favourite hobby? 
• Are you a listener or a talker? 
• Do you have any pets? 
• What’s your idea of a great day? 
• What’s the biggest adventure you’ve been on? 
• What was something courageous you’ve seen someone do? 
• Are you ok?  

Staff are encouraged to use the Chatty Benches and Chatty Seats, which can aid in making a difference to them and others in overcoming loneliness and having someone to talk to. 

Visit www.serc.ac.uk to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.