In recognition of Anti-Bullying Week (15th to 19th November), Lancashire homebuilder Barratt Homes has donated a friendship bench to Barnacre Road Primary School.

Close to its Bowland Meadow development in Longridge, the school has received a friendship bench for children to use when they need to talk to someone. It is inscribed with the message: ‘We sit, we chat and ask each other questions. We leave as friends, with all good intentions.’

Anti-Bullying Week is led by Anti-Bullying Alliance, which is a coalition of organisations and individuals, with the aim to create safe environments for children to learn, play and flourish without judgement or scrutiny.

The Anti-Bullying Alliance recognises that a small conversation can make a big difference. The organisation has reached millions of people across England and has begun to improve attitudes and behaviours towards mental health problems.

Fiona Heppenstall, Deputy Headteacher at Barnacre Road Primary School, said: “We are thrilled with the addition of the Barratt Homes’ Buddy Bench to our outdoor area as a way to help children develop their social skills, and we hope that they will use the bench as a means to communicate their feelings when they need a friend.”

Neil Goodwin, Managing Director at Barratt Homes Manchester, said: “Being open about mental health and challenging the stigma from a young age is extremely important. It affects many and inviting those that may be suffering to speak about their issues with their peers could make a world of difference.

“We hope that by donating a friendship bench, children at Barnacre Road Primary School will have the chance to talk openly to each other and staff about how they’re feeling.

“Anti-Bullying Week is an important initiative nationwide, and we relish the opportunity to reach out to schools and organisations within our community and provide support for such a deserving cause.”