Breathing Space marks new milestone with first island bench on Islay

NHS 24’s Breathing Space service has marked another important milestone in its ‘Take Some Breathing Space’ bench initiative with the unveiling of its first bench on a Scottish island, installed in Islay.

The new bench, situated behind the pavilion at Port Ellen, builds on the continued growth of the initiative which recently celebrated the unveiling of its 100th Breathing Space bench at Stirling train station. Together, these milestones reflect the expanding reach of the programme and its commitment to ensuring people can find spaces for calm, reflection, and connection wherever they live in Scotland.

Launched in 2018 with the installation of the first bench in Troon, the ‘Take Some Breathing Space’ initiative has grown into a Scotland-wide network of benches located in parks, transport hubs, community spaces, housing developments and now island communities. Each bench serves as a visible reminder that mental wellbeing matters, and that support is available.

Breathing Space benches are designed to encourage people to pause, take a moment for themselves, or start a conversation about mental health. Every bench also clearly signposts people to the Breathing Space service, which offers free and confidential mental health support by phone and webchat to anyone in Scotland aged 16 and over.

Tony McLaren, National Coordinator for Breathing Space, said:

“Reaching island communities is an important step for the Breathing Space bench initiative. This first island bench reflects our commitment to ensuring that messages of compassion, connection, and support reach people wherever they are, including rural and remote areas.

“Whether someone chooses to sit quietly, gather their thoughts, or talk things through with someone they trust, these benches are there to remind people that they don’t have to face difficult moments alone.”

The unveiling of the Islay bench has been made possible through collaboration with local partners, highlighting the vital role communities play in promoting positive mental wellbeing and reducing stigma around mental health.

Evan Beswick, Chief Officer for Argyll and Bute HSCP, said:

“Creating supportive and compassionate spaces within our communities helps ensure that no one feels alone during difficult moments with their mental health.

“This bench serves as a simple but powerful reminder that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It encourages people to pause, connect, and remember that support, resources, and services are always available across Argyll and Bute.”

Breathing Space is part of a suite of mental health services delivered by NHS 24, offering compassionate listening, advice and signposting for people experiencing distress, anxiety, low mood, or depression.