Our Story

We are raising funds to create a Chatty Bench at Wey Valley, a simple but powerful idea designed to encourage conversation, connection and kindness within our school and wider community.

A Chatty Bench is a designated space where anyone feeling lonely, overwhelmed or simply in need of a chat can sit. It acts as a gentle signal that they would welcome someone to talk to, helping to reduce isolation and promote positive mental health.

This project is inspired by the wider Dorset Mind Chatty Bench initiative, which is helping schools and communities across Dorset create safe, welcoming spaces for conversation and support.

You can find out more about the initiative here: https://dorsetmind.uk/get-involved/chatty-benches/chatty-bench-weymouth/

About Wey Valley

At Wey Valley, this project is a collaborative whole-school initiative bringing together students, staff and the Art Department.

Mark Salmon, who is leading this initiative, states:

“Supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing is vitally important and also improves outcomes for later life. The project will bring students and staff together through the Art Department who, working with Two Little Birds, will design, paint and maintain the Chatty Bench. Its location on the playing field and outdoor learning area overlooks a tranquil space and the wildlife area at Lorton Meadows. The bench can be used by students and staff at social times and the community on weekends where sports fixtures take place. It will also form a modern way of accessing further support and reading about both charities which are close to our hearts.”

Two Little Birds

This bench is dedicated in memory of Riley Ellis and Trey Rodd, two young lives tragically lost to the silent struggles of mental health.

It is created in partnership with Two Little Birds, a community initiative set up in their memory. The initiative exists to honour Riley and Trey by turning loss into positive action, supporting young people’s mental health through awareness, education and fundraising.

Through this work, Two Little Birds helps encourage open conversations about mental health, supports early awareness in schools and communities, and helps ensure young people feel supported and able to seek help when they need it.

"Two Little Birds – The Riley and Trey Foundation are proud to be supporting, alongside Dorset Mind and Wey Valley Academy, the creation of this Chatty Bench in memory of Riley Ellis, who sadly suffered in silence with his mental health.

It stands as a gentle reminder that no one has to face things alone; there is always someone ready to listen. A simple conversation can change a day, a life, or even a future. This bench is a place to reflect and seek support, because every mind matters and we must help break the silence! "

Dorset Mind

Dorset Mind is a local mental health charity supporting people across Dorset through early intervention services, wellbeing workshops, peer support groups and one to one support.

Their work focuses on helping people access support early, build resilience and feel more connected within their communities.

Emma Murgatroyd from Dorset Mind said:

“Early support can make a significant difference to a young person’s mental health. Projects like the Wey Valley Chatty Bench help create safe, welcoming spaces where conversation can begin and connection can grow. We are proud to support this initiative, which not only raises awareness but also helps ensure young people across Dorset can access timely support through Dorset Mind services when they need it most.”