The project was developed by the Community Partnership Team in partnership with Craigneuk Lifelong Learning Association, Breathing Space and NHS Health Improvement Team. 

The bench replaces an older bench removed a number of years ago on the grass area outside of Craigneuk Lifelong Learning Association. The bench was hugely missed by local people looking for a resting place along this area of Craigneuk. 

Our Community Partnership Team, Craigneuk Lifelong Learning Centre, NHS Breathing Space and NHS Health Improvement Team met to discuss the potential of a mental health focused project in the Craigneuk area. The focal point being the installation of a “Breathing Space Bench” that encourages listening, talking, taking some breathing space and showing kindness and compassion. 

The bench would be situated outside Craigneuk Lifelong Learning Centre (CLLA) and would replace an older bench removed a number of years ago on the grass area outside CLLA. The bench was hugely missed by local people looking for a resting place along this area of Craigneuk. 

Funding to support the manufacturing and installation of the bench was provided through the  Community Solutions Local Activity Fund and our Local Development Programme. 

 The bench was officially unveiled on 13 November 2025 during a week of mental health and wellbeing activities held in the Centre on the week running up to World Kindness Day to help promote positive mental wellbeing. 

 Breathing space has offered a further programme of sessions to increase the knowledge and understanding of Breathing Space and the suite of Mental Health services available to individuals through NHS 24.  

This project contributed to the LOIP priorities of mental health and wellbeing, community engagement and tackling poverty and inequalities.