The plaques, which will be positioned on benches and buildings across the town, carry the Samaritans message “You talk, we listen – because mental health matters.” They encourage anyone feeling low or struggling to reach out for support, signposting them to Samaritans, emergency assistance, and the Council’s online mental health resources.
The plaques will be installed at Swanley Park, The Olympic, Swanley Station, Swanley Village, Swanley Recreation Ground, Elephant Park, The Oaks, and along London Road. Mental health difficulties can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances. Statistics indicate that around one in four people in England experience a mental health problem each year, with approximately one in five experiencing common issues like anxiety or depression weekly. Around one in five children and young people aged 8 to 25 also have a probable mental health problem.
Suicide prevention is highlighted as a crucial aspect of raising awareness, with men accounting for approximately three-quarters of registered suicide deaths, and those in sectors like construction facing disproportionately high risks. These figures underscore the importance of breaking down stigma and encouraging open conversations about feelings.
The Council hopes these messages in public spaces will help residents recognise when support might be needed. Mayor of Swanley, Councillor Michael Horwood, stated, “These plaques are a small but meaningful way of reminding people that they are not alone and that there is support available when they need it, especially in crisis. We want Swanley to be a place where people feel comfortable talking about their mental health, where asking for help is encouraged and where kindness and understanding come first.”
Ryan Hayman, Chief Executive Officer of Swanley Town Council, added, “Nobody should feel that asking for help makes them weak, or that they have to wait until they reach breaking point before speaking to someone. As a Council, we look after parks, public spaces, buildings and facilities, but as humans our responsibility extends beyond that environment. The words on these plaques are deliberately simple: ‘You talk, we listen.’ Sometimes, people do not need someone to have all the answers. They need someone willing to listen without judgement.”
The plaques provide clear signposting for support: Samaritans can be called on 116 123, free, day or night. Swanley Town Council's mental health resources are available at www.swanleytowncouncil.gov.uk/help/ or via a QR code on the plaque. For emergencies where someone's life is in danger, 999 should be called.
