A new suicide prevention bench in honour of the late TV presenter Caroline Flack aims to empower individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts. The bench, established by the charity Legend On The Bench, features illuminated benches across the UK with QR codes and messages offering assistance to those in need. Micky Hazard, former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder and ambassador for the charity, highlighted the significance of the bench paying tribute to Caroline Flack, describing her as a “lovely person” who was cherished by many.
Caroline Flack tragically passed away in February 2020 at the age of 40. The suicide bench set up in London seeks to amplify the message of hope and support for those in distress. Hazard expressed that naming the bench after Caroline Flack adds more impact and will resonate with a wider audience, potentially saving more lives. The unveiling of the Caroline Flack bench is planned for Friday, September 27, at the Tottenham Community Sports Centre, with the presence of former World Cup winner Osvaldo Ardiles, another ambassador for the charity.
Flack, known for her roles in popular TV shows like The X Factor and Love Island, took her own life following legal issues. Hazard emphasised that Flack’s story challenges the misconception that suicidal thoughts only affect certain individuals and highlights the importance of mental health awareness. The charity intends to install more benches across the UK to provide support and resources to individuals in need of help.
Since its inception, Legend On The Bench has installed several suicide prevention benches with plans to erect more across the country. The charity aims to have 40 benches established in parks and on bridges nationwide by the end of the year. By offering a platform for individuals to access support and remember Caroline Flack’s legacy, the suicide prevention benches serve as beacons of hope and encouragement for those battling mental health challenges.
For immediate support, individuals can contact the Samaritans on 116123 or email [email protected]. The initiative of installing suicide prevention benches not only commemorates the life of Caroline Flack but also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support networks in society.