Local sensory centre unveils new Breathing Space bench
Forth Valley Sensory Centre logo.
Forth Valley Sensory Centre (FVSC) has unveiled their new Breathing Space bench, in partnership with a mental health charity.
The bench, outside the centre in Camelon, is part of a Scotland-wide initiative launched by charity Breathing Space in 2018. More than 60 benches have now been installed across the country, each designed to provide a quiet, welcoming place where people can take a moment to reflect, or start a conversation about mental health.
The unveiling brought together staff, volunteers, and guests from across Forth Valley, including representatives from Breathing Space and window and door manufacturer SIDEY, which funded the project. Maureen Smith, a FVSC board member and centre user, addressed the gathering, sharing her experiences as a mental health advocate and underlining the importance of open conversation and community support.
Maureen Smith cuts the ribbon on the Breathing Space bench.
Breathing Space is a free and confidential mental health support service operated by NHS 24. It was established to provide an alternative and easily accessible first stop for anyone in Scotland aged 16 or over who may be experiencing low mood, depression, or anxiety. The service offers phone and webchat support, staffed by trained advisors who listen, provide guidance, and help people find further support if needed.
Breathing Space also works to challenge stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health across communities.
The bench sits outside FVSC’s onsite cafe, located next to the centre and open year-round.
FVSC has supported people with sensory loss and their families across Falkirk, Stirling, and Clackmannanshire for more than 15 years. The centre welcomes around 20,000 visitors each year and serves as a vital resource for information, support, and community activities. It offers a wide range of services to help people live independently and with confidence. These include IT support, cookery classes, excursions, and sign and lip-reading sessions. Volunteering opportunities are also available, helping individuals develop new skills and build confidence.
Tony McLaren, Breathing Space’s national coordinator“The installation of this Breathing Space bench is a visible reminder that support is always within reach. It’s a symbol of hope, connection, and kindness, values that are at the heart of Breathing Space. We hope it encourages people to take a moment, open up, and know that they’re not alone if they need help with their mental health or wellbeing.”
Jacquie Winning, Forth Valley Sensory Centre chief executive“Living with sensory loss can bring unique challenges, and we know how important it is to have both emotional and practical support. This bench is a visible reminder that taking care of your mental health, as well as your physical health, is incredibly important. It compliments everything we do at our centre to help people live independently, confidently, and connected to their community.”
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