A TEAM of young people who devised a project to help combat loneliness in Minehead have had a special “conversation bench” sited in the town – and two more are waiting for a home.

The 14-strong team of 15 and 16-year-olds came up with the idea for the colourfully decorated benches as part of a National Citizen Service programme, where they had to devise and carry out a 60-hour social action project.

And they won praise for their efforts at Minehead Town Council’s meeting on Tuesday, when team members Oliver Bissett and Amelie Anderson gave a rundown on the scheme’s progress.

“It’s really encouraging that young people are working for the good of the town,” said mayor Cllr Sandra Slade. “This is a really worthwhile project and you have our support to get it completed.”

The youngsters, who have just finished at West Somerset College, were taking part in National Citizen Service (NCS), a government-funded summer programme designed to provide 15 to 17-year-olds with new experiences which give them new skills, confidence and fun.

The team came up with the idea for conversation benches after looking around the town.

“We noticed that so many people don’t talk to other members of the public, and as a result we realised that something needed to be done to combat the issue of loneliness in Minehead,” team member Mackenzie Divit told the Free Press.

“This may seem a very simple goal but too often we see people sat alone on a bench. Ultimately we want to boost the community spirit of Minehead and help different people find someone to talk to.”

For the full report, see today’s Free Press (July 26).