Biggleswade Unveils Second Suicide Prevention Bench

Mayor Jonathan Woodhead attended the unveiling of a special Suicide Prevention bench at Biggleswade Cricket Ground today.

This installation marks the second such bench in Biggleswade and the 85th bench nationwide created by Legend-on-the-Bench, a non-profit charity founded by former professional footballer Micky Hazard and his sister, Michelle. Their first bench was installed at Kitelands Recreation Ground last year. 

The charity was established following the tragic death of Michelle’s son, Jason Lee Mead, with the aim of reducing the number of lives lost each year to suicide and mental health struggles.

Each Suicide Prevention bench installed in public spaces across the UK features a clearly visible QR code that can be easily scanned using a smartphone. The code directs users to a comprehensive list of professional support services, including contact numbers, websites, and email addresses, ensuring that help is always within reach.

By placing these benches in community spaces, the charity hopes to foster awareness, encourage open conversations around mental health, and remind those who may be struggling that support is just a scan away. With a built in solar panel, the benches ‘light up’ at night, a kind of symbol of hope. 

For more information about the charity and its work, visit www.legend-on-the-bench.co.uk.