Scotland’s railway stations have become a little more welcoming this week, as new Breathing Space Benches were officially unveiled in a continued effort to promote mental health awareness and encourage people to take time out for themselves.
The latest benches were installed at Dumfries, Dundee, Uddingston, and Fort William, adding to the first wave already in place at major transport hubs such as Glasgow Central and Edinburgh Waverley.
A Simple Seat With a Powerful Message
Launched in collaboration with Samaritans Scotland, Network Rail, NHS 24’s Breathing Space, and ScotRail, the benches are designed as more than just places to rest.
They act as subtle but powerful reminders that it’s okay to slow down, reflect, and—when needed—reach out for help.
Each bench is fitted with a plaque featuring contact information for the Samaritans and Breathing Space services, offering an immediate, visible resource for anyone in emotional distress.
“The benches aren’t just a place to sit,” said Arlene Dickson, Regional Development Lead for the Network Rail Partnership at Samaritans.
“They are a reminder that it’s okay to take time for yourself to pause and find clarity in what can be a busy and chaotic world.”
Mental Health Awareness Week Initiative
The expansion of the Breathing Space Bench initiative coincided with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, aiming to bring visibility to the importance of checking in on one’s own mental wellbeing—and the wellbeing of others.
Organisers hope that placing the benches in everyday public spaces will help de-stigmatise mental health conversations, especially in traditionally high-stress environments like transport hubs.
The benches are also intended to be a gentle prompt to strike up a conversation, especially for those who may be feeling isolated.
Accessible and Approachable Support
One of the goals of the initiative is to ensure that mental health support doesn’t feel clinical or out of reach. A seat at a train station may seem like a small gesture, but the message is clear: help is closer than many might realise.
Whether someone is waiting for a train or simply passing through, the benches offer:
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A quiet space to gather thoughts.
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A visual reminder that it’s okay not to be okay.
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An invitation to reach out to support services if needed.
The benches’ plaques prominently feature contact details for:
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Breathing Space – A free, confidential phone and web support service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression, or anxiety.
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Samaritans – A nationwide service offering emotional support to anyone in distress, 24 hours a day.
Building a Supportive Public Environment
The physical presence of the benches, often installed in places where footfall is high and moments of stress are common, is part of a growing recognition that mental health support must be visible and embedded in everyday life.
“Small changes to our public spaces can make a difference,” said Dickson.
“They show we’re becoming more aware of our own mental health, and how to help others who might be struggling.”
Where to Find the New Benches
The benches are now located in:
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Dumfries Railway Station
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Dundee Railway Station
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Uddingston Station
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Fort William Station
These locations were selected for their regional reach and community presence, expanding the reach of the Breathing Space initiative beyond the central belt.
A Growing National Network
With positive feedback from passengers and mental health campaigners alike, there are hopes that the scheme will continue to expand in the future, potentially reaching bus stations, ferry terminals, and more community spaces.
The Breathing Space benches are the latest in a broader strategy by NHS 24, Samaritans, and transport partners to make mental wellbeing more visible, more accessible, and more accepted.
