Meet the Lochwinnoch Primary School pupil making kids feel less lonely

Glasgow Times

26-05-2025

Annabelle - who attends Lochwinnoch Primary School - came up with the idea to create a bench where boys and girls who want someone to play with or talk to can sit down, prompting other kids to help out.
It blossomed into a meaningful new addition to the playground—a Buddy Bench.
Pictured sitting on the bench are Lochwinnoch pupils Annabelle (who had the idea for the bench) and Stanley, who designed the mural behind the bench. They are pictured with members of the school council and S1 kids from St Andrew's Academy, Paisley (Image: Colin Mearns) READ MORE: Manhunt launched after sheep-napping spree near Glasgow
This special seat offers a welcoming space for any pupil who may be feeling a little lost or simply in need of a chat, with the hope being that classmates will recognise when someone takes a seat there and respond with kindness, offering friendship and support in a safe and caring environment.
Annabelle explained how she came up with the idea.
She said: "I came up with the idea because I think people are sometimes lonely, and it can be hard to ask someone if you can play.
"I thought the bench was a good idea so that if people are lonely, they can sit on this bench and people can come to you and see if you're ok."
The bench is to help combat loneliness (Image: Colin Mearns) READ MORE: West Dunbartonshire MP slams Flamingo Land proposal recommendation
Inspired by the idea, the school contacted St Andrew's High School in Paisley to see if their woodwork department could help bring the vision to life.
The woodwork group, led by lead technician Mr Dock, took on the project enthusiastically, first creating a model of the bench and then going on to build the final piece.
He said: "When I received the request for a bench from Annabelle, I though it was a lovely idea and decided to make it a pupil -based project.
I asked the first year woodwork club if they would be interested in making the bench and they loved the idea.
"We were very fortunate to receive the wood free from Express Timber Products in Paisley which meant we have been able to make a bench for both schools."
The bench was unveiled at Lochwinnoch Primary School (Image: Colin Mearns) The result is a beautifully crafted Buddy Bench, now proudly placed in the playground for all pupils to enjoy.
It has already begun to foster a sense of connection, kindness, and support among the students.
To enhance the area even further, another talented primary six pupil, Stanley, designed a vibrant mural that now sits behind the bench.
He hopes it will help kids make friends if they are struggling.
Stanley said: "I thought it would be a cool idea to think about nature and the outdoors in Lochwinnoch because we have lots of outdoor spaces and the animals should be able to thrive.
"I hope it encourages people to make new friends and socialise."
Mhairi Peden, head teacher, added: "This project has been a wonderful example of the power of pupil voice, collaboration, and community spirit
"The school extends a heartfelt thank you to St Andrew's High School for their fantastic work and support—and to the pupils whose creativity and care helped bring this project to life."