Lazy Susan Furniture Launches Initiative to Donate 40 Friendship Benches in Surrey
Lazy Susan Furniture, a prominent online retailer specialising in cast-aluminium garden furniture, has unveiled a generous philanthropic project aimed at enhancing community well-being across Surrey. The company is donating 40 free Friendship Benches to qualifying not-for-profit organisations, with the goal of bringing people together, encouraging meaningful conversations, and creating welcoming outdoor spaces for social interaction.
Eligibility and Impact of the Friendship Benches
The 40 Friendship Benches are available to a diverse range of eligible organisations operating within Surrey. This includes schools, hospitals, hospices, and any registered charities that serve the local area. These benches are thoughtfully designed to address issues of loneliness by providing a dedicated spot where individuals of all ages can sit, chat, and build lasting relationships. By fostering connections, the initiative aims to strengthen community bonds and improve mental well-being through simple, accessible outdoor seating.
Expanding Philanthropic Efforts and Future Plans
This donation is part of Lazy Susan Furniture's ongoing commitment to social responsibility, highlighted by its long-standing 'Do Some Good' campaign. Over the past decade, the campaign has successfully contributed more than £588,000 to various charitable causes, demonstrating the company's deep-rooted dedication to giving back. Looking ahead, founder Michael Scott has pledged to expand this impact significantly by donating 400 metal garden benches nationwide in 2026. This ambitious plan will extend the company's philanthropic reach across the UK, further promoting community engagement and support.
Founder's Vision for Community Connection
Michael Scott, the founder of Lazy Susan Furniture, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating: "I firmly believe in the power of community, the joy of being outside, and the simple act of human connection. These Friendship Benches are more than just outdoor seating; they are places for people to pause, relax, and perhaps strike up a conversation with someone they have never spoken to before. We are incredibly proud to support Surrey organisations in creating these vital spaces where friendships can flourish and communities can strengthen." His words underscore the initiative's core mission to enhance social cohesion through accessible, inviting environments.
How Organisations Can Apply
Qualifying not-for-profit organisations in Surrey are encouraged to apply for a free Friendship Bench through the dedicated application process. This opportunity allows eligible groups to enhance their facilities with benches that promote interaction and reduce isolation, contributing to a more connected and supportive community landscape across the region.
