Micky Hazard founded Legend on the Bench in memory of his nephew Jay, and the charity has already installed 89 suicide prevention benches nationwide.

National Campaign to Save Lives: Legend on the Bench Nears 100th Suicide Prevention Bench Nationwide

In a powerful blend of personal tragedy and public service, former professional footballer Micky Hazard and his sister Michelle are making headlines across the UK with their charity, Legend on the Bench, as it approaches a major milestone in its fight against suicide.

Born from heartbreak following the loss of Michelle’s 23-year-old son, Jay, to suicide in 2019, the charity has captured the nation’s attention through a simple yet deeply meaningful initiative: installing specially designed suicide prevention benches in parks, hospitals and public spaces.

Each bench carries the organisation’s resonant message — “Someone is always listening” — along with built-in lighting to offer comfort in darker hours and QR codes that link directly to round-the-clock support services for anyone struggling with mental health challenges.

Since unveiling the first bench in Sawbridgeworth in early 2024, Legend on the Bench has placed dozens of benches across England and Scotland, including recent sites in Harrogate’s Valley Gardens and Dundee, where community support and fundraising have helped bring the lifesaving installations to local parks.

The campaign is now poised to celebrate its 100th bench, which organisers say will be unveiled by the end of February — a milestone that would cement the charity’s mission in towns and cities across the country.

But the charity’s impact goes beyond parks. In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, Legend on the Bench recently installed five benches at Peterborough City Hospital, offering solace and signposting right on hospital grounds — in staff reflection areas, outside the emergency department, and along woodland walks — providing accessible points of support for patients, visitors and healthcare workers alike.

Hazard, who enjoyed a distinguished football career with Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Swindon Town, has spoken openly about the cultural barriers that often stop people — especially men — from seeking help when they are in crisis. His message is clear: asking for support is not a weakness, it’s a lifeline.

Support for the initiative has extended into fundraising events and community efforts, from long-distance charity walks to football matches and local donation campaigns, all aimed at expanding the charity’s reach and ensuring that more people can find help when they need it most.

With the UK still grappling with high rates of suicide and mental health struggles, Legend on the Bench stands out as a poignant and hopeful beacon — quite literally — for anyone feeling alone in their darkest moments.