Questions and Answers

Below is a series of some of the most frequently asked questions.
When are the Ric’s Bench sessions?
Initially the sessions will be Monday 19:00 – 21:00, Friday 14:00 – 16:00,
Friday 18:30 – 20:30 (Young adults 16 – 25).
When do the Ric’s Bench sessions start?
The first session will be on Monday 20th September.
Do I have to book to attend Ric’s Bench?
No, just turn up.
​What will a Ric’s Bench session be like?
Simply put, it is a safe space where people can come and enjoy refreshments (tea, coffee, soft drinks, cakes and biscuits), sit and talk to other people or just sit in the presence of other people. You may want to read a newspaper or do a puzzle. As Ric’s Bench evolves other elements may be added such as craft activities.
Do I have to stay for the whole session?
No, you may come and go as you please: stay for 5 minutes or 3 hours!
Is there a cost for Ric’s Bench sessions?
No, there is no cost to attend or for the refreshments. You are of course welcome to make a donation if you would like to.
Will I have to talk to anyone?
That is entirely up to you. There will people there, if you wish to talk, or you may sit quietly on your own.
Will there be trained counsellors on hand to speak to?
No, just a few caring ordinary people who are happy to listen and/or talk. And who may be able to point people in the right direction.
Is Ric’s Bench only for Christians?
No, it is for people of any faith or no faith.
Will the sessions include any religion?
Not as such. The sessions will mainly take place in the hall, but the church will also be open. There will be an opportunity to join in with a short and simple group prayer, but only if people want to. Or people may wish to sit quietly and pray or light a candle in church.
Does Ric’s Bench have disabled access?
St Richard’s Hall has a portable ramp for wheelchair access, but currently there is no fully accessible toilet (plans are in place to rectify this in the future).

If you have other questions, please be in touch using our contact form here.