On Monday evening, May 19, a 113 bench was unveiled in Emmen. This bench was placed for Gijs van der Werf. He was twenty years old when he took his own life last year. Since September 2022, more than 4,500 packages have been ordered in the Netherlands for a 113 bench.
There are now more than 2,000 benches throughout the Netherlands. Benches can also be found in Drenthe. According to Stichting 113, there are currently 109 benches in the province. The municipalities of Emmen and Hoogeveen have the most benches, 35 and 31 respectively.
The 113 benches, called 1k Z1E J3 benches, are placed to allow people to talk. Because “talking can be a great relief,” says Jochum Veerman from 113. Yet the benches offer more than just a moment to chat, they also offer space for a good conversation.
“The benches are not necessarily for talking about yourself,” Veerman explains. “Everyone can use it to rest, for example.” Still, it is valuable to know how to start a conversation with someone who needs help. And it is important to let your feelings speak.
“When you see someone sitting alone, you quickly get the feeling that something is not right. Then step forward, not backward and do not keep walking. Someone may really need help,” Veerman explains.
“It is especially important not to act differently than normal, and not to make it more difficult than it is. For example, ask how someone is doing.” In addition, it is also important to be curious, according to Veerman the conversation will then come naturally.
If the conversation shows that someone would benefit from help, it is possible to scan a QR code. Via the QR code, people go to the 113 foundation website. There they will find practical tips on how to start such a conversation.
“You can actually see it as a kind of first aid. We hope that everyone will follow the training on the site, that is our goal,” says Veerman. He also hopes that the benches will become a symbol and that conversations will also take place in other places. Such as in the kitchen or in the living room.
