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Everton Unveils Gary Speed ‘Talking Bench’ at New Stadium

The fan-led memorial functions as a matchday mental-health resource with trained staff on site.

Overview

  • Carol Speed inaugurated the bench at Hill Dickinson Stadium before the Everton–Newcastle match, laying flowers in her son's memory.
  • The installation features a memorial plaque and clear signposting to professional support and crisis services to encourage open conversations.
  • Everton says trained mental-health staff will be present at the bench on every matchday to assist anyone seeking help or information.
  • Everton in the Community personnel will staff the area in distinctive orange tabards, offering low‑barrier support and referrals.
  • The initiative, proposed by Fans' Forum vice chair David Wycherley, aims to reduce isolation and reflects wider efforts in football to destigmatise seeking help.