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Happy to Chat benches

These eye-catching benches serve UCL Astrea, and the whole UCL community, to combat loneliness by providing opportunities to connect with people. They are dedicated to five inspirational women with a personal connection to UCL, who have shaped our world and left a lasting legacy.

Launch of the Happy to Chat bench in the UCL Main Quad
UCL Astrea's Happy to Chat benches launch

The launch of our inaugural bench in the UCL Main Quad took place on Monday 11 September with Aimie Chapple, Vice-President (Operations), followed by launches at Bidborough House, Pool Street West (UCL East) and the IOE, UCL's Faculty of Education and Society.  

A huge thank you to the PS Leadership Team and our Estates colleagues who supported and funded this intiative! 

Visit one of the benches and post your photos on social media using #UCLHappytoChatBenches

View the launch photos and Sponsor interviews

UCL Astrea's Happy to Chat bench in the Main Quad

About the benches

What are 'Happy to Chat' benches and where have they been installed at UCL? 

Elizabeth Garrett Anderson

Elizabeth Garrett Anderson

A leader of women’s rights in medicine and society.

Bernice Lake

Bernice Lake

First woman from the Eastern Caribbean to be appointed Queen's Counsel in 1985.

Kathleen Lonsdale

Kathleen Lonsdale

One of the first two women to become a Fellow of the Royal Society.

Constance Markievicz

Constance Markievicz

First woman elected to the British House of Commons.

Sarah Parker Remond

Sarah Parker Remond

A free-born African-American radical, suffragist, anti-slavery activist and later, a physician.

If you've enjoyed reading about and discussing these inspiring women, here are some more campaigns to browse and chat about!