A new initiative is bringing Wind Phones to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, offering residents a unique way to express memories, gratitude and personal reflections.
The Wind Phone Project, launched by the Bournemouth Writing Festival, will see a series of pop-up Wind Phones installed in various community locations, venues, festivals and businesses across the region in June and July.
Unlike traditional telephones, Wind Phones are not connected to any phone line. Instead, they provide a private space for people to have one-sided conversations with loved ones, friends, pets, or even themselves, whether to remember, celebrate or simply take a moment away from daily pressures.
Originating in Japan, Wind Phones have become places for reflection and remembrance worldwide. Organisers in Dorset are expanding the concept to include sharing good news, expressing gratitude and working through challenges, not just remembering those who have died.
Festival Director Dominic Wong explained that the project is about giving people permission to say important words out loud. Dominic said, “Words are incredibly powerful, but so often the things that matter most stay locked away in our heads. The Wind Phone gives people permission to say those words out loud.”
Community groups, charities, care homes, schools and local organisations will be able to commission their own Wind Phones or borrow the festival’s phones. The festival is also seeking new locations, donations, sponsors and partners to help expand the project.
Anyone interested in supporting or hosting a Wind Phone can find more information on the festival’s website.
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