**
In a heartwarming initiative aimed at fostering community among new parents, English Heritage is set to introduce “bonding benches” at its various historic sites across England. This innovative programme seeks to alleviate the loneliness many parents experience by encouraging them to connect with one another during family outings. With research highlighting that nearly two-thirds of new parents feel isolated, these benches will provide a welcoming space for conversation and camaraderie.
Creating Connections Amidst History
The “bonding benches” will be strategically placed in family-friendly areas of English Heritage properties, such as playgrounds and expansive lawns. Each bench will feature adjustable sliders, allowing parents to signal their openness to chat or their need for a moment of solitude. This thoughtful design aims to cater to the varying emotional states of parents, acknowledging that sometimes all one needs is a friendly conversation or, conversely, some quiet time to recharge.
Emma Fernandes Lopes, the assistant operations director at English Heritage, expressed the significance of this initiative. “As parents, we instinctively focus on the wellbeing of our children. We bring them to beautiful places like our historic sites to explore and grow. However, we often overlook that our own happiness and support systems are just as crucial to our children’s wellbeing.”
Addressing a Growing Concern
The decision to implement this programme is backed by a recent survey conducted by the National Childbirth Trust (NCT), revealing that 62 per cent of new parents experience feelings of loneliness at least occasionally. Moreover, 87 per cent reported feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of parenthood. Alarmingly, nearly a quarter of new parents indicated they lack a robust support network.
With families constituting approximately 35 per cent of visitors to the 400 sites managed by English Heritage—ranging from medieval castles to Roman forts—the charity is well-positioned to facilitate meaningful interactions among parents. The initiative not only aims to enhance the outing experience for families but also strives to create lasting connections that extend beyond the day spent at these historic locations.
Community Activities to Foster Bonds
In addition to the benches, English Heritage plans to host communal events designed specifically for young families. These will include NCT-led walks at selected sites, encouraging expectant parents and those with pre-school children to meet in the open air and share their experiences. Locations such as Audley End in Essex, Marble Hill in South West London, and Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire will be part of this initiative. The charity is actively seeking volunteers to lead these walks at additional sites, further enhancing opportunities for connection.
Why it Matters
This initiative by English Heritage addresses a critical aspect of modern parenting—the sense of isolation that can often accompany new parenthood. By creating spaces for dialogue and community engagement, the charity is not only enhancing family outings but also contributing to the mental health and wellbeing of parents. In a world where social connections can sometimes feel elusive, these “bonding benches” represent a simple yet profound step towards building supportive networks that can make an immeasurable difference in the lives of families.
