English Heritage Unveils 'Bonding Benches' to Foster Connections and Alleviate Parental Isolation
In a heartfelt initiative aimed at addressing the growing issue of parental loneliness, English Heritage is rolling out innovative "bonding benches" across its renowned historic sites. This creative scheme is designed to encourage parents visiting iconic locations such as Stonehenge in Wiltshire and Tintagel Castle in Cornwall to forge new friendships and share experiences about the joys and challenges of raising children.
Sliding Notices for Social Interaction or Solitude
A standout feature of these specially designed benches, which will be installed at all English Heritage paid-for sites, is a sliding notice that visitors can adjust to indicate their social preferences. Parents can set the sign to "up for a chat" if they are keen to engage in conversation, or "craving quiet" when they prefer a moment of peace and reflection. This simple yet effective tool allows for flexible interaction, catering to the varying needs of parents on different days.
Complementary Activities for Young Families
Beyond the benches, English Heritage is enhancing its offerings with a range of communal activities tailored for young families. The charity will host National Childbirth Trust (NCT) volunteer-led sling and buggy walks at selected sites, providing a supportive environment for parents to connect while exploring the outdoors. Additionally, family visitors can participate in an "adventurer's checklist of tasks," which includes fun activities like spotting animal life, splashing in puddles, and making silly sounds in echoey spaces to enrich their visit.
Addressing Modern Parenthood Challenges
Emma Fernandes-Lopes, the assistant operations director at English Heritage, highlighted the isolation often experienced in modern parenthood. "Many parents live far from extended families and lack a strong support network, making it difficult to find like-minded friends," she explained. "We recognise that while parents prioritise their children's wellbeing, their own happiness and support are crucial too." She emphasised that English Heritage sites, which see families comprising over a third of visitors, are ideal for fostering these vital connections, echoing their historical role as community hubs.
Research and Strategic Placement
English Heritage has cited research from the NCT revealing that two-thirds of new parents frequently feel lonely or isolated, with nearly 90% experiencing overwhelm. Almost a quarter report lacking a robust support network. To maximise impact, the bonding benches will be strategically placed in family-friendly areas, such as near playgrounds or open grassland, where parents naturally gather.
Fernandes-Lopes, a mother of three, shared her personal insights: "Parenthood can be magical but also tough. We're excited to install these benches ahead of the half-term holiday, leveraging our widespread sites across England to help combat loneliness." She added that the sliders allow parents to communicate their needs clearly, acknowledging that each day can bring different emotions and requirements.
NCT Walks at Key Locations
The NCT-led walks will be held at several prominent English Heritage sites, including Audley End in Essex, Kenwood in north London, Marble Hill in south-west London, Wrest Park in Bedfordshire, and Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire. These walks aim to provide a structured yet relaxed setting for parents to meet and support one another, further enhancing the sense of community at these historic venues.
By reintroducing a spirit of camaraderie to its ancient stone circles, abbeys, castles, and manor houses, English Heritage is not only preserving history but also nurturing contemporary social bonds. This initiative underscores the charity's commitment to making its sites welcoming spaces where parents can find solace, friendship, and a renewed sense of belonging amidst the demands of family life.
