Essex housebuilder David Wilson Homes has donated a buddy bench to a primary school in Burnham-on-Crouch, to support the social well-being of the school’s pupils. The buddy bench, which was donated to Burnham-on-Crouch Primary School, is inscribed with the message: ‘We sit, we chat and ask each other questions. We leave as friends, with all good intentions.’
It will serve as a safe space for children to connect, make new friends, and find comfort during times when they may feel lonely or in need of companionship. The donated bench will also encourage positive social interactions, empathy, and inclusiveness among the students, in order to promote a supportive environment that aligns with the values of Burnham-on-Crouch Primary School.
Alex Russ, Acting Headteacher at Burnham-on-Crouch Primary School, said: “The bench is always in use and is a safe space for the pupils to interact. The children are so well behaved and conscientious.
“On numerous occasions, I have seen children approach other pupils sitting on the bench and ask them if they would like to play – it is always lovely to see! We would like to thank David Wilson Homes for their kind donation.” Managing Director at David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties, Tom Wright, said: “Having a space to socialise with peers, create friendships and be open about mental health from a young age is extremely important.
“We hope that by donating a friendship bench, children at Burnham-on-Crouch Primary School will be encouraged to talk openly to each other and staff about how they are feeling.” Following the successful selling out of its Corinthian Place development in Burnham-on-Crouch, David Wilson Homes is set to bring more homes to Burnham-on-Crouch, and has a number of brand-new developments emerging in the Essex region.
These include Great Dunmow Grange in Great Dunmow, High Elms Park in Hockley, and Mortimer Place in Hatfield Peverel.
