Park benches in Windsor and Maidenhead fitted with grief support plaques

Plaques are being fitted on benches across the Royal Borough this month signposting to support services for those struggling with losing a loved one. 

The initiative follows a launch event at Windsor Castle to mark the eighth anniversary of the Good Grief Trust.

Help and Hope plaques provided by the trust contain a QR code to information on more than 1,000 support services and groups that help those grieving, in any circumstances, anywhere in the UK.

Founder of the Good Grief Trust Linda Magistris said: “We hope this simple initiative will ensure that anyone who is bereaved, anywhere in the UK, will know they are not alone, and that services are available to them.

“We know there is a disparity in awareness around bereavement support services up and down the country, and these plaques on benches across the borough will ensure anyone looking for help can immediately access support that is right for them.”

Council representatives met with Linda, Patron Dame Penelope Wilton and Ambassador Greg Wise as the first plaque was unveiled on a bench at the statue of the Irish Guard in Windsor.

By placing the plaques on benches in the Royal Borough, the council aims to encourage more people to access bereavement support near them to help protect their physical and mental health.

This follows The Royal Windsor Rose and Horticultural Society donating ten plaques to the Royal Borough after it supported the launch of the ‘Sit with Hope’ initiative at the Royal Windsor Flower Show in 2023.

Since June last year, more than 800 plaques have been fitted across the UK.

Cllr Geoff Hill, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport and Customer Service Centre said: “Supporting local people is a key part of our Council Plan.

"I am delighted that the plaques donated by the Royal Windsor Rose and Horticultural Society will be fitted on local benches across the borough, helping more people to access the space and the support that they need when remembering their loved ones.”

For more information or to donate a plaque visit: https://www.thegoodgrieftrust.org/need-know-info/sit-with-hope/