Wednesday, June 25, 2025
In an initiative that combines sustainability with community support, Southern Railway has donated its old railway station benches to Old Ben Homes, a charity-based sheltered accommodation in Seaford, Sussex. The benches, originally part of the Southern rail network, were removed as part of the ongoing station improvements carried out by the country’s largest train operator, Govia Thameslink Railway. These refurbished benches have now found a second home at the Seaford charity, offering its residents a chance to enjoy the outdoors and enhance their wellbeing.
The Benches’ Journey from Stations to Sheltered Housing
Southern Railway’s programme of continuous station improvements meant that several wooden benches, painted in the distinctive green colours of the company, were no longer needed. Rather than discarding these benches, the company chose to restore them and repurpose them for a charitable cause. On Tuesday, June 17, the benches were carefully transported to Old Ben Homes, where they were placed in the charity’s communal grounds for use by residents.
This thoughtful donation is more than just about repurposing furniture—it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of the elderly residents who live in sheltered housing. Old Ben Homes, which provides housing for former workers of the newspaper industry, offers a safe and supportive environment for people to live independently while also fostering a sense of community.
Angela Farrant, housing manager at Old Ben Homes, expressed the charity’s gratitude for the donation. She explained, “As a charity offering sheltered housing, our priority is always keeping our properties well-maintained and safe to enable our residents to live a long and happy life. However, funding for additional amenities such as benches is often limited.”
The donated benches, now situated around the beautiful grounds of Old Ben Homes, provide residents with much-needed outdoor seating where they can relax, socialise, and enjoy the warm summer weather. The benches allow for moments of rest and comfort in the communal areas, supporting the social engagement that is essential for maintaining a healthy, independent lifestyle.
The Importance of Socialising and Wellbeing in Sheltered Housing
At Old Ben Homes, residents place a high value on spending time in the outdoor areas, where they can interact with one another, enjoy the gardens, and feel a connection to the surrounding community. Socialisation in these communal spaces is crucial for mental and physical health, as it helps combat isolation and encourages a sense of belonging.
Farrant continued, “Being able to socialise in the communal grounds is so important for our residents’ health and wellbeing. This, in turn, helps them maintain an independent and healthy lifestyle. Having these newly donated benches from Govia Thameslink Railway is a welcome addition that will certainly be appreciated by all.”
She also expressed her gratitude on behalf of the charity, stating that the benches have made a significant impact on the residents’ experience at Old Ben Homes. “Our residents at Seaford regularly enjoy socialising in our grounds as a community, so having these newly donated benches is very much welcome by all,” she said. “Old Ben Homes staff, trustees, and residents send their sincere thanks.”
The Historical Significance of Old Ben Homes
Old Ben Homes has a rich history, having been established in the early 19th century. The charity was founded by a group connected with the sale and distribution of newspapers, and Charles Dickens even served as the organisation’s president in the 1850s. Today, the charity continues to provide sheltered homes for individuals who previously worked in various aspects of the news trade, such as retailing, wholesaling, and distribution.
The charity has remained committed to supporting its residents, many of whom have a lifelong connection to the newspaper industry, through quality housing and community initiatives. The recent donation of benches is just one example of the charity’s ongoing efforts to create an enriching and supportive environment for its residents.
The Role of Govia Thameslink Railway in Community Engagement
Rovin Vaz, facilities manager at Govia Thameslink Railway, spoke about the significance of the donation, stating, “I’m really pleased that our station benches have found a new home in Seaford. I hope the residents and staff at Old Ben enjoy them.” He also highlighted the company’s broader commitment to supporting local communities, adding, “We will continue to develop our relationship with communities and are committed to delivering more projects in the future.”
This donation aligns with Govia Thameslink Railway’s ongoing efforts to engage with the communities they serve. The company regularly explores ways to support local initiatives, whether through environmental sustainability or by contributing to community welfare. The donation of the benches is part of a larger effort to repurpose materials and resources in a way that benefits those who need them most, creating a positive impact on the local community.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
The repurposing of these old railway station benches is also a nod to sustainability. Instead of disposing of the benches, Govia Thameslink Railway gave them a second life, reducing waste and contributing to the circular economy. By restoring the benches and donating them to Old Ben Homes, the company has taken an environmentally responsible approach, ensuring that these benches continue to serve a meaningful purpose while benefitting those in need.
Looking Ahead: Continued Collaboration and Community Support
This donation marks just one of many steps taken by Govia Thameslink Railway and other stakeholders in the rail industry to support local communities. In the future, it is likely that more initiatives of this kind will arise, as the company continues to explore ways to give back to the communities it serves.
The donation of these benches to Old Ben Homes in Seaford is a heartwarming reminder of the difference that small acts of kindness can make in enhancing people’s lives. As more people and businesses like Govia Thameslink Railway engage in similar acts of social responsibility, the collective impact on communities can be profound.
