Heritage education provides a way to wellbeing
A growing body of research evidence suggests that engaging with museums and heritage sites is good for people’s mental and physical wellbeing.
There are many factors driving this agenda, not least the pace of change in many communities, an ageing population, increasing inequality and isolation, and financial constraints across all public services.
Museums and heritage sites provide a safe yet stimulating environment where you can learn something new and meet other people. Through volunteer programmes, they also offer the opportunity to develop new skills and contribute to the wider community. There can be few better places in which to put the so-called ‘five ways to wellbeing’ into practice: Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, Give.
“Whether it’s people within the group, whether it’s the general public I meet when I’m walking round the park doing things, or working in the Hall as a guide, I just enjoy talking to people… being part of a unit that works is important.”
Volunteer at Oakwell Country Hall and Park, Kirklees