Our Family celebrating differences together

Stories shared with us from families whom have stayed

Real stories from Our Bench guests. How accessible holidays in the New Forest have made a difference to families, wheelchair users and carers across the UK.

Making a difference, one family at a time, our stories

At Our Bench, Matt and I believe that accessible holidays are about far more than ramps and equipment. They are about people, reassurance, dignity, and being truly listened to. We try and welcome every guest personally, take time to hear their story, if they choose to share, and adapt our accommodation wherever we can to meet individual needs. This is why we ask lots of questions, before you even arrive. Many of our guests return again and again, becoming part of the wider Our Bench family.

We are very hands on, and our approach comes from lived experience. Like many of the families who stay with us, we have cared for loved ones with a wide range of disabilities and additional needs. We understand the emotional, practical, and often exhausting reality that sits behind planning a breakaway.

Over the years, our own experiences, the knowledge generously shared by families, the opportunities guests have enjoyed while staying here, and the local supportive businesses we have come to know have all helped shape how Our Bench has grown.

In this section of our website, we share some of those experiences and personal stories with you. They are real, honest, and rooted in everyday life, offering insight, reassurance, and a sense of connection for anyone navigating accessible travel or caring responsibilities.