IKEA workers have used company products to renovate a previously under-used council-owned space in Sheffield as part of its commitment to the South Yorkshire Beds for Babies: Safe Place to Sleep Programme.
The programme has been designed to tackle inequality in early childhood, with Gleadless Valley one of four pilot locations within South Yorkshire.
As part of the programme, IKEA is working alongside Sheffield Council, Sheffield Hallam University, Baby Basics UK, and Shelter to tackle child poverty levels, reduce pressure on public services, improve childhood development, and reduce infant mortality.
Having sought engagement with residents of Callow Place, 19 coworkers from IKEA Sheffield created a bright and inviting space for children to play, and their families to seek necessary support.
The retailer is also providing additional funding to frontline services making use of the centre, such as Shelter, so people can access resources and the support they need for a better life at home. The funding will enable provision of legal advice and drop-in clinics, such as housing rights awareness sessions and skills for employment.
Kiera Guinnane, Community Project Manager at IKEA Sheffield said: “IKEA’s vision is to create a better everyday life for the many people. Better homes are integral to this vision, but we know many people in our communities can’t achieve a better home without support.
“Partnering with programmes like the South Yorkshire Beds for Babies: Safe Place to Sleep Programme allows us to look after our neighbours whilst helping to tackle child poverty in South Yorkshire and beyond. The Sheffield project is just one of the steps we are taking to help address these concerns across the UK.”
The Sheffield project will now provide a blueprint for IKEA’s work with the Royal Foundation Business Taskforce for Early Childhood – expanding its contribution of support, design expertise and products for babies and young children to six new locations across the UK to help families with young children experiencing the greatest disadvantage.
Cllr Dawn Dale, Chair of the Education, Children’s and Families Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We always say that as a Council we are passionate about making Sheffield a city of hope and aspiration, where everyone can share in its success.
“In all we do we want children and young people, and their family members too, to feel loved, accepted and safe. Having safe spaces like this available to go and nurture those feelings and play and learn together is vital for everyone’s positive development.
“It’s great to see partners come together like this to create such a welcome addition to the community.”
