BED poverty which is impacting toddlers in one of the poorest parts of the borough is set to be tackled as part a new project to give youngsters a safe space to sleep.
The Beds For Babies pilot launched in Goldthorpe on Monday and funding was supplied by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA).
As part of the pilot, staff at the Dearne Family Hub will work closely with families across Goldthorpe, helping them to access free beds and bedding bundles.
Bed poverty includes broken beds, mouldy or soiled mattresses and bedding, or bed sharing.
More than 15,000 children are said to be living in poverty in Barnsley and a decision was taken to offer it to any family experiencing hardship.
Coun Trevor Cave, cabinet spokesperson for children’s services, said: “We’re really proud of the role our family hubs play in our communities, making sure families have the right support.
“That’s why we’re excited to bring Beds For Babies to Barnsley, starting with our pilot in Goldthorpe, helping us give more of our young people the best possible start in life.
“This initiative will make sure our youngest children have a safe space to sleep, offering free beds and bedding to those who need it most.
“We’re proud to be tackling bed poverty in Barnsley, making sure we’re having the right conversations along the way to support families.”
Since last summer when the programme started in Sheffield, Doncaster and Rotherham more than 3,800 items have been delivered already.
SYMCA invested more than £2m into the scheme after a rise in ‘bed poverty’ impacting youngsters was identified.
South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard, added: “Every child deserves the best possible start in life and that begins with a safe place to sleep.
“A good night’s sleep has been shown to improve a child’s learning and development.
“It can also improve the whole family’s physical and mental health.
“By supporting families in Barnsley through Beds For Babies, we’re not just tackling bed poverty - we’re investing in healthier, happier futures for everyone.
“We have supported over 1,900 children and provided more than 3,800 essential items.
“Families can be offered free Moses baskets, cots and cot beds, toddler beds, mattresses and bedding bundles.
“The scheme is not means-tested, meaning it is open to any family living in Barnsley who needs support.
“Each local authority selected a community which faces a range of health and socio-economic challenges.
“These areas are Gleadless in Sheffield), Goldthorpe in Barnsley, Mexborough in Doncaster and Swinton in Rotherham.
“I’m proud that we’re working together in Barnsley and across South Yorkshire to make sure no child goes without the essentials they need to thrive.”
