Sheffield Hallam University
Sheffield Hallam University has received a Homewards Fund grant to employ a Family Link Worker at Meadows Nursery, a community hub that takes a whole family approach to addressing the multiple challenges that local families face, including poverty and risk of homelessness.
Based in the Shirecliffe area of Sheffield, Meadows Nursery, a collaboration between Sheffield Hallam University and Save the Children UK, has experienced increasing demand for its services. The Link Worker will be employed for two years, to extend the type, quality and reach of support already offered to local families.
By embedding the role within the nursery, which is already trusted within the community, the project will enable earlier and immediate tailored relief for families experiencing financial hardship to help prevent homelessness. Along with involving families in the co-design of the project to ensure it meets their needs, this approach aims to upskill parents, empower families and give a platform to those advocating their own solutions, while addressing the underlying causes of homelessness.
“We are thrilled to receive this support from Homewards for our work with families at Meadows Nursery. The funding will enable us to employ a Family Link Worker who will help families to meet their most immediate challenges, including those relating to housing, and then continue that support to enable parents to work towards their aspirations.”
– Professor Sally Pearse,
Director of the Early Years Community Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University
Homewards Fund Grants
Four Homewards Fund grants have been awarded in BCP, Lambeth and Newport.
