Child poverty charity delivers first beds

A new charity aimed at tackling bed poverty among children has just delivered its first beds to families in need.

Rise and Shine Norfolk was set up by Sara Kenny, from Hethersett near Norwich, after she became aware of a growing number of children without their own bed.

The charity Barnardo's estimates 11% of children across the UK have had to share a bed or sleep on the floor in the past year.

Kenny, who is also a mum of three children, established the charity last year in partnership with West Earlham Infant and Junior School in Norwich, located in one of the most deprived areas of the county.

Head teacher Jade Hunter said parents often told them that they had a bed with a broken base or were "really" in need of a new mattress.

"So we are seeing families that are telling us, 'I need a new bed but I can't afford one so the child is getting in bed with me or sleeping on the sofa'," she explained.

"We see children who are not getting a great night's sleep before they come into school ready to learn, and that will have, and does have, an impact on their capacity to learn each morning."

Kirsty lives in Norwich and has four children. She said money was very tight.

"My children's mattresses are so old, you start feeling the springs in them and they were having trouble sleeping."

She found out about the free bed scheme from a school letter and decided to seek help.

"I really am grateful for everything that they've done for me and my family," she explained.

"The kids are sleeping amazingly now."

It was while working at her church's community supermarket that Kenny heard repeated stories about children sleeping on the floor, and so-called bed-poverty.

"Perhaps many of us don't give beds much of a thought, but something so simple and straightforward is having a huge impact," said Kenny.

Since starting the charity, eight families have come forward for help.

"And we've been able to provide seven bed frames and mattresses and bed packs," said Kenny.

"There's lots of complicated factors that cause people to fall into hardship."

Rise and Shine is being supported by local families charity The Benjamin Foundation.

"More is always needed of course, but what a fantastic start," said Kenny.

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