A new Baby Basics Barnsley centre will provide families facing financial difficulties with essential baby items including safe sleeping spaces and equipment.
The centre is a partnership between Barnsley Foodbank Partnership, South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), and Barnsley Council, who have funded the start-up costs. Families accessing the service will also be linked with wider help and practical advice.
What the scheme offers
The centre expands on the successful Beds for Babies pilot in Goldthorpe and support delivered by Barnsley's Best Start in Life Family Hubs. Both initiatives provide free beds and bedding bundles for children aged 0 to 5 years.
Since July 2025, 962 families across Barnsley have been referred to the scheme. Items provided have included 134 cots, 284 cot beds, 294 toddler beds, 245 moses baskets, 60 mattresses and 1,066 bedding bundles.
How to access support
Families struggling to afford essential items or a safe place for a baby or child to sleep can speak to their midwife, Barnsley Council's Best Start in Life Family Hubs or Barnsley CVS. They can discuss available support and, if suitable, be referred to Baby Basics Barnsley.
Councillor Gary Hall, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children's Services, said: "We want every child in Barnsley to have a great childhood, and that starts with making sure babies, children and families have the essentials they need to be safe, healthy and supported."
South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard said: "The success of the pilot in Goldthorpe showed both the scale of the challenge and the difference the right support can make. I'm proud we're now building on our success through our partnership, so more families across Barnsley can get help when they need it most."