Wolverhampton's Good Night Project continues to tackle bed shortages
They aim to help families who are struggling through the cost of living crisis
The Good Night Project, established by the city council in response to the cost of living crisis, continues to see strong demand as families struggle with inadequate sleeping arrangements.
The initiative was created after it became clear that some residents were forced to sleep on the floor due to a lack of beds.
Providing essential beds and bedding
Since its launch in 2023, and in collaboration with the African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI), the project has supplied:
- 621 beds
- 674 mattresses
- 246 bedding sets
- 24 cots
These resources have helped ensure families, particularly those with young children, have access to essential sleeping facilities.
Ongoing demand across the region
Despite over a year of support, the need remains significant. The project currently receives an average of 25 referrals each week, with toddler beds and cots being the most requested items.
Funding and community partnerships
To date, the council has allocated £130,000 from the Government’s Household Support Fund to support the initiative. The Good Night Project is also working toward self-sufficiency through partnerships with local businesses and voluntary organisations.
The project is integrated into the council’s City Homemakers initiative, which benefits from donations collected through the Too Good to Chuck scheme at Shaw Road Household Waste and Recycling Centre.
Need for more donations
The demand for beds remain high. The project is particularly seeking:
- Toddler beds
- Double and triple bunk beds
- Single beds for children.
Councillor Stephen Simkins, Leader of the Council, emphasised the importance of the scheme:
"As a council we are determined to be there to support our residents when they need us most.
"Everyone should be able to have their own bed to sleep in at night and it’s sad there is a need for a project like this, but I’m glad we are able to help.
"We are still in tough times, but we will continue to support the great work carried out by this project throughout the city."