‘Big-hearted’ city rallies behind rebuild

A Sheffield-based homelessness charity is gaining momentum in its bid to transform a vital city centre support hub following a surge in donations.

The Archer Project has secured more than £211,000 in new funding towards its £2 million appeal to rebuild and upgrade its base at Sheffield Cathedral.

Launched in February, the campaign aims to modernise the Campo Lane centre, which first opened in 2006 and now requires significant improvements to continue supporting people facing homelessness.

Recent contributions include support from the Bramall Foundation and local ward councillors, adding to growing backing from across the city.

Joe Logan, head of fundraising at The Archer Project, said: “The response to our campaign has been nothing short of phenomenal.

“Sheffield has an extraordinarily big heart, and we’re incredibly grateful to Liz and Terry Bramall and the Bramall Foundation, councillors Douglas Johnson, Ruth Mersereau and Martin Phipps and Sheffield Cathedral for backing our plans to rebuild our centre.

“This support is a real boost for the campaign and sends a clear message that people across our city want to be part of the solution.”

Abi Thompson, dean of Sheffield Cathedral, added: “The Archer Project does such incredible work for people experiencing homelessness in our city. 

“We are proud to host The Archer Project at Sheffield Cathedral, and every day we see the care, dignity, and hope they offer to those who need it most. 

“We are deeply grateful for their team and for the many people across Sheffield who support this vital work.”

The charity operates from premises within Sheffield Cathedral, which continues to support both its day-to-day services and future redevelopment plans.

With homelessness presentations in Sheffield reaching around 3800 last year and hundreds of households in temporary accommodation, demand for services remains high.

The Archer Project estimates the rebuild could generate £85 million in social value over 15 years, with further fundraising efforts now underway as the appeal continues to gather pace.

Rebecca Bletcher, chair at the Bramall Foundation, added: “Everybody deserves a roof over their head and somewhere safe and warm to sleep.

“We are thrilled to work with The Archer Project, a trusted partner, to deliver such fundamental work in tackling homelessness in and around Sheffield. 

“The support, time and tools offered by The Archer Project leads to a sustainable solution to those in need.”

Councillor Ruth Mersereau added: “The Archer Project does vital work with the most excluded people in our society. They offer humanity and compassion, as well as practical help. 

“Not only does this address entrenched rough sleeping, addiction and trauma, their work benefits everyone who lives or works in Sheffield city centre by helping people take steps away from homelessness and into support.”

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