Sheffield is a city known for its compassion, and The Archer Project is just one more example of Sheffield residents working to help others in their community. This city centre-based project focuses on working with individuals facing homelessness and difficult housing situations. Established in 1990, the charity has expanded from providing basic sustenance to offering a wide range of services aimed at helping individuals rebuild their lives and attain stability. Rather than scaling back their operation over time, the demand for their services has only continued to grow.
The Archer Project’s goal is simple but important: to make sure everyone has a place to call home. They have a support system that covers different aspects of homelessness such as education, mental health, physical healthcare, jobs, as well as housing. The CEO of The Archer Project, Tim Renshaw, says, “Home has a very personal meaning, and it’s important we consider that for everyone we support. We work with over 20 agencies and organisations in the city to help beneficiaries in their journey out of homelessness.”
The recent rise in living costs has drastically increased the demand for The Archer Project’s services. Attendance grew from 912 individuals in 2022 to 1,085 in 2023. Alarmingly, the number of rough sleepers has reached unprecedented levels, with figures 120% higher than in 2010. This surge has put immense pressure on The Project’s resources, necessitating a robust response to continue meeting the community’s needs.
The Archer Project is known for providing immediate help like food, clothing, and access to medical services. But they do more than that. They build relationships and make understanding each person’s situation central to aiding in the recovery process. By doing this, they can find better solutions and help people create positive routines and stability through their Partnership Programme, which includes mentoring and volunteering.
A significant highlight of The Archer Project’s initiatives is its social enterprise arm. This award-winning program offers paid employment opportunities to beneficiaries, helping them develop a work-life balance. Locally-designed products and screen-printing classes at Printed by Us’ shop in Orchard Square not only generate income but also provides a creative work environment and help grow individuals’ confidence.
Addressing physical and mental health is paramount at The Archer Project. Beneficiaries have access to on-site GP services, dental care, podiatry, and acupuncture. Wellbeing programmes include activities like group walks, pony therapy, museum visits, art classes, and mindfulness sessions, all aimed at recovery, confidence-building, and combating isolation.
Food access remains a critical service, with the demand for free meals soaring. In 2023 alone, The Project served 12,296 breakfasts and 8,667 lunches, a significant increase from the previous year. On top of this, The Archer Project offers both cooker and non-cooker food parcels tailored to beneficiaries’ living conditions. Cooking classes and a recently launched baking group further enhance skills and enjoyment around food preparation.
The Archer Project has partnered with ShefFood, Sheffield’s Food Partnership, to underline the importance of access to food. Proper nutrition is essential for physical health, mental clarity, and the ability to pursue life goals. This collaboration recognises the role of adequate nutrition in helping individuals get back on their feet.
The charity also champions civic engagement among its beneficiaries. Encouraging voter registration and participation in local matters ensures that the voices of those experiencing homelessness are heard and considered in policy-making. This empowerment is crucial for fostering meaningful change and addressing the root causes of homelessness.
The Archer Project depends on community support and hosts various events to engage the public. In October, they hold The Harvest Appeal, asking for donations to stock up on essential items for the upcoming winter. Upcoming events include the Annual Charity Golf Day on September 13, the Sheffield 10K on September 29, Rough October Sleep Out, and the Fire & Ice Charity Ball on November 1. These events raise funds and awareness about homelessness and The Project’s work.
Donations are heavily relied on for The Project’s services, particularly food and essential items like cereal, coffee, pot noodles, snacks, socks, men’s trainers (sizes 8, 9, and 10), men’s joggers (sizes S and M), and men’s boxers (sizes S and M). Clean, used socks are accepted; new underwear must be in original packaging. All donated food must be in-date. Individual items are great for food parcels and wholesale items help keep their kitchen running.
Donations can be dropped off at The Archer Project, Church Street, S1 1HA (at the Campo Lane entrance behind Sheffield Cathedral), between 8:30 am and 1:00 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays). Alternatively, supplies can be donated through the charity’s Amazon wishlist at www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/90758UHHIGQK.
Volunteering is another impactful way to support The Project. Whether it’s serving meals, sorting donations, or assisting during the Harvest Appeal in October, every effort counts. Interested individuals can contact Lucy Wilks at lucy.wilks@archerproject.org.uk for more information on how to get involved.
The work of The Archer Project is crucial in Sheffield’s fight to end homelessness. By addressing immediate needs and providing long-term support, The Project not only helps individuals survive but also thrive. When central government falls short, local people are stepping up to make a difference.
For more details or to get involved, visit The Archer Project’s website. Together, we can help everyone find a place to call home. For more information visit: archerproject.org.uk and sheffood.org.uk.