Beds for Kids Project Transforms Lives in Dundee
The Hillcrest Foundation’s Beds for Kids project, in partnership with Dundee Charity Help for Kids, continues to make a significant impact on the lives of children in Dundee by providing beds and bedding to families experiencing hardship.
The Beds for Kids project was established to address the growing issue of sleep poverty in Dundee, where, according to the most recent Fair Start Scotland evaluation report, 30% of children are living in poverty – a staggering 7,000 children.
Poor sleep conditions are leading to sleep deprivation, mental health struggles, and challenges in school performance. By providing children with proper beds and cosy bedding, the Beds for Kids project helps to alleviate these hardships, giving children a safe and comfortable space to rest.
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Launched at the end of March 2024, the initiative has already changed the lives of over 130 children and their families in Dundee. Feedback from families has been overwhelmingly positive, with one grateful parent sharing, “My daughter would still be sleeping on the floor. Thank you so much.” Moreover, 100% of parents reported that the new beds had positively impacted their children’s mental health, and 80% noted improvements in their own wellbeing.
The Hillcrest Foundation has funded nearly £100k towards the project, with Help for Kids handling bed referrals and managing deliveries to help meet demand.
Local business Bliss Beds is also a key project partner, not only supplying the beds but assembling them in homes, ensuring families receive everything they need – from mattresses to pillows and duvet covers.
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On Monday 2nd February 2026, members of the project team, along with Hillcrest Foundation Ambassador Chris van der Kuyl and Help for Kids Trustee Martell Maxwell, met at Bliss Beds at the Wellgate Centre in Dundee to promote the project and speak to STV reporter Susan Nicholson.
Chris emphasized the importance of the initiative: “The Beds for Kids project is critical in addressing the sleep poverty issue in Dundee. The project has already made a positive impact, but it requires more support and funding to really make the difference that is needed. I would encourage local Dundee organisations to get behind this initiative and give generously.”
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Martel also made a case for continued support of the initiative and said: “To ensure the project continues to meet demand, we are issuing a plea to corporate sponsors, philanthropic organisations and individuals to help provide further funding. All donations can help eradicate sleep poverty in Dundee and give every child the chance to sleep safely and soundly.”
You can watch STV’s news feature about the Beds for Kids campaign below:
How you can help:
Help us continue to improve lives! By donating to the Beds for Kids project, you can provide a child in Dundee with a bed, bedding, and a good night’s sleep. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference.
If you or someone you know would like to donate to the project, please contact Stacey Wallace, Charity Manager, Help for Kids on: stacey@helpforkids.org.uk or Tel: 01382 653109
Our thanks to Martel and Chris for supporting this project!