Prime Minister Andy Burnham, Chancellor John Healey MP and First Secretary of State Louise Haigh MP visited Sheffield Hallam University’s nursery and early years research centre, The Meadows, today where they announced new devolution plans.
The Meadows Nursery and Early Years Community Research Centre is a partnership between Sheffield Hallam University, Save the Children UK, Watercliffe Meadow Primary School and Sheffield City Council. The award-winning community nursery has offered free early learning places to local children in Shirecliffe, an economically challenged part of the city, since it opened in 2021, alongside wider support for parents and families. It also serves as a hub for research into early education best practice, carried out with the support of families and carers.
The prime minister spoke to families about the impact the nursery has had on their lives, and met Vice-Chancellor Professor Liz Mossop and Professor Sally Pearse, strategic lead for early years at Sheffield Hallam, who was instrumental in setting up the nursery and research centre. The visit also included South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, Gill Furniss, MP for Brightside and Hillsborough, and Fran Belbin, leader of Sheffield City Council.
The PM said: “Well done to Sheffield Hallam University. It’s great to get universities involved on the ground supporting people and families. It’s a credit to you and all the partners and the community.”
During the visit, the prime minister announced plans to transfer power from Westminster to devolved regions, allowing elected mayors to keep a share of income tax generated in their area for the first time from 2028, as well as a share of business rates from April 2027.
Professor Liz Mossop, Sheffield Hallam University’s vice-chancellor, said: “We were delighted that the new Prime Minister and senior cabinet ministers chose to combine their announcements on their plans for devolution with a visit to our award-winning community nursery and early years research centre. The nursery and research centre are a shining example of what can be achieved when strategic partners come together to work in collaboration with communities to improve outcomes.
“I am sure the passion and dedication of those involved in this project will have left a huge impression on our country’s new leaders. I hope it has given them a real insight into the significant impact universities make in the regions they serve through their collaborative research and innovation partnerships.”
