College students put best foot forward for kids’ shoes campaign

Derby College Group students are playing an active role in supporting a new community campaign designed to improve the health, confidence and wellbeing of disadvantaged children across the city.

The Sole Mate campaign, launched by 58i Small Business Hub, part of social enterprise Enterprising 4 Change, encourages residents and businesses to rethink corporate giving by purchasing gift vouchers that fund high-quality, professionally fitted shoes for children living in poverty.

As part of the college’s commitment to employer engagement and real-world learning, it has collaborated with campaign partners to provide business support and student involvement.

The work has been led by Lorna Edwards, the college’s head of business and business courses, with students contributing through course activity and work placements.

She said: “This campaign has provided a fantastic real-world learning opportunity for our students.

“Working alongside local social enterprises allows them to develop practical skills, confidence and a strong sense of social responsibility.”

The Sole Mate campaign aims to raise funds through £40, £50 and £60 vouchers, each covering the cost of a new pair of high-quality shoes and a vital professional fitting service.

The campaign is supporting children identified by the local charity Global Fund for Jesus, which currently works with more than 120 children across Derby who need suitable footwear.

Shooz 4 Kidz, a specialist children’s shoe shop based in Green Lane, is supplying the shoes and providing professional measuring and fitting to ensure comfort, correct alignment and long-term health benefits.

All campaign partners are based within Derby’s Arboretum electoral ward and the St Peter’s Quarter Business Improvement District – areas where child poverty rates remain among the highest in the city.

Jaz Greer, director at Enterprising 4 Change, said: “For many families, buying new, well-fitting shoes is routine. For hundreds of children in Derby, it simply isn’t.

“This campaign offers a practical solution that protects children’s health, dignity and confidence, and we’re delighted to be working alongside Derby College Group and its students to deliver that impact.”

To support the Sole Mate campaign, click here or contact Jaz on 07958 930844 or e-mail jaz@58i.co.uk.