Deichmann teams up with Barnardo’s to donate shoes ahead of the new school term

Europe's biggest footwear retailer Deichmann has joined forced with UK children's charity Barnardo's to launch its summer-long 'Best Foot Forward' campaign, donating school shoes and vouchers to vulnerable families across the UK.

After food and energy costs, buying a new pair of school shoes can be a struggle for many parents, including those accessing Barnado's Children's Centres and Family Hubs which last year supported over 100,700 people. The new campaign is committed to helping families start the new term with a spring in their step after an especially challenging year for many.

More than 40 families joined Deichmann and Barnardo's for the launch of the new campaign at The Freeman Family Centre in North London, where each child received a new pair of school shoes.

In addition, Deichmann has provided 1,000 vouchers to vulnerable families directly through the charity's children services across the country. Parents can redeem these vouchers in-store until the end of September.

The Best Foot Forward campaign was also launched to raise awareness for the children's charity and its efforts to provide for those most vulnerable. It is supported by celebrities including TV personalities Sam and Billie Faiers and Jake Quickenden.

Samuel Deichmann, UK Chairman said: "Since launching in May, our partnership with Barnardo's for Deichmann's 20th Anniversary has been a great success, and are delighted to have been able to provide support for families most in need throughout the UK. We hope we have put a smile on their faces ahead of the new school year starting."

Lynn Gradwell, Barnardo's London Director added: "The support we have had from our partners at Deichmann this year has been incredible. Their generous donations will make a huge difference to the families we work with, many of whom may have be struggling to make ends meet."