The Joseph James Foundation

Help Us End Furniture Poverty at Home

Everyone deserves a safe, dignified, and comfortable place to live. At the Joseph James Foundation, we’re tackling furniture poverty right here in Stockport, Stretford, Warrington, and St Helens. Too many of our neighbors are going without the basics, a bed to sleep in or a chair to sit on, and we’re on a mission to change that.

The Hidden Crisis in Our Communities

Furniture poverty is a public health emergency. Recent 2026 research reveals that 6 million people across the UK are living in furniture poverty, missing at least one essential item for a dignified home.

  • Health Toll: Over a quarter of those affected report a severe impact on their physical health.
  • Mental Wellbeing: Nearly a third report severe impacts on their mental health, including high levels of stress and isolation.
  • Deep Poverty: Nearly 1 million adults are in "deep furniture poverty," missing three or more essential items.

Our Vision: The "Buy One, Give One" Mattress Scheme

We believe a home starts with a good night's sleep. We are currently developing our "Buy One, Give One" Mattress Scheme with a simple goal: for every mattress purchased from our future outlet, we will donate a brand-new one to a local family in need. We are working hard to make this a reality so we can help our neighbors get off the floor and into a bed.

Join the Fight

We need your help to keep our delivery vans moving and our warehouse stocked as we grow. Here is how you can get involved right now:

  • Fundraise with Your Team: Rally your colleagues for a company fun run or office challenge. These funds are critical to our expansion.
  • Take on a Challenge: Follow our "Sofa up Snowdon" legacy and create your own sponsored challenge, whether it’s a hike, a run, or something unique. Your efforts provide the furniture that restores dignity to those who need it most.