Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Safiya Saeed, has backed our campaign, Paws for a Cause.
As Sheffield’s first Black and hijab-wearing woman Mayor, Councillor Saeed has become a prominent advocate for inclusion, equality and community cohesion across the city.
Mayor Saeed said: “For Sheffield, it’s so important that people get behind this, and the more we support these dogs, the more lives can be changed, not just for individuals, but for families and whole communities.
“A dog is a person’s truest friend, sensing when something is wrong, protecting you, and offering unwavering comfort without ever asking for anything in return. That is what makes them truly extraordinary.”
Taking up the role in May 2025, Mayor Saeed brings more than two decades of experience working with young people through grassroots community projects.
A key part of her journey has been founding Reach Up Youth, a Bungreave-based initiative that empowers young people, particularly those from Black and ethnic minority backgrounds, to develop confidence and leadership skills.
Mayor Saeed recently visited the new Support Dog’s national training centre to learn more about its services and explore how Sheffield can become a more inclusive city.
She said: “Support dogs are absolutely incredible, they give the whole family confidence to live again and a kind of independence that is truly priceless.”
The new facility, based in Hillsborough, will allow the charity Support Dogs to create a 300% increase in the number of support‑dog partnerships made each year.
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Mayor Saeed added: “The bond between children and their dogs is almost spiritual, giving them the confidence to embrace life fully and believe in their own strength.
“We need awareness everywhere in schools, restaurants and leisure centres so that when people see a support dog, they understand it’s about inclusion, not difference.”
The 360Wire‑backed campaign aims to raise £1,000 for 10 autistic children to meet a support dog, secure 15 sponsors for autism assistance dog Peggy, and have 10 people register interest as puppy socialisers.
For more information and updates, visit here.