'˜Heartless' Sheffield housing provider takes children's trampoline

Totley parents claim it's health and safety gone mad after they were told to remove a trampoline by their housing provider. Photo: Dan hobson

Families living on West View Lane, Totley, watched in despair as housing provider The Guinness Partnership dismantled the trampoline yesterday afternoon.

Crying children continued playing on the trampoline until parents were forced to accept their fate and order them to get off.

The trampoline – which was bought after families clubbed together £200 – had been the ‘number one activity’ for children – who are now left with nothing to do.

Mum-of-two Allison Allette, aged 33, said the decision had left parents and youngsters very unhappy.

She said: “I’m really upset and so are the children.

“I can’t believe they are being so heartless.

“The parents bought this trampoline for the children because there is nothing to do around here and we want them to play outside.

“The children really loved it and they are all completely heartbroken that their number one activity is gone.”

Alison added: “We, as parents, feel the trampoline is safe and that should be all that matters.

“This is just health and safety gone mad.”

Mum-of-two Helen Gee, 48, said the children had a different trampoline for three years without any bother.

She said: “I can’t see why it’s a problem now. They are denying the children something to fun and active to do because they’re scared of getting sued. It’s ridiculous.”

A spokesman for The Guinness Partnership said they would be working with parents to look at ‘other options’ for children.

He said: “We understand some customers will be disappointed at our decision to remove the trampoline this afternoon, but their health and wellbeing is our main priority.

“We are continuing to work with parents in the area to discuss how we can provide alternative activities for the children in the future.”