Roland Boy's Home

The Roland Boys' Home, run by the Anglican Church, was situated on the main road in Sheffield. Its location was strategic, as it provided easy access to various essential services and amenities in the town and neighboring areas. The boys had easy access to a park, a school, and other community resources, which enhanced their social development and well-being.

The Roland Boys' Home was officially opened on 9 June 1951 at 69 High Street, Sheffield, Tasmania, by the Rt. Rev. Bishop G.F. Cranswick, Bishop of Tasmania. The home was a certified institution under the Infants' Welfare Act 1935 and an approved children's home under the Child Welfare Act 1960, which ensured that it met the required standards for the care and protection of children.

Despite being run by the Anglican Church, the home welcomed boys of any denomination, and it provided a safe and nurturing environment for children who needed care and support. The home was staffed by dedicated professionals who were committed to providing the boys with education, medical care, emotional support, and opportunities to participate in various activities. It is unclear if there was a chapel onsite, but religious instruction of some kind would have taken place.

In the early 1990s, the focus of child welfare practice shifted towards supporting children in their own homes and communities. This change in approach prompted the managers of the Roland Boys' Home to consider new directions for working with families on the north-west coast of Tasmania. They recognized the importance of keeping families together and providing support to parents and caregivers to help them provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children.

These considerations led to the closure of the home around 1993. Although it was a difficult decision, the managers of the home recognized that it was time to shift their focus towards more community-based approaches to child welfare. They believed that by working with families, they could help to prevent child abuse and neglect and provide children with the stability and support they needed to thrive.

This building is now the Kentish Council Chambers.