Five vital community hubs in Derby have received support from Places for People as part of its annual Winter Ready campaign.
The initiative, designed to help residents through the colder months, focuses on providing practical resources to local food banks and warm spaces.
The Derby organisations benefiting from the scheme include Food 4 Thought, Staywell Derby, and Doorways Derby food banks.
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Two warm hubs, Sinfin Moore Church Warm Space and Warm Space Our Abbey Hub, will also receive assistance to support residents facing challenges with food insecurity and rising energy costs.
What Does This Mean for Derby Residents?
The initiative aims to tackle issues commonly faced during winter, such as damp, mould, and an inability to afford heating. According to a survey by Places for People, over a quarter of central region respondents reported they couldn’t afford to heat their homes, while 21% admitted they’d run out of food and couldn’t afford to buy more.
These statistics reflect ongoing struggles for many in Derby, with increasing numbers of residents relying on community-led support services.
Expanding Support in Derby during winter
Marcus Hulme, Director of Places Impact at Places for People, highlighted the importance of their local partnerships.
“Winter brings significant challenges, especially in colder homes,” he said. “By supporting Derby’s food and warm banks, we aim to alleviate some of this pressure and ensure people in the city know there’s help available.”
The Winter Ready campaign not only offers immediate resources but also equips residents with tools and knowledge to manage issues like dampness and energy costs.
Where Can I Access Support in Derby this winter?
The hubs and food banks included in the initiative are already well-known lifelines for Derby residents.
•Food 4 Thought Derby: A reliable source of essential food items for families in need.
•Staywell Derby: Providing not just food but practical support to help residents through difficult times.
•Doorways Derby: Focused on supporting vulnerable individuals with essential supplies.
•Sinfin Moore Church Warm Space: A hub where residents can find warmth, safety, and community.
•Warm Space Our Abbey Hub: Offering a welcoming environment to those seeking shelter from the cold.
These locations are expected to ramp up their services with the added resources, ensuring no one is left without food or a warm place to go.
How Can You Get Involved?
The success of these initiatives depends on community awareness and involvement. If you know someone struggling with food or heating costs, direct them to one of these hubs. Alternatively, consider supporting these organisations through donations or volunteering.
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to hit hard, the efforts by Places for People provide a much-needed safety net for Derby’s most vulnerable residents. With these measures in place, the city’s warm hubs and food banks are better equipped to meet the growing needs of the community this winter.
