Big Ideas, Real Impact.
Every meal we cook, every food parcel we pack, and every cupboard we fill makes an impact.
Our Impact
At Project Derby, we believe that everyone deserves access to food, support, dignity, and a sense of belonging.
Every week, we make a practical difference to the lives of people across Derby by providing affordable meals, emergency food support, advice, companionship, and opportunities to become part of a supportive community.
Tackling Food Poverty
The rising cost of living continues to place enormous pressure on many individuals and families. Through our community hub, we provide affordable hot meals for just £2, including unlimited tea, coffee, or juice, ensuring that nobody has to choose between eating well and paying their bills.
Each week, we serve between 45 and 60 hot meals to local residents, offering not only nutritious food but also a welcoming environment where people can sit, socialise, and feel part of their community.
We also operate our £6 Community Shop, helping around 12 households every week access approximately £30 worth of groceries for a fraction of the cost. This support helps families stretch limited budgets while ensuring cupboards remain stocked and children remain fed.
For those facing immediate hardship, we work alongside local partners to provide emergency food parcels, supporting around 15 families and individuals every week with essential food supplies when they need them most.
Supporting People Through Difficult Times
Project Derby is more than a food project.
Many people who visit us are facing challenges such as financial hardship, loneliness, poor mental wellbeing, unemployment, housing concerns, or difficulties navigating support services.
Our team provides a safe, welcoming space where people can speak openly, receive guidance, and access information about the support available to them. We regularly provide benefits advice, signposting, and referrals to specialist services, helping people take positive steps towards improving their circumstances.
Sometimes the most important support we provide is simply a listening ear and a friendly conversation.
Building Community Connections
Social isolation can affect people of all ages. Through our community hub and garden, we create opportunities for people to meet others, build friendships, volunteer, learn new skills, and contribute positively to their local area.
Our volunteers play a vital role in everything we do. By providing meaningful volunteering opportunities, we help people gain confidence, develop skills, improve wellbeing, and become active members of the community.
Growing for the Future
Project Derby is committed to creating lasting change. Through our community garden, we grow food, promote sustainability, encourage healthy living, and provide opportunities for residents to learn about growing their own produce.
We continue to develop new projects and services that respond to the needs of local people, including plans to expand our outreach work and provide additional support to vulnerable individuals across Derby.
The Difference We Make
Every year, Project Derby provides:
Over 2,300 affordable hot meals.
Around 780 emergency food parcels.
More than 600 reduced-cost community shop provisions.
Practical advice, guidance, and signposting for local residents.
Volunteer opportunities that strengthen skills and confidence.
A safe, welcoming environment where people know they will be treated with dignity and respect.
Behind every number is a person, a family, or a neighbour whose life has been made a little easier.
Our impact is measured not only by the meals we serve or the food we provide, but by the relationships we build, the hope we restore, and the stronger community we help create every day.
Together, we are building a kinder, more connected Derby.
