As part of a city wide partnership response to the ongoing cost of living crisis, Derby City Council and its partners have provided vital support to thousands of residents through a range of welfare, food, clothing, and financial assistance programmes. Over the past year, targeted initiatives have delivered essential services, demonstrating Derby’s commitment to protecting its most vulnerable residents.

Key achievements of the past year have included:

  • Food & Essentials Support: Between April and November 2024, over 18,447 food parcels were distributed which adds up to more than 21,624 meals. In December 2024 alone, 2,642 food parcels helped feed 7,435 people.
  • Warm Welcome Hubs: Nearly 50,000 visits have been recorded across Derby’s Warm Hubs since June 2024, providing warmth, social connection, and safety for pensioners, people with disabilities, and others in need.
  • Benefits and Welfare Assistance: More than 6,000 applications have been processed for Council Tax Support, Housing Payments, and hardship funds since April 2024. Derby’s Welfare Reform Team has secured over £2.1 million for residents since 2018 and supported 1,809 vulnerable households.
  • Household Support Fund (HSF): Over 1 million free school meals were funded during school holidays, and nearly £785,500 in food vouchers and £239,000 in energy support have been distributed since April 2024.
  • Pension Credit Awareness: A targeted campaign, including a pop up pensioner event, helped older residents claim Pension Credit entitlements and receive cost of living support.

Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Cost of Living, Equalities and Communities, said:

Behind every number in this report is a real person. These services exist to offer not just practical support, but dignity, hope, and the reassurance that no one in Derby has to face hardship alone.

We know that times are tough, and it’s okay to ask for help. Whether you need help with clothing, help with bills, or just someone to talk to, there is support available. I strongly encourage anyone who’s struggling, or knows someone who is, to visit the cost of living support webpage or speak to your local neighbourhood team. The support is there to guide you to the right help at the right time."

Going forward into 2025, there will be continued support for a range of issues relating to cost of living. Household Support Fund 7 will also be launching. You can read more about the new Household Support Fund on our Newsroom.

For more information on accessing support services, please visit the Community Action Derby cost of living webpage. You can also learn more about your neighbourhood team online. If you are struggling to find work at this time, The Derby Adult Learning Service and the Employment Hub may be able to help you upskill and find the next step in your career.