Derby County’s 4-0 home win against Portsmouth last Friday was used to showcase the club’s partnership and support for the NSPCC over Christmas.
The club supported the NSPCC’s ‘Letters from Santa’ initiative by displaying supporting messages Pride Park Stadium’s big screens leading up to Christmas.
In its 23rd year, Letters from Santa allows families to create special memories while contributing to this important service. Each letter can be personalised, making each child feel special and unique.
The matchday included fundraising opportunities as well as a visit from the NSPCC’s outgoing Chief Executive Officer, Sir Peter Wanless, who said: “It has been such a pleasure to be part of something as special as the forging of the partnership between the NSPCC and Derby County. Together, we have reached out to children, families and communities across the region to help tackle child abuse.
“The charity opportunities that took place during the home match against Portsmouth were yet another example, among so many, of the dedication and support we receive from everyone at Derby County, as well as among the club’s supporters. Visiting the club always brings me joy, and I enjoyed meeting the team one last time as Chief Executive before handing over to my successor.”
Since 2022, Derby County have raised £10,000 every year for the NSPCC while supporting campaigns such as Childhood Day and Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport Week.
Simon Carnall, Chief Operating Officer at Derby County, said: “We always look forward to highlighting the brilliant work that the NSPCC does across Derbyshire, and the country itself, and it was a great opportunity to do so at our home fixture against Portsmouth and also continue to help raise vital funds for the charity to operate at the very highest level.
“We have enjoyed a fruitful and ever-growing relationship with the NPSCC, and their outgoing Chief Executive Officer Sir Peter Wanless, over the last two years and we are delighted that Derby County has played its part to raise thousands of pounds for such an incredible cause.”
The club has also shared the NSPCC’s new Christmas advert over social media while posters promoting the charity’s Childline service are on display at Pride Park.
Barbara Elsey is the NSPCC’s Community Fundraising Manager for the East Midlands.
She said: “Christmas marks the end of a special year for both Derby County and the NSPCC, as we’re both 140 years-old this year. Our special bond is represented in our joint commitment to protecting children in Derby and across the region.
“We would like to give Derby County a tremendous thanks for all their support, not just in December, but during the whole year. The commitment of the club, staff, players and fans acts a beacon of hope and inspiration, which is so important during this time of year.”
Anyone interested in volunteering for the NSPCC in Derby and Derbyshire should email volunteerrecruitment@nspcc.org.uk.