Derby County Community Trust has released its Annual Report, detailing how its projects and programmes have developed over the last 12 months to support over 30,000 local people.
In 2022, the charitable arm of the football club invested £3 million into its community projects – ranging from providing sports and activities to school children to reducing social isolation for elderly participants.
The report showcases the highlights of the past year, which have included the Rams Family Fund, which has to date raised almost £40,000 to purchase matchday tickets for families who may not usually be able to attend, and the opening of Harrison’s Hub, the Trust’s new community venue at Pride Park Stadium.
Simon Carnall, Head of Community, said: “The last 12 months have seen significant highs and lows, from being awarded the EFL Community Club for the Midlands accolade once again, to the challenges of Derby County Football Club’s administration battle, but one thing has remained steadfast: our commitment to community.
“We now begin a new chapter in Derby County’s history facing many issues within our society, which we are working more closely than ever, as one club, to address.
“This report has detailed the successes and the challenges of the last 12 months, celebrating the impact we have made, but not shying away from the substantial work that there is to do to support our communities.
“Our staff continue to innovate, build our reach and support our participants to thrive.
As ever, we thank our funders, partners, supporters and sponsors for their unwavering commitment, and we look forward to 2023 with ambitious plans, aspirations and aims.”
Steve Hall, Chair of Trustees at Derby County Community Trust, added: “The Derby County brand inspires and excites. It breaks down barriers and it opens up opportunities, allowing us to touch the lives of thousands of people every year, helping with their educational needs, to improve their health, offering support, providing purpose or simply extending the hand of friendship.
“I am proud to say that we’re now providing early interventions for young people with mental health issues, supporting youngsters who receive free school meals to ensure they are fed during the holidays, supporting vulnerable students to stay in education and we’re taking a lead on long Covid and menopause - areas our teams on the ground told us were vital but were not being covered by others.
“I am confident that our work will have impact in each of these areas because we know that, whatever the challenge, when club, trust and community come together, great things can be achieved.”
To read the full report, please click here.
