A new initiative to provide essential furniture and household appliances to people across Derby is now fully up and running, thanks to a £46,200 grant from the Severn Trent Community Fund.
The Furniture and Electrical Project (FEP), led by Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance (DF4TA), is on a mission to ensure that no household in the city goes without the basics needed to live safely and with dignity. From beds and tables to cookers and sofas, the project is providing vital items to help people turn houses into homes.
After months of preparation—including hiring a dedicated project coordinator, setting up systems, and recruiting volunteers—the project is now ready to grow.
“A home isn’t just four walls,” said Paul Brookhouse, Senior Manager at DF4TA.
“It’s about feeling safe, having a sense of belonging, and the basics in place to build a better future. Thanks to Severn Trent’s support, we’re in a strong position to offer practical help that can genuinely transform lives.”
The grant from the Severn Trent Community Fund, which supports projects that improve wellbeing across people, places, and the environment, will allow FEP to scale up its work — collecting, storing, and delivering donated furniture and appliances where they’re needed most.
Looking ahead, the team is planning to open a dedicated Electrical Testing Facility, enabling them to safely offer large donated items like fridges, washing machines, and cookers.
They’re currently looking for volunteers to help with the project. In particular, they need warehouse volunteers to sort and prepare items, and drivers to help with collections and deliveries across Derby.
The project is also on the lookout for a small premises in or near Derby that can support this next phase — a space suitable for safely testing and preparing large electrical items.
Ann Mills, the project’s coordinator, said:
“We’re now ready to make a real difference. Simple things — like a child having their own bed, a family sharing a meal at a table, or being able to cook a hot meal — can mean the world when someone is rebuilding their life.”
If you’re able to volunteer, offer a space, or donate items, DF4TA would love to hear from you.
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call: 01332 227730
🌐 More info and donations: www.derbyfood4thoughtalliance.org.uk
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