Message from the CEO

Rural Action Derbyshire has been serving rural communities in Derbyshire looking out for vulnerable and disadvantaged people for almost 100 years.  I want to reassure you that we will continue to do so during these unprecedented and difficult times.

As a charity, our beneficiaries are at the heart of everything we do and we are working hard to make sure that we can provide the best possible service we can in the current conditions.  We are having to postpone some key events such as suicide awareness training, digital hubs events and village hall seminars but we will be looking at whether we can deliver these in different ways through webinars and online information surgeries.

Our Wheels to Work service will continue as long as we can offer safety training for new riders. Oil buying and telephone advice for village halls will be largely unaffected.  The Derbyshire Rural Chaplaincy team are unable to meet people face to face, but continue to provide support and a listening ear by telephone. Call Alan on 07710 088 972 or Stella on 07486 314 738. 

Finally we are working with county wide emergency planning teams and our Feeding Derbyshire partners to help make sure that children get access to good food while the schools are closed.

The welfare of our own employees is also a key concern and I need to make sure that they and their families remain safe.

The office is closed and staff are working from home. We have invested in technology that enables them to provide a seamless service but many have children or caring responsibilities so may take a little longer than usual to get back to you.

As many of you will also understand mobile reception and broadband availability is often poor in rural areas, and is likely to be reduced due to the demands of many people working from home. We understand that this is an unsettling time for many people and we are working with the councils and other voluntary sector organisations to mobilise community resources and ensure that those who need help get it.

Please monitor our website for up to date information and links to key agencies and sources of advice. We will continue to update it regularly.

Finally a huge thanks to my staff for their commitment and tireless enthusiasm for serving rural communities. Keep safe and well.

Beverley Parker CEO