A new scheme is set to launch in Derby to help those facing homelessness.
Alternative Giving calls on the people of Derby to give to local charities that work to provide practical support for people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. This way donors can be confident that the money is directly helping people at a practical level, and that it will benefit more than just a single individual.
The scheme is a partnership initiative between Derby City Council, Community Action Derby, Derby Homes, and Derbyshire Constabulary that aims to highlight the positive impact of donating to non-profit projects supporting people affected by homelessness in Derby City.
The initial 12-month pilot will see two local charities benefit from the scheme - Derby City Mission, a Christian charity supporting homeless people in Derby, and Derventio Housing Trust, who provide housing, support, and assistance for employability and personal development.
Residents and visitors will soon see stickers in shop windows around Derby City Centre where they can scan a QR code to donate through the Alternative Giving website.
Councillor Matthew Eyre, Cabinet Member for Community Development, Place and Tourism said:
I’m absolutely thrilled with the introduction of this new alternative giving scheme here in Derby. The cold, dark, winter nights are here, and many selfless residents are looking to support those who are homeless or sleeping rough, but it isn’t always clear what the best way to do this is.
By donating through the new scheme, people can give with 100% confidence, knowing that their donation will go directly to projects that provide practical support for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and rough sleeping in our city.
Councillor Roy Webb, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Housing added:
I am delighted to see the launch of this innovative way for people to support homeless people in Derby. The scheme will help strengthen our existing support that is available for Derby's most vulnerable people.
We have seen a huge reduction in the number of people sleeping rough in our city over recent years, which is due to the fantastic work of our teams and the partnership response required to tackle homelessness. I am proud to say that no-one in Derby has to spend a night on the streets without receiving an offer of accommodation.
The scheme has launched as part of a wider range of year-round support s for those homeless or about to become homeless. This includes the Council’s Housing Options service, the city’s street outreach teams, hostel networks, the Safe Space initiative, Multi Agency Rough Sleepers Hub, and a network of supported housing providers.