In a heartening series of community events throughout October, we have been able to deliver life-changing support to residents facing financial hardship, bringing peace of mind and practical assistance to individuals who need it most.

At our Pensioner Advice Event on October 4 at The Council House, a local woman left with a brighter financial outlook, gaining £73 extra each week thanks to council-led advice on available benefits. Several other attendees also found they were eligible for Pension Credit. Although some who attended the event could not apply immediately due to a lack of required documents, home visits have been scheduled with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help them complete their applications.

The events not only put more money in people’s pockets but also brought warmth and safety into their homes. An 84-year-old gentleman, who attended an event in New Zealand on October 25, learned for the first time that he qualified for Pension Credit. This discovery was a tremendous relief for him and his wife, who had been cutting back on heating and cooking hot meals to save on costs. The couple was also gifted a heated blanket and an air fryer, ensuring they can now stay warm and enjoy warm meals without worry.

A woman from Mackworth walked away £36 per week better off after council advisors helped her identify unclaimed entitlements. Another attendee at a local event was also delighted to receive a heated blanket and air fryer, just as winter temperatures begin to set in. Another participant reported savings of £75 per week after connecting with council representatives.

Councillor Sarah Chambers said:

These events are here to make a real difference for Derby residents who may be struggling or unsure of the support available to them. I strongly encourage anyone who could benefit from extra help to attend. Our team is dedicated to connecting residents with resources to improve their quality of life, especially as costs rise and winter draws in. We’re here to help every step of the way.”

There are upcoming events happening around Derby in the coming weeks. These include:

  • Mackworth - Thursday 24 October, 10am-12 noon, St Francis Church, Prince Charles Avenue, Mackworth, DE22 4FN
  • New Zealand - Friday 25 October, 10am-12 noon, Lonny Wilsoncroft Community Centre, Stepping Lane, Derby DE1 1GL
  • Chaddesden - Friday 1st November, 10am-12 noon, Age UK Building, Chaddesden Park, Chaddesden, DE21 6LN (There is free parking in the main car park off Maine Drive, Chaddesden)
  • Sinfin - Monday 4 November, 10am-12 noon, Sinfin Moor Church, Arleston Lane, Sinfin, Derby, DE24 3DH
  • Allenton - Wednesday 4 December, 2pm-4pm, Derby South Salvation Army, 24 Chellaston Road, Derby, DE24 9AE
  • Osmaston - Monday 10 December, 10am-12 noon, Moorways Sports Village, Moor Lane, Derby, DE24 9HY

If you want to learn more about cost of living support, visit our cost of living webpage or visit Community Action Derby’s cost of living online hub.