Introducing Our Charity of the Year 2026/27: New Leaf Derbyshire
April 23, 2026 10:55 am - Categorised in: EFN-Events, EFN-News
Ellis-Fermor and Negus are proud to announce New Leaf Derbyshire as our Charity of the Year for 2026 to 2027.
For many of us, having a safe and comfortable home is something we rarely stop to think about. But for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, it is not guaranteed. Their living environment can have a huge impact on their physical health, mental wellbeing and overall quality of life. This is where New Leaf Derbyshire is making a meaningful difference. They help create spaces that feel safe, secure and welcoming: ‘Turning houses into Homes’.
To learn more about New Leaf Derbyshire, we spoke with Michele (the charity’s founder) who kindly shared more about their work and impact.
New Leaf Derbyshire’s mission is ‘to support genuinely vulnerable people across Derby and Derbyshire (including Amber Valley and Erewash) to improve their mental health and wellbeing by creating and maintaining healthy, safe and homely living environments.’
Through ‘impactful, holistic support – both practical and pastoral,’ the charity works closely with individuals and families. They help transform not just their living spaces, but their overall quality of life. This includes ‘simple DIY, decluttering, and (where possible) befriending’.
Alongside improving living conditions, they ‘actively work to reduce social isolation by building meaningful relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.’ For many people, this approach provides not only a safer home but also renewed confidence.
Their work is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers. Michele shared, ‘our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. We are a supportive and compassionate team who care for one another just as we care for those referred to us.’
As demand continues to grow, so too does the need for volunteers. In particular, the charity is increasingly being asked to help with more physically demanding tasks, ‘for example, relocating a bed downstairs for someone who can no longer safely access the upper floor, or making space for essential equipment such as hospital beds.’ This kind of support can make a real difference, often helping people to remain safely in their own homes or return home from hospital sooner.
This growing demand reflects just how important New Leaf Derbyshire’s work has become. Since starting in late 2021 and becoming a registered charity in April 2024, New Leaf Derbyshire has continued to expand its reach and impact. As they describe it, their work is ‘simply about making a positive difference – bringing comfort, dignity, and often a much-needed smile to those we support.’ With increasing demand and many individuals having ‘nowhere else to turn,’ their services are more important than ever.
We are therefore delighted to be partnering with New Leaf Derbyshire this year. Michele shared, ‘this opportunity means a great deal to us… we anticipate that this partnership will be invaluable,’ not only in providing ‘essential financial support’ but also in helping to ‘raise awareness of both our work and the challenges faced by the people we support’.
Ellis-Fermor & Negus Solicitors look forward to supporting New Leaf Derbyshire in their work across the local community, helping more people feel ‘safe, supported, and happy in their homes’.
To learn more about New Leaf Derbyshire, please visit their website: https://newleafderbyshire.co.uk/ or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newleafderbyshire
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