Derby homelessness charity relocates to new headquarters

Derventio Housing Trust, a Derby-based homelessness organisation, has relocated its headquarters after more than 20 years in a former church.

Having operated from its former church location on Boyer Street since its inception, the Trust has now moved to a new, purpose-built office on the Peter Baines Industrial Estate on Woods Lane.

Originally established as a night shelter in 2002, the Trust has since grown to employ around 75 people across the UK, with 40 staff based in Derby.

The Trust supports over a thousand people each year, offering accommodation to those at risk of homelessness.

It currently provides housing for more than 200 people in Derby and additional support across Derbyshire.

To date, Derventio Housing Trust has provided more than two million beds to those most in need.

In addition to housing, Derventio Housing Trust offers a range of support services, including the “Growing Lives” project in Ilkeston, which focuses on activities such as woodworking, gardening, and companionship.

Housing and support officers visit residents regularly to assist with GP appointments and referrals to services for issues like substance use.

Managing director Sarah Hernandez said: “Our former headquarters at the Glad Tidings Hall in Boyer Street have stood us in great stead since we first opened up as a night shelter in late 2002. But after more than 20 years we felt it was time we acquired some more modern offices for our dedicated staff as we continue our work meeting the ever-increasing demand for our services.

“It’s remarkable to think that since we opened we have provided two million bed spaces to people in need. A lot of us might take our homes for granted but it’s a sad reality that for many people, their housing situation is far from secure. We’re extremely proud that Derventio Housing Trust has provided such a valuable service over the years.

“The cost-of-living crisis isn’t going away and every day we are seeing acute need. People risk homelessness today as much as they did when we started and we’re very happy to have moved to more purpose-built offices offering better meeting room facilities and break-out spaces for our employees to be able to carry out their jobs.”