Welcome to our New Arrivals update!
As we enter Spring, work with the Steering Group, wider partners, and community groups continues to establish the Alliance as a central hub for queries and support. Thank you for all your support and assistance in progressing the Alliance. Also, many thanks to Ruth from DRAC. Although she has moved on to new endeavours, Ruth has provided a passionate and dedicated service to new arrivals and community projects. Her contribution to the agenda and her support of vulnerable communities have been outstanding. I am sure you will all join me in thanking Ruth for everything she has done and wishing her well for the future.
Single Point of Contact - The Alliance is now moving towards the start of a Single Point of Contact scheme to provide induction and orientation services for new arrivals in the city on a 12-month pilot scheme. After a competitive expression of interest, Upbeat Communities is the successful applicant to establish this new and exciting service, which will reduce the stress and anxiety when starting in a new city and country. Ben Thomson has been appointed to the role, and we are excited about the positive impact this will have on new arrivals.
Funding - The Alliance achieved full funding from the Derby City Council Cabinet group with the help of our colleagues in the Council’s Community Safety Team. We look forward to using the finances to develop and enhance current services and add new services where critical gaps are established.
The Baton of Hope - The Baton of Hope tour is taking place on 13 September 2025 and will travel through key locations in Derby. This is a project focused on mental health and suicide prevention. Further details are available on the Baton of Hope website. To support the event, the Baton of Hope team is looking for activities, info/support stalls, music, entertainment, volunteers and more to make the day as impactful as possible.
Derby County Community Trust (DCCT) - A fantastic new project working with new arrivals will start on Monday 28 April. DCCT will provide a variety of activities that benefit physical and social/wellbeing. Sessions run bi-weekly from 1:30pm – 3pm at Willows Sports Centre. It is free of charge, and food for participants will be provided. This also compliments other sports sessions run by DRS and DCCT. Adam and Luke from DCCT will coordinate the project, and further details will be available on the NAA webpage or by contacting DCCT.
Terms of Reference - A draft Terms of Reference has been written for a future lived experience group, which is soon to be formally approved and adopted. This will be another critical and significant milestone for the Alliance. Please feel free to provide feedback where you think it is necessary.
Webpage & Information Updates - The webpage has been further populated with information and advice. It contains information on services and agencies available to support new arrivals, refugees, and those seeking asylum.
Rich Keene, New Arrivals Alliance Manager contact via phone on 01332 227713 or richard.keene@communityactionderby.org.uk
