Darley Park Hydrangea Garden

Today we speak to Amy and Steph, the founders of New Bloom Arts, a new CIC offering all sorts of art and creative workshops. Their aim is to help anyone, but especially people struggling with their mental health, to grow and bloom through creativity. If you'd like to find out more about New Bloom Arts and their workshops, do check out their active social media accounts: https://www.instagram.com/new_bloom_arts/ and https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571949346140  

Today we speak to Sally Murray about Just Ice, a Derby based charity that makes amazing ice-cream and offers trauma informed employment to people who have escaped modern day slavery. Sally talks to us about being a cheerleader for those who don't have someone to encourage them and how we can help Just Ice to fight human trafficking. To find out more about Just Ice, to book someone to come and speak about their work or to discover their ice cream flavours, visit their website: https://www.just-ice.org/ 

Today we speak to Tricia Howlett about the Derby Repair cafe at the West End Community Centre. She tells us about helping people to learn new skills, saving things from landfill, and building a sense of community. If you'd like to find out more about the Repair cafe, visit their Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/derbyrepaircafe.org.uk/?locale=en_GB or click on this link: https://www.derby.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/recycling-waste/reducing-waste/repair-cafes/ For more about the repair cafe at Mickleover Library, click here: https://www.derby.gov.uk/news/2025/january/mickleover-library-launches-repair-cafe/

Today we talk to Alf Bousie, who tells us about volunteering at the Hydrangea garden in Darley Park. We find out why this garden is a national treasure, why engaging with nature is beneficial and how you can join in with their work! To find out more about the Hydrangea garden, click on their website: https://hydrangeaderby.co.uk/

In this episode we speak to Alison Martin about being a local councillor and her roles as chair of the Derby Health and Wellbeing Board and Co-Chair of the Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Partnership. She tells us about tackling childhood obesity, the Breastfeeding Welcome Here campaign and why it's important to stand up for what is important. To find out more about Alison, or get in touch with her, visit https://alisondarleyward.org/

Today we speak to Paul Archer about volunteering with Derbyshire blood bikes. He tells us why he got involved, what volunteering is like and why he thinks generosity and kindness go a long way. If you'd like to find out more about Derbyshire Blood Bikes then visit their website here: https://www.derbyshirebloodbikes.org/

Today we speak to Mike Pride, CEO of the Respect Collaboration of Schools: The Bridge Street School (a pupil referral unit), The Kingsmead School (a special school) and The Castle School (a hospital medical unit). We find out about how these schools looks for the best in every pupil and works hard to never give up on anyone or in any situation.  To find out more about the Respect Collaboration, visit their website: https://respectschools.co.uk/ 

Today we speak to Amita about The Well Kitchen, the community cafe she runs in Hazelwood- just outside of Derby. She speaks to us about creating a space for people who might feel on the outside of things, community collaboration and being a listening ear. Find out more about the Well Kitchen here: https://www.thewell-kitchen.co.uk/

Today we speak to Jonathan, a co-director of Derby YWAM and one of the leaders of Allestree Youth Group. He speaks to us about how and why the group came about, what happens there and why he is passionate about challenging and equipping today's young people. To find out more about the group, go to  https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/13362/service-and-events/events-all/ and scroll down until you find it!

Today we are speaking to Bill Deeley, a volunteer team leader at Derby Food for Thought Alliance's Central Storage unit. We chat about food banks, food waste, volunteering and why no one should go hungry in Derby.   To find out more about Derby Food for Thought Alliance, visit their website: https://www.derbyfood4thoughtalliance.org.uk/