Rams’ charitable arm reaffirms community commitment at strategy launch

Derby County Community Trust – the charitable arm of Derby County – has launched a new long-term strategy, which reaffirms its commitment to empowering communities across Derby and Derbyshire.

Recently unveiled at a Marketing Derby Bondholder event held at Pride Park Stadium, the ‘Not Just Football’ 2026-2031 Strategy sets out a bold vision for next five years.

It shows how the trust’s work goes far beyond the football pitch. Through sport, physical activity, health and education, it has a vision, to create a thriving, healthy and connected community.

Guided by four key priorities, the strategy will focus on building community pride, optimising life chances, supporting good health and wellbeing, and developing more active communities.

Paul Newman, chief executive of Derby County Community Trust, said; “I am delighted to share our 2026-2031 strategy that builds on our strong foundations and sets out an ambitious vision for the future.

“Developed through extensive consultation with participants, staff, trustees, partners and stakeholders, our strategy reflects the needs of our communities and the opportunities ahead.

“It outlines how we will strengthen and expand our impact. One thing that remains a firm message throughout is; Derby County Community Trust is Not Just Football.”

Across 2025/26 Derby County Community Trust invested £3.8 million into its community programmes, engaging with more than 34,000 participants across over 50 programmes and events.

The ‘Not Just Football’ strategy sets out how the charity will build on its proven track record, harnessing the power of Derby County Football Club.

Stephen Pearce, chief executive of Derby County and community trust trustee, said: “As a football club, our intrinsic link with the community is exemplified through the incredible work of the community trust, who excel year on year in connecting and supporting participants from right across the city and county.

“Delivering against their long-standing pillars, the strategy demonstrates a great opportunity to further our impact.”

To read the strategy in full click here.