Derbion launches search for next charity partner

Derbion has launched a search for its next charity partner – and is now inviting worthy causes which support young people and local communities to put themselves forward.

Charities in the East Midlands are being invited to apply for two years of fundraising and awareness support from Derbion, as the centre launches the search for its next ‘Derbion Cares’ partner.

Following a successful two-year partnership with Over The Wall Camp, a charity supporting young people with health challenges and disabilities, Derbion is inviting registered charities to apply to become its charity partner from 2027.

The successful organisation will receive 24 months of dedicated support through Derbion Cares, with the centre working closely with the charity on a programme of fundraising, awareness-building and engagement activity.

Derbion is particularly keen to hear from charities focused on supporting the next generation and creating brighter futures for local communities.

Applicants must be registered charities based in the East Midlands and have the resources to collaborate on fundraising activity throughout the two-year partnership.

Since becoming Derbion’s charity partner, Over The Wall Camp has benefited from a range of fundraising and awareness initiatives led by the centre.

These have included free use of mall space for charity events, sponsored walks and donations generated through seasonal activity.

To date, Derbion’s support has raised more than £17,000 for the charity, with further fundraising events planned before the current partnership comes to an end later this year.

Derbion Cares has been running since 2022 and has supported six East Midlands charities working across children’s, youth and family services.

Beth McDonald, managing director of Derbion, said: “Derbion Cares has become a really important part of how we support our local community, and we’re incredibly proud of the difference we’ve been able to make alongside our charity partners.

“We’ve seen first-hand what can be achieved when we work closely with a charity over a sustained period, not just through fundraising, but by giving organisations greater visibility and new opportunities to engage with people across the region.

“As we begin the search for our next partner, we’re keen to hear from East Midlands charities that are helping young people and local communities build brighter futures.

“We’re looking for an organisation that shares our ambition to make a meaningful and lasting difference, and we’re excited to see what we can achieve together over the next two years.”

Once applications close, a dedicated committee will review submissions before shortlisting charities for an in-person meeting.

The successful organisation will be announced in January, with Derbion and the chosen charity then working together to develop a two-year programme of fundraising and engagement activity.

Eve Edwards, head of fundraising at Over The Wall Camp said: “We want to extend a huge thank you to Derbion and all their staff for their generous support throughout our charity partnership.

“Thanks to their incredible fundraising efforts, even more children living with serious illnesses and disabilities can experience the magic and mischief of childhood at one of our residential camps. For many, this experience can be truly life changing.

“Alongside raising vital funds for Over The Wall Camp, Derbion has also provided us with fantastic opportunities to raise awareness of our work within the local Derby community through engaging with children and families at the centre.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone at Derbion for helping us bring joy, adventure and unforgettable experiences to children who need them most.”

Applications for Derbion Cares Charity Partnership will close on Monday 12 October. To find out more click here.