A team of apprentices has given a Derby charity’s family centre a dramatic makeover, creating a brighter, more welcoming space for some of the city’s most vulnerable children and families.
The group from Toyota Manufacturing UK’s apprenticeship scheme, including partner companies, spent five days transforming Children First Derby’s premises on Leopold Street after securing funding through the organisation’s Charitable Trust.
Children First Derby has supported children, young people and families across the city for more than 50 years. Its city centre base provides a vital contact centre where children can spend time with family members, as well as hosting autism support and wellbeing courses.
After months of planning, the apprentices rolled up their sleeves to completely revitalise both the indoor and outdoor spaces – during one of the hottest weeks on record.
Inside, they redecorated rooms, assembled new furniture and created a more comfortable, home-from-home environment for families meeting at the centre.
Outside, they replaced fencing, built bespoke seating with raised planters, repainted the children’s playhouse and pressure washed the courtyard, transforming it into a welcoming garden where children can relax and play with their families.
Apprentice Charlie Slater said: “It was amazing to be able to spend the time here and learn how the charity impact young peoples’ lives.”
While Thomas Homer added: “As the week progressed it was good to see how our work paid off and made an impact.”
As a lasting reminder of the project, children and young people who use the charity added colourful handprints to a mural on one of the walls. A commemorative plaque has also been unveiled at the building to recognise the apprentices’ contribution.
Fiona Coe, from Children First Derby, said: “I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone involved. The Toyota team never stopped working and the range of skills they brought was incredible.
“They have completely brought the space back to life and transformed our garden into somewhere children and families will genuinely enjoy spending time together.
“Our families will really appreciate being given a space that shows they are valued. This building exists for them – for parents, grandparents and, most importantly, the young people we support.
“The transformation is a testament to the team’s dedication, hard work and commitment. They have created something that will make a real difference to families for years to come.”
The improvements were funded through the Toyota Charitable Trust, with the apprentices donating their time and skills to complete the project.
Richard Finchett, Trustee for the Charitable Trust and Deputy Managing Director at Toyota Manufacturing UK, said: “What a fantastic opportunity for our apprentices to put their skills to good use, whilst benefitting some amazing local organisations — a win, win all round.”
