Derby’s business community gathered this week for a uniquely festive and profoundly inspiring Marketing Derby Bondholder Breakfast, hosted by the Safe and Sound Group at their newly opened premises, Melbourne House, in the city centre. The event, partnered with BB&J Commercial, served as a fantastic, positive way to round off the 2025 Bondholder calendar.
The focus of the morning was the charity’s incredible new headquarters – a facility described by attendee Dawn Spendlove as “just amazing, such an inspiring space, bright, welcoming, full of energy.”
A Safe And Welcoming Space For Change
Bondholders were given the opportunity to explore the new Melbourne House, which has been thoughtfully designed to facilitate the charity’s life-changing work. The space features a dedicated family kitchen, comfortable relaxation areas, and a range of activity stations.
As Marketing Derby noted, these facilities are crucial, helping Safe and Sound support more young people and families affected by child exploitation by providing a safe and welcoming sanctuary right in the city centre. Liz Horsey echoed this sentiment, stating it was “fantastic to see the incredible new space and talk to the Safe and Sound team, who are clearly loving it and the opportunities it is opening up.”
Amplifying The Mission
The event provided a platform for Safe and Sound’s leadership to share their essential mission. Attendees listened intently as Tracy Harrison, Chief Executive of Safe and Sound, spoke about the charity’s vital work. Mark Richardson, Partner at BB&J and instrumental in securing the new Melbourne House premises, then spoke passionately about his role as Chair of Trustees, discussing the collective effort to address the exploitation of young people across Derby and Derbyshire.
The 100-strong audience was clearly impacted by the challenges faced by young people, with the room becoming so silent you could “hear a pin drop.”
The feedback highlighted that the scope of their work goes far beyond what many realise, encompassing support, outreach, education, early intervention, youth activities, and broader community programmes. Chris Birds summarised the sentiment, congratulating the whole team on the “amazing work” being done.
The Business Community's Role
A key takeaway from the morning was a powerful call to action for the corporate sector. The Safe and Sound team outlined numerous ways organisations of all sizes can get involved and genuinely make a tangible impact.
As Dawn Spendlove shared, “Even small actions can make a huge difference.” Whether through traditional fundraising and volunteering, offering professional expertise, sponsoring specific activity sessions, or simply amplifying the charity’s crucial message, the team stressed that there is a valuable role for every business in ensuring vulnerable young people have a safe and happy future.
Rachel Hayward captured the overall mood perfectly, calling it “the best morning” and “an event to end the year on.” The overwhelming atmosphere of warmth, reinforced by the festive spirit – complete with Christmas jumpers and antlers – underscored the collective dedication to making Derby a better, safer city.
The Safe and Sound team received a huge thank you for their warm welcome, with attendees leaving inspired by the “extraordinary work” that makes the city better because of them.