Safe and Sound is celebrating a resounding success following the official opening of its new city centre hub, Melbourne House, on Bold Lane last week. The special occasion drew a full house of supporters, partners, funders, and community representatives – all gathered to witness a defining milestone in the charity’s history.

The sun shone brightly over Derby as guests arrived, setting the tone for what became a warm, uplifting, and unforgettable event. The ribbon was formally cut by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, marking the opening of the purpose-built space designed to meet the doubled demand for Safe and Sound’s specialist child exploitation services since the pandemic.

Attendees heard from CEO Tracy Harrison, who spoke passionately about the organisation’s mission and how the new hub will transform the charity’s ability to deliver one-to-one and therapeutic support for children, young people, and families affected by exploitation. Chair of Trustees Mark Richardson highlighted the remarkable community collaboration that made the project possible, acknowledging key funders – including the government’s Community Ownership Fund-and a whole host of partners including Armsons Barlow and Davlyn Construction.

The atmosphere throughout the event was one of pride, optimism, and shared purpose, as guests toured the new facility and saw firsthand how the expanded space will enhance Safe and Sound’s capacity to safeguard and support vulnerable young people across Derbyshire.

With multiple rooms for therapeutic interventions, enhanced security features, and a welcoming environment for families, the new hub strengthens the charity’s ability to support those affected by online grooming, sexual exploitation, county lines, and other forms of exploitation.

Safe and Sound would also like to extend special thanks to Aramark, who provided the wonderful catering for the event – some of which was later enjoyed by our young people at the Osmaston Community Hub.

Safe and Sound extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to making the opening a tremendous success.

We at Safe and Sound are absolutely thrilled to have been presented with the National Charity Today Partnership of the Year Award for the redevelopment of 8 Bold Lane, Derby!

This dream wouldn’t have become a reality without the extraordinary dedication and collaboration of our incredible partners. We are grateful of the help of BB and J and Smith Partnership for helping us secure the premises and for visual marketing agency Briight for capturing the renovations journey.

Most importantly Armsons Barlow for project managing the whole project from beginning to end and Davlyn Construction – what a job!

We also want to congratulate and thank every single contractor involved in the transformation of 8 Bold Lane:

• Fujisu / Oceanair UK Ltd
• Systemair Ltd
• BB Lighting
• Marolow Fire and Security Ltd
• Plumbase Derby
• Anton Scaffolding
• Derbyshire Floorcaft
• Vibrant Doors
• Freshh Cleaning

Together, we’ve converted a derelict building into a vital new home for the charity, creating a beacon of hope and safety for Derby’s most vulnerable young people and their families.

This project wasn’t just about renovation – it was a profound act of community regeneration.

The collective effort has allowed us to:

Thank you for demonstrating unparalleled dedication, innovation, and a shared commitment to driving meaningful change in the city of Derby! You helped us build a stronger, safer, and more vibrant Derby for generations to come.