Our children are in trouble - and YMCA Derbyshire is going to do something about it
YMCA Derbyshire is bringing partners across the city together to confront the stark inequalities facing children in their earliest years and to act before disadvantage becomes entrenched.
Gillian Sewell, chief executive of YMCA Derbyshire, said: “It’s shocking to think that, living alongside some of the best-paid workers in the country, are hundreds of young children living in city streets for whom these are most definitely the worst of times.
“For too many children growing up in our city, any dreams they might have of doing just that die before they even start school.
“That’s something everyone in the city should be concerned about, which is why our unique partnership will make it possible for everyone in the city to be able to make a difference.”
This divide has often been described as a “tale of two cities.” In one, Derby, families benefit from high-paying jobs and strong economic growth. In the other, thousands of children are growing up in poverty without access to the essentials they need to thrive.
Led by Gillian Sewell, CEO of YMCA Derbyshire and supported by local businesses, organisations and community leaders, the Tale of 2 cities campaign focuses on providing practical support to young children in community nurseries.
Funds raised through the campaign help provide:
- Healthy meals for children
- Early literacy and storytelling programmes
- Speech and language support
- Clothing and essential items
- Enriching activities that build confidence and curiosity
By pushing for long-term reform, we aim to ensure the most vulnerable children receive support from the very start, not only once they reach statutory school age. This divide has often been described as a “tale of two cities.” In one Derby, families benefit from high-paying jobs and strong economic growth. In the other, thousands of children are growing up in poverty without access to the essentials they need to thrive.
I cannot comprehend why we do not have free school meals in nurseries for children under the age of five – when we have free school meals for five- to seven-year-olds regardless of financial backgrounds.
The reality of child poverty in Derby
Recent data shows that around 38% of children in Derby are living in poverty, higher than the national average.
This means thousands of families across our city are struggling with rising living costs, food insecurity and limited access to opportunities that support children’s development.
In some parts of the city, the situation is even more severe. In Derby’s most deprived neighbourhoods, families may struggle to afford basic essentials such as:
- Nutritious food
- Warm clothing
- Books and learning materials
- Enriching early experiences that support development
Without support, these challenges can begin affecting a child’s life chances before they even start school.
Why do early years matter?
The first years of a child’s life shape their future health, learning and wellbeing.
Research shows that children growing up in poverty can fall behind early in their educational development. By the age of five, children eligible for free school meals are already around five months behind their peers, with this gap widening significantly over time.
Factors such as poor diet, stress at home, and limited access to books or early learning experiences can all contribute to this gap.
But early intervention can make a huge difference.
For families facing financial pressure, knowing their child can access food, warmth and learning at nursery makes a meaningful difference. This support eases immediate stress and helps families focus on nurturing their children rather than managing a crisis.
The role of YMCA Derbyshire
Derby has already seen an incredible response from organisations across the city, including businesses, charities and civic partners, all united by a shared goal: ensuring that every child in Derby has a fair start in life.
The ambition is bold. The campaign aims to raise £438,000 per year over three years to support children attending community nurseries across the city.
It’s about recognising that tackling child poverty requires collective responsibility — bringing together communities, employers and organisations to address inequality and create lasting change.
How you can be part of the solution
Every contribution, no matter how small, can help change a child’s story.
Individuals, businesses and organisations can support the campaign through:
- Donations
- Payroll giving
- Business sponsorship
- Raising awareness of the issue
Even a small weekly contribution could help provide essentials that transform a child’s early years.
The Tale of Two Cities Early Years focuses on action, where it makes the greatest difference. By supporting children early and strengthening the systems around them, this project delivers immediate impact today while working towards long-term change for tomorrow.
Gillian Sewell urges, “We cannot afford to ignore this any longer. This isn’t about playing the blame game. We need to play the taking action game.
Derby’s economic future depends on bringing through a new generation of young people through our education system who can join our world-class companies one day.”
Find out more about the Tale of 2 Cities and how you can get involved:
https://taleof2cities.co.uk/
