We’re delighted to publish the full report from our 2025 DVA Conference – Connected Approach to Neighbourhoods, held at The Post Mill Centre in South Normanton.
More than 100 people joined us — from community groups, NHS Derby & Derbyshire ICB, Public Health, local councils, PCNs, and lived experience leaders.
Together, they explored one big question:
How can Derbyshire build neighbourhoods where everyone feels connected, supported, and heard?
What we heard — and what it means
Throughout the day, delegates shared honest, heartfelt insights about what’s working and what must change.
NHS and ICB leaders made clear commitments:
“We can’t do this without community organisations.” – Angela Wright (ICB)
“If we keep doing things in silos, we’ll fail.” – Jim Austin (DCHS)
“Procurement has become too complicated — we need to simplify it.” – Sharon Gibbs (ICB)
“Every GP appointment avoided through community support is a clinical success.” – Dr Alice Fenton (Royal Primary Care)
These statements reflect a real shift:
our system leaders see the VCSE sector as essential to Derbyshire’s future.
Community voice led the way
Lived experience leaders brought the most powerful moments:
“This group is a lifesaver for me.” – Darrell Price, Pain Inspired CIC
“We help others find hope they didn’t think was there.” – Tim Adwick, Mindscapes
Their stories show what neighbourhood working can achieve — reduced isolation, better wellbeing, and fewer clinical appointments.
A shared path forward
The report calls for:
Long-term investment in VCSE-led prevention
Simpler, fairer funding for grassroots groups
VCSE representation in system decision-making
Better collaboration across all sectors
Targeted action to reduce inequality
From insight to action
DVA has now delivered the report and its recommendations to NHS Derby & Derbyshire ICB, Public Health Derbyshire, Derbyshire County Council, and many more involved in the issues raised.
If Derbyshire strengthens neighbourhood working and supports more groups like Pain Inspired and Mindscapes, the system could achieve potential savings of millions each year, while improving lives and reducing inequalities.
We’re grateful to every speaker, facilitator, delegate and partner who made this conference possible — and we’re excited for what comes next.