Free household furniture project launched

Paul Brookhouse says the project will "transform lives"

A project donating essential furniture and electrical items to people across Derby has been launched.

The Furniture and Electrical Project (FEP), run by the charity Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance (DF4TA), aims to ensure no household in the city goes without the furniture needed to "live well".

Funded by a £46,200 grant from the Severn Trent Community Fund, the project provides items such as beds, cookers, tables and sofas to people, free of charge.

Going forward, DF4TA said it wanted to launch a new electrical testing facility so donated appliances, such as fridges, washing machines and cookers, can be safety checked before they are given out.

"Essential" furniture such as beds, cookers, tables and sofas are being donated across Derby

Paul Brookhouse, senior manager at DF4TA, said: "Now that the project is up and running, we're in a strong position to offer the kind of practical support that can genuinely transform lives.

"A home isn't just four walls, it's about safety, belonging and having the basics in place to build a better future."

DF4TA said the Seven Trent Community Fund supported projects that "improve community wellbeing across people, places and the environment".

Ann Mills, FEP coordinator, added: "We know how much impact even the simplest furniture, like every child having a bed, a table for family to gather round to eat and some way to prepare a hot meal, can have when people are trying to rebuild their life.

"Every bit of support will help us offer practical help to more people across Derby."