Derby Day Services has grown from strong community roots and a simple belief that everyone deserves friendship, connection and the opportunity to remain the focal point in their own lives.
The service was originally established by Stacey Shephard through It’s All In One Place, creating a welcoming space where older adults and people living with dementia could socialise, enjoy meaningful activities and spend time together in a safe and supportive environment. Stacey continues to successfully run her Nottingham based service, and Derby Day Services remains incredibly grateful for the strong foundations she created. When Stacey stepped away from the Derby service to focus on her Nottingham business, there was a real possibility that the service could come to an end. Wanting to ensure local people did not lose something that meant so much to them, Shelly Stephens volunteered her time to help keep the service running.
For Shelly, community has always mattered.
With more than 20 years experience working within health and social care, Shelly has always believed that support should be about far more than simply being looked after. It should be about companionship, laughter, confidence, friendship and helping people continue to enjoy meaningful experiences.
Alongside running Derby Day Services, Shelly continues to volunteer her time within the local community. She is a volunteer Board Member for Derby Care Association (DeCA), supporting independent providers and strengthening local services, and has also volunteered with Re Engage, helping reduce loneliness and social isolation for older adults.
As a mother who raised her two boys largely on her own, Shelly understands just how important connection, support and community can be during life’s more challenging moments. That belief has shaped the heart of Derby Day Services and the warm, welcoming environment it aims to provide every day.
In March 2026, Shelly made the decision to formally take on Derby Day Services and begin building its next chapter. Since then, the service has continued to grow, with a dedicated office at Pride Park, a framework agreement with Derby City Council and an increasing number of people choosing Derby Day Services for companionship, dementia friendly support and meaningful days out.
Today, Derby Day Services offers home cooked meals, engaging activities, outings, companionship and plenty of laughter for adults over 50, including people living with dementia, all within a welcoming and supportive environment.
Because Derby Day Services is, and always will be:
