Founder
Derby Day Services was created by Shelly Stephens from a simple belief that getting older, living with dementia or needing a little extra support should never mean losing your independence, your identity or the opportunity to enjoy life. Having worked within the care sector for many years, including in business development and developing community-based services, Shelly saw first-hand the difference that companionship, social interaction and having something to look forward to can make. She also saw that families often needed something different. Not simply somewhere for their loved one to be looked after for the day, but somewhere they could genuinely belong. That became the ethos behind Derby Day Services. Shelly wanted to create a service where people are known as individuals. Where we learn about the jobs they have done, the families they have raised, the things they enjoy, the stories they have to tell and, importantly, the things they still want to do. There is plenty of laughter, good food, activities and the occasional bit of chaos, but everything has a purpose. Staying active, using our minds, making friendships, maintaining independence and remaining connected to the wider community are all part of what we do. The service also gives families valuable time for themselves, knowing that their loved one is somewhere they are safe, valued and genuinely enjoying their day. As Derby Day Services continues to grow, Shelly is determined that the values it was built upon will remain exactly the same: kindness, respect, choice, independence and seeing the person before the diagnosis. Because Derby Day Services was never created to be somewhere people simply come to spend a few hours. It's somewhere to belong. Derby Day Services. More than just a day service.
