Published on: 3 July 2025
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has launched an initiative to ensure patients being discharged from its mental health inpatient units receive food and clothing parcels to support their transition home. 
Working in collaboration with the charity Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance, the Trust is providing three-day food parcels to patients at the Radbourne Unit and across the Kingsway Hospital site in Derby, helping to bridge the gap between inpatient care and home life. In addition, the charity Sharewear Clothing Scheme has been instrumental in supplying clothing to those requiring this support, ensuring dignity and comfort.
This initiative will help to address the practical needs of patients, particularly those facing mental health challenges.
Leading the parcel initiative is David Mellors, Peer Support Worker at the Radbourne Unit. David brings a personal perspective to the role, having navigated his own mental health journey as a veteran living with complex post-traumatic stress disorder. His lived experience fuels his commitment to supporting others through recovery.
David said: “When someone is discharged from hospital, especially after a mental health crisis, the smallest things can feel overwhelming. Having food available can make a huge difference to someone’s sense of stability and dignity. It’s not just about nutrition, it's also about the clothes they have and goes beyond this too. It’s about showing people they’re cared for and supported as they take their next steps.”
After enduring abuse and trauma during his youth and military service, David found support through NHS services and local charities. His recovery journey included therapy, community groups, and peer support networks tailored for veterans. Today, he uses his experience to advocate for others, ensuring that no one feels alone or forgotten during their recovery.
Marianne Heathcote Woodbridge, Central Storage Unit (CSU) Co-ordinator from Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance, the charity providing the food parcels, said: “We’re proud to work alongside Derbyshire Healthcare to support patients as they return home. Access to food is a basic need, and for those recovering from mental health challenges, it can be a vital part of feeling safe and supported.
“These parcels are more than just meals – they’re a message that the community cares. We know that the first few days after discharge can be daunting, and by removing the worry of where the next meal is coming from, we’re helping people focus on healing, reconnecting with loved ones, and rebuilding their confidence.”
Jo Ellis, Community Outreach Coordinator from Sharewear Clothing Scheme, which provides clothing to patients in inpatient settings, also said: “Clothing is about more than just warmth it’s about dignity, identity, and self-worth. For patients in mental health crisis, having access to clean, appropriate clothing can restore a sense of normality and self-respect.
“We’re proud to support Derbyshire Healthcare to ensure clients are discharged from hospital with the clothing they need to assist with their discharge and to continue their rehabilitation.”
You can visit the Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance website and Sharewear website for more information on both charities.
