"Safe Space gave me hope" - a letter of gratitude

Every story we hear at Derby City Mission is unique, but some remind us powerfully why we do what we do. Recently, we received this heartfelt letter from someone who stayed at Safe Space, our emergency accommodation hub. With their permission, we are sharing it here, unchanged, so you can see the difference your support makes. 

"Dear Safe Space Team, 

I hope this letter finds you all well. I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible care, respect, and support I received during my stay at Safe Space. Although my time at your hub was relatively short, it has had a profound and lasting impact on my life, and I want to take this opportunity to thank you sincerely for everything you have done for me. 

From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and valued as a person. The kindness and understanding shown by every member of your staff created an environment where I could feel safe, respected, and hopeful. It is not easy to find a place where people genuinely care and treat you with dignity, and Safe Space has been exactly that for me. 

The fresh start I was given at your hub was more than just a roof over my head; it was a chance to rebuild my confidence and regain a sense of purpose. Your team’s unwavering support and encouragement helped me to see new possibilities and opportunities that I had not considered before. The practical help and guidance you provided—from assistance with daily needs to advice on next steps—were invaluable and gave me the tools I needed to move forward. 

I am particularly grateful for the patience and empathy shown by the staff. Your willingness to listen without judgment and to offer support tailored to my individual circumstances made all the difference. Your commitment goes beyond just providing services; you truly care about the people you help, and that makes Safe Space a beacon of hope in the community. 

Thank you once again for the safe haven you provided during a difficult time in my life. The respect, kindness, and opportunities you gave me have made a lasting impression, and I will always look back on my time at Safe Space with gratitude and appreciation. 

Please extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone at Derby City Mission who plays a part in making Safe Space such a special place. I hope to carry forward the positive changes I have made with your support and to one day be able to give back to others in a similar way."

Safe Space is more than a shelter—it’s a lifeline. Stories like this are possible because of the generosity of our supporters and the dedication of our incredible team. 

If you’d like to help us continue providing hope and dignity to people in crisis, please consider making a donation or sharing this story with someone who might be inspired by it.