Inequalities in health are avoidable between groups of people within a certain area.
There are many things which contribute to health inequalities including education, housing and employment − but the biggest one is poverty.
There are big differences in life expectancy between residents in different parts of our county − in some areas a gap of up to 13 years. We're committed to using our public health resources to reduce this gap.
We're committed to improving health and reducing inequalities for all our residents, regardless of where they live.
Food banks
There are 22 food banks across Derbyshire which provide food parcels for people in crisis. They're run by faith groups and voluntary organisations and supported largely by volunteers.
Find out more about how they work, if you are eligible to use one or how to donate to a food bank.
Credit unions
Credit Unions offer a community based alternative to high street banks and lenders. They offer savings accounts and also offer low interest loans.
There are 5 credit unions in Derbyshire which encourage people to save regularly and that in turns allows people to borrow small sums of money from them in a safe and affordable way.
Many credit unions also offer online services just like banks. You can learn more about your local Credit Unions on our savings and credit page.
Citizens Advice Bureau sessions
We've helped fund the provision of Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) sessions in 98 GP surgeries across the county.
We've also funded the delivery of CAB sessions across various community venues supporting the community wellness approach. Find out more by visiting the Derbyshire Citizens Advice Bureaux.
Healthy home project
The Healthy Home project offers people with a long term health condition help with cold homes. The project helps improve home insulation and heating in order to keep your home warm and you healthy.
You could be eligible for a free new energy efficient boiler, loft or cavity wall insulation or other energy saving measures subject to a survey by one of the Healthy Home team. You'll receive advice to help you improve the efficiency of your heating system to reduce your fuel bills.
The project also aims to keep you healthy and independent in your own home, and to do this we may offer you services run by other trusted organisations in your area.
To find out if you're eligible for the project email: healthyhome@derbyshire.gov.uk or tel: 01629 536919.
Befriending services
People who are socially excluded can suffer from worse health than other people. This may include older people, people with disabilities and people in poverty. We offer a befriending service to give advice, support and a friendly face.
Find out about the work we're doing to tackle other factors that impact on your health such as employment, housing and education.