Councillor Angela Archer, who has served as chair of South Derbyshire District Council since May 2025, is preparing to hand over her chains of office after a highly successful year. Before stepping down, she is determined to complete a few final tasks, including a significant fundraising achievement for mental health.
A Year of Engagement and Fundraising
As chair, Councillor Archer attended numerous events across the district, including ribbon cuttings, concerts, festivals, and official services. A key responsibility of the role is selecting a charity of the year and organizing fundraising activities to provide maximum support.
Councillor Archer initially chose the Collective Hub in Swadlincote as her charity. However, after the Hub sadly closed late last year due to the passing of its chief executive, she redirected her support to Derbyshire Mind, a charity that had worked closely with the Hub.
Derbyshire Mind: A Vital Local Resource
Derbyshire Mind is an independent, Derbyshire-based mental health charity that offers a range of community services aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing across the county. As an independent charity, it relies on fundraising to deliver its services each year.
Cheque Presentation
Alongside her consort, Sue Taylor, Councillor Archer recently presented a cheque for £1,365.94 to Joe Heeney, head of partnerships and services for Derbyshire Mind.
Councillor Angela Archer said: “Derbyshire Mind does a fantastic job across South Derbyshire, working with a wide range of people who need extra help and support with their mental health. There are so many facets to their work, from crisis support, which is genuinely life-saving, to supporting those with low-level mental health concerns and hosting events to help people feel supported. I’m delighted to have raised this money thanks to the generosity of those who attended my events, including my Charity Civic Dinner at the end of April.”
Joe Heeney MBE added: “Derbyshire Mind is honoured that the chair of South Derbyshire District Council, Councillor Angela Archer, has chosen to support our work through her fundraising events this year. Funding like this means a great deal and will not only support those in need of our services but also raise awareness of the importance of mental health and wellbeing for everyone.”
Impact of the Donation
The funds raised will go towards Derbyshire Mind’s Craft and Coffee Club sessions in Swadlincote. Currently held fortnightly, the charity will now be able to nearly double the number of sessions, making them available on a weekly basis.
