My Story

Just Ice is a small charity set up in 2023 operating in the city of Derby in the East Midlands. Our unique programme harnesses the production of artisan ice cream to support people who have suffered the life changing effects of modern slavery. We provide a trauma informed approach based on an individuals experiences. The  primary vehicle is employment, which involves understanding how trauma suffered can play out in a person’s behaviour. Our support cultivates trust, models a healthy work culture, and builds confidence and self-esteem.

The solution: artisan ice cream 

Slavery is such a dark and depressing subject it is our aim to provide an uplifting and positive environment that is non-pressurised, fun and far removed from a survivor’s previous experience. We laugh a lot and make our ice cream on the edge of Derby’s beautiful Darley Park.

The Just Ice programme transforms one precious life at a time and is the turning point for our beneficiaries. We welcome modern slavery survivors to our community twice a year from trusted referral partner organisations. They often arrive fearful, suffering from traumatic flashbacks and anxious about meeting new people, but also excited to be given an opportunity in a future focussed environment. We get to know each person individually to understand their experiences and needs. We engage them and introduce them to a programme of employment and encouragement that rebuilds their life in readiness to take their place in society.

We offer a flexible, sympathetic pathway back into the workplace and community. We provide our beneficiaries with a place to build confidence, learn new skills, earn money, heal, rebuild and hopefully find some joy in life again.