Support for Chesterfield residents and businesses affected by flooding
Chesterfield’s businesses, organisations and community groups are working hard to support residents affected by flooding in recent days caused by Storm Babet.
Some residents and businesses had to evacuate their homes and premises due to the rising water levels on Friday.
Read more about some of the support and community fundrainsing efforts taking place across the town in our roundup below:
East Midlands Chamber offers support for affected businesses
The chamber of commerce’s information team, which can be contacted by calling 0333 320 0333, can provide advice to businesses – whether or not they are Chamber members – on what they can do and where support is available in their local area.
East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Major floods like we’ve seen during Storm Babet can cause huge anguish for business owners, but it’s important they know they aren’t alone and support is available.
“Our information team has already provided key advice to some businesses in our region since the floods hit at the end of last week, and we would urge anyone who would benefit from speaking to a friendly voice to get in touch.”
Some local authorities, including Derby City Council, have also asked employers in the area to encourage employees to work from home where possible to minimise traffic while a clean-up operation is carried out.
Scott added: “During an emergency like this, we are all in it together and there are small steps businesses may be able to take to offer their support, such as through encouraging staff to work from home, where this is possible, for a temporary period.
“It’s also important that all parties – such as local authorities, emergency services, central Government and other local stakeholders – co-ordinate effectively during the clean-up to help everyone get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”
Fundraiser launched for residents affected by floods
Lifehouse church, based in the Brampton area has launched the appeal in partnership with Toby Perkins MP and local charities, agencies and businesses.
Hundreds of people in Chesterfield have been affected by the flooding over the weekend. Homes were flooded and businesses were forced to close due to the conditions.
Having already raised more than £25,000 over the weekend, the church is hoping to be able to provide food, clothing, supplies and the necessary essentials for those in need. A dedicated pot from the Church charity will seek to directly support families and homes that have been affected.
Church Pastor, Paul Hollingworth commented in a video posted by the church: “We are right in the heart of the community here in Brampton. The floods swept through the whole heart of the town and has had a huge impact on many people’s lives, not just today but for the months ahead.
“We’ve decided to do as much as we practically can today, by setting up a funding page which is going to help people with some of life’s necessities.”
Paul’s wife Sarah, also a Pastor with the church, said: “What we really want people to do is not only give, but to share, because the more people share it the wider the reach is. We have a £50,000 target and I’m really confident that we can smash that.”
Donate to the Appeal on the GoFundMe website.
Offers of Support from Chesterfield Champions
Wilkins Vardy offers temporary business premises
Paperclip offers 14 days free call answering support for businesses in Noth Derbyshire impacted by the flooding.
If you would be interested in this support please contact Lousie Bellwood at Paperclip on 01246 418181.
The Spire viewed from Old Whittington along Whittington Moor
