About Chesterfield

Derbyshire Institute of Sport launches programme to instil ‘Olympic know-how’ in local businesses

An organisation which has created more than 20 world-class athletes, including 10 Olympians and Paralympians who competed in Tokyo this year, has launched a new scheme aimed at improving leadership within local businesses.

Derbyshire Institute of Sport is offering to give firms in our area the same performance psychology tools and techniques they use in the elite sports environment to build resilience, motivation and a mindset for success.

Managing Director Chloe Maudsley explained: “Our Business Champions club is a unique 12-month programme designed by our performance psychologist, Dr Phil Clarke, to give you the tools to be the best version of yourself and through that accelerate your business growth. It offers something different from traditional business coaching.”

The second cohort of Business Champions starts in October and only six places are available. This time it is all online, except for a final, face-to-face event in September 2022, making to easier for busy professionals to join sessions from anywhere without time-consuming travel.

Dr Clarke, who has trained elite athletes and FTSE 250 companies, said: “The sessions and tasks in this year-long programme will help you learn how to thrive in high-pressure situations and adjust to rapidly-changing situations in the business environment.”

Craig Harbron, of Bennett Engineering Design Solutions, completed the first Business Champions programme. He said: “It has enhanced my ability to understand new approaches to situations and new ways of thinking. Having these methods and understanding has led to increased motivation, focus points and with the one-to-one support I’ve been able to overcome current challenges.”

Another graduate of the first programme, business owner Sarah Gatford, said: “Working with DIS Business Champions has been a great decision.

“Having been knocked sideways by the pandemic business-wise, being part of this programme and having access to the incredibly knowledgeable and insightful Dr Phil Clarke has supported me in turning things around.

“I’ve had the opportunity to talk things through individually, attend webinars and generally feel that I’m back on my feet with some exciting new challenges ahead.”

During the year, Business Champions will have six educational webinars, 11 group reflection webinars and six one-to-one coached sessions online with Dr Clarke where they can work through specific challenges that they face at work or work on improvements to their reactions, communication and behaviours in different circumstances. There will also be five peer tasks during the year that champions will work on remotely in pairs.

You can read more about the programme at https://www.derbyshireis.co.uk/business-champions-club and request a digital brochure from Chloe Maudsley by emailing info@derbyshireis.co.uk or ringing 07974 231564.

Derbyshire Institute of Sport supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New Chesterfield store can provide portraits of your pooch

A new shop has opened in Chesterfield catering to every need of our canine companions, providing portraits, natural treats and remedies, handmade collars, personalised dog-themed gifts, luxury toys and much more.

Barkworthy Dog Emporium can be found in the Theatre Yard area of Chesterfield Town Centre, after owners Anthony and Carole Foster decided to relocate to the town from Manchester.

Anthony said: “We moved to Chesterfield from Manchester in July this year with the intention of escaping the congestion and overcrowding of city life. We had heard about Chesterfield and its historic roots but were unprepared for how clean and unspoilt it really was.

“It’s fair to say we were captivated by the town immediately, its bustling market and quaint alleys which led us to all sorts of independent local shops. This immediately piqued our interest, for that is exactly what we planned to do. Set up a quirky, emporium style outlet that catered for dog lovers everywhere, focused on natural products and ethically sustainable.”

Anthony says the shop was almost exclusively online, with the new store being the couple’s first bricks-and-mortar venture. Anthony explained that one of the things that drew them to the town was the efforts to drive more visitors into the town as part of the #LoveChesterfield campaign:

“We were heartened to see stilt-walkers in flowing robes, flower displays and colourful entertainment designed to entice shoppers back to the area. We understood this was undoubtedly part of a concerted campaign, and such efforts could only be beneficial for anybody wanting to set up business here.

“It seemed that people liked to shop local, to see and feel the products they were buying and the wealth of small businesses prospering cheek-by-jowl with the usual retail giants bore that out. We spoke to stallholders and small business owners, who naturally bemoaned the tribulations of a difficult year, but were generally satisfied and optimistic for the future. This gave us hope and confidence.

“When we saw the empty shop on Theatre Yard in the Low Pavement area, with its high vaulted windows and niche appeal in a creative little space, it immediately felt as though our vision had found its natural home.”

Following that, Anthony was quickly in touch with Chesterfield Borough Council’s commercial property team, to explore the possibility of moving into the new store.

He explained: “We set about pursuing a lease from the council for this property, which in addition to being perfect for our new venture, serendipitously housed a huge statue of a dog outside!

“Claire and Hannah from the council were incredibly helpful, answering our questions and taking the time to keep us apprised at every stage. Claire even responded to one email inquiry on a Sunday evening, when I imagine most people would much rather be relaxing in front of the TV with a glass of wine!

“Knowing we were dealing with real people who were just as invested as ourselves made all the difference in coming to a decision to choose Chesterfield for our business.”

The store is now open to visitors, and Anthony explained why the store will provide a unique experience for dog-lovers in Chesterfield and beyond:

“Carole is the trustee of a charity which rescues and rehomes unwanted Sled Dogs and Northern breeds, while I am an artist specialising in pastel portraits of wildlife and pets.

“Dedicating part of the shop as a studio and sitting in the window at my easel seemed a good way to attract visitors, while Carole’s contacts with various artisan pet suppliers through her charity work stood us in good stead to bring products and services to the area that are a little different to the standard fayre purveyed through the chain pet stores.

“As well as artisan treats, dog deli style birthday cakes and gift boxes, we have a wealth of handmade items, collars and leads and also personalised mugs, bags, cushions and photo gifts upon which patrons can have their favourite pet pictures imprinted.

“We treat our dogs like family, spoiling and pampering them, always looking for that one gift or treat that makes their tails wag that bit harder. Our overarching ambition for Barkworthy Dog Emporium is to embrace with the community of Chesterfield a shared love of pets and create a local, friendly, accessible port of call for all their dog’s needs.”

You can find out more about locating your business in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search/

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Schoolteachers and staff to swap classroom for Sparkle Night Walk in memory of much-loved colleague

More than thirty primary school teachers and staff are taking on Ashgate Hospicecare’s Sparkle Night Walk together in memory of their friend and colleague who died in the charity’s care.

The 31-strong team from Mary Swanwick Primary School are swapping the classroom for the sparkling streets of Chesterfield on September 25th as they hope to raise money to help fund Ashgate Hospicecare.

They’re taking on the fundraiser in memory of Claire Sivorn, a former Teaching Assistant at the school, who died in Ashgate’s care earlier this year, aged 55.

Claire had planned to marry her partner, Craig, in Edinburgh this month, but when her cancer made her progressively more ill, doctors advised the couple to cancel their special day.

However, Ashgate was able to step in to help arrange the pair’s wedding at an earlier date in April, so they got to tie the knot before Claire died just weeks later.

Her best friend and fellow Teaching Assistant, Becky Jackson, will join 30 others from Mary Swanwick in taking on the 10km route in tribute to Claire, whilst helping fund care for future families who need the hospice’s support.

The 50-year-old, from Woodthorpe, said: “We wanted to say thank you for everything Ashgate did for Claire and her family at the end of her life.

“Not only was the care she received outstanding, but the hospice went above and beyond to arrange her and Craig’s wedding. It was such a special day; something me, Claire’s friends and family will be able to cherish for ever.

“Claire was so caring, selfless and incredibly hard working. She worked for nearly 20 years at Mary Swanwick Primary School and was an incredibly talented artist; her artwork is still proudly on display throughout our school.

“She put everyone before herself, so we wanted to do something special in her memory. We all can’t wait to take part and are hoping to raise some much-needed funds for such a fantastic and worthwhile cause.”

Claire spent six weeks on the Ashgate’s Inpatient Unit before receiving the hospice’s support at home when she died on 6th May with her family by her side. Meanwhile, Craig and her children have received counselling from the charity’s Supportive Care team in recent months.

The team from Mary Swanwick Primary School are among more than a thousand participants to have signed up for the return of Ashgate’s Sparkle Night Walk this September.

Previously, the event, sponsored by Vertu Toyota, has taken place in July, but the charity has pushed back the date this year in light of the ongoing roadmap out of lockdown.

Ashgate hopes the new September date will allow the hospice to hold a socially distanced event while ensuring the safety of its supporters, volunteers and the local community.

Carl Jones, Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospicecare, said: “It’s so wonderful to hear Becky and her team from Mary Swanwick Primary School are coming together to take on our Sparkle Night Walk in memory of Claire.

“I’m glad our incredible team was able to be there for Claire and her family at the end of her life; it’s thanks to fantastic fundraisers like Becky and the team from Mary Swanwick that we’re able to be there for the families who need us most.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming back our supporters and seeing some familiar faces, as well as those new supporters taking part for the first time. We hope you’ll consider joining the team from Mary Swanwick Primary School along the route this September!”

Ashgate is encouraging their local community to sign-up to the Sparkle Night Walk and help raise much needed money to fund the specialist end-of-life care they provide.

Like last year, a virtual option will also be offered, for those who would prefer to choose their own route and complete it separately.

The charity is asking those taking part virtually to walk, run, cycle or dance their way through the streets to raise money for charity’s care.

To find out more about Ashgate Hospicecare’s Sparkle Night Walk and to register go to: www.sparklenightwalk.org.uk or call 01246 568801.

Ashgate Hospicecare supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

sparkle night walk

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Heathcotes launches initiative to give people a voice in shaping service improvements

Chesterfield-based care provider, Heathcotes Group, has launched an initiative to give the people at its services an influential voice in shaping future changes and improvements.

‘My Home My Say’ involves a series of drop-in sessions at various locations nationwide, inviting colleagues and the individuals they support to share ideas, discuss concerns and highlight what aspects they like in their home or workplace. The first week of events included a range of additional activities and entertainment, including circus performers, bouncy castles, tombola, nail bars, mocktails, karaoke and charity fundraising.

Heathcotes Group has organised My Home My Say in collaboration with its colleagues at Envivo Group, which acquired Heathcotes in 2020.  Heathcotes is one of a range of care providers within Envivo Group, specialising in care and support for adults with learning disabilities and complex mental health needs.

Group Managing Director, Brendan Kelly, said: “Heathcotes have always believed that it’s vital to ensure that the people we support and their families are involved in decision making and the planning of their own services. It’s also important to make sure that our colleagues have their voice heard in helping us to improve and evolve the way we do things. Our colleagues at Envivo Group are also passionate advocates of that approach, so we decided to work together on the introduction of My Home My Say at various services.”

Keeley Denman​, Group Family & Co‑Production Partner at Envivo Group, said: “We recognise that traditional surveys don’t always work in capturing people’s views, so we decided to be physically present to allow people to interact with us in a relaxed way that will encourage people to open up and just have a good conversation.

“It’s an ongoing process and we will continue the conversation with services as our plans develop. Heathcotes and Envivo are also teaming up to create co-production committees which invite participation from the people we support, families and colleagues. They will provide a space where we work together, listen and collaborate.”

Joseph Murphy, Service Manager at Heathcotes’ Norton Lees service in Sheffield, said: “The My Home My Say event at Norton Lees was a resounding success. The feedback was fantastic and everyone appeared to be smiling and laughing throughout the day. This will certainly not be the last get together for our Yorkshire services and we can expect to see further events in the near future.”

Heathcotes Group’s range of specialist services supports individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome, autism, Down Syndrome, learning disabilities, Personality Disorder, physical disabilities, Prader-Willi Syndrome, sensory impairments, speech difficulties and severe epilepsy.

The company provides full-time residential care services alongside supported living which enables service users to develop their independence in self-contained accommodation.

Heathcotes Group supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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DEBP announces name change and launches new research and evaluation initiative

DEBP, formerly known as Derbyshire Edcuation Business Partnership will now be known as Direct Education Business Partnership, after a change to the organisation’s name took effect from 1st  September.

The organisation continues to work extensively in Derbyshire but also works much further afield, and the change reflects DEPB’s work in the wider education landscape.

Alongside this, DEPB will be fully established as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).

Clare Talati, CEO of DEBP, said: “This is an exciting move for us as we transition from being a private limited company with social aims to a fully-fledged charitable organisation.

“We want to be part of a sector whose primary purpose is to create social impact rather than profit. All Directors and staff, our greatest asset, will continue with us on this journey and we look forward to furthering our work to help young people reach their full potential.”

Alongside this, DEPB has introduced the new research and evaluation arm of the business; Insight+. This has grown from an existing project commissioned by Derby County Community Trust – as part of the Opportunity Area Inclusion Programme – to undertake a research and evaluation project capturing the educational experience of learners educated within a pupil referral unit environment.

This focusses on the inclusion/exclusion process and will help inform the City around their commitment to be a zero-exclusion centre of excellence.

Clare said, “Our core work will continue to focus on the delivery of programmes with business and educational partnerships. Insight+ will extend our work to providing research solution options, looking at best practice and new ideas, to address community needs and gaps. It will also enable us to extend our focus and use our expertise to help to advance education nationally.”

DEBP supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Local apprentices set to be honoured at brand-new awards

Chesterfield and North Derbyshire are set to name its top apprentice next month. The winner of the Apprentice of the year accolade will be named at the brand-new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards, organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management.

Sally Grattage (35) from Chesterfield Borough Council, Chris Guard (25) of Guard Business Solutions and Ellie Gibson (21) who is employed by Heathcotes Group, have all been shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year award.

Sponsored by DBC Training, the award recognises apprentices that have made a significant contribution to the success of a local organisation. The winner of the prestigious accolade will be announced at a black tie awards ceremony at the Winding Wheel Theatre on Wednesday 20 October.

The Love Chesterfield Awards combine the long-running Chesterfield High Street and Food and Drink Awards, both of which have honoured apprentices in the town each year in recognition of the valuable contribution apprentices and apprenticeships make to the local economy.

Proud to be shortlisted Sally Grattage, who is undertaking a Level 3 Digital Marketing apprenticeship with Chesterfield Borough Council commented: “After working in the sports and leisure industry for 18 years, never did I think I would be undertaking an apprenticeship at the age of 35. To be shortlisted for this award has been a real surprise as to me; I am one to always go the extra mile to ensure my work is done to the highest of standards but, to me, that is what you do. It makes me so proud of my achievements so far.”

Through her apprenticeship Sally hopes to be able to help sports centres reach their fullest potential using digital marketing.

Sally’s boss Chris Wright, Operations Manager at Queen’s Park Sports Centre added: “The development of our marketing since Sally has been engaged in the apprenticeship has definitely improved. Sally has also been able to audit our marketing activity so we can continue to progress. The projects that she does for her apprenticeship are chosen as they have a direct impact upon the centres. They are real challenges to our service that, once completed, benefit our customers and our bottom line.”

Chris Guard, who has recently completed his Infrastructure Technician apprenticeship was delighted to be shortlisted for the award. He said: “I typically tend to just keep my head down and crack on. Being shortlisted for the Love Chesterfield Awards was a surprise but it showed me that even though I keep focused on my work, it hasn’t gone unnoticed.”

Following the completion of his apprenticeship, Chris, who is IT Systems Manager at Guard Business Solutions, is now undertaking a finance course in order to qualify as a bookkeeper.

Steven Guard, CEO of Guard Business Solutions commented: “Chris is a very driven individual and took on the apprenticeship with real gusto. As he progressed, he has taken on other duties within his role expanding his skills and knowledge further than the bounds of his apprenticeship. He has proved to be an invaluable member of the team and continues to learn, utilising newer technologies.”

After heading to university to do tourism and events management, Ellie Gibson (21) decided that earning and learning in a different environment would be more suited to her.

The former Bolsover School student, who has completed her Level 2 Business Administration apprenticeship is delighted to be shortlisted for the award: “Heathcotes was offering something completely different to what I was doing before, which made a nice change, and there is a high success rate with apprentices here too. I was very surprised to be shortlisted for this award but it’s nice to know that others have noticed my hard work.”

Brendan Kelly, Managing Director at Heathcotes Group added: “We took on an apprentice to ensure that we are accessing enterprising young people who can grow into roles within the business. It’s been brilliant having Ellie at the business, she has matured into a genuine asset.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield added: “Apprentices are incredibly important to the town and creating opportunities for young people is right at the forefront of our plans. Required skills are constantly changing in the modern, fast-pace working world and having that pool of young talent is crucial to allow our businesses to thrive.”

The Apprentice of the Year is one of 16 categories in the new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards. In addition to apprentices, the new awards also recognise the contribution of entrepreneurs, regeneration projects, sustainability and community activities to the town’s economy over the last two years.

See the full list of 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards finalists here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/finalists/

The 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards are supported and made possible by a number of sponsors and partners, including: Addooco IT, Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Digital High Street, The Chesterfield College Group, DBC Training, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management, Evoluted, Greatest Hits Radio South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety Solutions, MSE Hiller, Peak Pharmacy, Reflections Magazine, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and Van Dyk by Wildes.

Peter Swallow added: “It’s never been more important to show our appreciation of the business community, so we’d love for the awards ceremony to be our biggest and best yet. This can only be made possible with sponsorship.”

Destination Chesterfield has one sponsorship opportunity remaining for the Café/Tea Room of the Year category. If you would like to support the town, please visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/sponsors/sponsorshippackages/ or contact Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator by emailing Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk or calling 01246 207 207.

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Superior Wellness supports national Fibromyalgia Awareness week

As official partners of Fibromyalgia Action UK, Chesterfield’s Superior Wellness will be raising awareness and much needed funds during national Fibromyalgia Awareness week, taking place 5-12 September.

Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes persistent pain all over the body.  As well as widespread pain, other symptoms will include but are not limited to fatigue and non-refreshing sleep, and brain or fibro fog.

Although there is currently no cure for fibromyalgia, there are treatments to help relieve some of the symptoms and make the condition easier to live with.  Hydrotherapy and relaxing in warm water are a great way for those suffering with the condition to find some potential respite. Routine soaks can also help relieve stress which is another that can make symptoms more intense.

The team at Superior Wellness will be holding a cake sale to raise funds and promoting the charity all week to mark the occasion. A charity team has also been set up and they are arranging a series of events throughout the year to raise further funds.

Sarah Elphick, Head of Marketing said: “We are delighted to be working closely with Fibromyalgia Action UK and supporting the national awareness week. We have a number of customers who have fibromyalgia and have told us a nice soak in a hot tub has helped them. The warm water and the hydrotherapy from the jets can make a difference.

“We hope to raise awareness of the condition through the partnership, particularly amongst young people, as many may not even know what it is.”

Last month, a team of 39 from Superior Wellness took part in Tough Mudder and raised £2,905 for the charity.

Please keep an eye on the Superior Wellness website and social media channels for the latest news and updates on the partnership and the money raised.

Superior Wellness supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

 

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Ashgate Hospicecare director raises more than £6,000 in incredible marathon challenge

An Ashgate Hospicecare director who set himself the challenge of running 12 marathons in as many months has finally crossed the finish line – two months ahead of schedule.

Peter Stone, Director of Income Generation at the North Derbyshire charity and Destination Chesterfield board member, was inspired to fundraise having seen others go above and beyond to help fund Ashgate’s vital care.

Starting last October, the 60-year-old challenged himself to run 12 marathons in just one year – a remarkable 314.4 miles in total.

And on Saturday, Peter was delighted to complete his final marathon of the challenge, finishing at Ashgate’s hospice site in Old Brampton, Chesterfield, where family, friends and colleagues applauded him as he passed through the gates.

Thanks to the generosity of Peter’s supporters, the challenge has helped raise an incredible £6,200 towards the charity, smashing his target of £1,000.

Following the final marathon, Peter said: “My final marathon was one of the hardest yet – it included 3,500 feet of ascent and a lot of off-road navigation in the area around Tansley and Ashover.

“That, combined with hot weather, made for a tiring trip out. I am delighted to have completed the 12 marathons and I am so grateful for all the support I have received.

“I am responsible for the fundraising and retail teams at Ashgate who every year must generate around 70 per cent of the organisation’s income. I was keen to raise some funds myself – to help with fundraising and to remind me how hard our fundraisers must work to generate the money we need.

“Even as a keen runner this challenge has been difficult. The older I get, the longer it takes to recover from a marathon so trying to cover one every four weeks has been tiring. Plus, there’s been runs in the rain, sleet and snow which haven’t helped matters at all!”

From a double marathon – with no stopping– in Northumberland to a 50km run along a disused railway line in Shropshire, Peter has taken part in marathons across the UK.

He’s averaged around one marathon every four weeks – a task he admits was “tough”, but now he’s got into the routine of it he’ll find it difficult to stop.

Peter’s efforts will help Ashgate in continuing to provide caring and compassionate palliative and end-of-life care to people all over North Derbyshire.

He added: “I wanted to fundraise for Ashgate because the charity undertakes such amazing work – offering specialist palliative and end of life care to patients with a life-limiting illness and their families across North Derbyshire.

“Ashgate is so loved by the community, and this has been apparent by the level of support I have received to date. I couldn’t have asked for more from everyone who has supported me and made donations – thank you all so much.”

Have you been inspired by Peter’s fundraiser? You can run for Ashgate Hospicecare at the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K on 17th October.

To support Peter following his mammoth marathon challenge go to his JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/peterstoneag

Ashgate Hospicecare supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Work begins on multi-million pound urgent care centre at Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Work has started on an exciting £24million development that will revolutionise the way Chesterfield Royal Hospital delivers Urgent and Emergency care.

After years of planning and months of preparation to make the site ready for work to begin, the hospital is now moving into the next stage of the project which will see the building come to life.

Construction begins today (7th September 2021) and will take approximately 18 months to complete, opening in summer 2023. This New Urgent and Emergency Care Development will provide the hospital with a state of the art environment that enables staff to truly transform urgent and emergency care services.

The stylish, new Urgent and Emergency Care Department building has integration at the heart, bringing together a host of services into defined clinical areas to ensure that patients can get the support they require based on their clinical need, be it a minor illness or injury, or emergency care for a serious accident or critical care for a life-threatening condition.

This vision will become a reality when the building, developed thanks to involvement from staff, partners and representatives across the Joined Up Care Derbyshire integrated health system, is complete. The Development will include an Urgent Treatment Centre for minor injuries or illness, as well as defined areas for paediatric care, major injuries and medical emergencies.

There is also dedicated space for patients requiring emergency mental health support.  The hospital is already working closely with clinicians within the Trust and the wider healthcare system to develop its pathways to deliver a truly integrated model of care encompassing therapy, diagnostic imaging, primary community and social care services.

Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Operating Officer at the hospital, Berenice Groves is leading the project and explains more: “After a significant focus on  planning and design in consultation with clinical colleagues and partners, we are delighted to get this development underway. It’s exciting to see our project come to life and is a real boost for everyone to see the work begin. This is the biggest development in our Urgent and Emergency Care Services since the hospital opened its doors in 1984.

“As we are building a new department, our current emergency services will not be affected or disrupted during the construction. We look forward to seeing the building develop over the next few years, ready to open to patients in summer 2023. The new department and the ongoing pathway developments will benefit our patients for years to come”

Demand for Emergency Care is increasing year on year and the trust has exhausted all available opportunities to expand and adapt services within the existing footprint. The current Emergency Department (ED) was built in 1984 and has delivered outstanding care to our patients, however as demand increases the department’s ability to work flexibly and adapt to new ways of working is limited. With this in mind, and taking into account emerging models of care, learning from the pandemic experience and building on closer partnership links, the Trust made the decision to revise the plans to refurbish the current Emergency Department and embark upon a new build approach. The building will be situated next to the current ED building with the aim of ensuring patients can be streamlined to the most appropriate clinical service based on their clinical need.

Katherine Lendrum is the Trust’s Consultant in Emergency Care and Clinical Lead for the Emergency Department, she said: “This will make a huge difference and the team is incredibly excited to see work start on the building. This last 18 months have given us an opportunity to apply what we’ve learned throughout the pandemic, cement the partnerships we’ve developed and to strengthen new ways of working that ensure our patients’ experience is a good one.

“Whatever level of care you need, you will immediately be in the right place when you arrive at the door.  Then it’s our job to assess you and make sure you see the right expert in the right part of our Emergency or Urgent Care Department as quickly as possible.  This could be a GP, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Therapist or Consultant, but it will be someone with the skills and expertise that you require.

“Making the best use of our resources is a key part of patient care by ensuring our patients are given the most appropriate care in the right place without placing undue pressure on our services. We have seen demand on services build at the hospital and to continue with our ED as it currently stands wasn’t an option in the long term. We are close to having outgrown it but additional capacity has been built into the design of the unit to change the way we can deliver care and improve the experience for our patients.”

By involving staff, partners and representatives across the Joined Up Care Derbyshire integrated health system in the creation of this new facility the new Urgent and Emergency Care Department will provide collaborative services that make the most of digital innovation and technology, best practice care and treatment and give patients the best possible outcomes through exceptional care.

The project will also include building a new paediatric assessment unit (PAU) alongside the Royal’s Nightingale Children’s Unit to ensure babies, children and youngsters with acute illness or injury are assessed, investigated, observed and treated with an expectation of discharge home in 12 hours or less. Work is due to start on that part of the development in the New Year.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Dazzling projections to ‘shine a light’ on iconic Derbyshire landmarks

Spectacular large-scale projections will light up two Derbyshire landmarks in a new night-time attraction celebrating the county’s rich heritage this autumn.

Visitors will be able to see Derbyshire’s heritage and history of innovation brought to life in ‘Shine A Light’ – an extravaganza of light and sound taking place on four dates in October against the impressive backdrops of Chatsworth House and Cromford Mills.

Delivered by internationally-renowned Derbyshire-born video projection artists Illuminos, Shine A Light brings together awe-inspiring illuminations and projections in a visually stunning display inspired by Voices From The Peak – a celebration of the county in sound created by local poet and performer Mark Gwynne Jones to celebrate the Peak District National Park’s 70th birthday earlier this year.

Providing fun and entertainment for the whole family, the one-of-a-kind experiences have been commissioned by Derbyshire County Council to celebrate Derbyshire’s rich history and heritage while boosting the visitor economy in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Each outdoor event is a fusion of visuals, music and sound culminating in a large-scale moving animation projected onto the building every 20 minutes throughout each evening at:

  • Chatsworth, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, on Friday 22 October and Saturday 23 October from 6.30pm.
  • Cromford Mills, home of Sir Richard Arkwright’s first mill complex, in the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site, on Thursday 28 October and Friday 29 October from 6.30pm.

Visitors to the Chatsworth experience will be greeted by atmospheric lighting which will illuminate the route to the South Lawn, passing some of the most impressive features in the Chatsworth Garden. A large-scale moving animation will be projected onto the spectacular South Front of Chatsworth House and there will be a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and treats available.

At Cromford Mills, visitors will have the unique opportunity to see the historic buildings, watercourse and mill yard beautifully illuminated by night. Two buildings will be used as the backdrop to the animation in the Grade I listed mill complex, which is currently celebrating its 250th anniversary, and food and drink will be available in the mill yard and at the canal-side setting of Wheatcroft’s Wharf.

Tickets are £8 for adults and £6 per child (aged 4-16 inclusive, free for 3 and under).

For more details and to book tickets, please visit www.visitpeakdistrict.com/shine-a-light.

Derbyshire County Council Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Leadership, Culture, Tourism and Climate Change Councillor Barry Lewis said: “We’re proud to be able to help support these unique experiences which will provide excellent entertainment for tourists and residents alike.

“We’ve brought together internationally-known projection artists and a renowned local poet and storyteller to create these fascinating events which are designed for people of all ages to enjoy.

“It is vital we support the local visitor economy to recover following coronavirus pandemic and we hope in future years to extend ‘Shine A Light’ to more venues across our county.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “Derbyshire is fortunate to have some of the world’s most significant heritage attractions and ‘Shine A Light’ offers the fantastic opportunity to see history brought to life in spectacular style against the backdrops of Chatsworth and Cromford Mills.

“Better still, these night-time displays offer the perfect excuse to enjoy all the Peak District & Derbyshire has to offer in autumn, from cosy places to stay to unique places to visit and great local food and drink, supporting the recovery of local businesses in the process. These events will be very popular, and we urge everyone to get their tickets as soon as possible!”

Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Canal Walking Festival ready to set off this weekend

The biggest walking festival based on a single canal in the country is all set and ready to start on Saturday 11th September. The Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival will comprise of 41 walks in all, with the last one on Sunday 19th September.

The walks cover the whole of the canal’s 46 miles from Chesterfield to West Stockwith on the River Trent. They vary from a one mile stroll to a full twenty miles. Much of the scenery is beautiful, none more so than the Giant’s Staircase of 22 locks in just over a mile between Kiveton and Shireoaks that features in several of the walks.

The festival is organised by the Chesterfield Canal Trust, whose Walks Officer, David Blackburn, said: “After last year’s cancellation, we are delighted to be back. The canal is an absolute delight at any time of year, but early Autumn possibly sees it at its best.”

There are special interest walks, such as Wildlife, History, Architecture, Archaeology and Restoration. There are opportunities to explore some of the attractive towns and villages in North Nottinghamshire or you can combine a walk with a cruise on one of the Trust’s trip boats. There is even the opportunity to learn about Geocaching, whilst enjoying the delights of the canal.

New this year is the opportunity to earn sponsorship money for your favourite cause by towing the Trust’s replica Cuckoo boat. There is even a cycle ride with a difference. Waterway and railway enthusiasts will relish the opportunity of a canal and river walk finishing up at Britain’s last surviving working Railway Roundhouse at Barrow Hill.

Pride of place goes to the 20 mile Restoration Walk from Chesterfield to Worksop. This covers the 12 miles of canal that have been restored since 1989 and the 8 miles that are yet to be re-awakened.

All the walks are free except for those combined with a boat. They must be booked in advance, either online via the Trust’s website – search for Chesterfield Canal Trust – or by ringing 01246 477569. A brochure with full details is available at various places along the canal, including Hollingwood Hub and local Tourist Information Centres. It is also available online. Some walks are already full, so it is advisable to book now to avoid disappointment.

Obviously all the walks will be subject to the latest Covid advice, so participants should come prepared with a face covering, even if it will not actually be required.

The Chesterfield Canal Trust wishes to thank all the walk leaders, the many organisations which have helped and the festival’s sponsors: the Canal & River Trust, Avant Homes, Derbyshire County Council Action Grants and Eckington, Misterton and West Stockwith Parish Councils.

Find out more about the event at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-canal-walking-festival/

Chesterfield Canal Trust supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

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