Business

Chesterfield Champions reflect on a challenging year and share messages of positivity for 2021

As we move towards Christmas and the new year, Chesterfield Champions have sent their messages to the local community as we look ahead to 2021.

If you’re interested about signing your business up to Chesterfield Champions, you can find out more by clicking here.

Destination Chesterfield has also been supporting local businesses throughout the festive period by promoting the Christmas In Chesterfield campaign. Click here to find out more about local Christmas shopping and events.

“The Chesterfield community has shown true compassion, resilience and innovation – pulling together to help one another in the exceptional times we’ve been living through in 2020. I’m truly proud and humbled by their spirit. We know that Christmas must feel a little different this year, but I wish people a very safe and happy festive period, and together we look forward to a brighter new year.” Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council

“2020 has been a tough year. I am immensely proud of the council’s staff who have gone well above and beyond their daily roles to put Chesterfield’s communities first. We have the beating of Covid-19 and with lots of new developments underway or planned, the priority for 2021 must be to make sure that local people benefit from the jobs that are created. We must be fully focused on addressing unemployment and improving people’s quality of life.” Huw Bowen, Chief Executive, Chesterfield Borough Council

Huw Bowen - Chesterfield Borough Council

“2020 has been a year of partnership, collaboration and innovation which has delivered remarkable results in challenging times. Working with Chesterfield Borough Council and Chesterfield Champions, we have seen some truly innovative virtual projects emerge, like Made in Chesterfield and the Christmas campaign, to connect and inform the community. We go into 2021 in excellent shape with a strong story of resilience and innovation to tell potential investors in the town.” Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield Manager

Dom Stevens Destination Chesterfield Manager

“2020 has been characterised by some bold decisions which will shape the future prosperity of Chesterfield. Once again, the town bucked the trend. When everyone else was battening down the hatches amidst the Covid storm, Chesterfield Borough Council forged ahead with supporting commercial developments at Northern Gateway and Chesterfield Waterside, which will deliver employment opportunities. Given the vaccination programme, we now can go into 2021 with hope, and an undercurrent of positivity and excitement.” Peter Swallow, Managing Director, Bolsterstone Group Plc

Peter Swallow Chair of Destination Chesterfield

“Being a care home operator, this year we focused on maintaining the safety and security of our existing business. Reminding myself that we have a serious and pressing duty of care to keep the most vulnerable members of society safe and well has given me focus and purpose in an uncertain time. My hope is that we emerge from this with a newfound respect and value for what is most important – the people in our lives.” Brendan Kelly, Group Managing Director, Heathcotes Group

 

“Covid meant that plans to open a new shop to had to be put as the promotion of one of our apprentices. Despite these disappointments, seeing how the community has pulled together has really impressed me. Looking to 2021 I want the town to prosper as a result of it having amazing businesses within it. I want more businesses to see the benefit of working together. The worlds our oyster so let’s all get involved!” Martin Wallis-Keyworth, Owner, Less than Zero Barbers

“Covid has had a big impact on the hospitality industry within the town centre. Iit has also given us time to reflect on what we do well and how we can make things even better in the future. With the continued support of our loyal customers, we look forward to opening again soon. Next year I want to see every single one of our customers walk back through our doors, fit and healthy!” Claire Wood, Owner, Stephensons Tea and Coffee House

“Home took on new meaning this year, and I’m confident we have adapted to better support our customers and community in finding that. I’m endlessly inspired by my colleagues and the people of Chesterfield in overcoming 2020’s challenges and finding the good in everything. As a town we’re stronger and more supportive than ever – I know we can get through anything! Jessica Risorto Area Manager, Redbrik Estate Agents

“Edwards Employment Solutions is on track to have its most successful year ever. At the start of Covid we feared the worst, however the business has become stronger as the job market has grown. There are many jobs available locally and this is hugely positive for the town and people whose jobs may have been a casualty of the pandemic. There are lots of positives to push both Edwards and Chesterfield forward in 2021.” Izabella Edwards, Managing Director, Edwards Employment Solutions

“The sense of community and resilience shown in Chesterfield throughout the crisis has been outstanding and makes me proud to both live, work and have a business based here. We refused to let Covid get in the way of our business plans, moving to a larger office and recruiting new team members during 2020. Bridge Help goes into 2021 excited for the year ahead and with a strong platform for further growth.” Chris Sellars, Chief Executive, Bridge Help

“While many towns and cities shelved plans for construction projects, it is testament to Chesterfield’s forward thinking and resilience that it has forged ahead with high quality commercial and residential developments during 2020. The ripple effect of ongoing investment in the town has certainly been felt at DBCP where we continue to develop the team and are recruiting further ensuring we go into 2021 in a strong position and ready to support developments across Derbyshire.” Neil Johnson, Managing Director, Derbyshire Building Control Partnership

 

“It is fair to say that 2020 has been a challenging year for the skills and training sector however, out of adversity has come innovation. The industry and NLT have developed new ways of working and delivering courses which I am confident will benefit us all going into 2021 as we look to grow the business.” Sarah Temperton, Chief Executive, NLT Training Services

“2020 has been a terrible year for most, but the festive season will give us the chance to see family and friends and bring us some joy for Christmas. My wish is that business picks up for those companies struggling and those that are still thriving continue to even greater things in 2021! Growing businesses bring jobs to the local residents building a better economy for our fantastic town.”  Lee Ashley, Director, Spire Recruitment

Champion of the Week

“As we leave one of the most challenging years the world has ever faced, we look forward to a new year and the possibility of getting some normality in the year ahead.  We know economically times will be tough, but we hope that the Business Crime Reduction Partnership will help keep our town a safer place to shop and do business and we can’t wait to get out and see everyone face to face once more!” Jackie Roberts, Business Crime Reduction Partnership Manager at East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire).

chamber video export

“2020 was the year that Chesterfield’s big heart and amazing community spirit was needed more than any of us can remember.  Residents, community groups, businesses and statutory services rose to the challenge and worked together to make a difference. Social connections are so important. Let’s make the time and effort to connect with each other, and to reach out to those around us who are isolated at this time of year.” Jacqui Willis, Chief Executive, Derbyshire Voluntary Action

“We want to thank you all for your support through 2020, having pivoted our business from live events to supplying home events through our hampers via our website. Covid-19 has made us dig deep, stay focused and plan. We have worked with other local businesses and are really impressed with the camaraderie. We would love to see this spirit continue into next year and look forward for the vaccine rollout to all be together again.” Natalia and Daniela Marchetta, Owners, Salute

 

“Although 2020 has been an unprecedented and incredibly difficult year, it’s also been one of the most heart-warming. We’ve had some lovely messages, conversations and acts of kindness from our customers and suppliers, that proves thar relationships throughout every aspect of business, are of paramount importance. ‘Shop Local’ has also come to the fore and we’re ever-grateful for our customers’ continued support and long-term, this support will help our independents become stronger than ever.” James Pogson, Director, Northern Tea Merchants

“What a year 2020 has been?! It would be easy to list the negatives, however, we’ve experienced a year of growth and seen our undervalued industry recognised as a key way of connecting with and being able to distribute ever-changing messages. Online communications and social media have allowed businesses to innovate and keep the conversation going with customers that would have otherwise been impossible. It’s important to keep this momentum going in 2021 and beyond.” Emma Loughlin, Director, eBusiness Works

“Sicily Restaurant is a young business which opened in August 2019. Me and my partner in crime run the restaurant together, it is our little dream! Obviously, it’s a very hard time for the hospitality industry but it’s a very hard time for everybody else too. We’re very positive and are sure that very soon all of us will be able to get back to our normal lives. 2021 will be a Great Year, Sicily Restaurant is always here to help you enjoy your special days. We’re sure that together, we can do it! Merry Christmas and a happy new year.” Monica and Peppe, Owners, Siclily Restaurant

“It has been so uplifting to see businesses coming together to support each other and the local community.  So many have adapted their services or products, and they have worked closely with the team at Destination Chesterfield to promote the town’s achievements.  It’s been a real pleasure this year to raise the profile of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire alongside 190 Chesterfield Champions.  And we have seen more support than ever for the Chesterfield High Street Awards, in a time when it has never been more important to shop locally.  Thank you to all the businesses that enabled us to reimagine our awards ceremony to showcase high street businesses for the first time via a live virtual platform.” – Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator

 

“2020 has been a tough year for many, here at S40 & S41 Local magazines we closed for three editions but were lucky enough to restart successfully towards the end of the year. Chesterfield has always had a strong sense of community and I’m seeing that more and more as businesses come together to support and help each other. Great examples are the Chesterfield is OPEN Signs used towards the end of the first lockdown and the more recent Christmas Elf, Advent Town and Paperstar Light trails that have popped up over Christmas. I am excited for 2021 after witnessing many ways in which the independent business community are working closer together, it can only mean good things for the new year.” Paul Chapman, S40 Local

 

“This year has been tough for everyone, we have all adapted to the challenges of Covid-19 and new ways of life. The highlight of 2020 for me has been how local businesses and the community have worked together to keep going strong. This year has made me appreciate where I live even more and I truly believe shopping and supporting local will be a high importance to everyone going into 2021.” Mollie Brown, Destination Chesterfield Coordinator

“Whilst 2020 has been a challenging year for many local people and businesses, I am proud to have seen first-hand the collective strength of our local community throughout this pandemic. It has been truly inspiring to see the creativity and innovation on display across all sectors and industries in Chesterfield. This year has gone to show that if we stick together as a community, we’re able to achieve great things even in the most adverse conditions. I am excited to continue working alongside the wonderful team at Destination Chesterfield and our Chesterfield Champions, as part of efforts to help the town bounce back even stronger in 2021.” Joshua Marsh, Destination Chesterfield Coordinator

Posted in Blog, Business, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Development, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Chesterfield building brought back into use by charity

A former supermarket building close to Chesterfield Town Centre has been brought back to life by the Chesterfield Salvation Army, who have moved premises for the first time in more than twenty years.

The Christian church and charity which has been in the town since 1881, has renovated the former Lidl store on Foljambe Road to provide a worship space as well as a large charity shop and donation centre.

Money raised from the sales of donations will go to help The Salvation Army’s work.

Salvation Army leader in Chesterfield, Captain Elizabeth Di-Palma said: “We are excited to move into our new building that we are sharing with our donation centre run by the Salvation Army Trading Company as together, we provide a great opportunity to meet people and support the local community.

“Opening at Christmas is especially poignant to us as this is a time of new beginnings. Our church and donation centre hopes to be a blessing to the people of Chesterfield and we warmly welcome people to come for support, to shop or join a meeting once our worship space has opened.

The donation centre, which offers a range of furniture, clothes and bicycles opened on 10th December, with the new worship space opening in January next year.

Lee Foster, the new manager at Chesterfield donation centre, said: “From day one, customers will be able to browse a fantastic range of quality second-hand items at affordable prices.

“The main difference between a charity shop and a donation centre is the range of goods available and volume of donations we are able to accept. People often walk into a charity shop carrying a bag of donations, but as you can drive to the donation centre, there is parking space at the front to help manoeuvre bigger items, such as furniture. It is easier to donate more items, such as clothes too.”

“We have introduced extra safety measures to help keep everyone safe and it’s a large store with plenty of space for customers.”

Other features at the centre include a community refrigerator and cupboard, providing free food for people who need it and a community space which will give visitors a chance to sit and enjoy a cup of tea, when COVID restrictions lift.

Visitors can also browse a range of second-hand bicycles, safety-checked by a qualified bike mechanic as part of the on-site ‘Recycles’ workshop.

Lee added: “We welcome donations which we can reuse and recycle, giving them a new lease of life for others.”

You can find out more about Chesterfield developments here.

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Chesterfield Champions get into the festive spirit

A number of Chesterfield Champions have been getting into the Christmas spirit this season, whether it’s been through charitable donations, donning those festive jumpers or embellishing their businesses with dazzling decorations..

We’ve been so impressed to see the community spirit well and truly alive here in Chesterfield, despite the challenges posed by covid-19. So we’re showcasing some of our favourite festive stories and photos from our fabulous local businesses!

Wishing all our champions, businesses and residents a Merry Christmas and a happy new year!

Christmas Jumper Day 2020

A number of Chesterfield Champions sent us photos of their teams wearing some truly excellent knitwear on Christmas Jumper Day, which took place on Friday, 11th December in aid of Save the Children. Well done to all those who took part and donated!

Mortgage 1st

The team at Mortgage 1st raised a fabulous £140 for Save The Children by sporting their Christmas jumpers in the office and eating Christmas jumper day cakes!

Salute

Natalia and Daniela from Salute sent us this adorable photo of their little helper getting cosy in one of their jumpers… You can find out more about their Christmas hampers here.

 

Rosewood Wealth Management

Donna, Shannan and Abigail have at Rosewood have certainly been getting into the festive spirit this year! The team have been collecting toys for the Nightingale Ward at Chesterfield Royal Hospital, along with decorating the outside of their business with a fabulous reindeer model… Not forgetting those all-important Christmas jumpers!

Banner Jones Solicitors

We love this collage of Christmas jumpers put together by Banner Jones solicitors! A huge well done to all who got involved…

Charity Appeals and Donations

Many of our Champions have worked hard to ensure those who are less fortunate are able to enjoy Christmas this year. Whether it is collecting toys to help Santa deliver presents to Chesterfield children, or donating to local foodbanks so families are able to enjoy a proper Christmas dinner, Chesterfield’s businesses have shown true community spirit. Here’s a few examples:

Greatest Hits Radio’s toy appeal and festive jingle campaign

The team at Greatest Hits Radio North Derbyshire have been incredibly busy this year. Back in November they launched their Mission Christmas Toy appeal, which has provided gifts for underprivileged children across the region. But they certainly weren’t finished there! Now, the team have launched the Christmas Eve Jingle campaign to raise festive spirits, by asking people to gather on their doorsteps to ring a bell at 6pm for two minutes on Christmas Eve. Find out more here.

Chesterfield FC toy appeal

Chesterfield FC’s Community Trust have been keen to support local residents ever since they took over the ownership of the football club back in the summer. This Christmas has been no exception, with the Spireites collecting hundreds of toys for local children.

Bridge Help Foodbank Appeal

Chesterfield Champions and other local businesses have rallied around the Bridge Help appeal to support Chesterfield Foodbank this Christmas. The company matched all donations of luxury items with essential food, including cereal, long life milk and tinned goods.

Specsavers foodbank donation

The team at Specsavers Chesterfield generously donated supplies to Chesterfield Food Hut this Christmas, along with paying for all of the charity’s costs until February 2021. The money will be put towards covering costs and providing 250 hot meals per week to the most vulnerable in our area.

Central Technology and BRM Solicitors gift Smart TV’s and Netflix licenses to Ashgate Hospicecare

Chesterfield’s Central Technology and BRM Solicitors have generously gifted Ashgate Hospicecare a total of three smart TV’s to help the charity to help upgrade it’s patient rooms and enable patients to view films and TV shows on Netflix.

 

Spreading festive cheer in Chesterfield 

A number of Chesterfield Champions have come up with new and creative ways of bringing people across the town together this year, and there’s still time for you to get involved with some of them!

Spire Radio Christmas Carol singalong

With many Christmas Carol Concerts cancelled this year due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Middlecroft Community Group have teamed up with Spire Radio to hold a one-off special on Spire Radio on Friday 18th December from 6pm.

Make sure you join the on-air team for some festive fun!

Team spire

Crooked Spire festival of lights

With their regular Christmas schedule disrupted due to the pandemic, the team behind Chesterfield’s most famous landmark have still managed to put together a range of festive features and events this Christmas.

Carol singing will be taking place outside the Church from 1.00pm for 20 minutes each day from the 17th until the 24th December, along with a dazzling display of light being projected onto the spire from the 16th December until the 31st December.

Festive Brass

Dazzling Decorations on Chesterfield’s high-street

Make sure you head into Chesterfield Town Centre to take a look at the wonderful decorations in our local independent shops. And while you’re at it, you could enter the S40 Local Advent Town competition by spotting the numbers of the advent calendar in the windows of some stores!

Here are some of our favourites:

Adorn Jewellers

Fred’s Haberdashery

Shop Indie

Don’t forget you can find out more about local festive events, activities, gift ideas and shopping times over on our Christmas In Chesterfield pages.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield business leaders urge government to deliver HS2 Eastern Leg in full

The chief executive of East Midlands Chamber says there are “No excuses for the HS2 Eastern Leg not to be built in full,” after the National Infrastructure Commission published recommendations earlier this week.

Responding to the National Infrastructure Commission’s (NIC) Rail Needs Assessment Plan in which it outlines recommendations on the future of HS2, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) chief executive Scott Knowles said: “HS2 is the single-biggest transport infrastructure project in a generation and represents a huge opportunity for businesses, with the potential to unlock economic benefits of more than £4bn for the East Midlands and part of Yorkshire.

“By connecting the region with a first-class UK and Europe-wide rail network, it will bring enormous opportunities to local firms and make the East Midlands a much more attractive location for inward investment.

“However, these benefits for both the region and country will only be realised once it is delivered in full. That means the Eastern Leg being built exactly as the Government has promised all along, rather than a diluted version of this, and at pace.

“We will have major capacity issues on the Midland Main Line within the next two decades unless something is done to upgrade the rail network, so this needs to be addressed urgently. HS2 would achieve this, while also offering much-needed improvements in connectivity between the region’s towns and cities.

“However, this is so much more than just a railway line. It’s been great to see many parts of the East Midlands come together to commit to a blueprint for the future of the region that will bring economic growth and jobs. We have been very clear on our vision, which is built on the idea that the Toton hub station becomes a destination in its own right – a magnet for inward investment and an industrial hub that unlocks further development opportunities.

“The NIC’s report is therefore very concerning as it doesn’t take any of the regional growth plans into account and we absolutely do not accept its findings.

“Any suggestion that involves stopping HS2 at East Midlands Parkway would not work for the region, and has already been considered and dismissed from a feasibility perspective years ago.

“When the Government makes its decision about which option to include in its Integrated Rail Plan, it will have a clear choice between an exciting vision created by a region that’s focused on long-term growth and prosperity – one that will shape how we want our country to look as we leave the UK-EU transition period – and another that applies rough methodology, offers short-term logic and ultimately doesn’t deliver the same benefits.

“We have a plan that’s ready to go and it’s time the Government delivered on promises it has made so many times over the past 12 months since it firmly committed to the scheme – and in the years that preceded it.

“The East Midlands currently has the lowest transport spend per capita – £245 per head – of any region in the UK, receiving just 51% of the £483 UK average. The region is in desperate need of investment and finally putting any questions to bed on the HS2 Eastern Leg would go some way to proving the Government is serious about delivering on the ‘levelling-up’ agenda – a point on which it has repeatedly banged the drum without any serious proof of what this actually means.

“To do anything else would be a huge mistake, critically undermining the entire project and blowing a huge hole in Government rhetoric.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council has responded to the NIC publication. She said: “We are hugely disappointed that of the options presented the National Infrastructure Commission does not recommend delivery of the eastern leg of HS2 in full. This directly conflicts with the Government’s pledge to levelling up in areas like ours. It also seriously undermines local plans for growth in the north and the midlands.

“After decades of underinvestment in strategic rail infrastructure, delivering HS2 is a once in a generation chance to transform connectivity, attract investment, create new jobs, build new homes, boost skills and opportunity and level-up communities across the North, Midlands and beyond. This is even more crucial to our economic future in optimising recovery from the pandemic, which has hit the North and Midlands hard.

“We have been working with our partners across the north and midlands for a number of years, making it clear that the full eastern leg is a critical requirement for Northern Powerhouse Rail as well as investing huge amounts of money in developing growth plans that will help our communities make the most of HS2.

“For Chesterfield, the failure to deliver the eastern leg in full means facing the prospect of reduced connectivity for our communities, as well as damaging the momentum we have built up around our ambitious comprehensive plans for both Staveley and the area around Chesterfield Station.

“In the Staveley area alone, planned growth worth at least £1bn has been catalysed by the planned HS2 maintenance depot. Taking this away would be a huge blow for an area that has had its hopes raised on the back of HS2’s plans and would leave a huge question mark over how we can deliver the ambitious growth plans our communities need and deserve.

“It is vital that the Eastern Leg of HS2 is delivered in full and that delivery starts as soon as possible. This is about more than just rail and trains – it’s about new jobs, new homes and new starts for communities that have been denied these opportunities over many years.

“This is a critical issue for Chesterfield and Staveley. I will not rest in working with council and business leaders along the planned Eastern Leg to hold Government to account and to ensure that the Prime Minister honours his commitment to deliver HS2 East in full. Time is of the essence to re-assert the strength of Chesterfield’s social and economic case ahead of Government’s planned publication of its Integrated Rail Plan.”

 

Dom Stevens, manager of Destination Chesterfield commented: “Chesterfield is already moving forward with significant plans and developments so that the town can maximise the wide range of economic benefits HS2 has to offer.

“The originally proposed spur of the line arriving at Chesterfield Station will improve connectivity, journey times and capacity on our rail network locally and nationally, bringing with it vital investment opportunities.

“We would urge the NIC to rethink its recommendations and take into the account the huge strides our town has already made to regenerate its economy, with HS2 playing a huge role in attracting new people into the area to invest, live and work.”

 

 

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Chesterfield College awarded £500,000 towards centre of excellence focusing on modern construction and digital technologies.

A new Centre of Excellence focusing on modern construction and digital technologies will be built at Chesterfield College after the scheme was awarded a £500,000 grant from the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The investment will support the D2N2 LEP’s vision of greener homes and technology, along with more energy-efficient public building; with construction being one of the most important sectors to the regional economy.

The project is one of ten across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire which has received funding from D2N2’s £44 million share of the government’s £900 million Getting Building Fund.

The programme of investment is being used to improve digital infrastructure; support skills and career opportunities; and the transition to a low carbon economy to drive economic growth following the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The funding award will allow Chesterfield College to create a new centre where local students will be able to learn state-of-the-art techniques such as Building Information Modelling and Virtual and Augmented reality.

The new centre, which will be housed in pre-existing premises owned by the college, will complement the current curriculum being delivered to teach advanced manufacturing and building techniques. It will offer learners the opportunity to develop the skills which employers need to meet current and future demands in their sector.

It’s hoped that these new skills will enhance learners employment and career development opportunities as well as their earning potential. The facility will also support the growing demand from employers for a workforce well versed in new technologies and construction methods..

With funding for the £875,000 facility now secured work will begin on the site ready to accept learner by April 2021.

The Centre of Excellence is just the latest capital investment D2N2 has made in Chesterfield and follows recent investments into the construction of the Hollis Lane Link Road, the station area redevelopment, and the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project totalling £6.85 million.

D2N2 Chair Elizabeth Fagan CBE said: “Through the Getting Building Fund, D2N2 is investing in projects that will drive the regeneration of our regional economy, adapt to new opportunities, and create a more resilient economy for everyone.”
“I’m pleased D2N2 has been able to invest in this Centre of Excellence at Chesterfield College. Ensuring our workforce has the skills to take advantage of ever more sophisticated and greener construction methods is an essential part of our vision for a cleaner and more sustainable economy.”

David Malone, Deputy Principal of the Chesterfield College Group said: “This funding will allow us to give local people the chance to develop the skills they need to be competitive in the job market as demands of the construction and engineering sector change.
“The Centre of Excellence will allow us to enhance what we already offer students and apprentices and ensure employers have access to a talent pool of people with the skills they need. We are excited to be able to bring together expertise in digital technology with modern construction in one purpose built facility and we look forward to welcoming the first students through the doors in 2021.”

Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government, Luke Hall MP said: “We’re supporting students across the country gain the skills they need to succeed in today’s new and emerging industries.
“That’s why we’re supporting Chesterfield College’s Centre of Excellence with a £500,000 Getting Building Fund investment.

“The innovative new facilities will allow local people to progress to high quality, well paid jobs while also meeting the recruitment demands of the region’s businesses.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

NLT becomes one of the first in region to offer new ‘drive-thru’ CCNSG Test Only Renewal

NLT Training Services in Chesterfield has become one of the first in the region to deliver the new CCNSG National Safety Passport ‘Test only Renewal’.

This is the first time that the industry-required qualification has been delivered in an online test-only format, replacing what traditionally has always been a full day’s course.

The new online multiple-choice course, which is for existing passport holders, enables attendees to limit their time in a training room minimising their Covid exposure and also, more importantly, return to work the same day. It also costs less that the day-long course.

The CCNSG (Client Contractor National Safety Group) Safety Passport is the engineering construction industry safety card. Workers must have a valid CCNSG Safety Passport to enter many engineering and construction sites. As a result, around 30,000 people complete the course each year.

The Engineering Construction Industry the ECITB and CCNSG developed the Test-Only option for renewal of existing CCNSG Safety Passports.

Sarah Temperton, Chief Executive of NLT Training Services, said: “The new test-only option is a real step forward for the industry and it has been warmly welcomed by contractors who appreciate the fact that they no longer have to sacrifice an entire day’s work to renew their CCNSG Safety Passport.”

A CCNSG Safety Passport must be renewed every three years. Delegates are allowed to undertake the Test Only Renewal twice in six years after which they are required to undertake the full-day classroom-based course.

If candidates cannot pass the test only renewal option, they will be required to successfully complete the full two-day CCNSG course rather than the one-day renewal one to renew their CCNSG passport.

To book on to the new CCNSG National Safety Passport ‘Test only Renewal’ at the NLT Training Services centre on Station Road in Brimington please call 0333 880 3540 or book online www.nlt-training.co.uk

NLT supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Festive cheer for foodbank after Specsavers steps in to cover charity’s Christmas costs

The founder of a Chesterfield-based foodbank has thanked her local Specsavers store after the team stepped in to cover the operating costs over Christmas.

Kelly Hall from The Chesterfield Food Hut launched the charity earlier this year in the wake of the pandemic, to provide food parcels for vulnerable people across Chesterfield and surrounding areas.
However, the group was struggling in recent weeks to meet the increased demand over the festive period. With costs spiralling, the Specsavers’ team agreed to donate £2,750 to help cover the charity’s overheads until February 2021.

Specsavers Chesterfield’s store director, Allissa Charlesworth, launched the fundraising campaign this week with her store colleagues after concerns the charity would struggle to meet demand for those unable to make ends meet over Christmas.

The money will be put towards covering costs and providing 250 hot meals per week to the vulnerable as well as the charity’s Christmas appeal to provide disadvantaged local children a present each.

Allissa says: ‘Kelly’s work is nothing short of remarkable and her unfaltering commitment to helping those in need across the area was something we immediately recognised and wanted to play a part in.

‘Budgets are often squeezed over this period at the best of times, but it must be really hard for families this year to cope with a Covid-Christmas.

‘We’re delighted that we can help fund the charity’s great work over the busy Christmas period, and we’ll be holding an in-store food and present donation drive to support the group further.’

Kelly Hall says: ‘2020 has been such a tough year for all of us, which is why I’m really proud to have been able to make a difference through the initiative.

‘The support from Specsavers, along with the other generous donations that we receive from our community, will really help to make sure we can continue this work well into the New Year.’

Specsavers stores throughout England remain open for all eye care and hearing needs in accordance with government guidelines. In line with NHS recommendations, Specsavers colleagues use personal protective equipment (PPE) throughout the stores, wear face masks and other PPE during tests, and all testing equipment and frames are thoroughly sanitised before and after each use.

Customers are also asked to request an appointment in advance by phone or online through the Specsavers website to help manage social distancing and minimise time spent in store.

To book an eye test at Specsavers Chesterfield visit specsavers.co.uk or call 01246 222 334

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Eileen Richards MBE inducted as new East Midlands Chamber president at virtual AGM

A businesswoman who received royal recognition for promoting female entrepreneurship has been inducted as the new president of East Midlands Chamber.

Eileen Richards MBE, founder and managing director of ER Recruitment in Leicester, took over the chains of office from Dawn Edwards at the Chamber’s annual general meeting, which was held virtually for the first time on Friday 11 December.

She is the co-founder of the Chamber’s Enterprising Women network, which will mark its 25th year in 2022.

In her first speech as president, Eileen set out three priorities for the year ahead – to encourage inter-membership relations and trading; support the region’s future business leaders; and lobby hard in Government for investment to aid the East Midlands’ post-Covid economic recovery.

Eileen, who has been a board member for more than three years and was vice-president in 2020, said: “The Chamber plays a huge role in the region and it’s an organisation I’ve worked with pretty much the entire time I have been in business.

“I have experienced first-hand the excellent range of services available to members, and have witnessed the incredible talent and experience we have on our board – not least from Dawn, who has done such a fantastic job in difficult circumstances as president.

“I feel really honoured to become president for 2021 as it’s a fantastic accolade that comes with great responsibility.

“I’ll carry out the role of president like I run my business – the members will be at the heart of everything we do, just like people are in recruitment.

“I might not be able to solve the economic recovery all on my own but I’d like to get some great individuals and businesses together within our membership to make a difference.

“Hopefully, in 12 months’ time, people can see what we’ve achieved.”

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles added: “Eileen is dedicated to supporting the Chamber and its members as they navigate post-pandemic and post-Brexit – two of the greatest challenges to the UK economy happening simultaneously.

“She is already a leading voice in the business community and her role as president of the Chamber will give her the platform to showcase what she is passionate about – the amazing business community we have here in the East Midlands.

“I look forward to working very closely with Eileen in what will prove to be an interesting year for business.”

Dawn Edwards reflects on ‘rollercoaster’ year

In her outgoing speech, Dawn, founder and managing director of Nottinghamshire-based Challenge Consulting, reflected on a “rollercoaster” year in office that has been hugely disrupted by coronavirus and bookended by Brexit.

She spoke about some of the Chamber events she had been able to attend before lockdown, including the Christmas lunch and Celebrating East Midlands Culture and Communities gala.

Dawn also praised the region’s “unwavering support and sense of community” that has remained constant amid all the uncertainty of 2020.

“I am incredibly proud to have been able to represent the business community in the East Midlands, and to have been given a platform and a voice at a time so critical to business,” said Dawn.

“Being a collective business voice and the many lobbying activities that the Chamber engages in have been incredibly powerful – the fruits of which can be seen in some of the decisions and support packages provided by the Government.

“The year ahead will no doubt also be a challenging one. With the Brexit transition period coming to an end and negotiations still ongoing, we must continue to make our collective voice heard.

“The past year has proven how vital it is for us all to work together. Alliances, partnerships and collaborations have been forged in the most unlikely of places, through the most unlikely of circumstances, and present a real opportunity for the future.

“I can now look ahead in the knowledge that I’m handing over the chains to someone who I admire hugely in Eileen, and I know she will bring her own brand of leadership and enthusiasm to the role.”

Scott added: “Dawn’s year as president has arguably been the most challenging for any president in recent years.

“The pandemic and its impact on the business community is well rehearsed by all of us and Dawn has navigated this, supporting the Chamber, our members and the wider business community by holding to Government to account and being the leading voice for businesses at this critical time.

“Her tenacity and support for the SME community has been unfaltering and I want to thank her for her support to me and the wider Chamber team during this time.”

Two new board members and vice-president appointed to East Midlands Chamber

As well as a new president, Lindsey Williams was named vice-president. She has been chief executive of Derbyshire-based Futures Housing Group since 2003 and is a passionate advocate for social housing.

Lindsey is a strategic leader on various boards and is an active member of the Chartered Institute of Housing, playing a key role in helping boost the housing sector’s profile with central Government as part of the National Housing Federation’s Political Positioning Group.

She said: “I’m delighted to be part of East Midlands Chamber and to become our new vice president.

“Building relationships and being part of a community of businesses from across the region is really important to me and to Futures. I look forward to working together closely with members over the next few years.”

Two new board members, Craig Brothers and Neil Williams, were appointed to replace Robert Mayo and Stephen Midgley, who have retired.

Craig is co-founder and managing director of Affari Media, a Nottingham-based creative marketing agency.

The company develops immersive technology solutions, including virtual reality, augmented reality and holography for a global client base.

Craig said: “As a native of the East Midlands, I’m extremely honoured and proud to have been asked to serve as a board member for East Midlands Chamber.

“I look forward to adding to the great work the team at the Chamber has achieved in supporting the membership, notably its award of British Chambers of Commerce Chamber of the Year 2018.

“A real desire I have during my tenure is to enhance the region in nurturing talent, in particular linking my work with Nottingham Trent University’s enterprise advisory board and the Chamber’s Generation Next network.”

Neil has spent more than 30 years in the media and public relations profession, including for GlaxoSmithKline and Rolls-Royce.

He is currently a PR manager based in the East Midlands at Amazon, which recently became a strategic partner of the Chamber.

“I’m delighted to have been asked to serve as a board member, and really looking forward to working with an organisation that has done so much for business in the region,” said Neil.

The AGM also included guest speeches from senior representatives of the Business of the Year winners for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire at the recent East Midlands Chamber Business Awards – John Beswick, director of PR Marriott Drilling; James Healey, COO at Air IT; and Nick Parker, managing director of db automation and Premier Bowl Feeders.

More than 100 businesses were celebrated in a presentation that recognised longstanding membership, ranging from 25 to 65 years, and will receive certificates from the Chamber.

Rolls-Royce is the longest serving member, having joined the former Derbyshire Chamber of Commerce on 15 April 1908.

chamber video export

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Uncategorised

Have your say on the future of Chesterfield Market

Chesterfield residents, business owners and market traders are being invited to share their views and help shape the future of Chesterfield Market.

Chesterfield Borough Council is launching an initial series of surveys to understand what people enjoy about Chesterfield Market, what might encourage them to visit more often, and understand how they think it can be improved. The surveys will be open until Monday 4 January.

It is the first step in the £3.25m Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project to revamp the town’s historic outdoor Market Place.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “Chesterfield Market is the heart and soul of the town. It is absolutely vital to our history, with markets being held here since 1204.

“It’s crucial that we work together with residents, market traders and local businesses to make sure improvements meet their needs, and so we’re encouraging as many people as possible to give us their views.”

Three separate surveys are being carried out at the same time – one will seek the views, ideas and concerns of market traders, whilst another is aimed at local retailers. The third questionnaire will be open to the general public to share their opinions.

Councillor Sarvent added: “This is just the start of what is a very important conversation for our town. The things people tell us now will be used to shape detailed proposals for the improvement work, which will be the focus of a more formal consultation next year.”

Members of the public are being asked to tell the council what attracts them to the market, and their shopping habits when they visit. Businesses and market traders are being asked about customer shopping habits and the facilities that will support their businesses.

The trader and retailer survey focuses on the business impact of the market and customer trends, but also seeks opinions on how certain changes may affect their business.

The surveys only take a few minutes to complete and people can have their say until Monday 4 January by visiting the Chesterfield Outdoor Market Questionnaire page. 

The council is working with retail market development company, Quarterbridge, which is overseeing the survey process and will put forward recommendations for improvement based on the results.

As well as looking at the future of the market, the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project will also include improvements to the public space between the town centre and the Northern Gateway site.

The Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project has benefitted from £650,000 of funding through the D2N2 Local Growth Fund.

The survey closes on Monday 4 January and can be completed by visiting the Chesterfield Outdoor Market Questionnaire page.

Posted in Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

Chesterfield College helps employers access £2 billion of government funding to recruit young people

Chesterfield College is helping employers make the most of government funding to grow their workforce and help young people into employment. The college is now a provider and intermediary of the government’s Kickstart Scheme, helping businesses of all sizes, in all sectors, to get access to their share of £2 billion of funding to provide meaningful 6-month job placements for 16-24-year olds.

The scheme was launched earlier this year as part of a recovery package of measures outlined by the chancellor, Rishi Sunak. It offers employers a means of growing their workforce with a talent pool of people looking for a route into employment.

The WorkSkills team at Chesterfield College is working with employers to apply for funding, liaise with JobCentrePlus, choose the right candidates, and provide any additional training needs alongside the job placements.

Funding available for each job will cover the relevant National Minimum Wage, plus NI contributions and any auto enrolment pension costs for up to 25 hours a week. Employers will be able to benefit from a fully funded new member of staff, but they can also choose to top up and pay above the minimum wage or cover the costs beyond 25 hours per week.

There is also funding available to support young people to develop new skills and to help them move into sustained employment after they have completed their Kickstart funded job. Free upfront and on-going training, designed to support the new roles created, will be provided by the college to ensure new employees can make the most of their opportunity.

Lee Kirton, WorkSkills Delivery Manager from Chesterfield College said: “This a fantastic opportunity for employers of all sizes to grow their workforce and access a large pool of candidates with potential and ambition, ready for an opportunity to kick start their career. Our expertise of working with employers, young people and JobCentrePlus will give employers the best chance of accessing this pot of funding and benefiting from the Kickstart scheme. We are passionate about working together to create meaningful job placements for young people to develop in.”

For more information about the rules of Kickstart scheme and how to access funding working with Chesterfield College, visit https://www.chesterfield.ac.uk/kickstart-scheme-launches-2-billion-of-funded-roles-now-available-for-employers/

Find out more about apprenticeships in Chesterfield here

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Chesterfield company’s pledge to help get local community finances back on track

A Chesterfield company has opened up a new office in the town as part of its efforts to support clients and the wider community in its recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

Sovereign Wealth want to help reassure people and local businesses who are concerned about the recent economic uncertainty caused by the virus, or those who have been hit hard financially.

Dominic Fallon, Partner of Sovereign Wealth LLP and founder of the Chesterfield branch said: “We’ve decided to focus our energy on where we feel we can help the most in the local community. At the moment, financial plans that may have seemed secure pre-Covid should be re-evaluated. Financial decisions made before March 2020 were not based on the current economic environment.

“Volatility in equity and financial markets are rightly causing concerns, and it’s important to understand any knock-on effects on pensions or other financial arrangements, and how to protect them.”

When life becomes unpredictable, it’s easy to feel out of control with finances, but it doesn’t have to be like that, says Dominic.

“One way to help yourself through this is to seek the best advice. We are bombarded by information daily about recessions and dips, and often these aren’t the things we need to be worrying about, but we do as they are at the forefront of our minds. One way to stay sane and stop worrying unnecessarily is to seek reliable, dependable advice, and getting to know the whole situation, not just now, but any long-term financial implications. This way, you can make an informed decision.”

“We’ve set up an office in Chesterfield so that we can work Covid securely; we have the correct distance requirements etc. Much safer in the current climate for our clients. But, we can also use Zoom for clients who can’t manage to get to the office.”

But Dominic’s aim to help the community doesn’t stop there. Working with other local businesses, Dominic and his team and working to give something back to the community of Chesterfield this Christmas.

“Everyone has struggled this year, whether it be financially or mentally, and we wanted to give something back. We are working with other local businesses to organise a food collection which will be distributed to local schools to pass on to any families who might struggle without school meals over the holiday period. If you have any food items to donate, please drop them to our office at Sovereign Wealth LLP 3 Old Road, Chesterfield S40 2RE. Give yourself the feel-good factor – there is no better feeling than doing good.”

If you’d like to sign up for Dominic’s top tips to keeping calm through the pandemic, you can email Dominic.Fallon@sjpp.co.uk

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Featured, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

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