Destination Chesterfield

Shorts win Best Private Client Tax Practice in national awards

21st May 2020

Chesterfield Champions Shorts are thrilled to have been crowned Best Private Client Tax Practice in the prestigious 2020 Tolley’s Taxation Awards, held this month.

With COVID-19 situation meaning that the annual black-tie award ceremony in London could not be held, this year’s event was run online and the Shorts team joined in to watch through Zoom together as all of the category results were announced.

Tolley’s Taxation Awards are highly regarded within the Accountancy and Taxation profession; awards which continue to recognise the finest achievements and talents of remarkable individuals and teams across the entire UK tax profession. Winning or being a short-listed Finalist for a Tolley’s award brings prestige to any team and shows recognition from a first-class judging panel.

Shorts were thrilled to have been recognised as Finalists for two consecutive years, and in a fiercely competitive category with some exceptional talent amongst the final shortlist.

Best Private Client Tax Practice This category was open to practices of all sizes across the UK, and the winning firm has provided sufficient evidence and documentation to provide the judges with a clear picture of their business and the service provided to clients.

Chris Chambers, Senior Partner and head of Shorts’ Private Client practice (right), commented “This is a significant achievement for Shorts, which is made even more special coming in the year that we mark our 130th Anniversary. It felt a little strange that we couldn’t come together as a team and celebrate our achievements in the usual way, but I was delighted that everyone was able to join together and share the news online – and we will celebrate later in the year, when possible.”

“I remain intensely proud of the team we have built at Shorts, and winning the award for Best Private Client Tax Practice backs up my firm belief that the service we provide for our clients is exemplary. The Tolley’s Taxation awards are regarded as the Industry’s Elite, recognising the very best and we are absolutely delighted to be Finalists for the second year running – winning it this year is phenomenal.”

There were five teams shortlisted this year, of varying sizes and in the end, the judges chose the winner who showed that a regional firm with a passion for excellence, can compete at the highest level.

You can view the Tolley’s Awards ceremony here.

Click here to find out more about Shorts

Click here to find out more about becoming a Chesterfield Champion

Please note this image was taken before the coronavirus outbreak

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home

Destination Chesterfield is going on a bear hunt

21st May 2020

Ten bears have been hidden across the websites of businesses and visitor attractions in Chesterfield, all ready for children to find over the May Half Term holiday. And they can win prizes.

Coordinated by Destination Chesterfield, the bear hunt has been created to remind families of some of the great places available to visit locally – once social distancing restrictions are lifted.

Each of the 10 bears hidden on the websites have a letter. Once all the bears have been found they will spell out a word which bear hunters can then enter in a free prize draw for the chance to win tickets for future use at local venues.

Prizes include a family ticket for Barrow Hill Roundhouse, a family ticket for Matlock Farm Park, two pairs of tickets for Chester’s Den and a £20 Chesterfield Canal Cruise Voucher.

Bear hunters have until 8pm on Sunday 7th June to complete their search and enter the prize draw.

The bears can be found on websites belonging to Barrow Hill Roundhouse, Chesterfield Community Trust, Chesterfield Leisure Centres, Chesterfield Museum, Chesterfield Theatres, Chesterfield Canal Trust, Dronfield Hall Barn, Matlock Farm Park, Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa and Straightcurves.

A number of the businesses and venues involved in the bear hunt have adapted their services during lockdown. Straightcurves is providing virtual creative workshops and Chesterfield Museum has offered a selection of family activities and a virtual tour.

Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator explained: “It has been great to work with 10 local leisure businesses to offer a fun bear hunt competition for families during lockdown. While enjoying the bear hunt and visiting the websites, it’s a great opportunity for families to enjoy many of the venues virtually.”

The bear hunt is part of a special package of support Destination Chesterfield’s is delivering to Champions during the COVID-19 crisis. Earlier this month it launched a mini website – www.chesterfield.co.uk/supportinglocal – giving details of more than 100 shops, food and drink businesses, training, venues, support and service providers in and around Chesterfield that are continuing to operate by adapting their services to meet the needs of the community.

Tara added: “As the town’s marketing campaign we work with over 180 local businesses, known as Chesterfield Champions, to raise the profile of the town. We have been keen to provide business and marketing support to help organisations navigate through these challenging times. Many of the businesses have continued to engage with their customers online and we are keen to encourage these interactions during their temporary closure period and throughout their plans for recovery.”

Destination Chesterfield is also asking bear hunters to share their photos along with #lovechesterfield to show their support for leisure businesses in Chesterfield.

To find out more about Chesterfield Champions, visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/.

To take part in Destination Chesterfield’s bear hunt visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/competitions/.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Visiting

Funding for part of Chesterfield Station Masterplan approved

20th May 2020

D2N2, the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) for Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, has approved a £3.8m grant towards the construction of the Hollis Lane Link Road in Chesterfield.

The £7.42m project will form a critical part of the Chesterfield Station Masterplan, bringing forward wholescale regeneration and supporting sustainable economic growth in the centre of Chesterfield. This regeneration will include new commercial development, as well as significantly improved connectivity.

D2N2 will be funding the development through its Local Growth Fund allocation, an investment programme to support projects that benefit the regional economy.

The funding for the Hollis Lane Link Road follows similar awards for infrastructure projects that benefit Chesterfield residents including the A61 Corridor, HS2-related development, and the Chesterfield Higher Level Skills Centre worth a combined £10.57m.

The new Hollis Lane Link Road will extend from the junction of Hollis Lane and Spa Lane and will terminate at the southern extent of the Chesterfield Station car park, providing direct access to the railway station from the south.

Furthermore, the Hollis Lane Link Road will unlock 0.92 hectares of early development plots within the Chesterfield Station Masterplan area which it is hoped will lead to over 500 jobs being created by businesses moving into the new development.

Remedial works are due to begin in September 2020 with work expected to be completed by late 2021.

D2N2 Chair Elizabeth Fagan CBE said: “Our investment into the construction of the Hollis Lane Link Road will be another important milestone for Chesterfield’s regeneration ambitions, bringing significant growth and investment opportunities whilst creating more homes, jobs, and learning places.”

“D2N2 is pleased to support investment in our town centres to stimulate economic growth which will be central to supporting the region’s recovery from the impact of Covid-19.”

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Infrastructure, Councillor Simon Spencer, said: “The Hollis Lane Link is a great example of the ambitious work now being undertaken by the Joint Growth Board.”

“It is a key part of the Chesterfield Masterplan which will bring a range of economic benefits to the town and surrounding area.”

The Joint Growth Board is body set up between Chesterfield Borough Council and Derbyshire County Council tasked with delivering key regeneration projects which will aid the borough’s growth strategy.

Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, said: “The Hollis Lane Link road adds value to the work we are already doing on the emerging station masterplan, which is a significant project for Chesterfield and northern Derbyshire’s economy.”

“We are in the process of finalising the station master plan and will be undertaking public consultation later this year.”

“The station masterplan will define our aspirations for the economic future of the area and we continue to work closely with partner agencies to maximise this huge opportunity for Chesterfield Borough and beyond.”

Click here to find out more about HS2 and the Chesterfield Station Masterplan

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, Visiting

Nominations for the Peak FM Awards 2020 are now open

19th May 2020

Peak FM are urging residents of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire to submit their nominations for the Peak FM Awards 2020, which will be taking place virtually in June.

Peak FM is once again looking to recognise the amazing achievements of people from across the Chesterfield area; those who have made a difference to their community, shown courage or helped make the lives of others that little bit better.

In the interests of safety and maintaining social distance, the Peak FM Awards will for the first time be held as a virtual ceremony. The awards ceremony will take place throughout the day on Friday 5th June through Peak FM’s digital platforms and via their daytime shows.

Award recipients will be selected from Peak FM listener nominations and local news stories by a Peak FM judging panel who will consider every nomination received.

Nominations are now open for the following award categories:

Carer of the Year
Family of the Year
Child or Teenager of Courage
NHS Hero
Home Grown Talent
Act of Kindness
Fundraiser of the Year

Anyone can be nominated for a Peak FM award and they can be nominated under more than one category.

The Peak FM judging panel will make sure the nominations are considered for all relevant awards. Peak FM will choose the appropriate winner based on content of the nominations rather than amount of nominations.

Nominations close on May 28th at 12 noon.

Click here to nominate

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, Summer, Visiting

Grants available for Derbyshire Visitor Economy Businesses

18th May 2020

Visitor economy businesses in Derbyshire are being encouraged to apply for grants of up to £10,000 to rebuild their business and develop valuable digital assets in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire is offering business grants to support a range of activities such as website development, new photography, the creation of virtual tours and the implementation of cashless payment systems to help businesses bounce back and drive the recovery of the sector.

The grant programme is part of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s European Regional Development Fund project, and has been recently updated to reflect new business needs that have emerged as a result of the current climate.

Alongside digitalisation, grants of £1,000 to £10,000 are also available in the following areas:

Accessibility – e.g. accessible equipment and facilities for people with disabilities.
Environmental – e.g. electric car charging points, e-bikes or a water system for use by visitors that replaces the need for plastic bottles.
Cycling – e.g. secure cycle storage and maintenance equipment for use by visitors.
Internationalisation – e.g. website translation or the implementation of online booking/cashless payment systems to encourage international visitors.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, the area’s official tourist board, said: “I’m delighted that we are able to offer this funding through our European Regional Development Fund project. Derbyshire’s tourism industry is incredibly important to the local economy and these grants will enable businesses to rebuild and bounce back stronger than ever.

Jo added: “Grants are available for things such as online booking systems and virtual tours, which are both key in the current climate and will help to enrich the area’s tourism offer and power our recovery plans. I would urge businesses to visit the website for more information and get your applications in as soon as possible.”

Businesses applying for the funding must meet the following criteria:

They must be part of the visitor economy and its supply chain, including sole traders, partnerships and limited companies.
They must be located in Derbyshire.
They must have less than 250 employees.
They will need to demonstrate how the grant funding will help their business to become more competitive and support the area’s wider visitor economy.

Successful applicants will receive a 50% grant towards the cost of the overall project, with a minimum 50% grant contribution being £1,000 and the maximum £10,000.

A free webinar providing more details on the business grants programme is being held on Thursday 21 May.

Eligible businesses can register their interest for a grant now at https://business-grants-scheme.eventbrite.co.uk.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Made in Chesterfield, Visiting

Chesterfield Royal leads the way in Covid-19 research

18th May 2020

Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Research Team has become one of the UK’s leading figures in the country’s efforts to treat COVID-19.

The team has been recruiting to a number of urgent public health research trials, some of which are designed to explore potential treatments for COVID-19.

Amanda Whileman is the Royal’s Matron for Clinical Research, she said: “We’re recruiting to a number of urgent public health studies, namely a study looking at how our genes play a part in the virus, an observational study to find better ways of diagnosing and managing COVID-19, and ‘RECOVERY’. We are also collecting data for a COVID-19 in pregnancy study using the UK Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS) to inform guidance on care for women and babies.”

“For us, the ‘RECOVERY’ trial is particularly significant as we’re looking very closely at several different existing treatments recommended for testing by the Chief Medical Officer. The purpose of the research is to find out whether treatments are effective for COVID-19. Patients are randomly selected through a computer process to receive one of the treatment options or no additional treatment. Our results will be combined with those from other hospitals to assess the effectiveness of these treatments.”

The Research team was able to act very quickly to national calls for patients to become involved in these trials. Their approach has been particularly impressive given that some of the team are themselves in the ‘at risk’ category.

Amanda added: “There are two studies that we are about to embark on, one being the ‘Principle’ trial which takes us out into the community, working with our Royal Primary Care colleagues. This study is about reducing the rates of hospital admission for patients with suspected COVID-19 for those aged over 50 years with certain underlying health conditions and over the age of 65 with or without an underlying condition. Again, it’s about assessing the effectiveness of trial treatments in preventing hospital admissions.”

“It is quite remarkable that we only started on our journey of recruitment to COVID-19 studies on 19^th March, yet have managed to collect a significant amount of data. We commenced recruitment to the RECOVERY trial on 26^th March and the genetics study on 21^st April.”

“We’ve had to split ourselves into two teams; those that are able to be patient facing and those who are in the ‘at risk’ category themselves. Both teams have been working on a rota, seven days a week to ensure we are able to offer the research studies to all eligible patients.”

“The team that is unable to attend the wards has been working closely with critical care in order to enroll patients remotely into studies. They have been liaising with patients’ families to explain the nature of the studies to keep them informed, working tirelessly to input the much needed data onto the databases. We’ve worked around the clock to ensure that the answers we are looking for in relation to COVID-19 and its treatment are found as soon as possible.”

“We are extremely proud that we are one of the highest recruiting sites in the UK for the RECOVERY trial. This, without a doubt, is down to the passion and commitment the research team and our colleagues have shown to deliver a gold standard service to the patients in our community. We also cannot forget that without patients volunteering to take part, none of this research could take place. We are incredibly grateful for their participation and support.”

Chesterfield Royal Hospital

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

Is your business planning for recovery?

11th May 2020

Destination Chesterfield and Chesterfield Champions share advice to help your business succeed over the next six months and into recovery.

You’ve helped your team to respond quickly.

You sourced the necessary tools for them to work from home. Now your employees are getting to grips with their online communication tools. And you are all adapting to your new reality.

But are you thinking long term?

In a changing environment, it can be challenging to schedule time for non-urgent, but highly important tasks.

Yet this is key to the success of your business.

“To survive a crisis, you need a battle plan,” advises Emily Coy, SME Business Advisor, Coach and Mentor, Business Doctors.

Emily recommends you decide on a vision. What do you want your business to have achieved in six months’ time? And how do you want it to look during your recovery phase?

And she stresses the importance of setting clear objectives for yourself and your team members. Because you need to plan how you are going to get where you want to be.

“If you have a clear vision and you implement it,” says Emily, “then when things get back to normal, you can be out of the starting blocks much quicker than your competitors.”

Let’s consider the three main areas that Emily believes your vision should focus on.

1.Cash

It is important to seek advice to make sure you have done everything you can to improve your cash position.

You may need to be selective about what you buy over the next six months. It’s important not to have too much cash tied up in the day-to-day costs of your business during this time.

Yet, now may be the perfect time for your business to diversify and adapt.

Several financial support packages have been announced by the Government.

Chesterfield Borough Council is administering grants to rateable businesses, as well as deferrals of rental payments for Council tenants.

The Bounce Back Loans scheme for small businesses is providing loans of up to £50,000.

The World-leading Fund is available for high-growth small and medium sized businesses focusing on research and development.

As well as supporting with your immediate cash flow, financial support such as this could allow you to invest this in new products or services.

It may also be prudent to invest in IT security, particularly if your company is new to remote working. Microsoft Teams is recommended by Central Technology as a private, secure and seamless solution.

2.Sales

If your aim is to attract more customers or to increase sales over the next six months, you need to start your marketing plan now.

It could be the right time to develop your website or to step up your social media presence like Edge Events Management Ltd.

If you are offering new products or services or working creatively, you can apply to feature on Destination Chesterfield’s new microsite.

And if you are looking to raise your profile further, you can find out more about becoming a Chesterfield Champion. There are currently over 180 organisations supporting the marketing and economic growth of Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

3.People

The heart of your organisation is your team.

How many people do you think your business will need – in six months and beyond?

Is your aim to reduce redundancies? Or do you need to recruit ahead of the recovery phase?

Check out some of the Chesterfield recruitment companies that are operating virtually to give your business a competitive edge during the recovery period.

Or you may want to find out about hiring an apprentice.

And think about the skills your team will need.

Now may be a great time for you and your team to access online learning.

You could try some of the free digital webinars run by East Midlands Chamber, D2N2’s free business development courses, fully funded online NCFE qualifications delivered by Essential Site Skills from Retail Operations to Mental Health Awareness or one of the University of Derby’s fully funded online business courses such as Strategic Marketing in a Digital Age.

Stronger together

Whatever challenges you’re facing right now, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Now is not the time to try and manage everything yourself. There’s lots of free information and advice available from Destination Chesterfield, East Midlands Chamber, FSB and D2N2. Or maybe it’s time to ask an expert such as a solicitor, accountant or business coach to help you navigate your way to success.

For more information about Chesterfield Champions, please contact tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk.

For more information about skills and training, please contact Emily Williams, Skills Delivery Officer at Chesterfield Borough Council: email Emily.Williams@Chesterfield.gov.uk or call 01246 959717 or Lucie Andrews, Skills Advisor at D2N2 Growth Hub: email lucie.andrews@d2n2growthhub.co.uk or call 07387 141586.

Click here to see Chesterfield business support offers.

Click here to be taken to our Coronavirus (COVID-19) Business Support Page

Posted in Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home

New report highlights Chesterfield town centre’s potential to recover from coronavirus epidemic

11th May 2020

A new report has claimed that Chesterfield town centre may be more resilient and may recover from the impact of the coronavirus epidemic more quickly than other towns and cities across the UK.

The ‘Impact of Covid-19 on UK town and city centres’ report produced by the Local Data Company claims “More resilient town centres will be those less exposed to the intense challenge leisure occupiers face by the prolonged lockdown.”

Within the report Chesterfield is identified as one of the top 10 towns with the highest percentage of essential retail, which is currently still trading. The local data company suggests this will add strength to the town.

The reports says: “15 of the top 100 town centres have an undersupply of leisure compared to the GB average (25%) with Peterborough, Swindon, Walsall and Chesterfield being the largest of the 15. Out of those 15 with an undersupply of leisure, Peterborough, Chesterfield, Rotherham and Enfield also appear among the top 10 towns with the highest percentage of essential retail which is still able to trade, which will add strength to these towns.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “The findings from the Local Data Report confirms what we have long known – Chesterfield is a resilient, forward-thinking town. We have a good mix of chain and independent shops and traders which has always created interest in the town centre and encouraged people to visit.

“Despite the current lockdown, the town’s shops, stores and market stall owners have adapted and Chesterfield remains open for business – either online or with social distancing measures in place.

“Throughout lockdown Destination Chesterfield has pushed the Shop Local message and this is paying off in this time of crisis. It is encouraging to hear town’s independent shops, stores and market traders that more people are embracing Shop Local and pledging to continue to do so after lockdown ends.”

Read the full local data company report

Find details of Chesterfield Business, which are open in the town centre or continue to offer services and products online.

Read how Chesterfield retailers are faring during the epidemic and how they are optimistic for the future.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home

Retailers optimistic about future of Chesterfield’s high street

9th May 2020

Chesterfield’s retailers are proving resilient in the face of adversity. While the Covid-19 pandemic has led to many retailers in Chesterfield town centre closing their doors, many remain operational, taking orders by phone, retailing online and offering free delivery to customers.

Some food retailers remain open in the town, including Ibbotsons fruit and veg stall which has been a fixture on the market since 1945. “We have had a lot of lovely feedback and comments of gratitude that we are still working and providing such high quality, fresh produce,” said Nick Ibbotson.

“We have reduced hours as the footfall in the town centre dramatically decreases in the afternoon. Everyone seems to come out in the morning. We have slightly reduced the items offered, selling a little less exotic produce as we do not have the passing trade.”

And while there is no chance of passing trade as people only venture out for essential shopping, Nick says: “There is a pleasant feel as everyone is very patient and friendly.”

Despite current trading conditions, Chesterfield town centre’s independent retailers which are currently closed, are optimistic about their future with some even welcoming the lockdown.

Laura Jo Owen, owner of Adorn Jewellers in Chesterfield Shambles, explained: “We see lockdown as a warning or the ‘ghost of Christmas on high streets yet to come’. With empty highstreets during lockdown people have had a real chance to see what may happen if they choose not to shop on their local high street.

“With many people relying on local businesses through the lockdown period our feedback has been that people are immensely grateful they still have local shops. Rather than a threat to the high street we see lockdown as an opportunity for people to continue shopping locally and to ensure that Chesterfield maintains its excellent mix of independent and multiple retailers.”

Lisa Swift, owner of Shop Indie based in Chesterfield’s Vicar Lane Shopping Centre, echoed this, saying: “We believe that after the lockdown has ended and people are allowed to move freely that they will have a much better appreciation of local businesses they have been reliant on during lockdown. We are hopeful that they will continue to Shop Local once the restrictions are lifted and this may lead to a rejuvenation of the high street.”

The subsequent appreciation of the high street means that many businesses do not feel the need to offer discounts and reopening offers to entice shoppers back after lockdown. Rather they see themselves offering added value services, such as continuing to provide their products and services remotely in addition to their stores being physically open.

Albert Naso, owner of Geeks Headquarters explained: “Post lockdown I believe that there will still be a significant portion of the population that will still be unable to leave their homes. These people need to feel valued and connected so we will continue to offer delivery and shipping of items to their homes.”

Small businesses in particularly have been able to adapt quickly to the lockdown. The fact that Chesterfield’s town centre is characterised by a number of independent retailers enabled them to be agile in the response to the lockdown.

Many communicated with customers directly via social media and made use of organisations like Destination Chesterfield to promote themselves and raise awareness of how they are continuing to operate.

Supporting the retail community, the town’s marketing campaign Destination Chesterfield launched a new microsite during lockdown specifically designed to help Chesterfield’s independent retailers continue to operate and supply their services and products.

The website – www.chesterfield.co.uk/supportinglocal has details of nearly 100 shops, food and drink businesses, training, support and service providers in and around Chesterfield that are continuing to operate by adapting their services to meet the needs of the community.

Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield Manager commented: “The mission for Destination Chesterfield has always been to encourage as many people as possible to support the town and celebrate its achievements.

“We’re encouraging everyone to #LoveChesterfield and continue supporting small independent businesses and service providers throughout lockdown. Every trader and service producer plays an important part in the local economy and we all need to work together to can ensure their survival beyond these extremely challenging times.”

Social media and websites have been a powerful tools for businesses to remain connected with customers during lockdown and generating footfall into their stores once they re-open.

Geeks Headquarters has taken its micro-community of gamers online, enabling them to continue enjoying their favourite tabletop games and tournaments as well as keeping each other company.

Laura Jo added: “In the same way as other successful businesses we have kept our conversation with our lovely customers during the lockdown period. Our ‘Friday Night Live’ on Facebook has given our customers the opportunity to win gift cards for our shops which they will be able to come and spend when the restrictions are eased.”

Lisa added: “As a smaller independent business, our bricks and mortar shop may be closed but we are still trading online and have also introduced a local delivery service via our website. Being able to adapt to meet social distancing requirements means that we can continue trading.”

Despite the challenging circumstances that the national high street finds itself operating under right now, Alberto, Laura Jo and Lisa are all optimistic about the future of Chesterfield’s high street, with Shop Indie even looking to expand the business post lockdown. They are also unanimous in their praise of the support they have received from Chesterfield Borough Council and central Government.

“The help provided by the government means that we can look forwards to being able to reopen our shop in Chesterfield in the coming months. Small businesses have been afforded a high level of support during this crisis and are arguably much better placed than larger chains.” explained Lisa.

Alberto added: “Chesterfield Borough Council is working with small, large, new or established businesses to keep the town alive. Everyone is doing all they can to help each other to keep our shopping as local as possible. This is the key to see Chesterfield and possibly the whole country rise again.”

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “We are aware that many local businesses and retailers in Chesterfield town centre will have been affected as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Rebuilding the local economy following the pandemic is a priority for Chesterfield Borough Council and we have therefore implemented a number of financial and support measures to help our local businesses in these challenging times.

“We will continue to support our local businesses and retailers as much as we can to ensure the long-term viability of the town centre as a place to visit, shop and socialise.”

Laura Jo added: “Fortunately Chesterfield has the ‘golden triangle’ of a successful market, independent shops and multiple retailers. We personally believe that it will be a slow and steady return to spending after lockdown ends as we begin to discover our new normal.”

To find out more about the new ‘Supporting Local’ site, please visit: www.chesterfield.co.uk/supportinglocal.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Team Chesterfield come together to respond to the Coronavirus Outbreak

7th May 2020

Like many of you, I am still in a state of shock at the dramatic impact the pandemic which we find ourselves in the grip of has had on the world in which we live.

I salute the selfless efforts of everyone within the NHS, and every other essential worker and care giver during this very difficult time- you are all doing a wonderful job. We must also not forget the team effort of every resident and business in Chesterfield who, once again, have proved resilient in the face of adversity

You cannot fail to be impressed with how quickly Chesterfield’s people, businesses and service providers have worked together to meet this unforeseen, monumental, and unprecedented challenge. Together – and it has been a team effort – they are keeping the wheels of commerce turning providing much-needed income for employees and business owners.

Within days of the lockdown the business community sprang into action. Where businesses weren’t able to operate normally, many looked at what they could do for the community and have been delivering food and supplies to essential services such as Chesterfield Royal Hospital and producing and delivering much needed PPE.

Where businesses and service providers are able to remain operational it is important that they are compliant with government guidance and that we – the consumers and service users – Shop Local.

We may not be able to physically visit many of these businesses, but they are still fully contactable by social media or email. Indeed many are operating successfully online, making their products and services accessible during lockdown.

Everything from fully cooked Sunday lunches, luxury chocolate, desserts and gin is still being delivered from Chesterfield food and drink businesses to homes.

Entertainment and fitness is even being delivered online by local businesses, from Jumping CLAY workshops and baby sensory for children to church services, quizzes and keep fit classes.

All these products and services can be found in a new online directory which has been assembled in a very short timescale thanks to the efforts of the team at Destination Chesterfield. The new online directory can be found at www.chesterfield.co.uk/supportinglocal

Each and every independently owned business, small trader, charity and service provider in Chesterfield is under extreme financial pressure right now. Everyone has a part to play to ensure our local economy survives this crisis, and you, the residents of Chesterfield, can help by supporting your local businesses wherever possible.

If and when you can, I urge you to visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/supportinglocal and Shop Local. Your town needs you!

Posted in Blog, Destination Chesterfield

5 things to check both before and after furloughing team members

4th May 2020

You may have heard the term ‘furloughing’ for the first time during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Yet, it’s likely that you’ve now placed one or more of your employees onto the Government Job Retention scheme (or if not yet, you have plans to do so imminently).

The Government announced it would reimburse 80% of usual wage costs for eligible employees for an initial term of three months*.

That is great news for your business. It means you don’t have to go down the redundancy route. And you will have core workers ready for the recovery phase.

But are you confident your business is complying with employment law?

Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law at Banner Jones Solicitors explains: “It is important that local businesses don’t fall foul of employment law when furloughing staff. “

“We’ve heard quite a few examples of where businesses have not checked contracts or have not received consent from the staff member. And there are some businesses, which have allowed staff members to continue working while furloughed.”

“We worry that some businesses could end up with future claims against them. Please seek advice.”

Here are five things that Katie recommends you check:

1. Is your business eligible?

Katie says “Any employer can claim provided that they:

– Had created and shared a PAYE payroll scheme on or before 28 February 2020;
– Have enrolled for PAYE online; and
– Have a UK bank account.

This includes businesses, charities, recruitment agencies with agency workers paid through PAYE, and public authorities. Individuals who employ people and pay them through payroll can also claim, for example those who employ nannies.”

2. Do you understand how to implement the scheme?

Katie advises: “An employer will need to identify affected employees (those who are not required to work “by reason of circumstances as a result of coronavirus or coronavirus disease”) as ‘furloughed’ workers and inform their employees of this.

The most up to date version of the guidance states that even with the right to furlough in the employment contract, employers need to obtain their employees’ agreement to become furloughed workers. You must also be able to demonstrate this agreement.

Not only is it best practice to document any correspondence and/or action relating to furlough leave, it is essential that you document your employee’s agreement to become a furloughed worker in writing. HMRC have also said that records about furlough must be kept for at least 5 years, and the actual agreement regarding furlough leave will be vital in supporting your claim for support under the CJRS.

Once employees have been identified as furloughed workers, employers need to submit information to HMRC about the employees that have been furloughed and their earnings through a new online portal. It is understood that the government will have the portal set up by 20th April 2020 with the first payments being made to employers by 30th April 2020.

Claims should be started from the date that the employee finishes work and starts furlough, not when the decision is made, or when they are written to confirming their furloughed status.”

3. Do you know what your employees can do whilst furloughed (including working elsewhere)?

“Whilst on furlough leave, an employee must not undertake any work that generates revenue for your business or provides a service to you,” says Katie. “However, they can carry out training or do volunteer work, as long as it is in line with Public Health guidelines.

“They can still receive furlough pay and go and work for another employer – unless they are contractually prohibited from doing so.”

4. Have you provided the correct notification to your employees who have been placed on furlough leave?

Katie advises: “You must notify employees in writing. It is not adequate to only notify them verbally. You must also keep a record of this written notice and it must be kept for 5 years. You also need to have the employee’s written agreement to be placed on furlough leave unless you have a contractual right to place them on furlough leave.

5. Are you following your responsibilities regarding the employment rights of your employees while furloughed?

“An employee’s rights will not change during furlough leave,” says Katie. They will remain an employee of the business and will continue to accrue continuity of service and holiday pay.”

Banner Jones solicitors has provided more detailed advice on furloughing staff at https://www.bannerjones.co.uk/uploads/resource/file/84/Banner_Jones_-_Coronavirus_Business_Support_Guide_-_20th_April_2020.pdf

Check out Destination Chesterfield’s Covid-19 Business Support page for useful information for your business.

*The guidance continues to change, and the latest Government documents for the scheme can be found at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-for-wage-costs-through-the-coronavirus-job-retention-scheme.

Posted in Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield