Destination Chesterfield

Banner Jones Solicitors offering half price Wills to NHS staff

Local law firm, Banner Jones, is to offer 50% off its Will writing services to all NHS staff as a way of saying thank you for their ‘tireless efforts’ to help support those across the region affected by the Coronavirus outbreak.

The discount, which is available to doctors and nurses, as well as all other NHS workers, comes as pressure on key workers continues to grow; with many being urged to get their affairs in order.

The advice has led to a surge in enquiries for legal services including Wills and LPAs (Lasting Power of Attorney), with Banner Jones launching the scheme in order to ’give something back to the local community, and to help those who are providing life-saving care’

Katie Woodward, Wills Team Leader from Banner Jones said: “These are truly difficult times for all, but with many NHS workers exposed day after day to the Coronavirus we have seen a spike of interest in our Wills and Lasting Power of Attorney writing services.

“We therefore thought it was only appropriate to offer NHS staff a discounted rate to provide what little support we can and to show our gratitude for their tireless efforts to protect our friends and our families.

“We understand that at a time like this, we all need to pull together in order for us all to get through this.”

For NHS staff thinking about putting their affairs in order, the dedicated Wills team can now take your instructions over the phone for everyone’s safety and convenience.  Please call 01246 560 560 or email info@bannerjones.co.uk to make an appointment. To qualify for the discount, staff members will need to provide a copy of their photo ID.

Click here to find out more about Banner Jones Solicitors

Story of Chesterfield

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

£20 million of funding for innovative businesses

Technology and research-focused businesses in Chesterfield are invited to apply for a share of up to £20 million of Government funding to help boost the UK’s resilience.

Grants of up to £50,000 have been announced for businesses to develop new ways of working to support industries such as delivery services, food manufacturing, retail and transport, as well as to support people currently staying at home.

Applicants, which are able to demonstrate significant benefits for communities, have been invited to claim 100% of project costs, with payments being made available in advance of project start dates.

Innovations could include:

  • new technology allowing retailers to respond better to sudden spikes of consumer demand and improve deliveries across the UK;
  • new services for families to connect with and remotely monitor their elderly or vulnerable relatives, giving people peace of mind that their loved ones are receiving the services they require such as food deliveries, doctor’s appointments and paying bills;
  • creating education tools which seamlessly integrate the classroom with the kitchen table, allowing teachers to remotely set dynamic tasks, support vulnerable children and make certain no child is left behind.

Science Minister, Amanda Solloway said:

“The response of researchers and businesses to the coronavirus outbreak have been remarkable. This new investment will support the development of technologies that can help industries, communities and individuals adapt to new ways of working when situations like this, and other incidents, arise.”

Dr Ian Campbell, Executive Chair Innovate UK, said:

“The COVID-19 situation is not just a health emergency, but also one that affects the economy and society. With that in mind, Innovate UK has launched this rapid response competition today seeking smart ideas from innovators. These could be proposals to help the distribution of goods, educate children remotely, keep families digitally connected and even new ideas to stream music and entertainment.

“The UK needs a great national effort and Innovate UK is helping by unleashing the power of innovation for people and businesses in need.”

The proposals will be reviewed as part of a competition launched by Innovate UK, seeking the best new ideas from businesses.

All the projects will begin by June 2020 and will last up to 6 months, with products and services expected to be available to the public towards the end of this year.

Businesses should apply by 12pm on Friday 17th April at https://www.apply-for-innovation-funding.service.gov.uk/covid19/overview.html?_ga=2.83497237.2099540618.1586329832-2046482744.1586157545.

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

University of Derby donates PPE equipment to Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Technicians from the College of Health and Social Care at the University of Derby have provided the Hospital with personal protection equipment including medical gloves, aprons, wipes, cleaning materials and alcohol gels. The equipment would usually be used by medical and healthcare students at the St Helena Campus, on Sheffield Road in Chesterfield.

Vice Chancellor Professor Kathryn Mitchell DL said: “We want to make as full as contribution as we can to help, and donating this equipment to a local hospital is just one of the ways in which we are doing so.”

“Many of our nursing and allied healthcare students are already on the frontline, working in hospitals alongside experienced professionals to provide the support the health service needs at this hugely challenging time.”

“With the university moving to delivering all HE teaching online for the remainder of the academic year, it is only right that equipment that would have been for the use of students is supplied to hospital staff who need it to ensure that they themselves are properly protected against the risk of contracting and spreading coronavirus.”

“The work of our technicians is so valuable to our students and teaching staff, and this proactive contribution to the crisis speaks volumes about their knowledge, specialism and desire to help however and whenever they can.”

A spokesperson for the Chesterfield Royal Hospital said: “We’ve had so many donations and messages of support which has given all of our hard-working colleagues a much needed boost.

“We work very closely with the University of Derby and we’re delighted to be able to make use of the equipment that would have been used to train some of the students. They will certainly be put to good use and we’d like to thank everyone at the university for their continued support and for helping our incredible frontline staff in this way.”

Click here to find out more about the University of Derby’s Chesterfield Campus

chesterfield college

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

D2N2 appeals to businesses for Personal Protective Equipment

D2N2 is putting its support behind the PPE4NHS campaign and is asking businesses across the region to donate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the fight against Coronavirus.

In addition to widely reported shortages of PPE within the NHS, the Care and Charity sectors are also finding it difficult to source adequate items of PPE in order to safeguard vulnerable members of society.

Amongst the items in demand are:

  • Any fluid-resistant surgical masks including although not exclusively FFP2 or FFP3 (the rating is marked on each mask)
  • Nitrile gloves
  • Visors or goggles
  • Disposable aprons or overalls
  • Sanitising Gel
  • Overshoes

D2N2 Chief Executive Sajeeda Rose said: “We fully understand the efforts government are making to ensure PPE is available for all who need it, but we equally recognise the challenge they face in reaching beyond the NHS into other parts of the care system that are vital to shielding our most vulnerable citizens and preventing further strain on the front line by keeping people safe.”

“It may be that there are protective items sitting in storage cupboards that can be put to good use to support our social care workers, care workers and other front-line employees.”

“If businesses are able to offer up this stock in our fight against this virus, please get in touch.”

PPE4NHS

The campaign for PPE donations is the brainchild of Martin Rigley MBE, Chair of Discover Ashfield, and a D2N2 Enterprise Adviser with Portland Training College in Mansfield. Rigley has also been Managing Director of Sutton-in-Ashfield based, Lindhurst Engineering for the past 25 years.

Rigley said: “Having worked in engineering and manufacturing for nearly 40 years, I know there will now be cupboards and storerooms in manufacturing, engineering, construction and science-based businesses, full of brand-new PPE.”

“Our Health and Care workers desperately need this PPE and, as a business community, we have a duty to get it to them, if possible, without putting people at risk.”

Originally set up to cover the Mansfield and Ashfield area, the scheme is now being rolled out region-wide with the support of D2N2.

PPE Donations

Businesses interested in donating should visit the D2N2 PPE4NHS webpage.

To make the donation process as quick as possible, emails should include PPE supply details including quantity and postcode, plus a contact name and phone number. Businesses will be asked some questions about the type of support that can be provided and will be contacted as soon as possible if the support is needed.

Businesses can also interact with the scheme on Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin via the @PPE4NHS accounts.

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

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

Two local magazines combine

Two Chesterfield publications have united to continue to serve their local communities during the Coronavirus crisis.

A combined April 2020 edition of ‘Twist’ and ‘Wings’ is published this week, but you can read it online here.

Heron Publications produce both titles – ‘Twist’ in Chesterfield and ‘Wings’ in Wingerworth, Tupton, Ashover and Clay Cross. The company has temporarily closed its office, but has managed to put together a 36-page ‘emergency edition’ to serve its readership.

Said editor Mike Firth: “We were encouraged when a good number of local businesses told us they wanted to continue to get their messages across to local people through advertising in our publications, so we combined our two Chesterfield titles for ease of production.

“Along with important public information, this magazine also contains plenty to entertain – and even amuse – our readers.

“We have tips for activities people can to take up at home, a tale about previous school closures, a feature detailing how local folk can enrol to become life-savers, an update on Chesterfield Canal progress… and readers can learn why a former local headmistress used to remove her teeth in class!”

To read this special edition of Twist / Wings, click here.

Last year, Twist Magazine delivered the 100th edition of Twist. Heron Publications are also responsible for Active8, delivered in south Sheffield, and the Dronfield Eye.

Click here to find out more about Twist Magazine

Click here to view the online publication

Click the image above to view the online publication

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

Chesterfield manufacturer offers factory, staff and resources in response to national COVID-19 effort

A Chesterfield manufacturer is offering its factory, people and resources to the national effort to fight the killer virus.

The company, Blachford UK, which manufactures vehicle soundproofing materials for clients in both the UK and Europe, including JCB and CASE, employs more than 100 people at its site in Holmewood, Chesterfield.

Production at the factory has ceased in response to the global pandemic. However, appeals from the government to manufacturers to assist with the UK effort has prompted Jason Lippitt, Managing Director of Blachford UK to offer the services of the company’s factory and staff.

He said: “We have a large production facility and a skilled workforce, including engineers, machinists and designers, that can all be utilised to manufacture goods and equipment that are critical to the NHS.

“If there are any companies out there, particularly those making PPE for NHS workers, we have staff and equipment at Blachford and we’d all like to help.”

The company has set up a dedicated email address during the crisis, to ensure that requests for help are answered immediately.

Jason added: “The company view is that we are all in this together and our staff want to help wherever they can to help the nation get fit and well and back to business. Blachford is a family and I am immensely proud of every member of staff for their support, not only for the company but the national effort to fight Coronavirus.”

Jason praised the government’s response to a national shutdown, saying: “The national shutdown I believe puts UK manufacturers in a strong position to recover business faster than many other countries. There is no doubt that UK manufacturing will face financial hardship over the coming months but, due to the nation’s collective shutdown, I believe the sector will recover and be in an excellent position in a couple of years.”

Companies involved in producing essential supplies during the COVID-19 and would like to talk to Blachford should email NHSsupport@blachforduk.com

Jason Lippitt – MD of Blachford UK

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

Coronavirus outbreak: Support for Chesterfield businesses

In response to the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19), Chesterfield Borough Council is actively implementing a number of Government backed financial measures to help support local businesses.

The council has already identified local businesses that may be eligible to access small business grants and business rate relief and has contacted these businesses directly.

However, not all businesses will be eligible for the small business grants and business rate relief schemes. Chesterfield Borough Council therefore want to ensure that these Chesterfield-based businesses are aware of other support schemes and advice which may be available to them during this challenging time.

Further information and links to Government schemes is available at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/your-council/coronavirus-information-hub/businesses-information

Councillor Terry Gilby, cabinet member for economic growth, said: “Chesterfield Borough Council and our partner agencies are working hard to ensure that Chesterfield businesses can access the very best support and advice during these difficult times. I would urge all local businesses to keep up to date via our website and take the opportunity to discuss any specific concerns they might have with the council’s staff or those of our partner agencies”.

The council has a business advisor who is available to talk through and offer advice to any Chesterfield based business as part of our D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership Growth Hub scheme. You can contact the business advisor or staff of the council’s Economic Development team via economicdevelopment@chesterfield.gov.uk.

Businesses can also get support and advice from a number of partner agencies including East Midlands Chamber, D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, Derbyshire County Council and Destination Chesterfield. Contact information and links to relevant websites are available on the Chesterfield Borough Council website via the link above.

Click here to read the Destination Chesterfield Coronavirus (COVID-19) Business Support Page

anzacs chesterfield

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

New contract secured by Polar Windows

Chesterfield company, Polar Windows, has secured a £124,000 contract to manufacture, supply and install over 400 windows and doors for a housing development at Long Duckmanton near Chesterfield.

The windows and doors on this contract are to be manufactured using their latest window and door profile on the market “Optima” all of which will be manufactured to the standard of Pas 24.

Known as The Pastures, the site in Duckmanton includes 33 new build homes including two, three- and four-bedroom houses and three-bedroom bungalows.

Adrian Bradley, Senior Contracts Manager at Polar Windows said “It is great to have started a new relationship with another established Local Developer and we are hoping to continue the partnership on to future developments.”

Based in Chesterfield for over 30 years, Polar Windows is a family run business that has always put their customers at the heart of everything they do. First Established in 1989 by Managing Director Alan Crowe, Polar Windows now Employs over 25 full time staff and is proud to be the only window manufacturer in Chesterfield. Over the years they have built up an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and experience within their industry and have developed into Chesterfield’s largest manufacturer and installer of UPVC windows, doors, conservatories and glazed extensions.

Click here to find out more about Polar Windows

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

Chesterfield Royal Charity appeals to residents to help ‘Protect Your NHS’

The Charity that aims to ‘gift outstanding’ care and wellbeing support to patients and staff of Chesterfield Royal Hospital and Royal Primary Care is asking local people to get behind its appeal to ‘Protect Your NHS’.

The Chesterfield Royal Charity (1052913) is looking for donations that will make a real difference at an unprecedented time of challenge. Like the rest of the NHS, the hospital and its primary care services are under pressure as part of the UK’s response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

The aim of the ‘Protect Your NHS’ appeal is two-fold and all donations will be used to:

  • Gift health and wellbeing experiences to staff
  • Gift enhanced care and facilities to patients

Ken Godber, the Chesterfield Royal Charity’s Director comments: “Right now it’s more important than ever to look after the people that could be looking after you and your family – either now or in the next few weeks and months. And it’s equally important to give a helping hand to people in hospital at a time when visiting is suspended for all but the most essential reasons.”

“We have never experienced such demand for NHS care and treatment. Our ‘Protect Your NHS’ appeal is about protecting hardworking staff and vulnerable patients. The money you give will help to provide essential care packages, mental health and wellbeing support for all staff. If they are able to stay well, they’ll be able to stay at work to look after those who need anything from over the phone medical advice to critical care on a ward. It will also enhance patient care and experience. With visitors not able to come in, our Charity can help to make sure loved ones have everything they need to make their hospital stay a positive experience – even in these tricky times.”

With people across North Derbyshire communities already showing support for the hospital – the Charity’s ‘Protect Your NHS’ appeal looks set for success.

You can donate NOW through Just Giving – and any amount will be appreciated www.justgiving.com/chesterfield-royalhospital.

If you would like to link up with the Charity please call 01246 513367 or email CRHFT.Fundraising@nhs.net.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital

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

Redeployment Triage Service launched for employees affected by Coronavirus Redundancies

D2N2, the Local Enterprise Partnership for Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire is working with partners to create a triage service to help those made jobless as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak, back into employment.

Whilst the Government has created the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, designed to help businesses retain their staff during the current outbreak by paying 80% of an employee’s salary, there are redundancies currently being made by businesses across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

This is occurring whilst simultaneously large gaps in the labour market are appearing in sectors vital to the ongoing fight against Coronavirus.

The Redeployment Triage Service, to be administered by Futures who are the National Careers Service provider for the East Midlands, will match those recently made redundant with new work in sectors experiencing a surge in employment demand such as food retail, care, and distribution.

The service will also engage with employers needing to make redundancies to ensure a smooth transition for employees into new work.

The Triage is the result of contributions from multiple partners including the Department of Work & Pensions, Local Authorities and others.

D2N2 Head of People & Skills Rachel Quinn said, “Traditionally responses to redundancy situations have been coordinated by the Department for Work & Pensions. However, they are currently experiencing unprecedented volumes of new customer registrations and are diverting their staffing resources to claims processing and payments.

“In negotiation with our partners, we have identified capacity within the National Careers Service to provide a valuable rapid response triage service which will match redundancy situations to redeployment where possible and create additional support through employment services where further employability or skills help is required.”

Peter Brammall CEO of The Futures Group said: “Futures has longstanding expertise in helping employers to manage their workforce requirements through our National Careers Service programmes, advising and guiding people through redeployment and into new jobs.”

“We’re pleased to be part of a strong rapid response partnership with D2N2, DWP, and Local Authority colleagues which will pay dividends over the coming weeks in helping to maximise employment opportunities for our residents and employers.”

As part of its role, the Redeployment Triage Service is also looking to make contact with any business currently in need of labour as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak.

Read more about the Triage Service or to inform the service about a recruiting need.

Check out our business support page

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield

Heathcotes launches recruitment drive

Chesterfield-based care provider, Heathcotes Group, has launched a nationwide recruitment drive to assist its frontline teams in meeting the challenge of the ongoing Coronavirus crisis.

With many sectors in lockdown and staff shortages likely as COVID-19 forces many people into isolation, the company is seeking around 200 Support Workers for residential care services in support of adults with learning disabilities and mental health needs. Heathcotes is now offering temporary and permanent positions at various locations in Northern England, the Midlands and London. No care sector experience is necessary as new staff will be benefit from comprehensive training.

Heathcotes Head of Recruitment, Colin Ramwell, said: “All of the UK’s frontline services will be feeling the strain in the coming months and providers of social care will be under immense pressure. Our work will be more important than ever in support of some of the most vulnerable people in society. Many people will be concerned about employment security and many jobs have already been lost, but we want them to know that Heathcotes need kind, compassionate staff to help us make a difference at services nationwide.  As essential key workers, our staff can continue to work whilst their children continue to attend school.

“We are able to offer flexible contracts for people who may need a short-term source of income before returning their previous role in sectors such hospitality, retail and leisure, but we always welcome applicants who are interested in starting a long-term career in care. We fund all training and invest in the professional development of our staff.”

To address safety issues posed by Coronavirus, Heathcotes has implemented enhanced risk assessments and infection control protocols for staff and service users throughout its 72 services. The company has been continuously monitoring official advice, responding accordingly and communicating the latest updates and government guidelines to all staff.  Non-essential visitors to services have been told to delay their visit until further notice whilst essential visitors have been asked to carry out a simple risk assessment on themselves prior to visiting, and to observe enhanced infection control protocols before and during their visit.

Click here to find out more about Heathcotes Group

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