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Chesterfield Champions take part in fundraising and voluntary efforts

Businesses in our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have been getting out in the local area, supporting charities and community organisations.

Companies continue to support worthy causes in Chesterfield and beyond, through volunteering or fundraising. Find out more in our latest roundup below.

Mortgage 1st raises more than £2,500 for Bluebell Wood with charity football tournament

Mortgage 1st Bluebell Wood fundraising

Mortgage 1st, one of the largest mortgage brokerages in Derbyshire, has raised £2,589 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, by hosting a charity football tournament with its key business partners across the intermediary industry.

Hosted at Goals in Sheffield, the tournament was won by Enable, who ran out as eventual winners in a closely fought final with Meadowhall.

The runners up and winners were presented their medals by friends of the business and footballing legends Paul Wilkinson (Ex-Middlesbrough, Everton, Barnsley) & Iain Dowie (Ex-Crystal Palace, Southampton, West Ham) with the latter playing in the tournament.

Paul Lewis, Head of growth, Mortgage 1st, commented: “We’d like to thank all our business partners and industry friends for their incredible support, having 20 teams on the day was remarkable. Congratulations to Enable on their well-deserved victory and to all the teams for making the journey to the Steel City to play their part in a wonderful day.

“At Mortgage 1st we will always utilise our platform to make a difference where we can, a lot of charities are struggling as the cost of living continues to increase. Bluebell Wood is a charity very close to our hearts and it gave us great pleasure to put this event on to raise awareness and much needed funds for them. Plans are already in place for next year’s tournament and we will stop at nothing to make it even bigger and better in 2024.”

Workpays team Volunteers at Fareshare Midlands

Workpays at Fareshare

Team members at Chesterfield training provider Workpays have volunteered at Fareshare Midlands as part of this year’s National Volunteer Week.

The team was involved in the heart of Fareshare’s food re-distribution, helping to improve the daily lives of people facing food poverty. Activities included storing incoming food, assisting the drivers, and packing food orders ready for the community.

Workpays’ values include acting as one team and leading with kindness, hence, giving back to the community is very important.

Jeremy Carter, Warehouse Co-ordinator at Fareshare, said: “At the moment, there is a lack of volunteers within the community, so Workpays have helped us out a lot today.

“All of the volunteers got stuck in and are contributing to families who may have a low income or are suffering from food poverty. We have so many decent charities that take part, including rehab centers and hostels, and getting orders out to them before the food expires is crucial.

“The more volunteers we have, the quicker food gets to people who need it the most.”

Alex Glasner, Managing Director of Workpays, said: “I’m incredibly proud of our team volunteering at Fareshare Midlands. Food poverty is a huge social issue and we believe that supporting our communities is key to who we are as a company.”

“At Workpays, we work day in, day out to make sure everyone has the opportunity to get a good education and the career they want.”

CMP Legal hosts pub quiz to raise vital funds for Ashgate Hospice

CMP Legal Team

Chesterfield-based CMP Legal held a Charity Pub Quiz at The Midpoint Bar in Chesterfield on 8th June 2023 to raise vital funds for Ashgate Hospice.

Over 50 people attended the event which included banks, accountants and clients. The evening included a Charity Pub Quiz followed by a Charity Raffle, all in aid of Ashgate Hospice.

The event was a huge success and CMP Legal raised £945.47 to support Ashgate Hospice.

Jason Skelton, Co-Founder of CMP Legal said: “Ashgate Hospice are such a beloved charity, and we are delighted to have played a small part in raising much needed funds towards the incredible end of life care and support they provide to the local community.”

CMP Legal was established at the end of the pandemic in 2021. Over the past 2 years, the company has gone from strength to strength and has expanded its team from 4 to 9 members.

BHP Chartered Accountants raises more than £37,000 for UK charities

Chesterfield waterside bhp

BHP offices at Chesterfield Waterside. Image supplied by Derbyshire Economic Partnership

Chesterfield accountancy firm, BHP has raised its highest ever charity total over the last year, with £37,000 donated to good causes across the country.

Find out more in the company’s post on Linkedin:

Mortgage 1st, Workpays, CMP Legal and BHP support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Derbyshire tourism attractions win prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence

Five tourism businesses from across the Peak District and Derbyshire are celebrating success after winning coveted accolades – including two prestigious Gold awards – at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

The finalists competed against hundreds of tourism businesses from across the country to reach the awards ceremony which was hosted by TV presenter Alex Polizzi at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter on Wednesday 7 June.

Top spots were taken by the Blind Bull at Little Hucklow near Buxton, who won the Gold Pub of the Year award, and Peak District-based outdoor activity provider Pure Outdoor, winners of the Gold Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award.

National recognition was also received by Great British Car Journey in Ambergate, who won the Bronze New Tourism Business of the Year award; Wildhive Callow Hall near Ashbourne, winners of the Bronze Small Hotel of the Year award; and myGuidedWalks, who won the Bronze Experience of the Year award for their Peak District Walking Experience.

The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence champion quality, innovation and best practice across the tourism industry, recognising businesses and individuals who raise the bar of England’s tourism offer.

This year’s awards aligned with 16 local competitions from across England, including the 2023 Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards organised by Visit Peak District & Derbyshire.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence represent the highest accolades in English tourism and so we’re incredibly proud that the Peak District and Derbyshire has received national recognition with not one but five prestigious awards.

“These awards are a timely reminder of the value and quality of our world-class tourism offer, and of the commitment and dedication of the talented businesses and individuals who work so hard to provide visitors with experiences to remember.

“Winning at an aligned local competition is the only way to qualify for these national awards, so we encourage businesses to look out for applications opening for the 2024 awards in the coming weeks.”

Raab Dykstra-McCarthy, Owner and Manager of The Blind Bull, Gold winners in the Pub of the Year category, said: “We are over the moon to win Gold in the Pub of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. For a small, independently owned pub in a tiny village in the heart of the glorious Peak District, to be recognised nationally, after being open for less than three years, is just such an incredible feeling and rather unbelievable. Full credit goes to our wonderful team who really are the heart and soul of The Blind Bull. Finally, a huge thank you to our customers for continuing to support us!”

Guy Wilson, Founder of Pure Outdoor, Gold winners in the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism category, said: “We’re so pleased to receive the Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Gold Award at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. We’re passionate about being a better business and look to continue developing in this area over the coming years. I’d like to thank all staff involved in growing our business not just for profit, but for people and the planet too.”

Richard Usher, Founder and CEO of Great British Car Journey, Bronze winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category, said: “What a phenomenal journey the last two years have been for Great British Car Journey. To be recognised in the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence has just blown us all away. We knew we had something special when we opened the museum in May 2021, but to have it confirmed is wonderful.
“It’s onwards and upwards for Great British Car Journey. We have many exciting plans in the pipeline which will ensure we continue to stand out in both the classic car and visitor attraction market.”

Paul Smith, Founder and Guide at myGuidedWalks, Bronze winners in the Experience of the Year category, said: “MyGuidedWalks are thrilled to have won Bronze for Experience of the Year at the national VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. This is a huge honour for us, and we are so grateful to our customers, family, friends and other Peak District and Derbyshire businesses for their support. A big special thanks also to the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire team for their support and training over the last 5 years.
“At myGuidedWalks, we are committed to providing unforgettable walking and nature based experiences in the Peak District National Park for our guests, and we will continue to work hard to make www.myGuidedWalks.co.uk the best it can be.”

Ed Burrows D.L., Co-Founder of Wildhive Callow Hall, Bronze winners in the Small Hotel of the Year category, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have received an award for Wildhive Callow Hall at this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence. The team are so proud to receive such recognition from the panel of judges as one of the top hotels in the country. Everyone involved with Wildhive has worked so hard to open the hotel and ensure amazing experiences for our guests and now as we approach our two year anniversary this September, we have lots to celebrate!”

Great British Car Journey - Bronze Winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023.

Great British Car Journey – Bronze Winners in the New Tourism Business of the Year category at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2023. Image by VisitBritain, Daniela Luquini

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New emergency department now open at Chesterfield Royal Hospital

Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust’s new Emergency Department has now opened.

The hospital’s new development includes a state-of-the-art approach to patient flow, highly specialised equipment, ultra-modern technology and a real grounding in the community through the locally sourced artwork and wayfinding.

However, the message from the hospital to the public remains that people should only visit the department if they truly need to.

Dr. Katherine Lendrum, Clinical Lead for the UECD and ED Consultant, commented: “The new Emergency Department is an absolutely amazing facility which will provide our local population with Emergency Care but only when they really need it!

“We genuinely hope we don’t need to see people but if someone needs us, we will be there and do our absolute best to give high quality care in a timely manner.

“Emergency departments are open 24/7 365 days a year; they are staffed by a large team of nurses and clinicians (doctors and allied health professionals) who have expertise in immediately life or limb threatening emergencies.”

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive of the Trust, said: “This is a truly fantastic facility for the hospital and the communities we serve. With clinical leadership, engagement at all levels and years of planning, I’m very proud of the skills, experience and hard work that have gone into shaping our new Emergency Department.

“We are on time in opening the facility and have delivered on budget, despite building work starting during Covid. It is testament to a great team who have worked tirelessly to deliver this work. Thank you to everybody involved.”

Dr Anthony Kenny, Programme Director for the Emergency Department development, said: “The new department has the ability to live monitor patients, it has a dedicated children and young people’s area and a specialist zone for neurodiverse patients or those experiencing a mental health crisis, all of which mean we are providing a truly world-class facility for the region.

“The area above the department is one of the proudest ‘added extra’ elements; we have a state-of-the-art simulation suite and facilities which will support training for ED colleagues to provide the best possible care and we have also included modern changing and break-out rooms.”

Dr Lendrum concluded: “Sometimes (in up to 70% of attendances) people choose to come to an emergency department with less urgent problems – perhaps because they don’t know where to go or because they perceive they will be seen quicker; get all the tests they need done or be treated faster.

“Problems that have lasted many days, weeks or months, that you would like a second opinion on or are already being managed by another team often do not fit into an emergency category.

“If you feel well enough to have your tea before coming to an ED think again – could my problem be managed by someone else better tomorrow?! It is everyone’s responsibility to use health care services wisely.”

Alternative sources of help for less urgent problem, particularly out of hours include NHS111, local pharmacies and urgent treatment centres.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

chesterfield royal new Emergency department

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This weekend’s Chesterfield Canal Festival to include Spitfire and Hurricane flypasts

A host of attractions, including flypasts from old World War Two aircraft will be on display at this weekend’s Chesterfield Canal Festival. 

The event, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday (24th & 25th June) at Staveley Town Basin, will also feature a dog show on both days.

On Saturday 24th at 16.41 there will be a flypast by a Spitfire. On Sunday 25th at 14.30 there will be a flypast by a Hurricane.

Attendees can have a go at numerous activities, including archery, axe throwing, air rifle shooting, canoeing or zorbing. Children will be able to have a go on a mini-digger.

All four of the Chesterfield Canal Trust’s tripboats will be in action; two of which have wheelchair lifts.

In addition, there will be Birds of Prey, Children’s rides, Water Walking Balls, Bumper Boats, Spinning Bumper Carz, Newfoundland Rescue Dogs, Face painting, Aerial exercise, Craft stalls, Charity stalls, lots of Food stalls and a Real Ale bar.

The Trust’s Development Manager will also be holding Q&A sessions in the marquee about the plans for the restoration of the canal.

Free entertainment will include music, dance and street theatre all day, both in the big marquee and outside by the lock.

Admission will be £6, free for Under 16s. There will be free parking nearby with parking for blue badge holders onsite. There are several bus routes that pass withing 200 metres. The whole site is accessible to wheelchairs.

There will be separate concerts on the Friday and Saturday nights, starting at 7.30 p.m. Friday will see the return of the ever-popular Swing Commanders, whilst Saturday will feature Chesterfield’s own WonderWhys. Tickets for both concerts are available from the Chesterfield Canal Trust website.

On Monday 26th June, there will be a flotilla of all four tripboats from Staveley Basin right up the canal to Tapton and back, with stops at Hollingwood Hub and Tapton Lock, covering 10 miles and 11 locks. Go to the Chesterfield Canal Trust website to book.

On Tuesday 27th June, there will be a What, Where and When Restoration Walk to show how the canal’s route looks at present before the major restoration works start next year.

Chesterfield Canal Trust supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Canal Festival 2

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Chesterfield property firms addressing sector skills gaps

Attracting new talent into the property and construction sector is more important than ever. Industry experts have stated that an extra 225,000 workers are required by 2027, equating to roughly 3,500 per year in the East Midlands Region.

In Chesterfield, businesses in the sector continue to work collaboratively in improving access to careers in construction for the future generation.

This was recently identified at a masterclass discussion, aimed at sharing ideas and best practice to support both young people and businesses in securing a future pipeline of talent.

The event, which comprised several leaders from across the property and construction sector in Chesterfield, helped to update the sector on the latest career initiatives taking place, along with signposting firms to various support options open to them.

What is the sector doing to improve the skills pipeline in Chesterfield?

Careers Made in Chesterfield - improving access to careers in construction

A key initiative designed to improve access to careers in construction is  Careers Made in Chesterfield, which saw several businesses participating in face-to-face workshops at Parkside Community School.

Further bolstering the skills needed within the sector in Chesterfield, the Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor will welcome learners from autumn. Funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the skills hub will provide a practical platform for construction training, careers activity, and work experience on a live construction site.

The Made in Chesterfield Festival is also returning in November 2023, which sees students visiting business premises, to be inspired by the breadth of career options available.

Speaking at the Masterclass, Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director at The Devonshire Group commented: “We have previously done a lot of work for school-age students, such as the Careers Made in Chesterfield project and the Construction Skills Hub in Staveley, but we also want to focus on the transition from school or further education into the workplace.

“As a forum, we are continuing to try and identify any barriers to reduce drop-out rates in the sector. Ultimately, firms want to connect with students who are interested in the industry and turn them into employees and future business leaders.”

“I believe this is extremely important for the sector because without a reliable pipeline of skilled people, we are not going to be able to grow and projects we want to see in the future.

“We all live, work, and play in things that have been built, so our sector does touch all aspects of society. If we are to keep improving, developing, and hitting sustainability objectives, we need to ensure we have the people to be able to do it.”

Skills support for property and construction businesses

current apprentices in Chesterfield

During the session, Andrew Rodney, Senior Customer Engagement Manager at CITB updated on some of the initiatives on offer to support employers in bolstering their workforce.

Andrew said: “CITB exists to support employers. We know that businesses can find it difficult to know where to look in accessing the right training for their staff and how to access grants to support training.

“Our advisors are here to support businesses in a physical sense, by listening to their training needs and signposting to the most appropriate training organisation. We have recently created a new team to help employers recruit and mentor apprentices.

“There are so many different types of grants available for the property and construction sector. The easiest way to find out more about these would be to access our website. We encourage anyone who is not sure to give us a call and speak to an advisor, so we can point you in the right direction. We want to help in removing barriers for businesses and ensuring that they can access skilled young people to help them grow.”

Help and advice for young people looking to get into property and construction

Property Made Visit - access to careers in construction

Focusing on supporting young people during the discussion, Jenny Kitchen, Founder of Building Rapport explained the work taking place as part of the Regeneration Brainery project, which aims to improve access to careers in construction for young people.

Jenny explained: “Regeneration Brainery exists to fill the skills and diversity gap by engaging with young learners and those seeking employment in the built environment. We bring students and education providers together with businesses that are recruiting apprentices, and we help young people to find meaningful work experience.

“We need one in five school leavers to join our sector to address the current skills crisis. So businesses need to have their own resources to attract and retain young people. Offering high-quality work experience to raise awareness of the variety of roles is a collective approach our sector needs to take seriously.

“During a week with us, students spend time in businesses, on-site, and with a whole variety of professionals, giving them a snippet of working life in our sector.

“We help get young people job ready by nurturing and mentoring them, to find a career, and crucially stay in a career long-term.

“We’ve got the students who are willing to learn, and see a place for themselves in our sector, but they (or their schools) don’t know how to get there aside from a traditional university route, which isn’t the right choice for everyone.

“It is vital to give them the support they need in the first year of starting a new career, to improve retention of skilled young people in the property and construction sector, and to “grow our own.”

“If we don’t address our recruitment processes, we are at risk of excluding many talented, underprivileged, or neurodiverse young people. Who don’t have the confidence or support network to encourage or help them with their first job application.

“We’re also here to remind those who are less academic that they have choices, they can still follow a degree path via an Apprenticeship route that will lead them to reach their potential.

Chesterfield’s collaborative approach to improve access to careers in construction

Chesterfield’s Property and Construction sector continues to bring together business leaders of the region’s property sector and Chesterfield Borough Council to shape and drive forward collaboration, investment, sustainability, and skills within Chesterfield.

The group works together across four key themes, specifically the skills agenda, business support, promoting investment in Chesterfield, and sustainability and wellbeing.

The recent masterclass discussion was yet another example of how the sector continues to collaborate.

Sue Woollett, Social Value Manager at Stepnell Ltd. commented: “One of the things that I love about Chesterfield is that there is such a collaborative approach to everything, especially in the property and construction sector.

“The regular activity that takes place in the sector helps to introduce different businesses to each other and helps our sector work alongside the public sector to help achieve growth, jobs, and development in the local economy.

“It’s no secret that there is a skills gap in our sector, and there is an aging workforce. I feel that there is a misunderstanding about the variety of jobs that are available in construction. We all want to get across that there is a job for everyone in this sector, and we need to help people to understand how many opportunities there are.”

If your business is interested in getting involved with the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group, email: property@chesterfield.co.uk

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Chesterfield businesses and apprentices urged to enter prestigious regional awards

Chesterfield businesses and apprentices are being encouraged to apply for a prestigious regional awards ceremony.

The Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards are back for 2023, with 14 category awards to recognise the incredible apprenticeship network across the region.

Nominations can be submitted by the apprentice themselves, their employer, college or training provider, or even by proud loved ones.  There are also categories for employers and mentors, so businesses can nominate their own teams and trainers.

Organisers are looking for entries in the following 14 categories:

  • SME Employer of the Year (0-249), in association with East Midlands Apprentice Ambassador Network
  • Large Employer of the Year
  • Diversity and Inclusion Programme
  • Mentor of the Year, in association with Greatest Hits Radio
  • Intermediate Apprentice of the Year
  • Advanced Apprentice of the Year
  • Higher Apprentice of the Year, in association with Nottingham Trent University
  • Degree Apprentice of the Year, in association with University of Nottingham
  • Professional Services Apprentice of the Year
  • Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year, in assocaition with Auto Windscreens
  • Construction Apprentice of the Year
  • Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year
  • Technology and Digital Apprentice of the Year, in association with AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group
  • Training Provider of the Year

Event Manager, Haroldine Lockwood commented: “In 2022, we had over 200 attendees including apprentices, training providers and businesses running apprenticeship programmes. We hope to make 2023 even bigger!”

An awards entry writing masterclass will be taking place for top tips on how to write an entry to really impress the judges. Held on Wednesday 28th June at 10am, the masterclass will address the following topics:

  • Category criteria review and analysis
  • Understanding of what the judges are looking for
  • Top Tips for putting your entry together.

Visit the event website to register and submit your nomination. Entries close on Thursday 24th August at 6 pm.

Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony held at The Village Hotel Nottingham on Thursday 5th October. Guests will be invited to a welcome drink, along with the opportunity to network with other attendees – before a 3 course meal will be served and the awards ceremony begins.

DERBYSHIRE-NOTTS-APPRENTICE 2022

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Vicar Lane invites visitors to packed summer schedule of events and activities in Chesterfield Town Centre

Vicar Lane is inviting families to shop, relax, explore, dine and enjoy with all they have to offer this Summer.

Visitors can choose from Giant Chess, Connect Four or Table Tennis for a competitive game in the sunshine, before stopping for a bite & relaxing on a deck chair.

Throughout June, July, and August, as part of a wider programme of events happening around the town – the centre will be hosting a series of free events for all the family to enjoy, starting with their ‘Watch Glastonbury Live’ event on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th June.

Don’t miss out on the action (or the crowds) as Vicar Lane show the biggest headline acts from the Glastonbury on their big outdoor screen in St James Square.

From 2pm, visitors can grab a headline cocktail from Chandler’s pop-up bar and enjoy a signature woodfired pizza from Pizza Pi throughout the day. The weekend is set to be lively with themed activity, glitter face painting and sparkling entertainment roaming around the shopping centre too.

Whilst you’re in town, why not check out the Peddler Market? Taking over New Square at Chesterfield Market, Peddler Events will be bringing some of the best street food the UK has to offer, alongside great craft drinks, live music and much more.

On the same weekend, Unhampered Live 2023 will also be hosting pop up activities in the town including free live music and workshops.

From 3rd – 16th July, Vicar Lane will be serving the best of Wimbledon action on the big screen. Spectators won’t be far from a brilliantly British treat either as Vintage Tearooms serve their vintage cream teas to dine in or takeaway for £9.50 and Pizza Pi offer Jugs of Pimms to enjoy in the sunshine!

July will also see Vicar Lane celebrate Chesterfield Pride and there’ll be Summer fun days to get involved in on selected Saturdays in August!

To see the full schedule of events this Summer Fest at Vicar Lane, visit https://www.vicarlaneshoppingcentre.co.uk/summer/ and plan your days out.

Find out more about the wide range of events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this summer at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

 Sarah Bowler, Tenant and Community Liaison Manager said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming new and existing visitors to Vicar Lane for our Glastonbury Event in June.

“With so much going on around town on the last weekend in June, it is set to be a great atmosphere and we are excited to join in the fun and offer a place to come and shop, relax, enjoy, and dine out! There’ll be lots of free entertainment and activities to get involved with.”

Vicar Lane Shopping Centre supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Wimbledon Vicar Lane Big Screen

 

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Casa Hotel picks up prestigious Muddy Stilettos Award

Casa Hotel has been crowned the best Hotel/Inn across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire in the ‘Muddy Awards 2023,’ hosted by travel guide site Muddy Stilettos.

The website has named regional winners across several categories. Across the UK, 77,000 businesses were nominated by the public, with an overall total of 800,000 votes cast.

See the full list of Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire winners at: https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/muddy-awards/muddy-awards-winners-2023-notts-derbyshire/

Speaking on the award win, Dawn Rudd, Head of Communications for Casa Hotel Group said: “We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Casa Hotel has been crowned with the prestigious Notts & Derbyshire Muddy Stilettos Award 2023 in the BEST HOTEL/INN category.

“Thank you to everyone who voted for us. Your votes have played an integral part in securing this esteemed recognition. We’re truly grateful for your support and trust in Casa Hotel.”

As winners in our regional category, Casa Hotel has automatically advanced to the next stage of the competition – The National Muddy Stilettos Awards 2023. These awards will be judged by the editors over the coming weeks. The National Finals will determine the ‘Best of the Best’ and results will be shared on 26 July.

Dawn added: “We are honoured to be among the top contenders in this prestigious competition, and we are determined to give our best to bring home this ultimate accolade. Until then we’ll continue to celebrate this momentous achievement.

“We are hugely proud of our teams here who go above and beyond every day to deliver an exemplary visitor experience for our guests.”

The latest win builds on the success of other recent accolades for the Casa Hotels Group, which also runs the Peak Edge Hotel and Red Lion Restaurant. The company was shortlisted for ‘Best Drinks Offer’ and ‘Best Premium Food’ in the 2023 Publican Awards, which represents the ultimate benchmark for the nation’s finest pub and bar chains.

Furthermore, the Peak Edge Hotel was crowned Derbyshire’s ‘Pub of the Year’ in the National Pub and Bar Awards 2023. Read more about the win here. 

Casa Hotel supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Casa Hotel

 

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Chesterfield businesswomen included in shortlist for 2023 Enterprising Women Awards

Female talent from Chesterfield’s business community has been recognised in the shortlist for East Midlands Chamber’s 2023 Enterprising Women Awards.

Finalists across 10 categories were announced for the 2023 awards, in association with headline sponsor Michael Smith Switchgear, at a summer networking and barbecue event, held at Stapleford Park Hotel and Spa yesterday (8 June).

Chesterfield companies to be recognised amongst the finalists include GBS Apprenticeships, CMP Legal, and Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care.

They will go on to take part in a judging panel on 11 July, comprising members of the Enterprising Women team, Chamber board of directors and category sponsors to get their chance to pitch before winners are decided.

Winners will be announced at Enterprising Women’s flagship gala dinner, which will take place on 6 October at Winstanley House, in Leicester.

Longstanding categories are up for grabs, such as Small Business of the Year, Female Employee of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, and the headline award Business Woman of the Year, as well as the refreshed She Who Innovates Award for those working in STEM-related industries.

Categories introduced last year to mark the network’s 25th anniversary will also return to the programme, including the Rising Star Award and Lifetime Achievement Award – which doesn’t have a shortlist and will instead be given as a surprise to an unsuspecting winner.

Enterprising Women co-chair Jean Mountain said: “We’ve received another cohort of outstanding applications from women working across the region, and the shortlist features some truly inspiring achievements and stories.

“It’s fantastic to see women in business across a wide range of sectors and backgrounds recognised through the programme, as well as those across different parts of their career journey – from those just starting out in apprenticeship roles to highly successful business leaders representing everything that is great about our region.”

Fellow co-chair Eileen Perry MBE DL added: “Shortlisting the finalists has been a massive challenge for our category sponsors from the high calibre of entries, and we’re really looking forward to the judging panel to hear more about their work.

“Women in business across the East Midlands are doing fantastic and inspiring work, and we are delighted to be able to recognise their achievements through the Enterprising Women Awards each year.”

The Enterprising Women Awards 2023, which will be hosted by ITV weather presenter Emma Jesson, features a three-course meal as well as entertainment throughout the evening.

Enterprising Women Awards 2023 shortlist

Apprentice of the Year (Sponsored by Futures Housing Group)

  • Alice Lees – Rolls-Royce
  • Courtney Brindley – Express Recruitment
  • Florence Comasky – EMA Training
  • Lucy Coope – trentbarton
  • Lucy Hilton – Cosy Direct
  • Sophie Shapcott – Smith Partnership

 

Social Commitment Award (Sponsored by She Inspires Global)

  • Cosy Direct
  • Guildford Europe
  • Rosie May Foundation
  • Rotheras Solicitors
  • Spenbeck

 

Female Employee of the Year (Sponsored by Nelsons)

  • Asiya Parekh – Leicester Hospitals Charity
  • Brogan Lees-Collier – Forsyth Barnes
  • Cherryl Holland – trentbarton
  • Emily Brailsford – Rural Action Derbyshire
  • Sarah Budgie – Regency Source

 

Rising Star (Sponsored by Amanda Daly – The Turnaround CEO)

  • Chloe Heard – MHA MacIntyre Hudson LLP
  • Coral Guard – GBS Apprenticeships
  • Katie McLoughlin – Soft Touch Arts
  • Ruby Birks – Purpose Media
  • Scarlett Tinsley – ER Recruitment

 

Female Entrepreneur of the Year (Sponsored by Fraser Stretton Property Group)

  • Julie Adams – Auditel
  • Julie Clark – Savage Lighting
  • Sally Faulkner – Bond Street Distillery
  • Sarah Withers – Withers Gin
  • Therese Lord – Construct3D

 

Team of the Year (Sponsored by Breedon Consulting)

  • Flame UK
  • Generation Next ambassadors
  • PPL PRS collections team
  • PPL PRS marketing team
  • Rotheras Solicitors

 

She Who Innovates (Sponsored by Pick Everard)

  • ChangeXtra – Claire Mann
  • Construct3D – Therese Lord, Jacob Lord, Jason Lord
  • e-bate – Leanne Bonner-Cook and team
  • Purpose Media – Ruby Birks
  • RimPro-Tec Wheelbands – Deborah Chester

 

Small Business of the Year (Sponsored by Unique Window Systems)

  • Blueprint Interiors
  • CMP Legal
  • Design Studio Architects
  • Katapult
  • S&D Roofing

 

Business Woman of the Year (Sponsored by Michael Smith Switchgear)

  • Becky Valentine and Victoria Green – Spenbeck
  • Dawn Brown – Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare
  • Emma Allen – Acute Business Advisory
  • Jaz Kaur – Fraser Stretton Property Group
  • Sandy Prime – S&D Roofing

 

Lifetime Achievement of the Year (Sponsored by Paradigm Wills & Legal Services)

*No finalists for this category – winner will be announced at gala dinner

East Midlands Chamber, GBS Apprenticeships, CMP Legal, and Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Enterprising Women Awards 2022 winners

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Innovative careers scheme inspires Chesterfield’s next generation and aims to reduce skills gaps

A pioneering scheme, which is linking schools with leading property and construction firms in Chesterfield, is inspiring young people to pursue careers in the construction sector.

‘Careers Made in Chesterfield’ has resulted in fourteen quality placements being offered for talented young people to learn about the property and construction sector. This follows several businesses from the town’s property and construction sector participating in workshops at Parkside Community School, showcasing the range of rewarding careers available.

Providing face-to-face interaction with students proved very successful, with 40% of students who completed the programme expressing a high interest in working in the construction sector in the future – rising from just 20% when the scheme was originally conceived in September 2022.

The initiative was launched following a report by CITB, which outlines how an extra 225,000 workers are required in the UK’s property and construction sector by 2027, equating to roughly 3,500 per year in the East Midlands Region alone.

During the ‘Careers Made in Chesterfield’ programme, business leaders carried out an initial speed networking workshop with pupils, answering their questions and helping to open their eyes into the many different exciting roles associated with property and construction.

In the second workshop sessions, students were tasked with designing a new building within the Northern Gateway area of Chesterfield. Working in groups of five to design a community venue, each group was allocated an employer mentor from the property and construction sector to help develop the design.

The project is enabling students to gain vital work experience, but also showcases the breadth of skills needed to achieve Chesterfield’s ambitious growth and regeneration plans.

The innovative pilot has seen 20 professionals from 11 local businesses helping to deliver the programme to 110 Year 10 students at the school.

Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director at The Devonshire Group, and member of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group added: “One of the main issues being faced by the property and construction sector is that its workforce is getting older.

“It is vital to begin bringing in the next generation, and Careers Made in Chesterfield is one of many initiatives which will help to secure the future pipeline of talent that our businesses rely on.

“It is a very exciting time to be getting into the sector, and with schemes such as this, our young people will one day contribute towards delivering the physical, social, and green infrastructure that Chesterfield needs to continue its sustainable growth.”

Andrew Byrne, The Devonshire Group

Andrew Byrne, The Devonshire Group

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth commented: “Working with local businesses to deliver the Careers Made in Chesterfield pilot demonstrates how direct engagement with students can spark their interest in different career paths.

“Helping young people learn more about the skills they need and the options available to them is key to ensuring that we can provide secure high quality jobs in Chesterfield and that they can plan for a great future in our borough.”

Ben Riggott, Head Teacher at Parkside School said: “The Careers Made in Chesterfield pilot represented a step change in creating sustained connections between our Year 10 students and some great local companies.

“This model is fantastic for several reasons.  Perhaps most importantly, students build relationships with employers across the programme, which in turn enhances their confidence and the likely outcomes of work experience.

One of the firms to be welcoming a student on placement in July is Oasis Studio, which provides virtual reality and augmented reality services to property and construction businesses.

Tony Buck, Associate Director at Oasis Studio commented: “We jumped at the chance to get involved in the pilot scheme. The construction industry is continually evolving, adopting new technologies and construction methods.

“To stay competitive, I believe it’s crucial we have a skilled workforce that can embrace these advancements. I really enjoyed demonstrating the range of opportunities in the sector today.  We utilised our VR headsets during the workshop to offer the students a virtual site visit and help them understand the brief. I was genuinely impressed by the student’s level of maturity and engagement throughout the workshops, and their ideation of concepts was fantastic.”

Further addressing the increasing construction skills shortage within Chesterfield, the Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor will welcome learners from autumn this year.

Funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the skills hub will provide a practical platform for construction training, careers activity and work experience on a live construction site.

Initially the Skills Hub will provide training in site and bench joinery, brickwork, ground works and electrical installation but in time the offer will expand to include training in retrofit and green technologies. It will be open to school leavers and other residents seeking to train or retrain.

The Hub will provide training, careers insights, and work experience for more than 5,000 learners over 10 years.

Businesses and schools that wish to register their interest in the Careers Made in Chesterfield initiative, are urged to contact Emily Williams, Skills Delivery Officer at Chesterfield Borough Council on 01246 959717.

The Destination Chesterfield Partnership has received £180,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It follows a successful funding bid by Chesterfield Borough Council, to secure £2.69 million worth of funding for local projects.

Careers Made in Chesterfield header image

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Chesterfield’s DCJ Group named as 6th best insurance broker in UKGI

DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management has been recognised as a top performer and awarded an Insurance DataLab Broker Gold Award for 2023 based on their financial performance.

The Insurance DataLab 2023 Broker Performance Report rated 136 of the largest brokers in UKGI across three key metrics – profitability, growth, and productivity, and DCJ achieved a Broker Rating of 67% for its financial performance.

DCJ was one of eight firms to receive the award for their performance over the last 12 months. The research found that overall performance has remained steady over the last three years, with the market average Broker Rating standing at 52.2% for 2023 – a 0.4 percentage point improvement on the previous year.

David Hadkiss, Director at DCJ Group, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded as one of the UK’s top performing brokers.

“The hard work and dedication of our team is the main factor leading towards our recent growth. A huge thank you to all of our clients for their continuing support, which has allowed us to reach this position.”

DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management was established in Chesterfield in 1991. From fairly humble beginnings, the company has grown to its current position, controlling circa £12 million in premium income and employing 30 staff. Most of this growth has been organic, although the insurance broker has also acquired businesses along the way.

The firm specialises in providing professional advice to its clients in respect of all types of general insurance products to protect the assets and liabilities of businesses and individuals. It is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and strives to act professionally at all times, in excess of the benchmarks laid down by the FCA.

DCJ Group supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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