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Zero-carbon tourist transport network to be trialled in Chesterfield and the Peak District

A pioneering trial is taking place in the Peak District National Park where EV and hydrogen vehicles will run together between multiple destinations and attractions.

The trial is led by the Gateway at PEAK, a major new tourism resort in Chesterfield which has planning for 5,000 overnight beds and 2,800 carpark spaces.

The trial route connects eight key locations and attractions including Chesterfield Train Station, Chatsworth, and the Gateway development, which will act as a hub for PEAK Express when it is due to open in 2025. The route is designed so that there’s no more than 20 minutes between each stop, much like the gondola lifts found in international ski resorts.

Currently 85% of park visitors arrive by car and with interest in the great outdoors and the staycation market booming, the numbers are set to increase. Regional stakeholders are also keen for more diverse groups to access the park and to grow the local economy through tourism. However, this must be done in a sustainable way which doesn’t exponentially increase carbon emissions, threaten community wellness and prosperity, or damage the park’s biodiversity.

Once fully operating, PEAK Express at the Gateway alone, aims to remove 500,000 tourism journeys from the National Park, reducing CO2 emissions by 3.6 million kg pa and provide a national exemplar of sustainable visitor economy growth. The long-term ambition is to see multiple hubs located around the Peak District National Park boundary.

Andrew McCloy, Chair of the Peak District National Park Authority, said; “We are delighted to be a stakeholder for this ground-breaking trial. Protecting the National Park for future generations and developing more sustainable ways for people to visit is high on our agenda. The PEAK Gateway site outside the National Park is an excellent location for a transport hub. The Peak Express service is a commitment to net-zero and will connect more of the National Park’s attractions without the need for a car, making them more accessible and spreading out the economic benefits of tourism.”

Hydrogen fuel and refuelling stations for the trial are being supplied by the world’s largest hydrogen producer, Air Products. The electric and hydrogen buses will be provided by Toyota where data will be gathered about each technology’s suitability for the varying terrain and refuelling needs. Jon Hunt, alternative fuels manager at Toyota (GB) said; “There is not one simple solution for zero-carbon mobility. That’s why this trial provides us with an exciting opportunity to trial both EV and hydrogen vehicles, assessing which is more suitable to different types of journeys across the park. We will also be looking at optimal ways to provide refuelling and great levels of customer service on board the vehicles.”

Andrew Lavery, Chief Executive of Chatsworth, a key attraction on the route said; “Derbyshire and the Peak District are world-class destinations for domestic and international tourists, and we are thrilled to be part of this trial.  Working with partners we are committed to reducing car journeys and supporting and promoting a more sustainable way of getting to and from the Peak District. There’s also a wonderful connection with hydrogen technology and Chatsworth – Henry Cavendish discovered hydrogen in 1766 and so, this venture is very interesting.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council praised the collaborative efforts of the project team saying: “The value of this partnership is clearly demonstrated when considering significant issues like climate change, which requires collective local commitment and action if we are to make a real difference, and we are delighted to be a key partner in this trial.

“Chesterfield has excellent road and rail connections, making it the ideal base to stay and explore the Peak District from – but we are committed to a net-zero future and this trial is an exciting step forward in how we think about our regional transport links. The trial of PEAK Express at the PEAK Resort, will make it even easier – and cleaner – for visitors to experience the UK’s first national park from neighbouring destinations, like Chesterfield.”

John Milligan, CEO of Milligan developers of the Gateway added; “The PEAK Resort site has been reclaimed from opencast, rewilded and we are investing in its future. PEAK’s proposition emulates the internationally successful ski resort model, providing a mixed range of hospitality, accommodation, retail, wellness and education facilities all served by a zero-carbon mobility service connected to 1,600 miles of trails and world class attractions in the Peak District National Park.

“Milligan has been developing iconic destinations for over 20 years. Our skills lie in curating the right mix of uses which will serve the community and visitors in a sustainable way bringing long term value. This trial is part of the development’s journey to zero and marks an important milestone for Gateway and the National Park.”

The trial has been running since 5th September and will finish on the 16th. The results will be published at the beginning of November. PEAK Express is planned to be fully operational as part of the Gateway at PEAK Resort, due to open in Spring 2025.

Find out more about PEAK at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/peak-resort/

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Chesterfield event technology company goes global

A Chesterfield company which provides customers with groundbreaking experiences has recently worked at a multitude of global destinations for big-named brands and agencies.

Noonah is an event technology company for brands and agencies, providing exciting experiences that maximise event engagement.

Last month, the company provided photo opportunities for Red Hot Chili Peppers in London and a 3-stop tour with Coldplay in London, Frankfurt, and Paris. With more dates added to the schedule, Noonah is set to deliver even more experiences at concerts in the future.

After opening their new LA Office, Noonah has provided event technology for various events and conferences in America. They created the ultimate fan experience for the Major League Baseball Sponsor, Hankook, at the MLB All-Star Conference in California, USA. Noonah provided a Mirror Booth with AR filters for fans, which fed into an eye-catching Tradeshow Mosaic,

Noonah also created a photo experience with a GIF Booth and Mosaic Wall at When We All Vote’s first-ever Culture of Democracy Summit. The event was attended by thousands of guests and featured keynote speakers such as Michelle Obama and Selena Gomez.

Lastly, the company provided numerous experiences for an enormous 4-day convention held in North Carolina, including 360 photo booths, green screen, and touch screen photo opportunities.

Closer to home, Noonah recently created the Love Chesterfield Mosaic, a community project consisting of hundreds of photos of people from across the local area. The artwork now sits proudly in the recently-opened Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre. 

Alice Morton, Account Manager at Noonah commented: “We are excited to provide our services here and overseas and continue to put Chesterfield on the map as an excellent place for creative businesses.”

This month, they will continue to expand their business by providing tech for numerous events in locations such as Milan, Paris, and Barcelona. Find out more about Noonah and what they get up to next on their official website www.noonah.com

Noonah 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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Chesterfield public relations business appointed to help recruit more than 60,000 new security officers

A Chesterfield PR business has been appointed by the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) to help recruit 62,000 new security officers and change the outdated perception of the industry.

The trade body for the professional security industry in the UK will be working with Roaring Mouse Public Relations, one of the businesses which recently moved into brand-new office space at Chesterfield’s Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre. 

The BSIA has started consulting with its members, which provide over 70 percent of private security services in the UK, on plans to launch the industry’s biggest-ever recruitment drive. Feedback indicates that the sector must increase in the size of the professional security officer population by 70 percent to meet growing demand for services in the next 12 months.

Roaring Mouse will work with the BSIA and its members on an integrated PR campaign to reach purpose-driven people including former police officers and members of the armed forces with positive messages about opportunities in the professional private security sector.

Roaring Mouse’s account team will be led by Stephanie Dobson and report to Andrew Cooper, the BSIA’s Head of Marketing and Communications.

Stephanie Dobson, Account Director at Roaring Mouse Public Relations, comments: “There is a mismatch between perception and reality when it comes to how people see the security industry. This is a professional, diverse, tech-savvy sector open to anyone who genuinely cares about making the world safer and more secure. Our campaign will appeal to that sense of purpose and make it clear that security is a smart career choice where people can progress and be the very best versions of themselves.”

Andrew Cooper comments: “Security is more than just a high-vis vest. It involves teams of highly-trained, purpose-driven professionals playing a fundamental role keeping the UK safe and secure. Roaring Mouse has proven campaigning expertise and a clear vision for how we could reach and influence the kind of people that would thrive in our industry.”

Find out more about the new Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/northern-gateway/

Roaring Mouse Public Relations 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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Value boosting accountants thrive in Chesterfield

A Chesterfield accountancy business has announced remarkable financial growth of more than 300% in the last year.

BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax is a small but growing accountancy firm in Chesterfield. Having identified a growing need in the local marketplace for a business-strategy focused accountancy firm, owner Graham Nash launched the firm in 2020, with the initial objective to help turn businesses around and help them recover from the pandemic.

Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength, offering strategic business strategy and financial management advice for start-ups and long-established businesses predominantly in the engineering, property and manufacturing sectors.

Owner Graham comments: “In the last 12 months we have experienced a 300% growth financially and doubled the number of clients we work with to over 100. I have recruited a small team within the first 12 months, and this is targeted to expand further in early 2023.”

One example of the combined expertise and efforts at BusinessWise is how they have helped an East Midlands firm more than double its value to over £5m in the two most challenging years in recent economic history.

The Managing Director of the company said: “They took on everything from a detailed review of the financial processes and systems, to implementing new processes to provide accurate figures. They provided detailed monthly reporting, management accounts and forecasting so more informed strategic decisions could be made. They also managed negotiations and discussions with HMRC on our behalf.

“Graham is a highly motivated and professional individual and has become an integral advisor to my business. Without the team at BusinessWise, we would not be in the position we find ourselves today. I can highly recommend his services and he is a real asset to any business in need of support.”

In addition, BusinessWise has actively passed work and referrals valued at £400,000 of business to local suppliers and professional services in the last two years, once again adding value, proposition and strength to the local economy.

Find out more about the benefits of locating your business here in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

BusinessWise Accountancy & Tax 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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Markham Vale hails record job figures as it supports region’s post-Covid recovery

470 jobs were created at Markham Vale last year in one of the largest ever annual totals recorded at Derbyshire County Council’s flagship industrial and logistics scheme near Chesterfield.

Markham Vale is a 200-acre joint venture development between property developer HBD and Derbyshire County Council. It is one of the region’s landmark schemes, attracting new businesses and creating thousands of new jobs.

2,702 new jobs have been created at the development to date, with the latest figures demonstrating its impact in driving investment and supporting the region’s post-Covid recovery.

Derbyshire County Council recently had its efforts recognised by Local Government Chronicle, being shortlisted in the Economic Support category in the upcoming 2022 LGC Awards.

Richard Hinds, Development Surveyor at HBD, said: “Markham Vale is a hugely successful scheme and plays an important role in supporting the region’s economy, which is more important than ever as the region recovers from the pandemic and the many challenges that brought.

“2021 was another strong year for Markham Vale – we completed two zero-carbon buildings totalling more than 300,000 sq. ft., Daher Aerospace moved into a new 55,000 sq. ft. unit, and a landmark deal was secured with Gridserve to create Derbyshire’s first EV charging station.

“We’re very proud of what our joint venture has achieved at Markham Vale to date and we look forward to welcoming more innovative, forward-thinking businesses to Derbyshire.”

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration Councillor Tony King said: “These figures are very reassuring and a strong sign that businesses are starting to recover from the pandemic.

“Markham Vale plays a key role in helping to deliver on our commitment to building a strong, diverse, and green economy by creating jobs for local people and attracting local, national, and international businesses.

“As well as welcoming several new businesses to the site last year including Gallery Direct and Daher Aerospace Limited, we saw sustainable packaging firm Smurfit Kappa expand to another unit and we’re looking forward to seeing Markham continue to grow and welcoming even more businesses to the site in the future.”

HBD and Markham Vale support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Ambassador for Japan celebrates Derbyshire links and local produce at Chatsworth Country Fair

The Ambassador of Japan to the UK met with Derbyshire producers, artisans and craftspeople whilst celebrating Japanese links to the area during a visit to Chatsworth Country Fair on Friday 2nd September.

Ambassador Hayashi and his wife Dr Hayashi were welcomed to the popular three-day annual event by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, on a visit to mark 24 years since the twinning of Derbyshire and Toyota City in Japan.

During his time at Chatsworth Country Fair, Ambassador Hayashi visited the largest-ever Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace which showcased quality Derbyshire-made items ranging from arts, crafts and homeware to fine food and drink.

Now in its third year, the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace had been doubled in size for 2022 to support the post-pandemic recovery of local businesses – giving over 50 independent Derbyshire traders the opportunity to promote and sell their products to thousands of visitors from across the UK.

Exhibitors included Phil Sproson Photography, The Wirksworth Pottery Company, Shivering Mountain Gin, Crooked Pickle Co and The Original Paperstarlights, who supplied handmade lantern decorations that adorned the roof of the Marketplace.

The Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace is part financially supported by Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire’s European Regional Development Fund project, which aims to support the growth of small and medium sized visitor economy businesses in Derbyshire.

Chatsworth Country Fair is widely regarded as one of England’s most spectacular annual outdoor events, celebrating traditional country pursuits together with showground entertainment, quality trade stands and fun for the whole family.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, said: “We were delighted to mark the third successful year of the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace with our biggest celebration of Derbyshire producers to date, and we were thrilled that both the Ambassador of Japan to the UK and the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire could meet some of our traders.

“As the industry recovers from the pandemic, it was fantastic to see so many artisans and craftspeople embracing the chance to come together to showcase the high quality and innovative products made here in Derbyshire.

“As well as being very popular with visitors, thanks to support from Chatsworth and our European Regional Development Fund project the Marketplace also gave producers the chance to exhibit at a nationally-renowned, large-scale event – supporting their recovery, fuelling growth and helping them to reach new audiences.”

Cllr Barry Lewis, Leader of Derbyshire County Council, said: “Our long-standing partnership with Toyota City has brought thousands of jobs and huge investment to the county over the last 24 years.

“Increasing trade and boosting tourism are key priorities for the partnership so it was a pleasure to welcome Ambassador Hayashi to experience what Derbyshire tourism and producers have to offer. And with another milestone anniversary ahead for the partnership next year, we’ll be strengthening our friendship with Toyota City further with a programme of events to build on our existing relationship and focus in on those key priorities to benefit both our economies.”

The Duke of Devonshire said: “As the most enthusiastic advocates of Derbyshire, we were pleased to welcome the return of the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire Marketplace to Chatsworth Country Fair. The region is fortunate to have many quality producers, artists and craftspeople and it’s fantastic to share these with an even wider audience.

“It was also our great pleasure to welcome Ambassador Hayashi to this year’s Country Fair, to help celebrate Derbyshire’s links with Toyota City and to experience a taste of what Derbyshire has to offer.”

More than 75,000 people flocked to the Chatsworth Country Fair over the weekend (2-4 September).

Stunt horses and daredevil riders from Atkinson Action Horses thrilled the crowds by demonstrating skills that have seen them star in blockbuster films and television shows including Peaky Blinders, The Midwich Cuckoos and Netflix’s ‘The Witcher’; while the Bolddog Lings FMX Display Team drew gasps with their gravity-defying motorbike stunts.

Star chefs Mary Berry, James Martin and John Torode and a host of top-flight Derbyshire chefs drew hundreds to their demonstrations in the Cookery Theatre, while Country Fair President Phil Spencer held court in the Grand Ring. The television personality introduced an action packed programme including show-stopping entertainment from favourites such as a Spitfire flyover, a parachute display, Pony Mounted Games, music from massed bands and much more.

As honorary Country Fair President, TV presenter Phil Spencer performed his official duties, such as opening the show, as well as greeting visitors, performers and exhibitors: “It’s a real privilege to have been asked by the Duke and Duchess to stand as President this year. I love to be involved in communities and pastimes that help make the great British countryside all that it is so I’ve had a terrific few days sharing the experience among so many thousands of smiling faces.”

Chatsworth House and Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire 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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Visitors set to get their boots on for the Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival

The biggest walking festival based on a single canal in the UK returns to Chesterfield this month, with visitors encouraged to get their boots on and enjoy some of our area’s breathtaking scenery.

The fourth Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival will start on Saturday 10th September. There will be 36 walks in all, running every day to Sunday 18th September.

There are special interest walks, such as History, Architecture, Wildlife and Restoration. There are opportunities to explore some of the attractive towns and villages in North Nottinghamshire or you can combine a walk with a cruise on one of the Trust’s trip boats.

One walk includes a visit to a football stadium, another offers the chance to see beavers. There is a cycle ride with a difference and a ramble through ancient woodlands. Waterway and railway enthusiasts will relish the opportunity of a canal and river walk finishing up at Britain’s last surviving working Railway Roundhouse at Barrow Hill. Serious walkers will jump at the chance of walking the full length of the canal in the course of three days.

The festival is organised by the Chesterfield Canal Trust, whose Walks Officer, David Blackburn, said: “We look forward to seeing old friends again and hope to welcome many newcomers too. We believe that our 46 mile long canal has parts that are as attractive as any in the country. Do take the opportunity to join a walk in an area with which you are not familiar, and you will hopefully be pleasantly surprised.”

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

The Chesterfield Canal Trust wishes to thank all the walk leaders, the many organisations which have helped and the festival’s sponsors: Harworth Group, Canal & River Trust, Derbyshire Grants Programme, Eckington Parish Council and West Stockwith Parish Council.

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.

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Volunteers required for the 2022 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k

A call has been issued for volunteer marshals, to help at this year’s Chesterfield 10k. The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k takes place on Sunday 16th October, beginning from 10am at Queen’s Park.

Volunteer marshals will help to play a key role in the success of the event and will be stationed at various points around the 10k course, assisting and supporting participants, residents, and spectators.

John Timms, Event Director, said: “The Chesterfield 10k wouldn’t be possible without the help of our volunteer marshals, and we’re eager to make this year’s 10k memorable whilst supporting the local charities; Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and The Redbrik Foundation.

“We are calling on volunteers to support the runners, cheer them on and get them around the course safely.

“The 10k truly is a community event, and volunteering is a great way to get involved without running the race itself. If you’ve got family and friends taking part, or if you’d simply like to get involved on the day, signing up to be a marshal is a great way to support the charities that provide extremely valuable services.”

James Branson, Senior Events Fundraiser at Ashgate Hospice, said: “Runners and spectators at the 10k last year all say how the atmosphere was fantastic, largely thanks to the support and enthusiasm of all our volunteers.

“If you can spare a few hours, it’s such a rewarding experience to witness the determination of the runners, as well as the amazing community spirit of the supporting locals.

“Marshalling is very straightforward, and you don’t need any experience. All volunteers are well looked after before and during the race.”

If you are aged 18 or older and are interested in volunteering at the 2022 Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k, contact Ashgate Hospice at events@ashgatehospice.org.uk or call the Fundraising Team on 01246 567250.

Redbrik 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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Family fun day to take place in Chesterfield Town Centre this September

Families are being invited to take part in a day of fun and activities, as Vicar Lane Shopping Centre in Chesterfield hosts ‘One Great Day’ later this month.

The fundraising event on 17th September is a series of family and community charity events being held throughout the country to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH) and local charities.

This year Vicar Lane is proud to be sharing donations with GOSH and local children’s hospice Bluebell Wood.

From 11am – 3pm, families can take part in Chester’s Challenge, which is a football shootout led by Chesterfield FC’s very own cheeky mascot. There’ll be an opportunity to explore a Derbyshire White Watch fire engine plus lots of outdoor games, fabulous face-painting and an exciting Tombola to take part in. Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is asking for a small voluntary donation from visitors to take part in each activity.

Vicar Lane will be hosting a raffle with some great prizes up for grabs on the day, including a delicious meal for two at Pizza Pi, x2 traditional afternoon teas at Café Nellie and a £30 for M’s Gallery. Raffle tickets will be available to buy from the Centre Management Suite opposite Iceland from 3rd September right through until the 17th. Visitors will also be able to purchase tickets on the day.

The centre is also offering something extra for visitors. From 7pm there’ll be a special charity outdoor movie screening of classic comedy-drama film Mrs. Doubtfire. Tickets are available to buy now and are expected to go fast, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Packages available include food and drink options with Salute’s mobile prosecco bar in attendance.

Keep an eye on Vicar Lane’s social media channels for individual offers and promotions that retailers and restaurants will be offering in aid of One Great Day.

Brandon Howard, Centre Administrator, Vicar Lane said, “We’re really looking forward to welcoming the people of Chesterfield to Vicar Lane to help us raise much needed funds for two amazing charities. We’ve worked hard to put on an array of entertainment which all age groups should enjoy and we hope that we can encourage the community to join us, in raising as much money as possible!”

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.

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Superior Wellness team completes Yorkshire three peaks challenge

The team at Chesterfield’s Superior Wellness has recently conquered the grueling Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in aid of Fibromyalgia Action UK.

On 28 August, a team of 22 from the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer took part in the 24-mile challenge climbing Yorkshire’s highest peaks.

The team have currently raised £790 and there is still time to donate. The money raised will go directly to their national charity partner Fibromyalgia Action UK, who are fighting for freedom from Fibromyalgia – to raise awareness and much needed funds.

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

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge takes on the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, usually in this order, and in under 12 hours. These peaks form part of the Pennine range, and encircle the head of the valley of the River Ribble, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The Superior Wellness team showed true family spirit, dedication and commitment.  Some team members completed the course in a record time as an organised event this year, in 8 hours and 15 minutes, which was an incredible achievement.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director at Superior Wellness said: “I am incredibly proud of everyone who took part; helping each other along the way as well as conquering fears and challenges. It was very challenging mentally and physically.

“We are overwhelmed with the generosity of donations to raise much needed funds for our national charity Fibromyalgia Action UK. Thank you to everyone who has donated so far; it is not too late to donate via our Just Giving link.

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

Des Quinn, Chair of Fibromyalgia Action UK said: “We really appreciate the effort, conviction, and time donated by the team at Superior Wellness. I would like to thank them for their efforts. It is tremendous what they are doing, we really appreciate the funds you have raised and the awareness of fibromyalgia too.”

Since the partnership began in 2021 the Superior Wellness team have raised over £5,000 in a series of charity events to raise funds for Fibromyalgia Action UK.

Superior Wellness 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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Chesterfield organisations support breastfeeding mothers with safe spaces

Community groups and local establishments in Chesterfield are working to ensure mothers can feed their children in a safe and welcoming environment.

An initiative has been launched by the University of Derby, who have announced they are opening their doors to offer a free and friendly breastfeeding support group. The drop-in sessions will run from the 15th of September on the first and third Thursday of the month, between 10:30am – 12:00pm at the Chesterfield St Helena campus.

Whether you are expecting a child, are new to parenting, or are further down your parenting journey- all are welcome. The group will be led by experienced breastfeeding supporters, who are trained and supervised by Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire. They will provide non-judgemental support and information for families attending the group.

“It’s great that the Community Chesterfield Project has enabled us to work with the University of Derby in this way.” Says Alexandra Dilkes from Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire. “It’s a wonderful venue, centrally located and easy to get to.”

Free refreshments will be provided, as well as a selection of toys to entertain the little ones. There is plenty of public parking available within a 2-minute walk of the venue but none on Campus.

“I am so glad that we were able to bring Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire back to the University of Derby in Chesterfield, they make such a big difference to parents – particularly in the early days of being a parent. It’s thanks to the University that we have been able to offer the group such a fantastic venue.” Says Jennifer Raschbauer from Community Chesterfield.

Over the last two years, local volunteers from Breastfeeding Network Derbyshire, known as Feeding Together Bolsover and Chesterfield, haven’t let the pandemic stop them supporting families. They have been providing remote support and running regular ‘Parent in the Park’ walks at Poolsbrook Country Park.

The organisation will also be running sessions at Staveley Healthy Living Centre and Bolsover Children’s Centre. To find out what exciting things they’ve got coming up, check out their Facebook pages (@Bolsoverbfgroup and @bfnderbyshire).

Meanwhile, community hub and café, Monkey Park has announced it has retained its ‘Breastfeeding Welcome Here’ status once again.

The organisation has gained recognition from Derbyshire County Council, which commends businesses who actively support staff to make premises welcome for mothers to breastfeed. This can have a positive impact on making women feel able to breastfeed in public.

The Council says taking part in the initiative also provides a number of benefits for businesses, including:

  • attracting families by making them feel welcome, they will, therefore, be likely to stay longer and spend more
  • breastfeeding mums are also likely to return time after time to venues that they feel comfortable in
  • improved customer service
  • providing good publicity
  • attracting new customers

Valerie Wilkinson , operational manager at Monkey Park community hub, said; “Monkey Park is once again pleased to be recognised as a Breastfeeding Welcome café. This means nursing mothers won’t ever be asked to move-or leave. We strive to be an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone. “

“We love to support our local community, and if we can help make parents more comfortable in our space when feeding their little ones then we are extremely proud to be recognised for this achievement.

“We hope our cosy café is a safe space for all parents to nurse their little ones, but if anyone would like more privacy when feeding then we do have a separate room where the blinds can be drawn for extra privacy and comfort if desired.

“Our staff will always offer nursing parents a glass of water as we understand that feeding your infant can be very thirsty work. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to our cosy and friendly café, and we hope we can make your visit enjoyable and comfortable.”

Monkey Park, Community Chesterfield and University of Derby 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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Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

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