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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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Chesterfield Champions set to take on the Sparkle Night Walk for Ashgate Hospice

Several Chesterfield Champions are getting ready to support one of the town’s largest fundraising events, the Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Night Walk 2023. 

The annual event takes place on Saturday, 1st July, and will see thousands of people take to the streets for a 10k walk around the town.

Starting and finishing at Chesterfield FC’s SMH Group stadium, the walk raises vital funds for the hospice, which provides specialist care to families across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Last year the event raised £171,500 for patients and families in need of hospice care.

This year, Ashgate Hospice is adding a bit of extra competition to the event, with workplaces able to battle it out to get to the top of the fundraising leaderboard. 

Here at Destination Chesterfield, our team is excited to be getting our hiking boots on for this year’s Sparkle Night Walk. Find out more below about some of the Chesterfield Champions joining us on the night!

Shorts

shorts sparkle walk

13 members of the team at Chesterfield accountancy firm, Shorts will be donning their sparkly shorts to take part in the walk.

The firm is taking part in the event under the team name of ‘SPARKLE SHORTS.’

You can donate to their efforts on the night at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/shorts-chartered-accountants3

Banner Jones Solicitors

banner jones sparkle walk

The Banner Jones Solicitors team is coming together for the 3rd year in a row to sparkle in support of Ashgate Hospice.

On the company’s fundraising page, the team said: “We are proud to have been based in Chesterfield for at least 145 years and we know the valuable work that Ashgate Hospice does for the people of the town. Some of us have seen it first-hand. We are raising money to help the hospice continue providing specialist care to patients and their loved ones.”

To donate to the Banner Jones Solicitors fundraising page for the event, go to: https://www.justgiving.com/team/bannerjones

MD Hair

MD Hair sparkle walk

Michelle Dalman and her team at MD Hair, based at The Glass Yard in Chesterfield will be taking part in the Sparkle Night Walk 2023.

She commented: “I’m taking on the Sparkle Night Walk 2023 to help raise vital funds for the hospice, to make sure that when our loved ones in North Derbyshire face a life-limiting illness, they’ll be able to access the specialist care and support they need.”

Donate to MD Hair’s fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Mdhair

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel

doubletree

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park will be taking up the challenge of this year’s Sparkle Night Walk, with Ashgate Hospice being selected by the hotel as its chosen charity.

You can donate to team DoubleTree at: https://www.justgiving.com/TeamDoubletree

Valleys Group

Valleys Group - Sparkle Walk profile image

Chesterfield’s Valleys Group will be taking part in the walk, under the name ‘Valleys Vixens.’

You can find out more and donate to the team’s fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/amanda-harris39

Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care

Dawn Brown, owner of Rose Cottage Doggy Day care will be taking on the 10-kilometre trek alongside friends and fellow Chesterfield Champions.

She commented: “I’m coming together to sparkle in support Ashgate Hospice on Saturday 1st July 2023. I’m raising money to help the hospice continue providing specialist care to patients and their loved ones.”

Donate to Dawn and her team’s fundraising efforts here.

Mortgage 1st

Team m1

Chesterfield’s Mortgage 1st has assembled a team to take on the Sparkle Night Walk for Ashgate Hospice.

The firm has been busy with a number of charity efforts recently, including playing host to a charity football tournament which raised more than £2,500 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

A Mortgage 1st spokesperson said: “We’d love to raise as much as possible for Ashgate Hospice. A local charity who do an absolutely wonderful job.”

Find out more on the company’s Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mortgage1st

Destination Chesterfield

DC team 2023

The Destination Chesterfield team always looks to support local charities where possible, and is delighted to be taking part in this year’s Sparkle Night Walk.

Previously, the organisation has supported Citizen’s Advice at their charity abseil as well as supporting the Alzheimer’s Society. The team is always on the lookout for charity events it can participate in.

Donate to Destination Chesterfield’s fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/destination-chesterfield-1685606669039

Spire Radio

Spire Radio 873x466

The studio at Spire Radio

While not taking part in the walk directly, Spire Radio will have an important role to play on the night.

The station will be keeping participants’ spirits up by providing entertainment at the halfway point of the walk.

If you’re taking part, be sure to keep an eye out for the Spire Radio team at Eastwood Park in Hasland!

Not taking part and still want to be involved? Volunteer as a marshal on the night to help cheer on walkers and keep them safe! Find out more about volunteering at: https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/sparkle-night-walk/

Still want to involve your business at the event? Opportunities are available to sponsor the screens throughout the route. Find out more: https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/product/sparkle-night-walk-screen-sponsorship/

 

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Chesterfield firms named amongst Derbyshire’s 200 biggest businesses

Several Chesterfield businesses have been included in the list of Derbyshire’s largest 200 organisations, which has been compiled by the University of Derby’s business school.

Global Brands, Robinson PLC and Minorfern Ltd were amongst the Chesterfield Champions listed in the latest annual report.

To qualify for the list, companies must have:

  • been active during 1 July 2020 to 20 June 2021
  • had their registered office in Derby or Derbyshire
  • reported independent accounts to Companies House for the period 1 July 2020 to 30 June 2021

The top three largest sectors across the whole list were manufacturing (30.5%); wholesale and retail trade, including motor vehicles (20.5%); and financial services and insurance (10.5%).

Speaking at the launch event of the Top 200 Businesses report, University of Derby Vice-Chancellor Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL said: “Although covering a period when businesses were impacted by the pandemic, this report confirms that our city and county remain home to some of the world’s most successful businesses.

“The jobs they provide for thousands of people, including our graduates, are vital to supporting our communities and the prosperity of our region. The University will continue to work closely with employers and businesses across a range of sectors to help meet the current and future needs of our region so that we can maintain this position of collective strength.”

The University’s Top 200 Businesses in Derby and Derbyshire report was compiled by a team of researchers from the University’s Business School using publicly available information. It was launched at an event at the University’s One Friar Gate Square, home to its College of Business, Law and Social Sciences, and close to the location of its new Business School, currently under construction.

The Chesterfield firms named in the list are: 

  • Avant Homes Group – ranked 10th
  • GI Recruitment – ranked 16th
  • Avanti Gas – ranked 31st
  • Vesuvius – ranked 44th
  • BI Group – ranked 65th
  • Eyre and Elliston Holdings – ranked 66th
  • Xtratherm UK – ranked 67th
  • Global Brands (GBL) Holdings – ranked 68th
  • Derbyshire Support and Facilities Services Ltd – ranked 74th
  • Xbite – ranked 87th
  • Hillcare Holdings – ranked 89th
  • Proact IT UK – ranked 90th
  • Carlin Group – ranked 91st
  • Caldic UK – ranked 101st
  • Tennant Metallurgical Group Holdings Limited – ranked 113th
  • Robinson plc – ranked 119th
  • Evolution Funding Group – ranked 121st
  • Designer Contracts – ranked 124th
  • Beachcroft Holdings – ranked 125th
  • United Rental Group – ranked 128th
  • PR Marriott Drilling Ltd – ranked 129th
  • BeaconMedaes – ranked 130th
  • Capital Refractories – ranked 131st
  • James Convenience Retail – ranked 134th
  • Bridgstock – ranked 136th
  • Moorhen Holdings – ranked 137th
  • Minorfern Ltd – ranked 147th
  • Utopia Holdings – ranked 148th
  • Magnavale – ranked 152nd
  • UK Egg Centre – ranked 158th
  • Versus Arthritis – ranked 162nd
  • Lubricant Holdings – ranked 169th
  • Coster Aerosols – ranked 171st
  • Triangle of Chesterfield – ranked 177th
  • Aperam Stainless Services & Solutions UK Ltd – ranked 178th
  • Cathelco – ranked 183rd
  • Rykneld Homes – ranked 190th
  • Dormer Pramet – ranked 192nd
  • Roe Developments (UK) – ranked 194th

The full list can be found at: https://www.derby.ac.uk/business-services/top-200-derbyshire-businesses/2023/business-listing/

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

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

 

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Medieval Fun Day in Chesterfield promises a packed day of entertainment

Residents and visitors are invited to a packed day of entertainment, as the popular Medieval Fun Day returns to Chesterfield in July.

Taking place on Tuesday 25 July from 10am to 4pm, the free event will be hosted in Chesterfield’s Market Place where you will be able to enjoy a range of stalls selling a variety of goods as well as fun and games for children.

The Market Square will also welcome back Proctor’s Fun Fair with a variety of rides and side shows.

The star of the show this year is Epico the Dragon, he is big, bright and magical, and visitors will all be able to have their photo with him if they’d like to, so don’t forget to bring your camera or phone to capture your meeting.

Head to the Medieval encampment in the grounds of the Crooked Spire Church to see living history with knights and ladies, a troop march and even a skirmish or two. Plus, visitors can look out for a Tudor musician, a jester and a storyteller around the town centre too.

The museum team will also be on hand to showcase Medieval handling objects as well as crafts and a fletcher (a maker of arrows).

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s, Cabinet Member for Town Centres and Visitor Economy, said: “This is a great day out for all the family. There are not many things you can do for free to entertain the kids, so this makes the Medieval Fun Day even more special.

“By visiting the event you can step back in time to the Middle Ages, and see history brought to life by the different re-enactors. This event attracts crowds from Chesterfield and beyond, so please allow extra time to park in one of our local car parks, or consider using public transport instead.”

To support the Medieval Fun Day this year, Little Hummingbird Events, will be hosting around 35 additional market stalls in New Square featuring a range of unique products created by makers and crafters.

Nicola Hudson, a director of Little Hummingbird Events, said: “We pride ourselves in supporting the small independents and the crafters amongst us. Makers Markets are becoming increasingly popular with gifts and items that are simply not found elsewhere on the high street. Often these makers create products in their downtime or as a hobby but for some it is their livelihood. We are passionate about supporting them with a platform to trade and we are all excited about being part of the wonderfully successful Medieval Fun Day in the heart of Chesterfield.”

So far stalls booked include leather makers, crocheters, knitters, resin jewellery, dog tags and accessories. There will also be pies, breads and savouries and some sweet bakers too.

More information about both the Fun Day and the additional market will be shared closer to the time.

Medieval Fun Day 2022

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Accolades for Shorts Accountants and Banner Jones Solicitors at South Yorkshire Dealmakers Awards

Teams at two Chesterfield firms are celebrating successes, after wins at the Insider South Yorkshire Dealmakers Awards last week.

It has been a great year for the Corporate Finance team at Shorts, and the firm is delighted to have won four awards at this year’s ceremony. The winners were announced at a black-tie event hosted by comedian Fred MacAulay, at Sheffield City Hall on Thursday 8 June.

The wins included:

  • Corporate Finance Advisory Firm of the Year
  • Deal of the Year (£10m+) Management buyout of Wincro Metal Industries
  • Innovation Investment Award: Investment in Sitehop by Mercia
  • Dealmaker of the Year: Andy Ryder

Following the successes of the evening, Andy Ryder, Corporate Finance Partner at Shorts (who also went on to win Dealmaker of the Year), said: “It is the expertise and committment of the Shorts team which we see reflected in these successes.

“Last year was a record-breaking year for the Shorts Corporate Finance team, with some fantastic transactions completed, and we are beyond proud to see that hard work being recognised. We have a great team and with an exciting pipeline of opportunities, we are looking forward to another successful year.”

Dealmakers Awards 2023 873

Elsewhere, leading regional law firm Banner Jones has won the National/International Deal of the Year award alongside Translink Corporate Finance at this year’s prestigious event.

The announcement sees the firm’s Business Legal Services department receive recognition for the role it played in advising the shareholders of Chesterfield-based The Corrugated Case Company (CCC), in a major acquisition deal with the UK arm of the global packaging specialist, Tri-Wall, which completed last summer.

Andrew Fielder from Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services department – supported by colleagues Tim Barley, Katie Ash and Sara Patel – advised the sellers on all aspects of the share disposal, and of the separate sale of the businesses trading premises.

Commenting on the award win Andrew Fielder from Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services department, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received recognition for the work carried out on the CCC acquisition deal, alongside the team at Translink Corporate Finance.

“The South Yorkshire Dealmaker Awards provide a unique opportunity for the local deals community to get together to celebrate our successes, and we are thrilled to have taken home the grand prize in the National/International Deal of the Year category.”

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

Dealmakers awards banner jones

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Enjoy outdoor dining in Chesterfield’s picturesque pubs, bars and restaurants

Summer is a great time to enjoy quality time with loved ones, soaking up the sunshine with outdoor dining in a picturesque pub, bar, or restaurant.

Luckily here in Chesterfield, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying food & drink outdoors. From alfresco dining to brilliant beer gardens and cocktails on the terrace.

Whether you’re looking for delicious food, beautiful scenery, or a nice coffee and cake, our town has the perfect places for you.

To find out more about all the great activities and events in the local area this summer, check out our Summer in Chesterfield page! Meanwhile, remember to share the love on social media by telling us what you’ve been up to, using the hashtags #SummerInChesterfield and #LoveChesterfield!

Peak Edge Hotel

peak edge hotel wood fired pizza

The Peak Edge Hotel offers diners a luxury experience, set in the beautiful North Derbyshire countryside. The venue is sporting a new look, having recently replaced all its outdoor garden furniture.

There is also a new outdoor kitchen at the hotel, with a wood-fired pizza oven giving a true alfresco experience.

Complete with patio heaters and parasols, the hotel’s outdoor terraces can seat up to 60 people. In addition, the terraces overlook the iconic Peak District National Park, where visitors can often spot local wildlife such as deer.

Find out more at: https://www.peakedgehotel.co.uk/

Tickled Trout, Barlow

The Tickled Trout alfresco dining

Another picturesque restaurant set amongst the gorgeous North Derbyshire scenery is The Tickled Trout, Barlow. The restaurant has a small but perfectly-formed terrace, ideal for outdoor dining.

The terrace holds the sun all day, which is ideal for soaking up some rays with a nice cold beer or refreshing gin & tonic. The outdoor terrace benches also have parasols if you prefer the shade.

The full menu is served Tuesday-Saturday. In addition, The Tickled Trout serves its popular roast & pizza menu on Sundays.

Booking is recommended – reserve a table online at: www.tickledtroutbarlow.com

Chatsworth Kitchen

Chatsworth Kitchen

Located just five minutes from Chatsworth, Peak Village is in the charming village of Rowsley.

The restaurant is a relaxed and welcoming place to enjoy delicious seasonal dishes. What’s more, the food is sourced from the farms and gardens at Chatsworth.

Brunch and lunch options are included on the menu. You can also treat yourself to freshly baked cakes, expertly brewed coffee and a selection of cocktails, wines and local ales.

https://www.chatsworthkitchen.co.uk/

Dronfield Hall Barn

This hidden gem coffee shop in Dronfield, is delightful to meet family and friends enjoying outdoor dining in the courtyard or beautifully maintained gardens.

Treat yourself to a wide selection of drinks, with the barn’s famous fresh scones baked daily. Dronfield Hall Barn also offers light lunches, delightful afternoon teas, and tasty treats.

Furthermore, don’t forget to check out Dronfield Hall Barn’s special events, such as their popular Artisan and Makers Market where you can pick up some treats to take home with you too!

Find out more at: https://dronfieldhallbarn.org/coffee-shop/

The Rose and Crown, Brampton

Rose And Crown outdoor

One of the Chesterfield pubs owned by the renowned Brampton Brewery, The Rose and Crown offers a fabulous range of local and guest drinks.

The pub has a spacious outdoor terrace at the front and rear, which also includes sheltered areas.

Find out more on the pub’s Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/roseandcrownbrampton/

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park

Doubletree by Hilton Sheffield Park outdoor alfresco dining

Enjoy a relaxed outdoor atmosphere at the DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park.

The open patio and green space are equipped with comfortable furniture, so you can enjoy a chilled drink in the summer sun.

In the evening, guests can take in the sunset surrounded by twinkle lights and heaters. Order premium drinks and cocktails from the Lounge Bar you can even treat yourself to a delicious sharing platter too!

The Lounge Bar and patio area is open every evening throughout the week. Visit the website: www.doubletreesheffield.com for more information.

Hollingwood Hub at Chesterfield Canal

Hollingwood Hub

Those who have been for a walk or bike ride along Chesterfield Canal will know just what a gorgeous location it is! An ideal stop-off point is the Hollingwood Hub, where you’ll find Katey’s Coffee Shop.

Enjoy a range of fabulous homemade products and gorgeous scenery while out on your stroll. The menu includes drinks, sandwiches, light meals, ice creams and a selection of cakes. Perfect to replenish and refresh after all that exercise.

Find out more at: https://chesterfield-canal-trust.org.uk/off-the-water/hollingwood-hub-2/

Junction Bar

junction outdoor alfresco

Junction Bar, located on Chatsworth Road is heading into its 7th year of trading. It underwent an exciting facelift and rebrand in January.

Very much focused on drinks, they offer a light lunch menu during the week. In addition, guests can find pop-up food vendors on Thursday evenings throughout the summer.

Live music is also on show every Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Find out more at: www.junction-bar.co.uk.

Qoozies

Qoozies

Qoozies is all about good mood food in laid-back surroundings, including a seated outdoor dining area in the centre of Chesterfield.

Offering nutritious, yet delicious bites and drinks, their range of mouth-watering choices includes all day breakfasts, unique Qoozies burgers, loaded salad bowls, and sandwiches.

Furthermore, visitors can treat themselves to pancakes and house-baked sweet treats. And to keep you hydrated on a hot summer day, try their vitamin-packed smoothies, juices and milkshakes.

Find out more online at: https://qoozies.com/

Looking for more activities to make the most of your free time this summer? Head over to https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/ for more ideas and information.

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New assessment unit for children and young people opens at Chesterfield Royal Hospital

GPs and clinicians in Chesterfield and beyond will now be able to refer children and young people to a purpose-built £2m state-of-the-art Paediatric Assessment Unit.

The exciting new development, which will care for some of the hospital’s youngest patients has 12 treatment spaces and is adjacent to the paediatric area towards the rear of the hospital. It will ensure that children who have been referred by a healthcare professional can be assessed, investigated and reviewed much more quickly and responsively, in a setting which is far more suited to their short-term needs.

It forms part of the latest round of developments at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital site, and this bespoke unit is not just a new build – it will help to release space on children’s inpatient areas and improving the experience for colleagues and patients. The unit has been designed with children in mind; and features a space for waiting and playing and bright colours in all areas.

Tracy Barker, Lead Nurse for Family Care, said: “We are incredibly excited to see this come to fruition. Previously children who will now be referred to the PAU were treated on our inpatient ward, which is not always the best environment for a short stay.

“We have been able to perform simulation exercises as part of the development to ensure the layout is accessible and fit for purpose. This has meant that we will be able to hit the ground running from opening day.

“I am incredibly proud to see it opening and I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in this from day one and to all my colleagues – especially the building team for their flexibility and the domestics team who have worked incredibly hard to get it to sparkle!”

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive of Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: “I am delighted that we are opening the PAU, which will provide support and care for our youngest patients and their families. This is just one of many developments on site which will allow us to continue to provide exceptional care for our patients.

“The PAU will receive referrals from clinicians and will work together with our primary care, community and Emergency Department colleagues to provide a complete package of care for our patients. We continue to ask parents and guardians to take children and young people with emergencies to the Emergency Department in the first instance, where we will then assess and potentially move to this area based on a clinical decision.”

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.

royal hospital assessment unit

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Sixteen Chesterfield voluntary and community groups benefit from grant funding

Local community and voluntary organisations are set to benefit from almost £60,000 worth of funding, as part of a new scheme to deliver grassroots projects to improve life for local people.

A total of £59,965 has been awarded to 16 local groups via Chesterfield Borough Council’s new Community Grants Funding scheme.

Those awarded funding include:

  • Derbyshire Unemployed Workers’ Centre
  • Relate Chesterfield and North Derbyshire
  • Barrow Hill Community Trust
  • Positive Healthy Vibes
  • Standing Tall
  • Young Enterprise
  • Fairplay
  • Transition Chesterfield
  • Hobby Talk
  • Inspiring Inkersall Community Group
  • Friends of Spital Cemetery
  • Hope House
  • Gussies Pantry
  • Chesterfield Cricket Club
  • Inclusive Pedals
  • Friends of Badger Park

The funding will support local groups to deliver projects that will build resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, as well as initiatives which will help reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices.

Funding can also be used by community projects to develop volunteering opportunities, help people prepare to get in to work, and to support organisations to expand their reach into different areas of the borough.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re really pleased to have allocated this funding to these local groups to help them deliver vital projects that will help our communities continue to thrive, and we look forward to watching the projects progress.

“We’re really lucky to have so many important community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield. They really do make a difference to the lives of local people, so it’s vital that we can provide them with grants such as this to help them achieve their goals.”

Applications for the second phase of the scheme have now reopened, allowing even more eligible organisations to apply for grant funding, with grants ranging from £500 to £6,000.

Full details on funding can be found at: https://www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-ukspf/community-grants-fund.aspx

The deadline for applications is Friday 27 October.

Fairplay is one of the groups to have received grant funding. The charity supports children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, and their families, across North Derbyshire. Funding will be used to support a new project that will give young people with learning disabilities the chance to engage in work-based activities within their communities.

Heather Fawbert, Fairplay CEO, said: ’This Community Grant will enable Fairplay young people to make a real difference in their local community. They will be volunteering on a wide range of projects, showcasing the many skills that they have developed whilst at Fairplay. The young people are all very eager to get started!’’

Funding for the grants scheme has been successfully secured from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), together with money raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Portion (CIL).

It is just one initiative which is benefiting from funding through the UKSPF, after the council was successful in securing £2.6m from the Government. It will fund initiatives up to April 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

Fairplay

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United Cast Bar welcomes Derbyshire’s High Sheriff

Chesterfield manufacturer, United Cast Bar recently welcomed Derbyshire’s new High Sheriff, Theresa Peltier to the company’s premises.

United Cast Bar is a cast iron specialist, produced in two of Europe’s most prestigious foundries and distributed through the United Cast Bar distribution network.

The United Cast Bar Group of companies employ over 250 people worldwide, and are represented in over 20 countries. The firm prides itself on being the world’s leading and most successful manufacturer and supplier of continuously cast iron.

The tour gave United Cast Bar the opportunity to showcase its offices and production facility, whilst explaining some of the work it does on local skills and community initiatives. It involved all areas from input of raw materials, furnaces, laboratory, production lines, machine shop, dispatch and the offices.

David Beet, Group Marketing Manager at United Cast Bar commented: “It was a great pleasure to welcome Theresa Peltier, Derbyshire’s new High Sheriff to United Cast Bar for a tour of the offices and the factory.

“We discussed our action with the local community including schools, colleges and universities, local suppliers and the environment.

“Throughout the visit, Theresa was keen to meet the staff and talk about their various roles. She met a number of the apprentices and staff during her visit including our MD, James and General Manager, Tony.

“It was a pleasure to show her around and I hope she will visit us again.”

Alongside its work with apprentices, the company regularly invites young people for tours of its manufacturing facility in Chesterfield as part of the Made in Chesterfield initiative, designed to inspire the next generation of skilled workers in STEM sectors. Find out more about the project here.

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

Made in Chesterfield - United Cast Bars Ltd

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New design studio for Chesterfield packaging manufacturer

Chesterfield-based manufacturer, Robinson has invested in a new state-of-the-art design studio.

The CAD design room is run by a team with more than 50 years’ experience in packaging creation. It includes a DYSS X5 machine for sample making technology, a Sumbel desktop gluer and can produce production standard products and samples in small runs.

The specialist design team have the capabilities and knowledge to design premium packaging to meet key sustainability credentials, both internally and for customers with a 24-hour turnaround time for samples.

Robinson is often thinking of creative ways to use packaging – this recently includes experimenting with hybrid packaging. Careful thought goes into the packaging to ensure it maintains a level of premium feel whilst also being suitable and secure for the products in them, for example luxury glass candles and cakes.

Elouise Boam, New Product Development and Quality Manager is delighted with the new facility. She says: “From a customer’s existing brief or free licence to create, we design and produce packaging in our purpose-built studio, using the latest Kasemake software, DYSS X5 sample table and Sumbel Bench top gluing unit to produce production standard samples, prototypes and small to medium production runs.

“We can turn around a brief in 24 hours, and work with industry leading suppliers of print, print finishing, paper, and board to create beautiful packaging.

“We carry out product and transit testing to ensure the quality and integrity of the finished pack meets the customers’ requirements and exceeds expectations.

“Paper based inserts and supports are our speciality with sustainability, re use and cost-effective solutions at the forefront of our creative design ideas.

With 50 years combined experience of design and technical knowledge we create bespoke packaging solutions from Rigid Board, Carton board or a combination of any paper-based material imaginable”.

Robinson were recently awarded FSC ® certification (Licence code: FSC-C186000) for its Paperbox division.

FSC certification ensures that all products produced at Paperbox are sustainable. FSC-managed forests help provide clean air and water by restricting hazardous chemicals and following strict harvesting and forestry practices. Their work also helps ensure a diversity of animals, trees and plants as well as providing safe working conditions for everyone involved.

This further demonstrates the investment that the company is making in its Paperbox business, following a significant investment in its new SATE box-making machine in Chesterfield, with improved quality and a reduced carbon footprint that allows customers to avoid long, complex supply chains from Asia.

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

Robinsons packaging

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