Internal work has started on Chesterfield’s new centre for talking therapies – the building which formerly housed the Chesterfield Register Office.
Beighton Construction is nine weeks into the refurbishment of the premises on Beetwell Street, for charity Derwent Rural Counselling Service.
Having completed roof works, internal strip out, new damp proofing system, floors, heating and new electrics, a team of contractors is now underway with plastering and decoration, plus installing new toilets and a lift.
The three storey centre, set to open in summer 2023 with an official launch event in September, will include office space, numerous treatment and consulting rooms, meeting rooms and relaxation space to help cope with the increased demand for DRCS services in the area, plus options for businesses to rent rooms and floorspace.
Andrew Holmes, director at Beighton Construction, based in Chesterfield, said: “A new damp proofing system has been installed in the basement, partition walls and plaster repairs have been completed plus a new heating system, and the first phase of decorating is underway.
“The new lift will offer access to all floors for centre users.”
Janette Smeeton, chief executive at DRCS, said: “Progress continues on the site which will be one of the largest talking therapy centres in the county.
“Bringing the building back to community use will create a valuable asset for people and businesses in the region.”
The Beetwell Street hub is part of ambitious plans for DRCS which operates a large team of freelance and employed staff based at seven centres across the county covering the Amber Valley, Erewash, Chesterfield, Buxton, Matlock, Ashbourne, Derby, Swadlincote and the Peak District.
Over the last 30 years, DRCS has become one of the largest third sector provider of counselling services in the region offering help to individuals, via self-referral or via a GP, with common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress and long term conditions through counselling, CBT, guided self-help, and other forms of talking therapy.
In the last eight years, DRCS has been in partnership with Derbyshire Healthcare Foundation Trust to deliver the NHS talking therapies for anxiety and depression service, throughout Derbyshire.
