chesterfield business news

Chesterfield firms urged to access skills support to grow town’s economy

Businesses across Chesterfield have been told they must act today to futureproof their businesses and the town’s economy, by ensuring their staff are receiving the relevant training and skills.

The Chesterfield Employability and Skills Conference (Thursday, 8th February 2024) was hosted in partnership by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.

The event at the Winding Wheel Theatre in the heart of the town, introduced a new wave of support for firms in the area, signposting businesses to relevant schemes which will help them to upskill and reskill their staff. Attendees at the event were given the chance to meet with representatives from the following organisations:

  • Chesterfield Borough Council, Skills Brokerage Service
  • Chesterfield College
  • Derbyshire BAME Forum
  • Direct Education Business Partnership
  • University of Derby
  • D2N2 Careers Hub/ D2N2 LEP
  • Derbyshire County Council/ National Careers Service
  • North East Derbyshire District Council
  • Department for Work and Pensions
  • Auto Windscreens, owned by Markerstudy Group
  • East Midlands Railway

The call for businesses to access this support comes as firms in some of the town’s key sectors say they are finding difficulties in filling vacancies with suitable skilled people.

The latest East Midlands Chamber Quarterly Economic Survey showed that more than 70% of businesses in the region are struggling to fill vacancies, with skilled manual or technical roles proving the most challenging. Industries such as construction, manufacturing, engineering, digital and health & social care are just some of the sectors which Chesterfield Borough Council aims to support with workforce growth.

To address those challenges, Chesterfield’s new skills brokerage gives businesses in the borough the opportunity to gain free, impartial, bespoke advice to support them to access funding, alongside connecting companies to training and development opportunities.

The full range of services offered includes:

  • Access a range of fully funded courses to upskill the workforce, ranging from basic skills and business fundamentals to leadership and management, green and digital skills.
  • Accessing a variety of funding streams.
  • Support to employ Apprentices, including how to access apprenticeship funding and information around the apprenticeship levy.
  • Recruitment and retention advice.
  • Succession planning.
  • Advice and continued support.

Michael Timmins, Director at AECOM and Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership said: “It was fantastic to see so many businesses in attendance at the Employability and Skills Conference. We know that firms across our area are concerned about the future of their workforces, so it is extremely important that we continue to highlight the support that is out there. I would urge businesses of all sizes to make the most of the assistance available. We must all work together to secure the future growth of Chesterfield and ensure that our workforce has the right skills and abilities to meet future challenges.”

Michael Timmins speaking at 2024 employability and skills conference

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership said: “We work closely with a wide range of partners to help local people develop the skills that businesses need both now and, in the future, which in turn will help ensure everyone can benefit from a growing local economy.

“Our Skills Brokerage service aims to help businesses access the funding and the information they need to deliver skills development programmes for their employees, but this is just one of the initiatives we have launched that aim to help businesses based in our borough to grow. If you are running a business in Chesterfield, please contact our team directly to find out more about the support available to you.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby speaking at 2024 skills and employability conference

For more information about this service or to arrange a meeting contact Chris McKechnie, Skills Brokerage Business Advisor by calling 07583416749 or emailing Chris.McKechnie@chesterfield.gov.uk.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Brokerage Service 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.

skills conference 2024

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Chesterfield’s rising stars spearhead campaign to promote local apprenticeships

Young people building their careers in Chesterfield have spoken of the benefits that apprenticeships have in paving the way for a prosperous future.

Speaking to Destination Chesterfield and the Derbyshire Times, the town’s rising stars expressed their satisfaction at not following the ‘traditional’ University route and gaining valuable workplace experience alongside their studies.

Abigail Dodd, Level 3 Apprentice Business Administrator at Rosewood Wealth Management, commented: “I don’t think I would have learned anywhere near as much at University or College, compared to the skills I have developed during my apprenticeship.

“The skills which I’ve learned on the job are incomparable to anything that you could learn in a classroom. Getting the hands-on experience, such as greeting and communicating with clients is unlike anything you could learn in traditional education.”

Woman sitting at a computer with the Rosewood logo behind her

Abi Dodd, Rosewood Wealth Management

There are currently more than 2,500 people currently participating in apprenticeships in Chesterfield. Participants were keen to highlight the key advantages of opting for an apprenticeship in the town.

Tom Zerboni, Level 2 Junior Estate Agent at Lime Living, believes his apprenticeship has given him the chance to showcase a high level of responsibility and maturity: “I’m already going out and showing people around properties. Working with a smaller company, I’m getting broad experience in terms of getting to grips with all aspects of the business and being able to help my colleagues.”

Man on the phone sitting in front of a computer

Tom Zerboni, Lime Living, Level 2 Junior Estate Agent

A common theme was how apprenticeships provide hands-on experience, whilst enabling participants to gain high-level qualifications.

Ewan Walker, Level 3 Mechanical Engineering Apprentice at MSE Hiller, said: “There is textbook learning, but also things that you can pick up ‘on the job.’ There could be something in class which you may not have much knowledge of, but as an apprentice, you’ve done it in the field, so you get a much better understanding.

“I’ve been able to go through the whole company and learn so many different things. For example, welding, centrifuge balance, fitting and site work. I recently got to visit Walkers Crisps in a customer-facing capacity.”

Ewan Walker MSE Hiller 873x466

Milena Vasileva, Level 7 Architecture Apprentice at Whittam Cox Architects, commented: “There are seven people taking part in an apprenticeship at our company.

“Alongside studying at University, I’ve also been able to develop skills such as time management, working under pressure, working at a fast pace, prioritising workload and decision-making. You wouldn’t be able to develop those skills as quickly if you weren’t working in the industry alongside your studies.”

Woman in peach shirt smiling and sitting at desk

Milena Vasileva, Whittam Cox, Level 7 Architecture Apprentice

Chesterfield’s apprentices contribute to the local economy by addressing the skills gap. As apprentices become skilled professionals, they meet the demands of the local job market, fortifying Chesterfield’s industries and supporting economic growth.

Gracie Stevenson, Level 3 Business Administration Apprentice at Peak Pharmacy, explained what attracted her to the town as an ideal location to launch her career: “Usually the big opportunities are in cities, and I hadn’t considered that there were potential opportunities on my doorstep as well.

“The business I work for recently moved to the new Horizon development near Markham Vale, which has brought all aspects of the organisation together, so to be part of that transition has been a fantastic learning experience. In the big cities, there is lots of competition, but Chesterfield is up and coming, and the route to get into an apprenticeship is probably a lot easier.”

Woman sitting at a computer with a notepad open

Gracie Stevenson, Peak Pharmacy

MSE Hiller’s Ewan Walker agrees that the town’s location and transport links is providing more investment and job opportunities, adding: “We’re a company which deals with organisations up and down the country, so being next to the M1 is a great base for us to get to wherever we need to be.”Further development coming up at Markham Vale will bring in more opportunities and jobs to Chesterfield, which will hopefully bring more apprenticeships too.”

Financial independence is an advantage of apprenticeships. Instead of accumulating student debt, apprentices in Chesterfield earn a wage while learning. Some roles currently being advertised in the town offer wages above £20,000 per year.

This dual benefit ensures that young individuals can support themselves financially from the outset of their career journey. What’s more, apprentices have the opportunity to work their way up the career ladder, and into higher-level and more highly paid roles in the future.

Rosewood’s Abigail Dodd continued: “The apprentices of today are going to be the leaders, teachers, and directors of tomorrow. In the financial advice industry, there is a stereotype that the majority of higher-level professionals working in it are older gentlemen.

“However, at my company, the two directors are women and are considered young for the industry. Our team of seven are all women too. With all the development taking place in Chesterfield, we need to make sure we have got the people to sustain those higher roles.

“Therefore, I think that it is crucial to have more young people taking on an apprenticeship, to get that knowledge and carry on the legacy that other people have had.”

Participants were eager to point out that being an apprentice in 2024 comes with a high level of responsibility from the outset. Whittam Cox’s Milena Vasileva told the panel: “There’s a huge point of interest around competency in our industry and showing visible proof of it.

“Relevant experience is certainly part of that, so being able to prove that as an apprentice, you’ve worked on several projects at a time will add to your competency levels.”

Want to find out more about the apprenticeship roles available locally? Head over to https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/ to discover more.

apprentice round table participants

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Chesterfield Businesses celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2024

Several Chesterfield businesses have celebrated National Apprenticeship Week 2024 with new recruits, high achievement and support for local apprentices in our town.

National Apprenticeship Week ( February 5-11) shines a spotlight on the incredible benefits of apprenticeships both for people looking to build a rewarding career and businesses looking to bolster their skilled workforce.

Find out more about how the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have been supporting apprenticeships in recent weeks and months.

Roy Peters Estates’ George Glazebrook achieves distinction on Level 2 apprenticeship

RS and George

George Glazebrook, who has been undertaking a Level 2 Housing and Property Management apprenticeship with Chesterfield’s Roy Peters Estates, has acheived the highest grade possible on his Level 2 course.

George commented: “I love working for Roy Peters Estates in Chesterfield, being in the industry at a young age is great as I’m always learning and gaining new skills. Surrounding myself with people who have lots of experience and knowledge within the industry is also extremely important to me as I would have not have these same opportunities within a class room.

I have just completed level 2 apprenticeship and was delighted that I achieved a distinction grade across all three elements of the examination, which was extremely rewarding as I had put a lot of hard work into the apprenticeship overall”.

Richard Sherwood, Director at Roy Peters Estates, added: “Everyone here at Roy Peters is delighted that George has passed his Level Two Qualification in Housing and Property Management. George has become a real asset to our business and I understand that he plans to move forward to Level Three which will give us another qualified member of our team.

“This, and the maths qualification he achieved during his apprenticeship will give George an excellent start to his business career. It is encouraging that Roy Peters Estates have received a number of positive reviews about George and I have had personal feedback from valued clients as to how well he represents our organisation.

“Roy Peters Estates have also just won the British Property Letting Award for Chesterfield and I’m sure George played his part, along with the rest of the team, in achieving this award.”

Windowcharm Blinds & Curtain Services announces new content creator apprentice

Chesterfield’s Windowcharm Blinds and Curtain Services has added another apprentice to its growing team.

Romario Clarke is the third apprentice to join the company, and will be working alongside fellow apprentices Katie Wheatley and Matt Willis.

Mike Jones, Head of Customer Relations at Windowcharm commented: “Our experienced professionals from three departments will provide them with on-the-job training, mentorship, and support.

“Romario, Katie, and Matt have introduced new and innovative ideas to our business, which has been established since 1975.

“We are eager to guide them during the early years of their careers and see how their contributions will improve our productivity and performance.”

Romario said: “While only joining recently, I’ve already felt as if I have a very supportive team around me. Doing a content creation apprenticeship at Windowcharm, I already feel like an important member of the team as I’ve been trusted to spearhead the content creation for Windowcharm.”

CMP Legal’s Amelia Bacon to undertake solicitor qualifying apprenticeship

CMP Amelia

Amelia Bacon, who has worked for Chesterfield’s CMP Legal for just over two years as a Paralegal in the firm’s corporate team, is set to take the next step in her career by taking on an apprenticeship to secure her SQE Qualifications.

The SQE is two exam papers set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Therefore, Amelia will be studying for her SQE while undertaking her apprenticeship, gaining the necessary qualifying work which she also needs to be able to qualify as a solicitor.

Amelia’s SQE course will be taught by the training provider with a series of online workshops, lectures and assessments as well as one to one support from a personal tutor. CMP Legal will be supervising her work experience and ensuring that she’s exposed to a wide variety of work to ensure that when she passes her SQE, she’ll be able to apply to the SRA to be admitted as a solicitor, straight away.

Amelia said: “I’m thrilled to be starting my solicitor qualifying apprenticeship and I’m very grateful that CMP Legal are supporting my career ambitions. I can’t wait to get started on the course in March.

Stacey Pocock, Solicitor and Executive Director at CMP Legal added: “The introduction of the SQE is a relatively new concept in the legal profession and so to be able to support Amelia with an apprenticeship is something that we were very keen to do. Employing an apprentice is an excellent way for us to grow our business but equally, it’s a positive way for our valued team members to achieve their career ambitions.”

CCM Change Consultancy collaborates with Rosewood Wealth Management to develop apprentices

Two young women sitting at laptops in an office with a view out the window

Abi Dodd and Demi Walker, Rosewood Wealth Management, Level 3 Business Administrator Apprentices

Chesterfield’s CCM Change Consultancy is currently working alongside two apprentices at Rosewood Wealth Management, to further develop their skills.

The two Chesterfield Champions have worked together, with CCM assisting the finance company’s rising stars Abigiail Dodd and Demi Walker, with assimilation into the workplace and development of fundamental tools. This work is providing a solid foundation for the apprentices to take on technical industry knowledge.

CCM Change Consultancy owner, Nick Gorman said: “Some of our current work is around – Plan & Prepare, Complete v Finish, Right First Time, Internal customer, Flow.

“Working with apprentices is one of the most rewarding aspects of mentoring. Abigail and Demi are an absolute pleasure to work with and the future for them looks bright.”

The businesses featured in this article 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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Chatsworth Farm Shop unveils fresh look to showcase local produce

Chatsworth Farm Shop welcomes customers back through its doors this week following a refurbishment designed to celebrate local suppliers, estate-reared food and locally farmed produce.

The award-winning farm shop, established by Duchess Deborah in 1977 and serving the Derbyshire community ever since, has become a much-loved destination for the best regional food and drink, with the majority of its products produced or prepared on the Chatsworth Estate, or sourced from suppliers within a 30-mile radius.

The refurbishment has improved display areas for the farm shop’s renowned fresh produce and butchery (including a new dry aging fridge for Chatsworth Estate beef), and increased shelf space for local producers.

Created with a focus on sustainability, the design honours the traditions of the area by repurposing existing farm shop fixtures and making use of functional and heritage items from Chatsworth House and estate farms.

A Farm Shop & Deli Retailer and Farm Shop of the Year award winner, the farm shop will be introducing a refreshed range of Chatsworth branded products, including teas, juices, jams, estate-sourced honey and the much-loved Bakewell Tart, alongside a range of locally crafted giftware.

An extended selection of local cheeses has also been launched, produced by Derbyshire-based Hartington Creamery which has connections to Chatsworth dating back to 1870.

Chatsworth farm shop refurb products on shelves

Robert Gosling, Hartington Creamery part-owner, said: “It is 150 years since the 6th Duke of Devonshire built the first dairy in Hartington, and we are pleased that we are working together again creating innovative products which reflect our shared heritage and culture.”

Lady Burlington said: “Our focus for the farm shop has always been on supplying the best possible produce for our local community. We want to ensure that our products celebrate the wealth of talented producers on our doorstep and maintain the high quality the farm shop has become known for.

“Being able to showcase not just what we produce across the estate but also the breadth of quality products available from talented suppliers across Derbyshire, is one of the many reasons we have such loyal customers.”

Elsewhere on the estate, the Stables shop at Chatsworth is also undergoing an exciting redesign to enhance the clothing department, with new brands including Turner & Sons socks and White Leaf Jewellery joining the other carefully selected ranges of accessories, homewares, toiletries and books for all ages.

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

Planning a visit to Chatsworth and the Peak District? Chesterfield is the perfect base to explore Derbyshire. Brilliantly located with superb road, rail and air links, the town is famous for its 800 year-old open air market and the unique and unusual ‘Crooked Spire‘ Church.

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield here.

Chatsworth Farm Shop cakes and bakes selection

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , ,

Derbyshire charity champions local heroes for King’s Honours list

Derbyshire Voluntary Action is highlighting individuals in our area for their outstanding contribution to our communities.

In a testament to the unsung heroes shaping the heart of Derbyshire’s communities, DVA has launched a campaign to raise further awareness of the Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector with a new series focusing on the efforts and impact carried out by groups and organisations in our communities.

The Derbyshire charity is hoping that highlighting their exceptional strength and success will encourage them to be nominated for the prestigious King’s Honours List.

DVA says it works alongside, sees, and recognises the tireless efforts of those who often work behind the scenes, shaping positive change.

The King’s Honours List is platform that celebrates their extraordinary contributions, and that sees fewer nominations in Derbyshire than across the rest of the country, something that DVA is eager to change.

DVA, in its commitment to community recognition, seeks to champion people from these groups to inspire a ripple effect of appreciation for the entire VCSE sector.

Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Liz Fothergill commented: “I am immensely proud and often awed as I hear of amazing and sustained achievements brought about by the hard work, selflessness, and commitment to their communities of individuals from across the whole city and county.

“I would like to see more of our remarkable Derbyshire individuals recognised and celebrated with a national honour – so I would encourage you all to make a nomination when you witness true excellence and a passion to improve the lives of others.”

More information about nomination process, and how to put someone forward can be found on the www.gov.uk/honours page.

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

Community Capacity Conference Nov 23 DVA

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Partnership to encourage more car-free journeys into the Peak District

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire has announced a new Strategic Partnership with bus operator Stagecoach as part of its ongoing mission to encourage visitors to go ‘car-free’ when visiting the destination.

The organisations will work together to highlight the benefits of travelling by bus and promote car-free days out – giving visitors a practical way to save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and do their bit to protect local landscapes at the same time.

Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s Strategic Partners are an influential network of key tourism-related businesses who share its core aims to grow the value of the area’s visitor economy and build a brighter, more sustainable future.

Through the new Strategic Partnership, Stagecoach is highlighting its commitment to working alongside the destination’s official Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) to champion the long-term success of the area’s tourism industry and the communities it supports.

Stagecoach is Britain’s largest bus operator and its network incorporates some of the most popular visitor spots in the Peak District and Derbyshire. Local services include the recently-extended X17 which runs from Barnsley to Wirksworth via Sheffield, Chesterfield and Matlock, and the 65 which runs from Sheffield to Buxton via Tideswell – and is often called ‘one of the most scenic bus routes in Britain’.

Stagecoach also operates the Peak Sightseer hop-on, hop-off service which connects the historic market towns of Bakewell and Chesterfield with key tourist attractions including Chatsworth and Hassop Station for visiting the Monsal Trail.

The Strategic Partnership strengthens Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s long-term mission to encourage more visitors to choose sustainable transport methods, and the organisations will work together to produce ‘car-free’ content and itineraries that encourage both tourists and residents to enjoy all the area has to offer without increasing pollution and congestion in towns, villages and the countryside.

The news follows the launch of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire’s Sustainable Tourism Action Plan, which has been produced in partnership with local stakeholders including the Peak District National Park Authority and the National Forest and sets out the destination’s vision to lead the way in green tourism, active travel and transport connectivity.

Tourism contributed £2.59bn to the Peak District and Derbyshire’s economy in 2022, supporting thousands of jobs and driving prosperity in local communities.

Matt Kitchin, Managing Director of Stagecoach Yorkshire, says: “We are really excited to be partnering with Visit Peak District & Derbyshire to promote bus travel to the fantastic tourist attractions in the area, reducing the pressure caused by cars and congestion on the local environment.

“Buses in our network such as the Peak Sightseer open top bus, the X17 and the 65 make visiting the Peak District more accessible and affordable and have proven to boost the local economy through an increased number of tourists.

“We look forward to working with the team at Visit Peak District & Derbyshire to encourage more people to opt for sustainable methods of travel and enjoy a car-free day out in the countryside.”

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: “We are delighted to announce our Strategic Partnership with Stagecoach, a company that shares our commitment to encouraging car-free travel for visitors and residents alike.

“Our Strategic Partners are a core network of organisations who want to support us in our role as one of England’s leading LVEPs, growing the value of the county’s tourism sector in a sustainable way.

“Stagecoach’s buses offer an easy and accessible way to reach and enjoy the historic landmarks of our destination and the glorious scenery of Britain’s original National Park. As well as supporting the strategic aims highlighted in our Sustainable Tourism Action Plan, partnerships such as this will help to lessen the impact of cars on fragile locations, reducing congestion and pollution and helping us develop more sustainable travel choices for those who live, work and visit here.”

Stagecoach joins existing Strategic Partners Northern, Breedon Group, the Institute of Quarrying and Severn Trent.

Businesses interested in becoming a Strategic Partner of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire should contact Lisa Woolhouse, Membership & Sales Manager, at lisa.woolhouse@visitpeakdistrict.com.

Details of Stagecoach services across the Peak District and Derbyshire can be found at: www.stagecoachbus.com.

Chesterfield is the perfect base to explore the Peak District and Derbyshire. Find out more about visiting our town here.

Visit 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.

Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire and Matt Kitchin, Managing Director of Stagecoach Yorkshire

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New radio studio forms part of expansion for Chesterfield record store

A record store in Chesterfield has announced an exciting expansion, which includes a new independent radio station for local DJs to follow their passion for music.

Vanishing Point Records, based in Theatre Yard in the town centre, has become a popular spot for music lovers selling pre-loved vinyl records across many genres.

The businesses, which began in 2017 had previously expanded in 2019. However in 2023, the shop took up a neighbouring unit which enabled further growth.

Acquiring the extra space has given Vanishing Point Records the opportunity to showcase its huge 12″ single collection, which is thought to be one of the biggest in the East Midlands with a collection of around 5000. On top of this, the store has also been able to build a new radio studio.

The studio is now a home for Radio Free Matlock, which is a station that Vanishing Point Owner, Corey Lavender was already heavily involved in prior to the store’s expansion.

Corey takes up the story, commenting: “On our second ever day of trading I met a guy who ran an ultra local radio station in Matlock, named “Radio Free Smedley Street”. From that day onwards I got involved with the station, firstly as a listener and then when that guy left the station, I along with a few of the other DJs decided to take over the running of it.

“We renamed it Radio Free Matlock (RFM for short) and we started recruiting DJs wherever we could find them. I met loads of our DJs when they came into the store for a browse. They left with or without a vinyl record but also a radio show!

“So, when I took on the extra unit in Theatre Yard It was always my intention that part of it would be devoted to some ‘radio’ space. Building this was daunting anyway, I had zero experience in building radio studios, but we were doing it on zero budget, just with stuff we had in our various home studios.

Vanishing point radio studio

“Luckily I could call on my RFM colleagues Ash Bird and Lucie De Lacy to help! By September 2023 we had a set up in the studio that we liked. We had two vinyl decks for proper DJs to come and play a set, a mixing desk with 4 mics hooked up, a CD player and the ability to input from a laptop. All held together with a old (ish) Mac kindly donated by Lucie.”

“In October our debut ‘LIVE’ radio show was broadcast, it was called The Monthly Jam hosted by Ash and Lucie and we had a special guest Emzae, a pop artist from Derby  who came in for a chat and to sign copies of her latest album.

“Since then we have done weekly live radio shows on Saturday afternoons from 12 till 2pm with a rotation of shows and DJs, and they are brilliant. People come in to watch the shows, to listen to the shows and customers quite often get involved too, and every single one has been brilliant with the vibe on Saturdays being fantastic.”

Corey added that the success of the new radio station has also led to further success for Vanishing Point Records in terms of sales. All five of its best ever trading months have come since the expansion and the studio addition.

Speaking of his love for owning a business in Chesterfield, he added: “Having grown up in Chesterfield, and loving the town (and the football club) It is a dream to be able to do my favorite thing in my favorite place. It’s also a privilege to have so many fellow indie traders in town too, who are on hand to help out with advice and encouragement.

“We really do have a great opportunity to make ourselves successful in this new era of destination shopping. The internet has changed everything  but we have loads of unique shops, cafes and bars who might not be able to spend a ton on advertising to let you know they’re there like the old major chains can. But if anyone hasn’t been to town for a while, maybe go and you might just find your new favorite place.”

Find out more about visiting Chesterfield.

Vanishing Point

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Work begins on £3.7m mental health ward refurbishment in Walton

Refurbishment works have started at Walton Hospital in Chesterfield, to create a dedicated ward for older adults with functional mental health issues in Derbyshire.

Chesterfield Property and Construction Group member, Stepnell is carrying out the works. Previously vacant, the £3.7 million refurbishment of Bluebell Ward provides capacity for the relocation of patients from Pleasley Ward at the Hartington Unit on the Chesterfield Royal Hospital site, three miles across the town.

Delivering via the Procure Partnerships Framework (PPF) for Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (DHCFT), the project will create a 12-bedroom older adult mental health facility with single ensuite rooms. The ward is for functional older adults, and once completed, the functional and organic older adult services will be co-located in the same building.

Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “The refurbishment of Bluebell Ward signifies the latest project that we are completing for an NHS Foundation Trust, and we are proud of our long-standing reputation for delivering successful healthcare projects across the country using our local expertise. We are helping to enhance the offering of locally accessible specialist services, as part of the NHS Long Term Plan.”

Tom Woolley, key account manager for the east at Procure Partnerships Framework, added: “Procure Partnerships Framework is delighted to see work is underway on the refurbishment of Bluebell Ward for Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Our partners are experts in healthcare schemes and have worked incredibly hard in the planning stages to ensure the facility is set to become a welcoming, safe and sustainable environment for the patients of Bluebell Ward. We are excited to see this scheme come to life and the long-lasting benefit it will bring to the community of Chesterfield.”

Set to complete this July, the refurbishment adapts the existing structure of Bluebell Ward to achieve a fit-for-purpose design that follows the same building principles for new mental health units, completing under the Making Room for Dignity programme.

Stepnell is undertaking the works with multi-disciplinary construction consultancy EDGE. Charlotte Dennish, cost manager at EDGE, said: “Our healthcare specialist team is proud to be working alongside Stepnell to deliver an environment that promotes wellbeing and safety, improving the patient experience. EDGE is delighted to be delivering Bluebell Ward as part of the wider Making Room for Dignity programme, ensuring consistent quality standards and patient environments.

“By working with ex-service user Nick Richards on the project, we’ve been able to learn from his lived experience and ensure that the space is optimised to support older adults with mental health challenges, while also providing a welcoming environment for all who will use the service.”

The project is part of the government’s Dormitory Eradication Programme, which DHCFT names the ‘Making Room for Dignity’ programme, to eradicate dormitory accommodation in mental health facilities, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate safety, privacy and dignity to treat mental illnesses.

Andy Harrison, senior responsible owner at Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to have commenced the work to our refurbished ward at Walton Hospital for the older adults of Derbyshire who require inpatient support for functional mental health needs. Not only will the co-location with organic mental health services mean access to specialist older people clinicians but also a safer ward environment with increased privacy and dignity.”

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

stepnell walton hospital plans

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Entries now open for this year’s Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards

The parent company of Chesterfield’s Derbyshire Times, National World is set to celebrate apprentices across our region later this year, by hosting the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2024.

The company’s journey with the apprenticeship awards began in 2017, driven by the desire to spotlight the success stories emerging from apprenticeship programs. National World aims to showcase not only the achievements of apprentices but also the invaluable support from their employers, mentors, and training providers.

Apprenticeships provide a unique approach to education, training, and career development. The hands-on learning experience, coupled with the opportunity to earn while you learn, makes apprenticeships a dynamic pathway for individuals exploring diverse industries, from traditional trades to cutting-edge fields like technology and healthcare.

The program often serves as a gateway to full-time employment in industries that apprentices may not have previously considered.

Completing an apprenticeship frequently leads to industry-recognised certifications, enhancing individuals’ credibility and employability and facilitating smoother transitions into different roles or advancements within their chosen fields.

Nominations are open to apprentices, employers, colleges, training providers, and proud loved ones. Specific categories are dedicated to employers and mentors, allowing businesses to showcase their teams and trainers.

The grand announcement of winners will take place at the live event on Thursday, 3rd October 2024, held at The Village Hotel, Nottingham. Register by visiting www.dnapprenticeshipawards.co.uk before the closing date of 6pm on Wednesday, July 31st.

Derbyshire Times editor and Destination Chesterfield board member, Phil Bramley said: “Local apprentices are not only carving out great careers for themselves, but also driving innovation and success at the businesses they’re working with.

“These awards are a fantastic way to showcase the work they do and the success stories they are part of.

“If you’re an apprentice – or business or education provider that works with one – why not enter the awards and put our great local apprenticeships in the spotlight?”

Award Categories:

  • SME Employer of the Year: Open to businesses, with up to 249 employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme.
  • Large Employer of the Year, sponsored by East Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network: Open to businesses, with 250+ employees, which offer an apprenticeship programme.
  • Diversity and Inclusion Programme, sponsored by Auto Windscreens: Open to all employers that run an apprenticeship programme which actively encourages diversity and inclusion.
  • Mentor of the Year: This category is for an individual who has encouraged and inspired apprentices throughout their training programme. Mentors can be the line manager, a training provider or someone that the apprentice works with who has greatly contributed to the individual’s development
  • Intermediate Apprentice of the Year: For an outstanding apprentice who is currently studying for a level 2 qualification (equivalent to GCSE passes at grades 4–9). Apprentices should be enrolled on an apprenticeship scheme before June 2023
  • Advanced Apprentice of the Year: For an outstanding apprentice who is currently studying for a level 3 qualification (equivalent to A Level Pass). Apprentices should be enrolled on an apprenticeship scheme before June 2023.
  • Higher Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Nottingham Trent University: For an outstanding apprentice who is currently studying for a level 4 or 5 qualification. Apprentices should be enrolled on an apprenticeship scheme before June 2023
  • Degree Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by University of Nottingham: For an outstanding apprentice who is currently studying for a level 6 or above qualification. Apprentices should be enrolled on an apprenticeship scheme before June 2023.
  • Professional Services Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Professional Services sector.
  • Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Health or Public Service Sector.
  • Construction Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Construction.
  • Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Engineering or Manufacturing sectors
  • Technology and Digital Apprentice of the Year: Open to apprentices, who were enrolled in their programme by June 2023, and work within the Technology and Digital Sectors.
  • Training Provider of the Year: Open to colleges, organisations or businesses that provide the training element of an apprenticeship programme to a business or organisation.

The Derbyshire Times 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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Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

New warm space with a creative twist opens in Chesterfield

Residents in Chesterfield can benefit from a new warm place in the town, where they can sit, enjoy complimentary refreshments and get involved in craft activities.

Cosy Crafts is being launched by Junction Arts, in partnership with Derbyshire County Council.

The warm space will run every Wednesday between 2 pm and 4 pm at West Studios on Sheffield Road. The project is for people of all ages and is part of the Warm Spaces network, a UK-wide initiative that aims to help people during the cost-of-living crisis.

Warm spaces are free places where people can relax, have a drink, access free Wifi, meet people and join in activities. The aim is to combat loneliness and improve wellbeing while signposting people to practical help if they need it.

Cosy Crafts will have a different craft activity each week that visitors can get involved in, including Indian Block Printing, Card and Gift Bag workshop, Tissue Paper Flower Making and Glass Engraving.

Jane Wells, Project Coordinator at Junction Arts said: “Last year we visited a few local warm spaces, taking with us some simple craft activities. We saw how important these spaces were to people and how the crafts helped people to interact with each other. So, we decided to create our own warm space, with some added creativity. But if people just want to come and enjoy a warm drink, that’s fine too, you don’t have to get crafty!

“The warm space is in the reception area at West Studios, it’s a lovely bright space, with colourful artwork on the walls, that we hope will inspire people. We’re looking forward to welcoming people of all ages in the next few weeks.”

The free warm space will start on February 7th and run every Wednesday from 2 pm until 4 pm, visitors can just turn up, there’s no need to book in advance. For more information call or email Junction Arts: info@junctionarts.org or 01246 209 219.

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

Junction Arts warm space cosy crafts

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Love ChesterfieldTagged in , , ,

Chesterfield business owner named amongst the UK’s top 100 female entrepreneurs

Chesterfield business owner, Lucinda White has been crowned one of the UK’s most impressive female entrepreneurs by Small Business Britain’s ‘f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100’ campaign.

Lucinda, who founded Pure Awards, a boutique ward writing and content agency in 2005 is being profiled among 100 inspirational female entrepreneurs from across the country, as part of the campaign to celebrate the multi-achievements of women running businesses in the UK today.

From AI companies to female-run tradeswoman platforms and sustainable fashion designers, the f:Entrepreneur ‘#IAlso100’ line-up particularly showcases trailblazing female founders who lead purpose-driven businesses alongside a roster of other responsibilities, such as volunteering, mentoring and community support.

Lucinda was also called out for her success as a winning award writer, enabling businesses and entrepreneurs (male and female) throughout the UK to benefit from hundreds of finalist positions and wins using her exceptional writing skills. She has also helped charities raise over £750,000 for good causes through grant applications and created content to showcase local and national brands. All of this whilst running a busy home and bringing up her two daughters with husband Matt.

On being featured in the #ialso100 lineup, Lucinda said: “I am thrilled to be recognized in this award and campaign for 2024. For the last three years I have had a client feature in the #IAlso 100 so it is really wonderful to be on the list for this year too. I am excited to get to know all the other wonderful female entrepreneurs in this community as the year unfolds. 2024 is going to be a fantastic year!”.

Launched in 2017 by Small Business Britain – the leading champion of small businesses in the UK – the f:Entrepreneur campaign aims to raise greater awareness of the impact of incredible female business owners across the country, and help provide inspiration and role models to the wider small business community.

The campaign offers a host of events, training, and networking opportunities to boost skills, capability, and confidence.

“Congratulations to Lucinda White and each of the phenomenal women featured in this year’s #IAlso100,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, founder of Small Business Britain.

“It is so important that we call out the incredible contribution of women running businesses across the UK. As well as growing economic prosperity across the UK, they are also having a tremendous, wider positive impact on local communities too. Despite all of the challenges of recent times, it is fantastic to see female entrepreneurship continuing to grow and flourish in the UK, and we must do all we can to encourage and build this further.”

To see the full line-up of the 100 women featured in this year’s f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100 campaign visit https://f-entrepreneur.com/ialso-100-2024/

Lucinda - ialso Photo

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, HomeTagged in , , , ,

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