Chesterfield community news

Award wins for Chesterfield’s new Emergency Department

Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Emergency Department continues to receive accolades, this time with a ‘highly commended’ at the Constructing Excellence East Midlands awards.

The ceremony recognises exceptional and innovative designs that have made a positive social impact.

Officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal on 12 July last year, the £27m state-of-the-art Emergency Department was shortlisted in two separate categories in the East Midlands region: Integration and Collaborative Working, and Building Project of the Year.

Constructing Excellence is a membership organisation that exists to drive a better construction sector and an improved built environment through innovation, best practice and collaboration.

The awards, which are judged by a panel of industry experts, are designed to showcase how organisations are living the Constructing Excellence principles.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive of the Trust said: “We are delighted to receive this award, alongside our construction partners – DSFS and IHP (the joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine). A lot of hard work and dedication went into the build of our ED, and it is a good example of putting our patients at the centre of everything we do.

“With an innovative approach to patient flow, highly specialised equipment, ultra-modern technology and a fresh and bright interior – even using locally sourced artwork. We are very proud of our exceptional ED and equally proud of all the people who work in the department to look after our patients.”

This is not the first time Chesterfield’s ED has won an award – it also scoped the ‘Best Interior Design category’ in the national ‘Building Better Healthcare Awards’ in November 2023.

Adrian Leigh, Senior Project Manager for Integrated Health Projects (the Trust’s construction partner), said: “It is real kudos for us and the Trust to have been shortlisted for an award by Constructing Excellence East Midlands.

“The fact that we have been highlighted for Integration and Collaborative Working is a positive reflection on the close working relationship between all partners involved, to create this unique construction.

“From involving the people that would be working in the new ED to the people using it, getting this award one year on from delivery is amazing validation for all the hard work that went into making Chesterfield’s ED the best it could be.”

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.

HRH Princess Royal opening new emergency department

HRH The Princess Royal opening Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s new Emergency Department.

 

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

Record number of walkers take on Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Night Walk

A record-breaking number of walkers lit up the streets of Chesterfield for Ashgate Hospice’s annual Sparkle Night Walk event.

More than 3,400 supporters stepped out for the return of the charity’s biggest fundraiser, sponsored by NOCN Group, on Saturday 22nd June.

Walkers have already helped raise £220,000 to help fund end of life care in North Derbyshire, and the charity said it hopes to see the figure rise even more by the sponsorship deadline at the end of July.

Find out more about some of the Chesterfield Champion organisations which took part in the event.

The 10km walk began and finished at Chesterfield Football Club’s SMH Group stadium, with people setting off at 10pm and live entertainment kicking off the party at 7pm.

The 10km route took walkers from the stadium down the A61 bypass, which was closed to traffic, past the Crooked Spire and through the streets of Chesterfield before returning to the football ground.

Jack Wood, Director of Income Generation at Ashgate Hospice said: “Once again everyone at the hospice has been absolutely blown away by the amount of people who turned out for our Sparkle Night Walk.

“The event was our most popular ever and we’re so grateful to all the walkers who came out to support the hospice.

“Our incredible staff and volunteers have been working so hard for months to put on an amazing event for the people of North Derbyshire, I’m so glad it was such a success.

“The amount of money we’re expected to receive in donations will go such a long way towards being there for the patients and families who need us most.”

“We hope to see everyone back again next year donning their sparkles, pink tutus and bunny ears – you can grab your super early bird ticket now for just £8!”

Super early bird registration for next year’s event has opened and more than 400 people have already signed up. Entry will be available at a reduced rate until 11th August, with the walk set to take place on 28th June 2025.

To find out more about next year’s Sparkle Night Walk, go to: www.ashgatehospice.org.uk/sparkle-night-walk

If you’re looking for more events and activities taking place across Chesterfield this summer, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/summer/

Sparkle walk ashgate

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Chesterfield Champions to get involved in Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Night Walk

Businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions are set to join thousands of people to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice this weekend.

The Sparkle Night Walk takes place each summer and sees people walking the 10km course through Chesterfield dressed in pink t-shirts and bunny ears.

The event helps to raise vital funds for the hospice, which provides end-of-life care for patients and support for their families.

Charlotte Butterworth, Events and Partnerships Manager at Ashgate Hospice, said: “We’re so grateful to all of the amazing businesses across North Derbyshire who will be taking part in our Sparkle Night Walk this year.

“The teams signing up and raising sponsorship for us will help fund care for the families who will need us now and in the future.

“We’ve had almost 3,000 people register for the event so far which is just incredible. We can’t wait to see so many of our supporters sparkling together on the big night.

“Let’s come together and do something amazing to raise funds towards vital palliative and end of life care in our region!”

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, commented: “It is great to see Chesterfield’s community coming together once again to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice.

“The work carried out by the hospice’s dedicated team to support people and families across our area is so important, therefore it is brilliant to see the community supporting this fantastic event.

“I would like to wish everyone taking part in the Sparkle Night Walk all the best on the night. I’m sure it will be another superb evening for our town.”

Find out more about some of the businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire walking at this year’s event:

Banner Jones Solicitors

Four women stood outside office wearing pink shirts

Banner Jones is once again supporting Ashgate Hospice by participating in this year’s Sparkle Walk.

With a dedicated team of 16 participants, this is the fourth year that the law firm has participated in the event, having raised an impressive £1,500 in 2023, and around £1,000 in 2022.

Banner Jones Marketing Manager, Lynne Pope, said: “We are excited to be taking part in the Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Walk for the fourth year. It’s a charity close to our hearts.

“Having visited the hospice, I saw the quality of service and care provided to those who need it the most. We are proud to be raising money for this vital local service, to help it continue supporting the local community in such an important way.”

Further information about the Banner Jones team’s fundraising efforts can be found here.

NIBE

Group of people holding up signs and wearing pink t shirts

A member of the NIBE team is taking part in the walk, in memory of a colleague and friend who used to work for the company.

Alan Sanders said: “I will walk in memory of my good friend and work colleague Sven Ove, who passed just over a year ago.

Ashgate cared for him and others I know in their time of need, and it’s terrible to think that others in need may not be accommodated due to lack of funding. Please if you knew Svein, consider helping this vital service.”

Find out more on the team’s fundraising page here.

Graysons Solicitors

Sparkle Walk team - Graysons

Laura Cowan, head of Graysons’ private client team, said : “Everyone at Graysons Solicitors is buzzing with excitement as we gear up for the Sparkle Walk to support Ashgate Hospice in Chesterfield once more.

“Our team deeply values the opportunity to contribute to such a vital community cause. Last year’s event left a lasting impression on us all, and we are keen to create even more wonderful memories this year while raising crucial funds for the hospice.”

Donate to the team’s JustGiving page here.

Peak Pharmacy

Sparkle Night Walk 2023 Tom Hodgson Photographyby

Sparkle Night Walk 2023 by Tom Hodgson Photography

A team from Chesterfield’s Peak Pharmacy is set to take on the 10km course this Saturday.

Gillian Watters, P.A to the company’s Directors said: “Here at Peak Pharmacy, we wanted to focus our fundraising efforts on a local charity and chose to support Ashgate Hospice.  Being our local hospice care facility, many of us have personal experience of Ashgate caring for family and friends.

“The Ashgate fundraising team have done an excellent job helping collate our team registration details making it an easy team event for us to arrange.  We are very much looking forward to a fun evening with colleagues whilst raising money for such a worthy cause.”

Sponsor the team on it’s GoFundMe page.

Handelsbanken

handelsbanken ashgate fundraising team

Over the course of 2024, members of staff at Handelsbanken in Chesterfield will be undertaking a variety of activities to raise funds for Ashgate Hospice to support the incredible work they do.

In March, the team spent the day helping clear the woodland area in the hospice grounds for further redevelopment in the future to benefit the families using the hospice.

Throughout April, Handelsbanken Chesterfield collected new and pre-loved items for distribution to the hospice’s outlets in the local area.

Now, the team will be embarking on the 10km course to raise funds for Ashgate, and has already gone over a fabulous £4,500.

Donate to the team’s fundraising page here.

We Are Spaces

amy revell wearespaces

Chesterfield’s We Are Spaces will also be taking part in the walk. Find out more and donate to the team’s fundraising page at:

https://www.justgiving.com/team/wearespaces

 

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Champions show support for Chesterfield community with latest initiatives

Businesses across Chesterfield continue to get involved in supporting the local community with a range of initiatives to support people across the area.

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “Chesterfield Champions are proud to support our vibrant community, and it is great to see businesses playing their part to help others through a wide range of initiatives.

“Our town is a great place to work and live, and one of the main things that makes Chesterfield unique is the closeness of its community.

“It is great to see Champions continuing this trend by supporting local people and charities, alongside raising the profile of our area.”

Find out more about how our organisations are working to improve the lives of our residents and strengthen ties with our charities, voluntary organisations and wider community in our latest roundup below.

Spire Radio relaunches ‘Chesterfield Chat’ show to celebrate the town

Spire Radio Jordan and Eva

Spire Radio has announced the relaunch of its community centred local show, Chesterfield Chat. The program returns now hosted by Jordan Hartshorne and produced by Eva Charkiewicz who are both passionate about celebrating the heart and soul of Chesterfield.

Chesterfield Chat provides a platform for local businesses, community groups, charities, and artists to connect with listeners and share their stories.

The relaunched show promises to build on this tradition while offering a fresh perspective and engaging format. Listeners can also expect lively discussions on local news and upcoming events that matter most to the people of Chesterfield.

Each week, Chesterfield Chat will feature a dynamic mix of guests, including:

  • Local business owners discussing their latest ventures and experiences of trading in Chesterfield.
  • Representatives from community groups and charities sharing their important work and fundraising efforts.
  • Local artists, musicians, and performers showcasing their talents, with some liver performances.
  • A roundup of the mustn’t-miss events around Chesterfield in the week ahead.

Spire Radio welcomes all members of the community to tune in to Chesterfield Chat every Tuesday evening at 6pm. Listen live on spire-radio.com, on the TuneIn Apps for iPhone, Android and Smart TV or Ask Alexa to Play Spire Radio from TuneIn.

Whether you’re a local business owner, a charity worker, or simply a resident who loves your town, Chesterfield Chat is a platform for your voice to be heard. For more information about Chesterfield Chat or if you’d like to feature on the show, email eva@spire-radio.com or message the station on Instagram.

DBCP to sponsor popular Chesterfield Children’s Festival

Chesterfield Childrens Festival promotional photo - three people holding up banner

DBCP is sponsoring this year’s Chesterfield Children’s Festival –a free family event organised by local charity Junction Arts.

The Junction Arts event is funded by Arts Council England and was launched in 2023, attracting over 8,000 visitors.  The two-day festival celebrates the joy of childhood, imagination and play and features free cultural activities and entertainment for children of all ages to enjoy.

This year, the event will be held on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th of July in Queen’s Park, Chesterfield.  New acts for 2024 include an immersive live movie set experience, an interactive family catwalk show, virtual reality swings, an aerial workshop for babies and family life drawing!   There’ll also be art workshops, circus skills, storytelling, live music, face painting, theatre, and dance.

Chesterfield-based DBCP, which is the recommended provider of building control services in Derbyshire, Is the headline sponsor at the event, donating £4,000 to the charity.  The extra funds will go towards an arts commission that will see musicians and storytellers work with local young people to create a new piece of music that will be performed at the festival.

Junction Arts Coordinator Jemma Burton said: “We’d like to say a massive thank you to DBCP and welcome them as sponsors of this year’s Children’s Festival.  Junction Arts is a charity, we rely on corporate donations and sponsorship to ensure that our events and festivals are free and accessible to as many people as possible, this generous support from DBCP helps us to widen our reach and allows the festival to have much more impact in the community.”

Looking forward to the event David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager, said: “We are delighted to sponsor Chesterfield Children’s Festival this year. Many of the DBCP team and their families live in and around the area, so for us to be involved with this fantastic event in our community gives us all a real feeling of pride.”

For more information about the Chesterfield Children’s Festival visit: junctionarts.org.

Popular TV and comedy star launches new series of Ashgate Hospice grief podcast

ED BYRNE image stood against a wall smiling

Image by Roslyn Gaunt

Television and comedy star Ed Byrne recently appeared in the newest series of Ashgate Hospice’s podcast, which explores frank and honest conversations about life, death and grief.

Ed, known for appearing on panel shows like 8 Out of 10 Cats and his stand-up comedy, was interviewed for the first episode of The Life and Death Podcast.

It comes amidst the world tour of his show Tragedy Plus Time, inspired by the bereavement he faced following the death of his younger brother.

Ed sat down with podcast host Stephen Rumford ahead of his show in Buxton to discuss his career, his brother’s life and the success of the critically acclaimed show.

The first episode of the fifth series, featuring Ed, launched on 6th May as part of Dying Matters Awareness Week.

Episodes featuring other death and grief experts and commentators will go live every fortnight.

Stephen Rumford, host of The Life and Death Podcast and Senior Physiotherapist at Ashgate Hospice, said: “I don’t think we could have imagined that when we started back in 2020, we’d go on to launch five series of the podcast.

“This time, we’ve expanded our range topics and guests, and our six latest guests are a wonderful addition to the growing resource that the podcast represents.

“From a candid conversation with Ed Byrne to an insightful discussion with TikTok’s ‘Hospice Nurse Julie’, we have a wide range of guests offering differing expertise. You’re sure to learn something new with each episode.

“We hope the podcast provides a useful resource to anyone who is bereaved and people who might be curious about the subject.

“I hope all of our listeners enjoy the considered opinions of our guests as they share their unique experiences with us.”

In the podcast seasons so far, Stephen speaks with writers, doctors and people who have experienced end of life care to discuss their unique relationships, hospice life, and how death affects the living.

In the latest series, Dr. Katie Lawlor, an animal bereavement expert and pet loss psychologist based in San Francisco, California, joins as one of the guests.

She was training to be a clinical psychologist before she realised there was very little, if any, support networks for people suffering following the death of a pet.

Others include Dr Julie McFadden, known to millions on social media as ‘Hospice Nurse Julie’; she cares for palliative and end of life patients and uses TikTok to address some of death’s biggest misconceptions.

The Natural Death Centre’s Josefine Speyer, author of Modern Loss, Rebeca Soffer, and renowned philosopher Simon Critchley will also feature in the new season.

Episodes will be released on Mondays every fortnight from 6th May! You can listen to episodes from all five series of The Life and Death Podcast online or by searching for ‘Ashgate Hospice’ on all streaming platforms.

Veezu supports Cash for Kids charity

eezu supports Cash for Kids’ Holiday Hunger appeal - group of people holding large cheque

Veezu, a private hire operator covering Chesterfield and South Yorkshire, has donated £500 to the local arm of Cash for Kids in support of Cash for Kids Day on 2 May.

The donation was made through Funded by Veezu, an initiative in which local charities and sports teams can apply for funding and grants, set up to improve the communities in which Veezu operates.

Cash for Kids supports children and young people affected by poverty, abuse, neglect, life-limiting illness, and those with additional needs. Based across 22 areas in the UK, Cash for Kids is a grant giving charity that helps community groups, charitable organisations, schools and individual cases. The latest figures from the End Child Poverty Coalition show that 1 in 3 local children are living in poverty and, in some areas, it is as high as 36%.

2 May marked Cash for Kids Day, where organisations came together to raise as much as possible for the cause, with a particular focus on combating holiday hunger to make sure all children have access to a hot meal during the holidays.

Veezu has donated £500 from its regional areas of Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield and Portsmouth, bringing the total donation to £3000. According to statistics given by Cash for Kids, it’s predicted that £3000 will help 60 children in need.

Lisa Sullivan, Charity Manager at Cash for Kids North, West and South Yorkshire and Derbyshire, said: “We are so grateful to Veezu for supporting us across the UK in six regions for Cash for Kids Day. For the passengers of Veezu, they can feel confident in their choice, as they will be helping disadvantaged children access activities and food during the school holidays. For many children it will be their only daily meal. The generosity of companies like Veezu, as well as donations from the general public, help us help children that need it the most.”

Sacha Skinner, Regional Marketing Manager at Veezu, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Cash for Kids once again. All children deserve access to a hot meal, whether it’s the holidays or not, and we are glad to donate what we can and make a difference to children living in poverty.”

BusinessWise Accountancy & Tax welcomes Brookfield School pupil for work experience

oliver businesswise work experience

A Chesterfield business has continued its commitment towards supporting our young people with careers, by hosting a pupil for a week of work experience.

BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax welcomed Oliver to their organisation for a week of hands-on learning about what a career in Chesterfield’s financial sector would look like.

Looking for skills support in Chesterfield for your business? Go to our Skills and Training page to find out more.

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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New Chesterfield play areas open in time for summer

As part of the council’s more than £1 million investment in its parks, four new play areas have opened across the borough of Chesterfield.

The Mayor of Chesterfield and the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire officially opened a new play area on Cottage Close in Poolsbrook on Wednesday 15 May.

New play areas have also been installed in Tapton Park, Thirlmere Road and Devonshire Avenue North. All three replace existing play areas that were no longer fit for purpose.

The new play areas all include a range of equipment and have been created in consultation with children from local schools. In Poolsbrook equipment has been installed to suit every age including larger adventure style items such as a zip line and giant climbing frame.

Funding for the new play areas has been secured through a combination of funding, including the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Valencia Communities Fund and the Community Infrastructure Levy which is a charge on certain developments in the borough.

Councillor Jonathan Davies, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “It is fantastic to see our planned investment in play areas across the borough being delivered. We are proud of the fantastic green spaces we have throughout the area and our commitment to further investment in these spaces aims to ensure our parks are a feature that our residents will be able to enjoy for many years to come.

“We’ll be continuing to deliver our Parks and Play strategy over the next three years, and this will see even more investment in play spaces across the borough.”

Cottage Close play area in Poolsbrook was officially opened by the Mayor of Chesterfield, Councillor Jenny Flood and Colonel John Wilson OBE DL, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire.

people playing on new equipment at Cottage Close Play Area

Councillor Jenny Flood said: “It was wonderful to be able to open this new play area and meet the children who will benefit from it. It will be fantastic for the children to see the fruit trees grow in the park and eventually be able to harvest the communal fruit. This was a great way to start my Mayoral year, both me and Heather have been involved in Youth Work for many years and we understand the importance of providing spaces like this that the whole community can benefit from.”

Originally hailing from Poolsbrook, Colonel John Wilson OBE DL and his brothers and sisters have provided for the planting of thirteen trees in the play area, to represent his parents and their eleven children.

John said: “It was very special for my family to have these trees and a new picnic bench in Poolsbrook; all eleven of us went to the primary school next to this play area and to create a living memorial is something we are very pleased to have been able to do.”

The new play areas have been partially funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Valencia Communities Fund, and the Community Infrastructure Levy.

Chesterfield Borough Council has been awarded £2.693 million from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The money will be spent over the next three financial years (running until 2024/25) on a range of projects which will benefit local residents and businesses.

The Valencia Communities Fund provides funding from the landfill tax credits and is used to provide funding to community projects across the country.

The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a levy that local planning authorities can charge on certain types of new development in their area. The money is used to support necessary development by funding infrastructure that the Council local community and neighbourhoods have identified through the Local Plan, such as new road schemes, park improvements or new primary schools.

Did you know residents in Chesterfield have better access to green spaces than anywhere else in the country? Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

The Mayor and Vice Lord Lieutenant opening Cottage Close play area

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£170,000 grant funding awarded to dozens of Chesterfield organisations

Over £170,000 worth of funding has now been awarded to community groups and local voluntary organisations in Chesterfield – with a further £140,000 set to be awarded to groups by the end of the year.

A total of 50 community groups and voluntary organisations have been awarded funding through Chesterfield Borough Council’s Community Grants Fund, and applications have now reopened, meaning even more groups could access funding support.

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).

The Community Grants Fund scheme was launched last year to help organisations deliver grassroots projects that will improve life for local people.

The grants are already being used to support local groups deliver projects that support resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods, as well as initiatives which will help to tackle food poverty and social isolation, or support people to get in to work.

It is also supporting projects that will reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices.

The latest round of funding, tranche three, has seen the following groups awarded funding:

• The Volunteer Centre
• Pathways of Chesterfield
• Duckmanton Miners Welfare
• AshGate Heritage Arts
• Compassionate Voices
• Chesterfield in Bloom Community Committee
• Mindscapes
• ChitChat
• Inspiring Inkersall
• 1st Brimington Brownies
• Inclusive Pedals
• Chesterfield Foodbank
• Community Development Chesterfield
• Chesterfield Cricket Club
• Cycle Chesterfield
• Newbold Community Association
• Ashgate Hospice

Applications for the fourth round of funding are now open – with a total of £105,000 available to groups who apply by the deadline on Friday 28 June 2024. The latest round allows even more eligible organisations to apply for grant funding and with grants ranging from £500 to £50,000 this time, it can help local group fund larger capital projects to benefit local communities.

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

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield that support our communities,
“I’m pleased that, through external funding schemes, we are able to support those who work tirelessly to deliver projects and initiatives that make a real difference to the lives of local people.

“We’ve already awarded over £170,000 of grant funding to 50 different groups and organisations across out community through the Community Grants Scheme and it’s been great to watch the progress they are making so far. I’m sure the latest round of funding will help even more local groups deliver vital projects that will help our communities continue to thrive.”

Alongside the Community Grants Fund, the council is running a community development project which will provide support to organisations wanting to apply for the grant. If you would like any help or guidance with submitting a bid, please contact the team on:

  • Email: communitygrants@chesterfield.gov.uk
  • Phone: 01246 959657 or 07790 977317
  • Post: Community Grants Fund, c/o Wendy Blunt,
    Health and Wellbeing Officer,
    Chesterfield Borough Council,
    Town Hall,
    Chesterfield,
    S40 1LP

Applications will reopen again later in the year to support even more community groups and local voluntary organisations.

The community grants are 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.

 

 

Female leader of Chesterfield Borough Council in red jacket on Town Hall balcony

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council

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New partnership announced by Redbrik to support young people in business

Chesterfield estate agent Redbrik has announced a unique and innovative partnership with football training academy EVO Soccer.

The two organisations have joined together to enhance community engagement and support youth development in both sport and business.

The two-year partnership will see the organisations focus on supporting the development of EVO students through work placements and apprenticeships across the Redbrik Group, which includes Redbrik Estate Agents and PR and marketing agency, Chapter II.

Each year, Redbrik will offer up to two apprenticeships and four work placement opportunities for EVO students, providing them with experience in sales, marketing, event management and business operations.

The collaboration will also support Redbrik’s community engagement and CSR initiatives by co-hosting an annual community football tournament to raise funds for the Redbrik Foundation, which supports local charities.

The Redbrik logo will feature on EVO kits and training gear, and as part of the agreement, Chapter II will support EVO with its PR and marketing initiatives.

Dean Mabson, Managing Director of the Evo Group, said: “This is a fabulous partnership for our students. Our mission is to enhance and develop children’s lives through sport, and this collaboration offers a wonderful opportunity for those who want to learn more about business to do so with a great local company that is hugely innovative and dedicated to improving its industry.”

Managing Director of Redbrik, Mark Ross, added: “Redbrik is delighted to support the students of EVO in gaining opportunities in a work environment as they look to transition from education to employment and consider their future careers. EVO is an incredible environment for learning and development, and we look forward to welcoming its students to our business.”

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

Evo x Redbrik

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New shared space proposed for Chesterfield community

A vision is taking shape for a new shared community space, which aims to transform the landscape of community engagement and support in Chesterfield.

Community organisations, volunteers, and local groups are coming together to champion the creation of a flexible community and co-working space in the heart of Chesterfield, with Derbyshire Voluntary Action.

The need for such a space has long been voiced by community organisations, who have identified a gap in the infrastructure needed to support, promote, and empower the local Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector.

This shared space aims to be a vibrant hub that promotes collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, catering to a diverse range of needs and activities.

Proposed features of the shared space include:

  • Offices for partners and VCSE groups: Providing a dedicated workspace for organisations to collaborate and coordinate their efforts more effectively.
  • Workshops and consultations: Offering a platform for knowledge-sharing, skill-building, and strategic planning to drive positive change in the community, and share in the expertise that Derbyshire Voluntary Action has already established.
  • Meeting and training spaces: Equipped with facilities to host meetings, seminars, and training sessions for both professionals and volunteers.
  • Community café: A welcoming space where people can come together, socialise, and share ideas over a cup of coffee or a hearty meal.
  • Activity spaces: Catering to a variety of interests and pursuits, from art and craft workshops to fitness classes and group activities.
  • Play space for families: Providing a safe and stimulating environment for children to play, learn, and interact with others.
  • Space for arts and creativity: Focusing on health and well-being promotion through creative expression and cultural enrichment.

As plans for the shared space continue to evolve, the local community is now being encouraged to have their say on the final design of the new space. Organisers are inviting members of the community to participate in co-creation sessions, where they can share their ideas, offer feedback, and help shape the future of the shared space.

Jennifer Raschbauer, Project Director Derbyshire Voluntary Action commented: “By bringing together diverse stakeholders—charities, volunteers, community groups, and local residents—this initiative embodies the spirit of collaboration and collective action. It is a testament to the power of community-led initiatives in driving social progress and fostering a sense of belonging and connection.”

Daniel Jones, Marketing and Communications Officer Derbyshire Voluntary Action added: “This is your opportunity to be a part of building something exciting and new, set to make a real difference in Chesterfield.”

To allow people to have their say on the new community space, an event is taking place at St. Helena Centre in Chesterfield on Tuesday, 23rd April (10am-1pm). Book your place at the event here.

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.

 

View of the Crooked Spire from above

Image courtesy of Derbyshire Economic Partnership

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Chesterfield Business community shows support for local initiatives

Businesses across Chesterfield have once again showed their commitment and generosity by helping a number of local causes.

The last month has seen our organisations support schools, charities, ex-servicemen and women, and local foodbanks.

Read the latest from our network of Chesterfield Champions below:

Local support provides music to the ears of Brookfield students

Music to their ears

A team of local businesses have pooled their resources to put an end to crackles and feedback by replacing Brookfield’s old microphones and speakers with a state-of-the-art sound system.

The PFA, headed by Greg Campbell, explains more: “As a group of Brookfield parents, we come together a few times each term and raise money for the school. When the opportunity arose to match the school’s funding budget for a new sound system, we were quick to accept the challenge.”

He said, “Having the support of Palfreymans from Chatsworth Road, Specsavers Chesterfield, Validate consulting and Londis all pull together has been a brilliant team effort.”

Keith Hirst, Headteacher commented: “We are very lucky to have such a dedicated and hard-working parent association. The BPFA [Brookfield Parent and Friends Association] work tirelessly throughout the year to raise funds to support students at Brookfield.”

“The new sound system is something that will benefit the whole school community and I am very grateful for the support of the BPFA, along with local businesses – Specsavers, Londis, Validate and Palfreyman’s – in helping to provide this system.”

Chesterfield Champion, Validate Consulting made a substantial financial contribution towards the equipment. “We have been enjoying performances at Brookfield for many years and it has been a pleasure to be able to support the school in this way,” Said Damien Eaves, Managing Director of Validate. “We hope that the equipment will be useful to the school for many years to come.”

Representatives from all the local business were treated to a VIP experience at the performance of the Little Mermaid at Brookfield Community School, which ran the week before the half-term break. Once again, the student performances were outstanding, and the new sound system ensured not a single line was missed.

BRM hosts a Free Wills Month in partnership with Ashgate Hospice

Leading Derbyshire and South Yorkshire law firm BRM is hosting its annual Free Wills Month in support of Ashgate Hospice this April.

Between 1 and 30 April, people of North Derbyshire can have a will professionally drafted for free. In return, clients are asked to consider making a voluntary donation to Chesterfield-based Ashgate Hospice.

Local people will benefit from a complete wills service from BRM’s expert team, including free registration with Certainty, The National Wills Register. The suggested minimum voluntary donation is just £75 for a single will and £150 for a mirror will for a couple.

BRM has supported Ashgate Hospice for many years and has raised an impressive £71,000 for the charity through its Free Wills Months, helping fund Ashgate Hospice’s vital end-of-life and palliative care for patients and their families across North Derbyshire.

Rob Woodhead, Executive Director at BRM, said: “Ashgate Hospice is an organisation we hold close to our hearts here at BRM and we are delighted to be partnered with them again this year to host our annual Ashgate Hospice Free Wills Month.

“We know the care and support that Ashgate Hospice provides for our community is truly outstanding, so we are honoured to have raised more than £71,000 for them so far.

“Last year we managed to raise an amazing £20,000 for Ashgate during the month and this year we’re aiming to raise even more!

“We’re encouraging anyone who doesn’t have a Will to take advantage of this fantastic offer that not only benefits you and your family but also supports such a worthy organisation.

“It’s very important to have a Will in place, as it ensures that your affairs are in order and your loved ones are provided for.

“I would like to say thank you to our clients for their generous donations and also to our Wills team for their hard work during the Ashgate Hospice Free Wills Month.”

Laura Law, Legacy and In Memory Officer at Ashgate Hospice, said: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to BRM for once again supporting the hospice during the Ashgate Hospice Free Wills Month this year.

“Having a will in place is an important part of making sure that our affairs are in order and ensuring our loved ones are cared for when we’re no longer here.

“Most importantly it enables us to put plans in place so that we can get on with living and make the most of the time we have.

“Not only will supporting Ashgate Hospice Free Wills Month give people a fantastic opportunity to write their will for free, but they’ll be helping us provide care for families across North Derbyshire when they need us most.”

People can make their Will at BRM’s Chesterfield office on Saltergate, with disabled access and free parking. The firm is also offering free home, hospital, and hospice visits for those physically unable to attend the office.

Anyone making a will must book an appointment to take place between 1 April and 30 April to take advantage of the offer.

Appointment spaces are limited, so early booking is advised.

To find out more about the Ashgate Hospice Free Wills Month, and to register for an appointment, visit brmlaw.co.uk/ashgate or call 01246 555 111.

Spireites help provide food bank collection stations

Chesterfield FC Community Trust and Chesterfield FC have teamed up with Rural Action Derbyshire to provide food bank collection stations at the SMH Group Stadium and The Youth Hub in Chesterfield town centre.

Paula Dealtry, project co-ordinator at Feeding Derbyshire, who visited the HUB to deliver the boxes, said: “Through collaboration with Chesterfield FC Community Trust, we will increase the amount of food donations we can provide to projects across Derbyshire, which will in turn directly support residents in need.

“Establishing accessible food collection points for the general public to donate essential food items will greatly benefit communities across Derbyshire by aiding those in need.

“It also promotes awareness of the various ways individuals and organisations can offer support. We’re thrilled and appreciative of the opportunity to partner with the Trust in aiding the residents of Derbyshire.”

Jayne Bacon, the Trust’s chief operating officer, added: “We look forward to working together to collect essential food items for local families. During a cost of living crisis, the need has never been greater.

“I am so pleased that the Trust, the club and our community can help to contribute to this vital service.”

To find out more about Rural Action Derbyshire, please visit: www.ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk.

Local Charity awarded funding by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust

AFCT have announced that they have awarded over £2.8 million of funding that will deliver significant changes and improvements in armed forces communities with hidden or compelling needs across the UK.

Derbyshire Addictions Advice Service is one of the 32 successful projects awarded funding for its STAND TO Derbyshire Veterans Community Services project.

John Ydlibi, Chair of Derbyshire Addictions Advice Service said: “It is fantastic that we are able to partner again with the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust and deliver support to Derbyshire ex- servicemen and women, some of whom have struggled immensely since leaving the Armed Forces.

“We are extremely proud of our STAND TO Programme, which has been successfully run by veterans for veterans, and this RECONNECT project will ensure that our Derbyshire veterans have the opportunity to connect with peers who have gone or are going through similar challenges”.

The RECONNECT project will reach out to veterans who are struggling to engage in services, who may be isolated, and whose needs are often hidden and complex. The Veteran-to-Veteran programme will facilitate early-stage engagement, offering regular contact and supported access to established Derbyshire Mutual Ex Service Support groups, peer support, buddying and volunteer opportunities.

The organisations 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.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , , ,

More than 1,000 runners take part in Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K

The Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K has been hailed a great success by organisers, with more than 1,000 runners taking part.

The event returned to Queen’s Park on Sunday 24th March for the first time since the event was moved to March from its previous October date.

Philip Nind was the first to cross the 10k finish line with a time of 00:35:36, with Hayley Gill the first female to finish in a new course record time of 00:37:30 beating her old course record time by over 10 seconds.

The oldest participant in the event was Dave Onion aged 83, and Jayden Peace was the youngest at 15.

Harry Hewitt and Molly Bayliss were the first boy and girl across the line in the Veezu Fun Run, which returned for another year and took place within the boundaries of Queen’s Park in tandem with the main event.

14 organisations also took part in the Pronto Paints Wellbeing Challenge, a team entry into the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K’s weekend of events.

This year’s event saw the inaugural Nuzest Chesterfield 5K Challenge take place on Saturday 23 March. Situated within the boundaries of Queen’s Park, the winner of the event was Louie Jenkinson. Charlie Parker aged just 8 completed the Challenge also.

The event also helped raise thousands of pounds for good causes, with an estimated circa £30K pledged for charities selected by the runners from across the region including the 10K’s charity partners – Redbrik Foundation, Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and Cavendish Cancer Care.

Following the event, John Timms, Event Director of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K said: “Following a brief hiatus, it’s been fantastic to see the return of the Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10k to Queen’s Park.

“Ever since we first launched the event in 2020, our goal has always been to create a fantastic experience for participants that benefited the local community and generate much-needed funds for our partner charities. The people of Chesterfield really turned out, there were so many people who turned out to cheer on the runners all around the race route which was amazing.

“We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped ensure that the event came together, including our event partners, sponsors and of course the runners who took on the course on the day.

“I also want to say a huge thank you to all the volunteer marshals who gave up their free time on a Sunday morning to assist the runners, help the public and keep everything running smoothly.

“The patience from the people of Chesterfield who are most affected by the road disruptions is greatly appreciated and we thank them for their understanding throughout the day.

“The money raised by this event will help good causes like the Redbrik Foundation, Ashgate Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, Cavendish Cancer Care, and other charities to continue their fantastic work in the local community.”

David Cooper, Trustee of headline sponsor the Redbrik Foundation said: “It’s been yet another fantastic Redbrik Foundation Chesterfield 10K.

“Every year it’s such a great atmosphere with spectators lining the streets of the town centre and beautiful Queen’s Park showing their support for all the runners.

“It’s important to have events such as the Chesterfield 10K and everyone at Redbrik are more than happy to support. As a business with a significant presence in the town, it’s great to help showcase the town as people come from all parts of the country to support, contribute or take part.”

Redbrik 10k

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

Budding Chesterfield artists invited to submit their creations for the Chesterfield Postcard Show

Chesterfield’s annual exhibition of mini masterpieces is back for 2024, and residents across the area are being invited to take part.

This year’s Chesterfield Postcard Show is entitled ‘Memories Are Made of This” and will take place between the 7th and 17th of May at West Studios. Artists of all abilities are invited to be part of the exciting exhibition. All you need to do is submit a postcard-size piece of art by the 24th of April 2024.

Organised by Junction Arts and local artist Dave Elsom, the event celebrates the importance of getting creative and its impact on people’s self-esteem and well-being. Last year 173 artists submitted their works with 329 pieces of original art on display, raising over £1,200.

Hannah Bowdler, Fundraising Coordinator at Junction Arts said: “We believe that everyone should have access to art. The Chesterfield Postcard Shows provides a free exhibition of marvellous miniature artworks for local people to enjoy, a space for new artists to exhibit and showcase their talent, plus people can buy an original piece of art for just £10.

“This is the third year of the show, and we’d like to see more people get involved. It’s open to people of all ages and abilities to take part, and every postcard that is sent to us will feature in the show. Your postcard can be whatever you want it to be, a painting, a photograph, digital artwork, you can use whatever material you like, as long as it’s A6 size and is based on the theme of Memories Are Made of This.”

The original pieces will be available to buy during the exhibition to raise money to support local arts charity Junction Arts and their work within the community. Local businesses are also being invited to support the event, businesses requiring more information can contact hannah@junctionarts.org.

Submissions should be created on A6 card, not paper, and sent to The Chesterfield Postcard Show, Junction Arts, West Studios Sheffield Road, Chesterfield S41 7LL by the 24th of April 2024. If participants need a card, they can send a message to Hannah@junctionarts.org to request a blank card to be sent to them.

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.

Chesterfield Postcard show

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