chesterfield news

Walton Hospital becomes latest site to open for Covid-19 vaccinations

Walton Hospital has become the latest site for people in Chesterfield to receive their Covid-19 vaccination, replacing the iconic Winding Wheel Theatre.

Vaccinations started at Walton Hospital, on Whitecotes Lane, from Monday, September 13, with patients able to attend from 12:30 to 17:30 for first or second doses. Further clinics will also be held on September 15 and September 18.

Patients can either just walk in for their vaccination, or book appointments by calling 119 or visiting the National Booking System. A dedicated local booking line will also be open from 9am on September 14: 01246 253 030. Patients without access to a vehicle can use public transport from Chesterfield Town Centre direct to Walton, including the X17, 39, 51, 2 and 2a buses. Detailed bus route information is available on the Stagecoach website.

The vaccinations will take place in the hospital’s Peter McCarthy Suite, which has been extensively repurposed to provide appropriate facilities for staff and patients.

The move to Walton Hospital continues the work done at the Winding Wheel Theatre, which now returns to its normal function. The clinic at Stubley Medical Centre, the first vaccination site to open in Derbyshire outside of a hospital hub, remains open.

Dr John Pryce, who is clinical lead for the new site, said it was another important moment for the vaccination programme in Chesterfield: “Walton Hospital is well known to local people and is an excellent venue for the vaccination clinic, so we hope to see lots of people taking the opportunity to get the vaccination.

“It is particularly important for those eligible to get both doses, and we are especially keen to vaccinate younger people who have not yet had their vaccination. It will help protect them and their families and help get us all back to a more normal way of life.”

“A lot of people here at Walton and from many different organisations have worked really hard to get the Peter McCarthy Suite ready to begin vaccinations, so it will be great to get started.”

Anyone who has a query about vaccinations should check the NHS Covid-19 vaccination website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ or call 119 for advice.

Anyone who needs to cancel a booked appointment should use the booking system they used to make the original appointment. Walton Hospital staff cannot answer questions about the vaccination programme by telephone.

Details of all clinics across Derby and Derbyshire are available on the Joined Up Care Derbyshire website: https://joinedupcarederbyshire.co.uk/public-info-covid-19/covid-19-vaccine/covid-19-vaccination-walk-clinics-and-resources.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Chesterfield businesses can access support in recruiting highly-skilled graduates

Businesses looking to benefit from graduate talent, that already employ less than 250 people, can access free, tailored recruitment, talent matching, training and funding support through RISE.

RISE is delivered in partnership with Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield and is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

Working closely with firms to understand their very specific needs, RISE supports the sourcing, hiring, and the successful transition of graduates into the workplace.  Since RISE launched in 2013, more than 470 businesses in Sheffield City Region have benefited from the free recruitment and wrap-around business support they deliver.

Xbite, an online retailer based in North Derbyshire recently connected with RISE to accelerate their growth plans.

Rikki Stout, Head of HR at Xbite, explains: “We connected with RISE because we wanted to meet, train and develop fresh graduate talent. We understand the value in finding ambitious young people who are hungry for experience and seeking a challenge. RISE has matched us with excellent people straight from university, meaning we can nurture and develop them early on. We are part of their journey and they are part of ours.”

“Meet the candidates that RISE match you with and you’ll understand the calibre of people in their talent pool. It is true that graduates will need time to learn your specific systems, tech and culture, but that is the same with any new appointment. You wouldn’t expect someone to race a F1 car just because they have a driving licence.  If anything, there are some major benefits to businesses that can connect with people in this way, and play a role in developing their skills at the very start of their career.”

RISE is engaging with businesses from now until 13th October 2021, and would encourage businesses to get in touch as soon as possible if they would like help to secure talent.

Find out more at: www.risescr.co.uk 

 

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Derbyshire Institute of Sport launches programme to instil ‘Olympic know-how’ in local businesses

An organisation which has created more than 20 world-class athletes, including 10 Olympians and Paralympians who competed in Tokyo this year, has launched a new scheme aimed at improving leadership within local businesses.

Derbyshire Institute of Sport is offering to give firms in our area the same performance psychology tools and techniques they use in the elite sports environment to build resilience, motivation and a mindset for success.

Managing Director Chloe Maudsley explained: “Our Business Champions club is a unique 12-month programme designed by our performance psychologist, Dr Phil Clarke, to give you the tools to be the best version of yourself and through that accelerate your business growth. It offers something different from traditional business coaching.”

The second cohort of Business Champions starts in October and only six places are available. This time it is all online, except for a final, face-to-face event in September 2022, making to easier for busy professionals to join sessions from anywhere without time-consuming travel.

Dr Clarke, who has trained elite athletes and FTSE 250 companies, said: “The sessions and tasks in this year-long programme will help you learn how to thrive in high-pressure situations and adjust to rapidly-changing situations in the business environment.”

Craig Harbron, of Bennett Engineering Design Solutions, completed the first Business Champions programme. He said: “It has enhanced my ability to understand new approaches to situations and new ways of thinking. Having these methods and understanding has led to increased motivation, focus points and with the one-to-one support I’ve been able to overcome current challenges.”

Another graduate of the first programme, business owner Sarah Gatford, said: “Working with DIS Business Champions has been a great decision.

“Having been knocked sideways by the pandemic business-wise, being part of this programme and having access to the incredibly knowledgeable and insightful Dr Phil Clarke has supported me in turning things around.

“I’ve had the opportunity to talk things through individually, attend webinars and generally feel that I’m back on my feet with some exciting new challenges ahead.”

During the year, Business Champions will have six educational webinars, 11 group reflection webinars and six one-to-one coached sessions online with Dr Clarke where they can work through specific challenges that they face at work or work on improvements to their reactions, communication and behaviours in different circumstances. There will also be five peer tasks during the year that champions will work on remotely in pairs.

You can read more about the programme at https://www.derbyshireis.co.uk/business-champions-club and request a digital brochure from Chloe Maudsley by emailing info@derbyshireis.co.uk or ringing 07974 231564.

Derbyshire Institute of Sport supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New Chesterfield store can provide portraits of your pooch

A new shop has opened in Chesterfield catering to every need of our canine companions, providing portraits, natural treats and remedies, handmade collars, personalised dog-themed gifts, luxury toys and much more.

Barkworthy Dog Emporium can be found in the Theatre Yard area of Chesterfield Town Centre, after owners Anthony and Carole Foster decided to relocate to the town from Manchester.

Anthony said: “We moved to Chesterfield from Manchester in July this year with the intention of escaping the congestion and overcrowding of city life. We had heard about Chesterfield and its historic roots but were unprepared for how clean and unspoilt it really was.

“It’s fair to say we were captivated by the town immediately, its bustling market and quaint alleys which led us to all sorts of independent local shops. This immediately piqued our interest, for that is exactly what we planned to do. Set up a quirky, emporium style outlet that catered for dog lovers everywhere, focused on natural products and ethically sustainable.”

Anthony says the shop was almost exclusively online, with the new store being the couple’s first bricks-and-mortar venture. Anthony explained that one of the things that drew them to the town was the efforts to drive more visitors into the town as part of the #LoveChesterfield campaign:

“We were heartened to see stilt-walkers in flowing robes, flower displays and colourful entertainment designed to entice shoppers back to the area. We understood this was undoubtedly part of a concerted campaign, and such efforts could only be beneficial for anybody wanting to set up business here.

“It seemed that people liked to shop local, to see and feel the products they were buying and the wealth of small businesses prospering cheek-by-jowl with the usual retail giants bore that out. We spoke to stallholders and small business owners, who naturally bemoaned the tribulations of a difficult year, but were generally satisfied and optimistic for the future. This gave us hope and confidence.

“When we saw the empty shop on Theatre Yard in the Low Pavement area, with its high vaulted windows and niche appeal in a creative little space, it immediately felt as though our vision had found its natural home.”

Following that, Anthony was quickly in touch with Chesterfield Borough Council’s commercial property team, to explore the possibility of moving into the new store.

He explained: “We set about pursuing a lease from the council for this property, which in addition to being perfect for our new venture, serendipitously housed a huge statue of a dog outside!

“Claire and Hannah from the council were incredibly helpful, answering our questions and taking the time to keep us apprised at every stage. Claire even responded to one email inquiry on a Sunday evening, when I imagine most people would much rather be relaxing in front of the TV with a glass of wine!

“Knowing we were dealing with real people who were just as invested as ourselves made all the difference in coming to a decision to choose Chesterfield for our business.”

The store is now open to visitors, and Anthony explained why the store will provide a unique experience for dog-lovers in Chesterfield and beyond:

“Carole is the trustee of a charity which rescues and rehomes unwanted Sled Dogs and Northern breeds, while I am an artist specialising in pastel portraits of wildlife and pets.

“Dedicating part of the shop as a studio and sitting in the window at my easel seemed a good way to attract visitors, while Carole’s contacts with various artisan pet suppliers through her charity work stood us in good stead to bring products and services to the area that are a little different to the standard fayre purveyed through the chain pet stores.

“As well as artisan treats, dog deli style birthday cakes and gift boxes, we have a wealth of handmade items, collars and leads and also personalised mugs, bags, cushions and photo gifts upon which patrons can have their favourite pet pictures imprinted.

“We treat our dogs like family, spoiling and pampering them, always looking for that one gift or treat that makes their tails wag that bit harder. Our overarching ambition for Barkworthy Dog Emporium is to embrace with the community of Chesterfield a shared love of pets and create a local, friendly, accessible port of call for all their dog’s needs.”

You can find out more about locating your business in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/commercial-property-search/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , ,

Schoolteachers and staff to swap classroom for Sparkle Night Walk in memory of much-loved colleague

More than thirty primary school teachers and staff are taking on Ashgate Hospicecare’s Sparkle Night Walk together in memory of their friend and colleague who died in the charity’s care.

The 31-strong team from Mary Swanwick Primary School are swapping the classroom for the sparkling streets of Chesterfield on September 25th as they hope to raise money to help fund Ashgate Hospicecare.

They’re taking on the fundraiser in memory of Claire Sivorn, a former Teaching Assistant at the school, who died in Ashgate’s care earlier this year, aged 55.

Claire had planned to marry her partner, Craig, in Edinburgh this month, but when her cancer made her progressively more ill, doctors advised the couple to cancel their special day.

However, Ashgate was able to step in to help arrange the pair’s wedding at an earlier date in April, so they got to tie the knot before Claire died just weeks later.

Her best friend and fellow Teaching Assistant, Becky Jackson, will join 30 others from Mary Swanwick in taking on the 10km route in tribute to Claire, whilst helping fund care for future families who need the hospice’s support.

The 50-year-old, from Woodthorpe, said: “We wanted to say thank you for everything Ashgate did for Claire and her family at the end of her life.

“Not only was the care she received outstanding, but the hospice went above and beyond to arrange her and Craig’s wedding. It was such a special day; something me, Claire’s friends and family will be able to cherish for ever.

“Claire was so caring, selfless and incredibly hard working. She worked for nearly 20 years at Mary Swanwick Primary School and was an incredibly talented artist; her artwork is still proudly on display throughout our school.

“She put everyone before herself, so we wanted to do something special in her memory. We all can’t wait to take part and are hoping to raise some much-needed funds for such a fantastic and worthwhile cause.”

Claire spent six weeks on the Ashgate’s Inpatient Unit before receiving the hospice’s support at home when she died on 6th May with her family by her side. Meanwhile, Craig and her children have received counselling from the charity’s Supportive Care team in recent months.

The team from Mary Swanwick Primary School are among more than a thousand participants to have signed up for the return of Ashgate’s Sparkle Night Walk this September.

Previously, the event, sponsored by Vertu Toyota, has taken place in July, but the charity has pushed back the date this year in light of the ongoing roadmap out of lockdown.

Ashgate hopes the new September date will allow the hospice to hold a socially distanced event while ensuring the safety of its supporters, volunteers and the local community.

Carl Jones, Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospicecare, said: “It’s so wonderful to hear Becky and her team from Mary Swanwick Primary School are coming together to take on our Sparkle Night Walk in memory of Claire.

“I’m glad our incredible team was able to be there for Claire and her family at the end of her life; it’s thanks to fantastic fundraisers like Becky and the team from Mary Swanwick that we’re able to be there for the families who need us most.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming back our supporters and seeing some familiar faces, as well as those new supporters taking part for the first time. We hope you’ll consider joining the team from Mary Swanwick Primary School along the route this September!”

Ashgate is encouraging their local community to sign-up to the Sparkle Night Walk and help raise much needed money to fund the specialist end-of-life care they provide.

Like last year, a virtual option will also be offered, for those who would prefer to choose their own route and complete it separately.

The charity is asking those taking part virtually to walk, run, cycle or dance their way through the streets to raise money for charity’s care.

To find out more about Ashgate Hospicecare’s Sparkle Night Walk and to register go to: www.sparklenightwalk.org.uk or call 01246 568801.

Ashgate Hospicecare supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

sparkle night walk

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Woodhead Group apprentices shine to take company award

The most recent cohort of Technical Apprentices working at Robert Woodhead Ltd are excelling that much so, that they received the firm’s ‘Values Champions Award’ this quarter.

Aaron Wathall and Sam Bartram began their apprenticeship journey in January 2020, during an uncertain time due to Covid-19. They studied for college remotely and adapted to the Covid-19 regulations within the working environment extremely well, showing resilience and determination.

Although, both were able to attend site; Aaron is based at Eastglade, a housing development with Nottingham City Homes for Nottingham City Council and Sam is based at Northgate, a housing development in partnership with Newark & Sherwood Homes.

It was clear that both Aaron and Sam started to build their confidence and skill sets early on, as they impressed both mentors and teachers at college and on site.

Robert Woodhead Ltd.’s Business Support Manager, Matt Bust, who is mentoring both Apprentices commented on their progression so far:

“They have integrated into the business extremely well, right from the beginning. I have received fantastic feedback from both their tutors at college and mentors on site. You can see that they have a clear passion for the construction industry and their skills are continuing to develop as well as their confidence. It is a delight to see our company values shining through their projects and everyday tasks.”

Aaron showed determination and had the confidence to approach his tutor at college asking how he could improve his grades, and if he was able to re-write an essay: “It has been a great experience so far in all areas of the business that I have worked in, and some of the knowledge I have picked up during my apprenticeship has been priceless.”

Sam also demonstrated courage as he would continue to always ask for more help if he was struggling, resulting in his knowledge of the construction industry growing, as well as his confidence: “It is a great opportunity for me as I’m learning every day and I am being supported immensely by Matt, Woodhead’s, and my mentors at college. I am really enjoying my time with the group; every day is different, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me in the company.”

“The knowledge and experience gained from the apprenticeship can help you to decide on your future career, as you will have discovered a passion for a certain sector in the industry.”

Both Aaron and Sam have finished learning about Project Management and Site Management and now will be moving onto their next rotation in Quantity Surveying.

The company recently announced a partnership with Chesterfield College to improve apprenticeship opportunities in the construction sector for future generations. Read about the initiative here.

Robert Woodhead Ltd. supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

Heathcotes launches initiative to give people a voice in shaping service improvements

Chesterfield-based care provider, Heathcotes Group, has launched an initiative to give the people at its services an influential voice in shaping future changes and improvements.

‘My Home My Say’ involves a series of drop-in sessions at various locations nationwide, inviting colleagues and the individuals they support to share ideas, discuss concerns and highlight what aspects they like in their home or workplace. The first week of events included a range of additional activities and entertainment, including circus performers, bouncy castles, tombola, nail bars, mocktails, karaoke and charity fundraising.

Heathcotes Group has organised My Home My Say in collaboration with its colleagues at Envivo Group, which acquired Heathcotes in 2020.  Heathcotes is one of a range of care providers within Envivo Group, specialising in care and support for adults with learning disabilities and complex mental health needs.

Group Managing Director, Brendan Kelly, said: “Heathcotes have always believed that it’s vital to ensure that the people we support and their families are involved in decision making and the planning of their own services. It’s also important to make sure that our colleagues have their voice heard in helping us to improve and evolve the way we do things. Our colleagues at Envivo Group are also passionate advocates of that approach, so we decided to work together on the introduction of My Home My Say at various services.”

Keeley Denman​, Group Family & Co‑Production Partner at Envivo Group, said: “We recognise that traditional surveys don’t always work in capturing people’s views, so we decided to be physically present to allow people to interact with us in a relaxed way that will encourage people to open up and just have a good conversation.

“It’s an ongoing process and we will continue the conversation with services as our plans develop. Heathcotes and Envivo are also teaming up to create co-production committees which invite participation from the people we support, families and colleagues. They will provide a space where we work together, listen and collaborate.”

Joseph Murphy, Service Manager at Heathcotes’ Norton Lees service in Sheffield, said: “The My Home My Say event at Norton Lees was a resounding success. The feedback was fantastic and everyone appeared to be smiling and laughing throughout the day. This will certainly not be the last get together for our Yorkshire services and we can expect to see further events in the near future.”

Heathcotes Group’s range of specialist services supports individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome, autism, Down Syndrome, learning disabilities, Personality Disorder, physical disabilities, Prader-Willi Syndrome, sensory impairments, speech difficulties and severe epilepsy.

The company provides full-time residential care services alongside supported living which enables service users to develop their independence in self-contained accommodation.

Heathcotes Group supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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New Group Marketing Manager Joins Robinson to drive forward sustainability pledge

Robinson – the manufacturer specialising in value-added custom packaging – has appointed Laura Donington as Group Marketing Manager to support the delivery of the marketing strategy across their international business, strengthening their value offering through sustainability and brand enhancement, content design and creation, and stakeholder engagement and communication.

Laura brings a wealth of B2B marketing experience ranging from digital marketing, PR, events management, communications, as well as branding.  Laura is a STEM Ambassador with a passion for sustainability. In her previous roles, including with environment charity PECT, North East Lincolnshire Council and Ultimate Packaging, she managed social responsibility and volunteering programmes supporting businesses and communities to make sustainable changes.

Laura says “Robinson is spearheading sustainability within the packaging industry, making a difference with a real focus on developing and empowering their people and supporting communities. With the launch of Robinson’s sustainability pledge earlier this year, I am excited to help drive and support a positive change among brands and retailers to contribute to the bigger picture of a circular economy.”

Laura continues, “what attracted me to Robinson is their real and honest drive to make a difference and not ‘greenwash’; I am excited to be a part of this journey. Within such an agile and responsive organisation, expect to see big strides and impact in our communication and marketing as we accelerate our presence within the industry and community. ‘Normal’ is not a word I like to use when it comes to campaigns or marketing material. Watch this space!”

Lubna Edwards, Group Sustainability and Marketing Director adds, “Laura’s demonstrated modern and dynamic approach, creativity and passion is vital in helping us execute our strategic priorities to help our people thrive, put the customer at the forefront and drive sustainable growth. She’s a very talented professional and we are thrilled to welcome her to the Robinson team!”

Robinson supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

Robinson PLC’s Sustainability pledge

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DEBP announces name change and launches new research and evaluation initiative

DEBP, formerly known as Derbyshire Edcuation Business Partnership will now be known as Direct Education Business Partnership, after a change to the organisation’s name took effect from 1st  September.

The organisation continues to work extensively in Derbyshire but also works much further afield, and the change reflects DEPB’s work in the wider education landscape.

Alongside this, DEPB will be fully established as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO).

Clare Talati, CEO of DEBP, said: “This is an exciting move for us as we transition from being a private limited company with social aims to a fully-fledged charitable organisation.

“We want to be part of a sector whose primary purpose is to create social impact rather than profit. All Directors and staff, our greatest asset, will continue with us on this journey and we look forward to furthering our work to help young people reach their full potential.”

Alongside this, DEPB has introduced the new research and evaluation arm of the business; Insight+. This has grown from an existing project commissioned by Derby County Community Trust – as part of the Opportunity Area Inclusion Programme – to undertake a research and evaluation project capturing the educational experience of learners educated within a pupil referral unit environment.

This focusses on the inclusion/exclusion process and will help inform the City around their commitment to be a zero-exclusion centre of excellence.

Clare said, “Our core work will continue to focus on the delivery of programmes with business and educational partnerships. Insight+ will extend our work to providing research solution options, looking at best practice and new ideas, to address community needs and gaps. It will also enable us to extend our focus and use our expertise to help to advance education nationally.”

DEBP supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Henry Boot announces support for 2021 Chatsworth 10k race

Henry Boot have pledged their support for a major regional event by sponsoring the finish line snack station at the upcoming Chatsworth 10k.

Due to take place on Sunday 12th September from 9:30am on the Chatsworth Estate, the 2021 Helen’s Trust Chatsworth 10k event is organised by Blythe House Hospicecare & Helen’s Trust, with runners participating in aid of the charities.

Blythe House Hospicecare & Helen’s Trust is a registered charity aiming to improve the quality of life of patients affected by life-limiting illnesses in the High Peak, Derbyshire Dales & North East Derbyshire areas.

To continue providing their valuable services, Blythe House Hospicecare & Helen’s Trust must raise over £3,600 per day, making events such as the Chatsworth 10k vital for the charity.

Henry Boot are incredibly proud to be supporting such a fantastic charity through the sponsorship of the 10k.

Jack Kidder, Responsible Business Manager at Henry Boot said “We are proud to once again be supporting Blythe House Hospicecare & Helen’s Trust through the sponsorship of the runners snacks at this year’s Chatsworth 10k.

“Each year Henry Boot are committed to supporting communities nationwide, through dedicated charity projects, recognising our collective responsibility to support valuable charities and services wherever possible.

“Blythe House Hospicecare & Helen’s Trust provides incredible care, not only to patients with life-limiting illnesses, but also to the families of patients, including bereavement support for both adults and children, and we are delighted to be a sponsor of this year’s 10k event which will generate the charity much needed funds.”

Rebecca Gregory at Blythe House Hospice said “We are so grateful to Henry Boot for not only providing sponsorship towards the finish line snack station, but also volunteering a team of their staff to help on the day.

“The Chatsworth 10k is one of our biggest fundraising events of the year, and the money raised through the runners registration and generous corporate sponsorship allows us to provide more care for families in our communities who are affected by life-limiting illness.”

Alongside the traditional 10k, families are also invited to participate in the 3k fun run, suitable for both adults and children.

Online registration to the event is open until 8th September at: https://blythehousehospice.org.uk/event/chatsworth-10k/. You can also register for £23 on the day, with proceeds from all runners’ registrations going directly to the charity.

Henry Boot Construction supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Local apprentices set to be honoured at brand-new awards

Chesterfield and North Derbyshire are set to name its top apprentice next month. The winner of the Apprentice of the year accolade will be named at the brand-new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards, organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management.

Sally Grattage (35) from Chesterfield Borough Council, Chris Guard (25) of Guard Business Solutions and Ellie Gibson (21) who is employed by Heathcotes Group, have all been shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year award.

Sponsored by DBC Training, the award recognises apprentices that have made a significant contribution to the success of a local organisation. The winner of the prestigious accolade will be announced at a black tie awards ceremony at the Winding Wheel Theatre on Wednesday 20 October.

The Love Chesterfield Awards combine the long-running Chesterfield High Street and Food and Drink Awards, both of which have honoured apprentices in the town each year in recognition of the valuable contribution apprentices and apprenticeships make to the local economy.

Proud to be shortlisted Sally Grattage, who is undertaking a Level 3 Digital Marketing apprenticeship with Chesterfield Borough Council commented: “After working in the sports and leisure industry for 18 years, never did I think I would be undertaking an apprenticeship at the age of 35. To be shortlisted for this award has been a real surprise as to me; I am one to always go the extra mile to ensure my work is done to the highest of standards but, to me, that is what you do. It makes me so proud of my achievements so far.”

Through her apprenticeship Sally hopes to be able to help sports centres reach their fullest potential using digital marketing.

Sally’s boss Chris Wright, Operations Manager at Queen’s Park Sports Centre added: “The development of our marketing since Sally has been engaged in the apprenticeship has definitely improved. Sally has also been able to audit our marketing activity so we can continue to progress. The projects that she does for her apprenticeship are chosen as they have a direct impact upon the centres. They are real challenges to our service that, once completed, benefit our customers and our bottom line.”

Chris Guard, who has recently completed his Infrastructure Technician apprenticeship was delighted to be shortlisted for the award. He said: “I typically tend to just keep my head down and crack on. Being shortlisted for the Love Chesterfield Awards was a surprise but it showed me that even though I keep focused on my work, it hasn’t gone unnoticed.”

Following the completion of his apprenticeship, Chris, who is IT Systems Manager at Guard Business Solutions, is now undertaking a finance course in order to qualify as a bookkeeper.

Steven Guard, CEO of Guard Business Solutions commented: “Chris is a very driven individual and took on the apprenticeship with real gusto. As he progressed, he has taken on other duties within his role expanding his skills and knowledge further than the bounds of his apprenticeship. He has proved to be an invaluable member of the team and continues to learn, utilising newer technologies.”

After heading to university to do tourism and events management, Ellie Gibson (21) decided that earning and learning in a different environment would be more suited to her.

The former Bolsover School student, who has completed her Level 2 Business Administration apprenticeship is delighted to be shortlisted for the award: “Heathcotes was offering something completely different to what I was doing before, which made a nice change, and there is a high success rate with apprentices here too. I was very surprised to be shortlisted for this award but it’s nice to know that others have noticed my hard work.”

Brendan Kelly, Managing Director at Heathcotes Group added: “We took on an apprentice to ensure that we are accessing enterprising young people who can grow into roles within the business. It’s been brilliant having Ellie at the business, she has matured into a genuine asset.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield added: “Apprentices are incredibly important to the town and creating opportunities for young people is right at the forefront of our plans. Required skills are constantly changing in the modern, fast-pace working world and having that pool of young talent is crucial to allow our businesses to thrive.”

The Apprentice of the Year is one of 16 categories in the new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards. In addition to apprentices, the new awards also recognise the contribution of entrepreneurs, regeneration projects, sustainability and community activities to the town’s economy over the last two years.

See the full list of 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards finalists here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/finalists/

The 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards are supported and made possible by a number of sponsors and partners, including: Addooco IT, Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Digital High Street, The Chesterfield College Group, DBC Training, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management, Evoluted, Greatest Hits Radio South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety Solutions, MSE Hiller, Peak Pharmacy, Reflections Magazine, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and Van Dyk by Wildes.

Peter Swallow added: “It’s never been more important to show our appreciation of the business community, so we’d love for the awards ceremony to be our biggest and best yet. This can only be made possible with sponsorship.”

Destination Chesterfield has one sponsorship opportunity remaining for the Café/Tea Room of the Year category. If you would like to support the town, please visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/sponsors/sponsorshippackages/ or contact Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator by emailing Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk or calling 01246 207 207.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Chesterfield Retail Awards, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield Awards, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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