How volunteers are shaping Chesterfield’s communities
Following on from Volunteers’ Week, which took place from Monday, 1st June to Sunday, 7th June 2026, Chesterfield Champions shared stories highlighting the impact of those who give their time to support local events, businesses and community initiatives.
Volunteers make a significant contribution to life in Chesterfield.
Volunteers power the success of Chesterfield Pride
Chesterfield Pride is recognising the essential role volunteers play in delivering the annual festival, which is entirely volunteer-led.
Organisers say volunteers are involved in all aspects of the festival, helping to ensure the event runs smoothly and continues to grow year on year.
Volunteers range in age from 20 to 80, reflecting the inclusive nature of the event and the wider community it serves. Many volunteers return each year, helping to build a strong team culture and ensuring continuity in delivering the festival.
Volunteers support a wide range of activities on the day, from assisting with event operations to engaging with attendees and helping create a welcoming, enjoyable atmosphere for visitors.
Dan Walker, Organiser of Chesterfield Pride, said:
Beyond delivering the event itself, volunteers also play a role in shaping its future, sharing feedback and ideas that help inform planning for future years.
Supporting business growth through mentoring
Melanie Archbold, Managing Director at Cloud Busting, is highlighting the value of mentoring and sharing business experience.
Following the sale of her family business in 2022, Melanie began volunteering as a mentor on the Government’s Help to Grow Management Programme.
Having spent nearly 30 years in business, including 18 years as Managing Director of a family-owned engineering company, she wanted to use her experience to support others.
Melanie said:
“I decided to volunteer as a mentor on the Help to Grow Management Programme. Initially, I thought I would be helping others, but I quickly realised how much I was gaining from it too.”
Over the past four years, Melanie has supported more than 20 businesses through the programme, working with leaders across a range of sectors.
Her mentoring has helped business owners navigate growth, leadership challenges and decision-making, with many continuing discussions beyond the formal programme.
Volunteers needed for Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Night Walk
Ashgate Hospice is appealing for additional volunteers to support its Sparkle Night Walk, taking place on Saturday, 27th June, 2026.
Volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the Sparkle Night Walk, helping ensure the event runs safely while supporting participants.
Almost 200 volunteers have already signed up to support the hospice’s biggest fundraising event of the year, but a further 50 are still needed due to high participation numbers. Thousands of walkers will take part in the 10k sponsored event, raising funds for specialist palliative and end-of-life care across North Derbyshire. Volunteers will help marshal the route, direct participants and support walkers throughout the evening.
No previous experience is required, with volunteers of all backgrounds welcome to get involved. The hospice says enthusiasm and a willingness to support the event are the key requirements.
James Branson, Events and Community Fundraising Manager at Ashgate Hospice, said:
“It’s a fantastic way to support the hospice and our flagship event while being part of Ashgate’s biggest fundraising night of the year. The atmosphere is vibrant, energetic, rewarding and deeply moving. Seeing so many people come together to support Ashgate Hospice is truly amazing.
“Whether you’re looking to meet new people or spend time with friends and family, volunteering on the night is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference while supporting a cause that means so much to our community.”
Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up via the Ashgate Hospice website or contact the Events Team on 01246 567250 or events@ashgatehospice.org.uk.
From volunteer to valued team member
DogLand is sharing Sarah’s journey, showing how volunteering can lead to a permanent role within the business.
Sarah originally joined DogLand as a volunteer because of her love for dogs and a desire to help. Her calm and gentle approach quickly proved especially valuable when working with dogs, helping even the most nervous or excitable animals feel relaxed and settled.
Sarah also supported a range of DogLand events, helping with preparation, activities and delivery. One highlight included the organisation’s Christmas event, where she assisted the team while dressed as one of Santa’s elves, helping to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere for visitors and their dogs.
As her contribution grew, Sarah became an integral part of the team and was offered a permanent role within the business.
Dawn Brown, Owner of DogLand, said:
“Some people come into your life and make a difference straight away, and Sarah is definitely one of those people. From day one, her dedication, hard work and positive attitude stood out. No task was ever too much trouble, and she was always willing to lend a hand wherever it was needed.”
DogLand says Sarah’s journey shows how volunteering can open doors, helping people build skills, confidence and long-term opportunities.
Volunteers strengthen communities across Derbyshire
Derbyshire Voluntary Action is emphasising the importance of volunteers in supporting communities, reducing isolation and improving wellbeing.
The organisation works alongside volunteers across a range of programmes, from tackling loneliness and social isolation to supporting young people’s mental health and community activities.
Volunteers have played a key role in initiatives including Feeling Connected, FutureMinds Collective and Behind the Pane, helping to create welcoming spaces where people can build confidence, develop new skills and access support.
Daniel Jones, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Derbyshire Voluntary Action, said:
“Whether it’s supporting someone experiencing loneliness, helping a young person find their voice, or contributing skills to a community project, volunteers continue to play a vital role in strengthening communities across Derbyshire.
“As we celebrated Volunteers’ Week, we want to thank every volunteer who gives their time to support others. Their compassion, skills and commitment help make Derbyshire a healthier, kinder and more connected place to live.”
The organisation says volunteers remain central to its work and continue to make a lasting difference to individuals and communities across Derbyshire.
Chesterfield Pride, Cloud Busting, Ashgate Hospice, DogLand and Derbyshire Voluntary Action are all part of over 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
Find out more about becoming a Chesterfield Champion and supporting local growth.
