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A Walk Around Chatsworth House Grounds

Recently our walking club enjoyed a three-mile walk around the beautiful grounds of Chatsworth House. The route included a steep climb to the Tower via uneven steps, which proved challenging for some. While the fitter among us reached the top with ease, others took it at a more relaxed pace, with plenty of breaks to enjoy the scenery. The views from the top made the effort worthwhile.

An older woman with glasses and short grey hair sits at an outdoor café table, holding a pastry in one hand. In front of her is a festive takeaway cup with a reindeer design. Behind her, stone arches are decorated with twinkling lights, and people can be seen walking through the area.
A wide-angle shot of an older woman with glasses and a green padded coat standing in front of a rock formation with small waterfalls. The area is surrounded by woodland with moss-covered rocks, trees, and a forest path leading further into the scene.
A group of four people pose near a sign reading "House & Garden Entrances" at Chatsworth House. The group consists of an older woman in a green coat, a woman in a grey coat and yellow t-shirt, a man in a red beanie and blue jacket, and another man in a brown coat holding a small device. The background features parked cars and the rolling hills of Chatsworth.
A man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket sits at an outdoor café table, smiling with his eyes closed. Behind him, a festive wire Christmas tree lit with golden lights stands in front of a stone building. Other people are seen walking around the market area.
Three people stand near the "House & Garden Entrances" sign at Chatsworth House. From left to right: an older woman in a green coat and glasses, a man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket, and a man in a brown coat holding a small device. Behind them are parked cars, a stone building, and rolling hills.

At the Tower, we discovered a painted hidden rock on top of a brick shed, marked #NorthumberlandRock. We’ll rehide it during another walk to continue the fun for others.

The walk took us along peaceful footpaths and past waterfalls before looping back to our starting point. We ended the morning with coffee and cake at the café—a satisfying finish to a lovely outing.

Great company and good weather made for a memorable day. Until next time!

If you’d like to join Walking Club, please speak to your Community Support Worker or give us a call on 01623 397750.

An older woman with glasses and a green padded coat stands in front of a rock formation with small waterfalls. Above her, a person with an orange backpack and jeans stands triumphantly on the rock, smiling. The surrounding area is filled with trees and moss.
Two men stand on a grassy verge beside a road near Chatsworth House. One man wears a red beanie and a blue checkered jacket, while the other wears a brown coat and navy beanie, holding a small device. A sign reading "House & Garden Entrances" stands nearby, with cars and buildings in the background.
Four people pose in front of the Chatsworth House grounds. The group includes an older woman in a green coat, a woman in a grey coat and yellow t-shirt, a man in a red beanie and blue checkered jacket, and another man in a brown coat holding a small device. The sign behind them points toward the House & Garden entrances.
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A Festive Success at This Year’s Christmas Fair!

Santa Claus interacting with attendees at a lively Christmas celebration, with festive decorations, including a bulletin board and holiday posters, in the background.

What a fantastic turnout we had at this year’s Christmas Fayre! A huge thank you to everyone who came along and supported the event – you made it truly special.

We’d also like to give a big shoutout to Santa and his naughty elves for bringing some festive cheer (and a few giggles!). Of course, none of it would have been possible without the wonderful people who worked so hard behind the scenes to make it all happen – thank you for your dedication and effort.

A special highlight this year was seeing some of our service users getting involved with their own stalls. They sold some incredible handmade items, including cakes, book Christmas trees, and adorable hedgehogs. It was wonderful to see their creativity and hard work shining through.

The day was a team effort, and we couldn’t be prouder of everyone who contributed. Thank you all for making this year’s fair such a success – here’s to even more fun next year!

A bustling room with Christmas stalls and visitors browsing items. A woman in a Santa hat stands in the foreground, while others are engaged in conversation and shopping.
A table featuring handmade crafts, including folded book Christmas trees and hedgehogs with Santa hats, alongside a variety of festive cupcakes and treats.
A smiling woman wearing a Santa hat and a shimmering silver top, posing for the camera in a festive setting.
A display table with festive mugs, tumblers, and gift items, surrounded by Christmas decorations, including red tinsel hanging on the wall.
Santa Claus and elves entertaining a group of people in a festive room filled with holiday decorations and a television in the background.
An elf in a green costume dancing with a smiling older woman in a cosy room decorated with holiday-themed crafts and posters.
A cheerful elderly woman sitting in a chair, smiling at the camera while others in the room enjoy a festive gathering.
A room filled with people engaged in a holiday party, with some seated and others dancing. Festive hats, drinks, and snacks are visible on the tables.
Santa Claus interacting with attendees at a lively Christmas celebration, with festive decorations, including a bulletin board and holiday posters, in the background.
A group of people sitting in a cosy room near a large window decorated with festive ornaments. One person in a colourful Christmas jumper and Santa hat is sipping from a can, while others, wrapped in blankets, enjoy the holiday atmosphere. Tables in front of them hold cups, sweets, and small snacks.
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Gardening Club Update: Fresh Carrots and Progress!

Three Gardening Club members working on the allotment, using garden forks to dig and turn over the soil, under a clear blue sky.

Last week, members of the Gardening Club worked together to dig over most of the allotment. There’s a real sense of achievement in seeing all the progress we’ve made, and it’s wonderful to share that feeling as a group.

Even better, we harvested some fresh carrots – perfect to add to our winter meals. These moments spent tending to the soil, sharing stories, and enjoying the harvest make Gardening Club so special.

A view of the allotment with two Gardening Club members working in the background, surrounded by dug-over soil and wooden pallets.

It’s all about preparing for next year while enjoying the fruits (or veggies!) of our labour!

If you’d like to join us, please call 01623 397750 or speak to your Community Support Worker.

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A Short Walk Around Matlock

Members of Walking Club enjoyed a leisurely day out in Matlock, which turned out to be the perfect mix of relaxation and festivity!

An informational sign for the Lover’s Walk trail, detailing the history and layout of the scenic route explored by the CET Walking Club

The crisp November air was invigorating as the group set off on a short walk around Matlock. Scenic surroundings always have a way of lifting spirits! With the last autumn leaves clinging to the trees and a hint of winter in the air, it was a gentle reminder that Christmas is just around the corner.

Two CET Walking Club members pause during the Lover’s Walk, framed by the tranquil riverside path and charming buildings in the background.

Exploring Matlock Garden Centre’s Christmas Display

After the walk, we headed to Matlock Garden Centre – a must-visit at this time of year. Their Christmas display was nothing short of magical. From twinkling lights and glittering ornaments to beautifully themed decorations, it was a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own decorations or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, this place never disappoints.

A wider view of Jubilee Bridge in Matlock, showcasing the picturesque architecture and a Walking Club member in the distance enjoying the scenery.
A CET Walking Club member standing at the centre of Jubilee Bridge in Matlock, surrounded by scenic winter trees and historic streetlamps, waving joyfully.

Coffee and Cake in the Café

To round off the outing, the group went to the garden centre’s café for a well-deserved coffee and cake. The café was cosy and welcoming, with the hum of happy chatter and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air.

A cheerful CET Walking Club member seated inside the cosy café at Matlock Garden Centre, wearing a warm winter coat and smiling warmly at the camera.

Why You Should Join Us Next Time

Matlock and its surrounding gems have so much to offer, especially during the festive season. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful stroll, a little shopping, or just some quality time over coffee and cake, it’s a wonderful way to spend a day. If you haven’t joined Walking Club, why not make the next trip your first? It’s a great opportunity to connect with others, explore local areas, and enjoy new experiences.

Please call 01623 397750 for more information or speak to your Community Support Worker.

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Making Christmas Stockings at the Community Hub

We had a fantastic crafting session where everyone got into the festive spirit! Two of our service users proudly displayed their handmade Christmas stockings, which they lovingly created during our crafting workshop. Each stocking was unique, filled with creativity and cheer, perfect for adding a personal touch!

Two service users and their Christmas Stocking Crafts
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Cooking Club at The Hub: A Delicious Wednesday

Two members of The Hub Cooking Club preparing ingredients at a table. One is sifting flour into a mixing bowl while the other looks on, both focused on their task. A small vase of sunflowers sits on the table, along with some chopped onions ready for cooking.

Wednesday at The Hub, we had a fantastic cooking session where everyone pitched in to create a classic comfort meal – Bangers and Mash followed by a tray bake berry crumble with custard. The session was led by Cayton and Louise, who made sure everyone got involved, and the results were outstanding! There’s something about cooking together that makes food taste even better, and this week was no exception.

If you’d like to join us, please call 01623 397750 or speak to your Community Support Worker

A member of The Hub Cooking Club preparing a berry crumble. She is holding a mixing bowl filled with crumble topping, sprinkling it over the tray bake. In the background, another member is stirring a pot on a portable stove, with a small vase of sunflowers adding a cheerful touch to the kitchen workspace.
A plate of bangers and mash served with mixed vegetables and rich onion gravy, garnished with freshly chopped chives. The sausages are golden brown, and the mashed potatoes are creamy, making for a classic, comforting meal.
A close-up of a serving of bangers and mash, featuring two sausages topped with rich onion gravy, creamy mashed potatoes, and a garnish of fresh chives. Mixed vegetables are placed alongside, adding a pop of color to this comforting meal.
A member of The Hub Cooking Club sitting at a table, smiling and enjoying a plate of bangers and mash with mixed vegetables. She is holding a fork, ready to dig in. The room has a bright leaf-patterned wallpaper, adding a cheerful backdrop to the scene.
A bowl of warm berry crumble topped with a generous layer of creamy custard. The dessert looks comforting and inviting, perfect for a sweet treat after a hearty meal.
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A Day Out with Walking Club: Exploring Tansley Knoll, Matlock

Three walkers sitting on a stone wall with a countryside backdrop – Three smiling walkers sit together on a stone wall, with rolling hills and green fields stretching into the background under a cloudy sky.
Group of walkers on a stone bridge over a reflective stream – A group of walkers standing on a stone bridge, looking down at the calm water that reflects the trees and landscape around them.
Walkers on a bridge with autumn leaves in the foreground – A view of a stone bridge over a stream with a group of walkers, framed by a bed of fallen autumn leaves in the foreground.
Walkers on a stone bridge with lush countryside around – A group of walkers gathered on a stone bridge over a stream, surrounded by tall trees and grassy hills.
Group of walkers in front of a waterfall in a rocky forest area – A group of walkers pose in front of a cascading waterfall, surrounded by rocky terrain and autumn foliage in a forest setting.
Close-up of a waterfall flowing over moss-covered rocks – A natural waterfall flows over rugged, moss-covered rocks, surrounded by autumn leaves and rich textures.
Smiling woman in front of a waterfall – A woman smiles at the camera, standing in front of a cascading waterfall with a background of autumn leaves and forest trees.
Group of walkers gathered by a waterfall in a wooded area – A group of walkers pose together in front of a rocky cliff with a waterfall, surrounded by trees and autumn colors.

Our walking club recently set out for another enjoyable adventure, this time exploring the picturesque Tansley Knoll in Matlock. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect, making it an ideal day for a walk and good company.

The walk spanned about three miles, with a few challenging hills that added to the excitement. Along the way, we enjoyed taking in the sights of historic mills, now derelict but still rich with stories of the past. It was fascinating to imagine the bustling activity that once filled these spaces and to see how nature has slowly reclaimed them over time.

One of the day’s highlights was the scenic waterfalls – truly a sight to behold! The soothing sound of the water and the fresh air brought a sense of calm to everyone. To top it off, we were delighted to encounter some friendly animals along the route, including a curious pig and even a few alpacas!

After soaking up the scenery and the history, we ended the day at a charming local garden centre. It was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy refreshments and our packed lunches. Everyone went home feeling happy, contented, and looking forward to our next club outing.

Until next time!

Waterfall among autumn leaves and rocks – A beautiful waterfall cascading down surrounded by rocky terrain and autumn leaves, capturing the natural beauty of the walking trail.
Bridge over a peaceful stream with autumn leaves – A group of walkers standing on a stone bridge over a calm stream, framed by autumn leaves and trees in a serene countryside setting.
Walkers standing on a bridge by the river – Close-up of a group of walkers standing together on a stone bridge over a gentle river, enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Walker standing by an information board about local ponds – A walker stands next to an informational sign about the Middle and Lower Ponds, surrounded by tall ferns and trees.
Group of walkers posing by a waterfall in the woods – A group of walkers standing together in front of a cascading waterfall in a forest area covered in autumn leaves.
Two walkers in front of a stone wall with countryside views – Two walkers leaning against a stone wall, smiling with a green landscape and hills in the background.
Three walkers by a stone wall with a rolling countryside view – Three walkers standing in front of a stone wall, with a scenic countryside and cloudy sky in the background.
Woman petting a friendly pig through a fence – A woman reaching over a wooden fence to pet a friendly pig in a woodland area, with autumn leaves scattered around.
Three walkers posing by a stone wall with green fields behind – A group of three walkers standing together by a stone wall with expansive green fields and hills in the distance.
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Gardening Club Prepares for the Next Growing Season

Four gardening club members standing on a tilled section of the allotment, smiling and dressed warmly in outdoor attire.

Gardening club came together for another productive day on the allotment, making significant progress in preparing the ground for next year’s growing season. The weather was ideal – fresh and cool, with dry ground that made digging easier for everyone.

Photo of freshly dug soil on an allotment bed, with small green plants lining one side and a structure in the background.

With spades in hand, the team worked tirelessly, turning over the soil and clearing the area to ready it for planting in the coming months. Their hard work was evident in the freshly dug beds. Although a lot was achieved, there’s still much work left to do to ensure a fruitful year.

A row of green plants, likely vegetable seedlings, growing beside a freshly dug allotment bed.

The team effort didn’t go unnoticed, as each member contributed their time and energy to make sure the plot was as prepared as possible. After a fulfilling morning, everyone gathered for lunch at Enablement Care, where they enjoyed a well-deserved break before heading home!

A close-up of freshly dug soil on an allotment, with some tools and debris at the edge of the plot.

Please speak to your Community Support Worker if you’d like to join us next time.

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Tuesday Walking Club Conquers Mam Tor!!

Signpost at Mam Tor, High Peak Estate, with a National Trust logo at the top. Below, there is an information board about Mam Tor, referred to as the 'Mother Hill,' including details about its geology and history. A warning sign beneath it advises visitors to be cautious of cliff edges and to keep children under close supervision. In the background, grassy hills and blue skies are visible, with a person seated in the grass.
Two people sitting at a wooden picnic table outdoors, surrounded by tall trees. One person, wearing headphones and a pink hoodie, is looking down, possibly at a phone or tablet. The other person, with blonde hair and wearing a grey t-shirt, is eating a snack and looking towards the camera. Backpacks and a pink water bottle are placed on the table. The area is fenced, and sunlight filters through the trees, casting light and shadow across the scene.
Picnic Time!

Our walking club recently embarked on an incredible adventure to the top of Mam Tor, also known as the “Mother Hill.” Nestled in the heart of the High Peak, this spot offers some of the most stunning panoramic views in the Peak District. The weather was on our side, with blue skies and a gentle breeze guiding us to the summit.

A woman smiling while standing outdoors near the Mam Tor signpost, with rolling green hills in the background under a partly cloudy sky. She is wearing a light pink jacket over a butterfly-patterned shirt and a pastel scarf, with wind blowing her hair. A wooden fence and grassy area are visible behind her.

With enthusiasm and excitement, we followed the well-trodden paths to the peak. Along the way, we admired the wild beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys, breathing in the fresh air that comes with being surrounded by nature. At the summit, we were greeted by 360-degree views stretching far and wide across the Peak District National Park. It was the perfect spot to rest, take in the scenery, and capture some photos!

A woman standing and smiling near the summit of Mam Tor with a scenic landscape of green hills and valleys in the background. She is wearing a light pink jacket, a butterfly-patterned shirt, and a pastel scarf, with her hair being gently blown by the wind. The ground is made of cobblestone, and other people can be seen sitting and admiring the view in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

Our walking club is not just about fitness and exploring nature; it’s also about building community and creating friendships. The camaraderie shared as we reached the top, smiling with pride at our achievement, is what makes these walks so amazing!

A woman standing and smiling next to a stone pillar at the summit of Mam Tor, with the stunning landscape of rolling green hills and valleys in the background under a partly cloudy sky. She is wearing a light pink jacket, a butterfly-patterned shirt, and a pastel scarf, with her hair blowing slightly in the wind. Other visitors are sitting on the grass in the background, admiring the view.

If you’re one of our service users and looking to join a supportive group that enjoys exploring beautiful outdoor spaces, our walking club is perfect for you. We offer regular walks every Tuesday, and each week brings a new adventure, whether walking local countryside paths or taking iconic hikes like Mam Tor.

A wide, panoramic view of the landscape surrounding Mam Tor in the Peak District. The scene shows a dirt walking path winding through grassy hills, with expansive, rolling green hills and valleys in the background. The sky is bright blue with fluffy white clouds, creating a beautiful contrast with the natural terrain. The view captures the peaceful, open countryside, offering a sense of vastness and tranquility.

To find out more about how you can get involved in the next Tuesday walking club adventure, please speak to your community support worker or call our office on 01623 397750.

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Staff Member of the Month is Back!

The image depicts three abstract figures in different colors (green, blue, and teal) representing people, positioned side by side. Above their heads are three yellow stars, with the middle star larger than the two on either side. To the right of the figures is bold blue text that reads "STAFF MEMBER OF THE MONTH." The design conveys recognition and achievement.
The image depicts three abstract figures in different colors (green, blue, and teal) representing people, positioned side by side. Above their heads are three yellow stars, with the middle star larger than the two on either side. To the right of the figures is bold blue text that reads "STAFF MEMBER OF THE MONTH." The design conveys recognition and achievement.

We’re excited to announce that Staff Member of the Month is back! 🎉

This is your chance to nominate someone who has truly shined over the past month. Whether it’s their hard work, positive attitude, or just being an incredible team player, we want to celebrate them!

Here’s how it works:

  1. Nominate (via Planday) at least one person you believe deserves recognition.
  2. Share a few words about why they should be celebrated.

The two staff members with the highest votes will receive a voucher and certificate, which will be presented at our next staff meeting.

Let’s show some appreciation for our amazing team!