Former Kickstarter for Matlock-based charity named as a finalist at the Derbyshire Business Awards 

A Kickstarter turned permanent member of staff at Matlock-based charity Rural Action Derbyshire has been named as a finalist at this year’s prestigious Derbyshire Business Awards.  

Skye Peat, who is now Events & Marketing Executive at RAD, joined on the Government’s Kickstart scheme in March 2021 and could soon be named Apprentice of the Year at a Gala Dinner on Friday 11 November.  

Speaking after receiving the news, Skye said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have been chosen as a finalist at this year’s Derbyshire Business Awards. While I’m not usually one to shout about my achievements, it is a huge honour to receive this recognition, and it feels like a big step in my career.  

“I love working at RAD and with such lovely colleagues. The range of projects that we have means that two days are never the same. It was amazing to learn how much RAD helps people in Derbyshire and I continue to be amazed every day.”  

Since starting her employment in Matlock, Skye has helped to modernise and expand RAD’s services in a number of ways.  

Firstly, she set up a TikTok account for The Willow Project, the charity’s rural domestic abuse awareness programme, helping to reach younger audiences with practical advice on how to spot signs of abuse. So far, her short videos have already received upwards of 5,000 views. 

Skye has also helped to expand RAD’s social media output more generally, increasing monthly follower numbers by 50% and boosting the organisation’s reach and following online.  

It is testament to Skye’s influence at RAD that they have since hired her sister, Iona - who recently joined the team as a Rural Services Assistant!  

Beverley Parker, the charity’s CEO, said: “After nearly 100 years of serving rural communities in Derbyshire, it is the likes of Skye and Iona that continue to make sure we’re always innovating and improving our services, and offering support to every generation.  

“We’re proud that Skye has received such incredible recognition for her contributions here at RAD, especially so early on in her career. She has become an important member of the team over the past year and I know she will continue to help us fight rural inequality with her hard work, enthusiasm and talent.”  

This individual accomplishment for Skye follows the announcement of similar successes for RAD itself, with the charity recently being shortlisted for prizes at the Charity Times Awards and the Third Sector Awards - with ceremonies for both taking place in September.   

For further information please contact Emma Simpson, Head of Communications & Administration at RAD by email on [email protected] or telephone on 01629 592970 / 07540 736118.