Borough Business Spring 22

BOROUGH

BUSINESS The voice of Kingston’s business community

Issue 24: Spring 2022

Join us exp exp p p exp p exp p 23 23 June June 23 June 232022 June 2022 KingstonBusiness KingstonBusiness KingstonBusiness

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KingstonKingston UniversityUniversity Business Business School Sch

The Big Interview

Kingston University Business School

RER Development In conversation with Charles Armstrong, CEO, The Trampery

Profile

Supporting Supporting • Inspiring • Inspiring Kingston University School Supporting •Business Inspiring Connecting Connecting Connecting Supporting • Inspiring Connecting

Monica Bradley MB Associates

Headline Headline Sponsors Headline Sponsors Sponsors

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TheThe Royal Borough The Royal ofofBoroug Royal Borough

Kingston Kingston Kingston

Chamber ofChamber Commerce Chamber of Commerce of Comm

The Royal Borough of

Professional training and development programmes to meet your business needs.

At Kingston College we are committed to working in partnership to support your organisation’s skills, employment, Apprenticeship and training strategies.

For a FREE skills assessment or for more information please contact: 020 8546 2151.

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contents Welcome to New Members 4 Chamber News 7 Patron News 8-10 Technology 13 Richard Burge LCCI 14 Skills 15 Kingston Borough Business Awards 16-17 Cover Feature – Kingston Business Expo 18-19 Think Green 20 Ask the Expert 21 Profile 23 Chamber Events 24 The Big Interview 26-27 News 28-29 Health & Wellbeing 30-33 Start Up 34 Editorial and General Enquiries Guildhall, High Street Kingston upon Thames. KT1 1EU. 020 8541 4441 Email: office@kingstonchamber.co.uk Web: www.kingstonchamber.co.uk Chief Executive: Forbes Low Publisher: Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published Spring 22 © Benham Publishing and Kingston Chamber of Commerce Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Peter Wilkinson Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: peter@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1825 Disclaimer

Borough Business is published for Kingston Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members. All correspondence should be addressed to Kingston Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in Borough Business are not necessarily those of Kingston Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2022. Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication.

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content.

Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

Patron Members

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

WELCOME TO

BOROUGH BUSINESS The Kingston Chamber of Commerce magazine for all Businesses in Kingston The beginning of this year has continued the themes seen at the end of 2021, that of change and unpredictability. With the outbreak of a European war in Ukraine, this has demonstrated that what happens beyond our shores are not so distant anymore. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bravery of individuals and the many who are suffering beyond our comprehension.

I have a view that Kingston likes to do things a little differently. Progress can never be made if we are just like everyone. The Chamber hosted the inaugural Kingston Borough Business Awards (KBBA) in March at All Saints, Kingston. It was a successful and special evening in a wonderful setting. The winners and finalists deserve to be recognised for their work, demonstrating that Kingston has a rich diversity of services, skills and employment.

I would like to thank our Headline sponsor, Kingston University and Gold sponsors, Kingston College and Kingston Council for their enthusiasm and commitment to the KBBA. But there is no time to stand still at the Chamber! We are building a varied programme of business seminars and networking for the Kingston Business Expo on June 23rd. Hosted

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by Kingston Business School, register now to attend or showcase as an exhibitor. It is the key event in the business diary and we are looking forward to seeing many of you there.

The New Malden Business Forum is beginning to gain traction. I was so pleased to see Korean business owners at the March meeting and to hear from Kingston Council about future high street work. The next Forum is on June 7th. It is free to attend so sign up and join this engaging networking evening.

I am pleased that our Women in Business is starting afresh, in collaboration with Time & Leisure.

This will deal with specific issues that affect women in their business lives.

Come and join this lunchtime event on May 17 at Cento Uno. The Kingston Chamber AGM is on May 23rd at DoubleTree Hilton, Kingston. This is your chance, as members, to hear and ask how the Chamber has performed in 2021 and how we are looking at the year ahead.

We have been hosting the AGM online for the past two years so it will be good to see you in person again.

Details are on our website.

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Finally, change has come to the Chamber. At the end of March, Wanda Mcfarlane and Amanda McLoughlin left the building. Wanda, 15 years, and Amanda, 9 years, have given the Chamber so much dedication, care and support. We wish Wanda all the very best on her retirement, and Amanda in her new job. They thoroughly deserve our thanks and gratitude.

I am delighted to announce that Ilona Saliev has joined as our Events/ Engagement coordinator. She comes from a hospitality background and has shown a great can-do attitude which we will benefit from. With Harry Duckworth, our KickStarter, signing up for the year, the Chamber team and Board will be giving 100% to supporting the membership and keep innovating where we can.

Forbes Low CEO Kingston Chamber of Commerce forbes@kingstonchamber.co.uk

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BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

3

join us The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce Peter realised that it was time that he join the Chamber and be involved in the active, networking business community.

Welcome to our new members 56 Degrees Jakub Mysona www.56degrees.co.uk

Janine Martin www.secra.org.uk/projects/ sunrayrecycle/

Finlec Electrical Contractors Limited

Community Care Experts.com

Angus Findlay www.finlecelectrical.co.uk

Lambert Sports Clinic Bruno Pereira www.lambertsportsclinic.co.uk

“ We have been able to see - first hand - how the Kingston Chamber of Commerce helps businesses to network, grow and thrive. Especially during the lockdown when they showed resilience and innovation connecting everybody online.

They really stepped up, lead the community and showed strength during such difficult times for businesses which ultimately gave people hope.

There is a quote that says “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build the door.”

I believe this represents what the Chamber does in our community.”

John Zapata Restrepo

Managing Director & Co-Founder, Avatar Cleaning Services Ltd For more information or to discuss how we can help you, please contact us at:

Kingston Chamber of Commerce T: 020 8541 4441 E: info@kingstonchamber.co.uk W: www.kingstonchamber.co.uk Connect with us on

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@KingstonCOC

SunrayRecycle & SECra

Robyn Harper Photography Robyn Harper

Farah Namini www.communitycareexperts.com

London Spit Roast

Ricky van der Linde www.londonspitroast.co.uk

M B Associates

Margherita Razza www.mbassociates.net

Eden Walk Shopping Centre

www.robynharper.com

Tina Powley www.edenwalkshopping.co.uk

Coversure Insurance

Jolt Ltd

Tony Christmas www.coversure.co.uk

VJ GNT Squared Ltd Vijayakumar Balraj https://vjgntsquared.com

David Symons www.joltcharging.co.uk

SAF Professional Cleaning Services Ltd Simon Freer www.safcleaningsurrey.co.uk

Find out how to join and learn how others are benefiting from their membership. www.kingstonchamber.co.uk

Kingston CoC

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

hr dept

Highlights of Chamber life 2022 so far...

Porter the Sorter Ask our resident HR expert, Sandra Porter of The HR Dept for advice on your workplace worries.

Has much changed in the last 10 years?

Get your marigold gloves on!!

I was with a Client this morning who we provide training, development and mentoring services to. In passing, the Chief Executive asked if we review and update contracts of employment and handbooks. ‘Of course’ was my response, ‘We do that all of the time’. He said ‘I’m not sure how much there will be but they haven’t been updated for 10 years’. ‘What?!’. They definitely need updating.

So what’s changed?

Well, other than everything? Data protection regulations, auto enrolment pension payments, age discrimination making retirement age illegal, protected characteristics, family friendly policies, CRB checks are now DBS checks, DVLA check codes have been introduced, flexible working applications, changes to right to work documentation post Brexit, working arrangements post Covid, the need for written terms and conditions from day one of employment…the list is endless.

The highlight of Chamber life in 2022 is being part of the first truly Kingston based awards.

Run and delivered by the Kingston Chamber of Commerce for the business community and it would not have been possible without the hard-working team of Amanda, Wanda, Harry and Forbes, who worked tirelessly, and I must say delivered an amazing event.

Another event coming up soon is the Kingston Chamber AGM on the 23rd of May, again the first in-person AGM since the pandemic began. Don’t miss out on details about the Chamber and an opportunity to network.

Business Spring Clean To Do List I know you may be busy and it is difficult for HR related matters to reach the top of your to do list if there is no burning need, however, spring cleaning your business may protect you from risk in the future: 1) Ensure that you have updated your contracts and policies in line with legislation

Finally, one last event I would like to mention is the New Malden Forum on the 7th of June. We have held a few in person events so far and they were a great success.

2) Check pay is in line with increases in National Minimum Wage 3) Make sure every team member has a signed contract on file 4) Make sure that every other service provider has an agreement in place 5) Make sure that right to work documentation is on file for every team member 6) Share any updated policies / employee handbook and get an acknowledgement of receipt 7) Update any recent copies of insurances, visas, certifications, memberships that are needed So, get your business marigolds on and spring clean your business. You may never know what risks you have avoided but hopefully you will sleep better at night. Employment laws usually change every April and October so if you manage this as a regular business activity, it won’t need a deep clean, just a dust and polish!

The HR Dept are an outsourced HR services provider supporting local SMEs with their people issues and strategy. For advice on contracts, policies or for a free HR audit please call 0345 208 1290.

Always seek employment law advice regarding management of your people issues to ensure that you and your business are well protected from potential litigation risks.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Events: While the pandemic is no longer dominating the news and life is returning to the new normal, the Chamber now has many in person events as well as online sessions.

The online events to look out for this spring and summer are the “Think Green” round table event together with Kingston Council and the monthly speed networking.

The not to miss in person events are the Kingston Expo which will be held in person for the first time since the start of the pandemic traditionally at the Kingston University Business School.

The Chamber has some changes in its team, and I would like to say thank you to Wanda and Amanda, who are leaving after so many years of working together and being key to the Chamber’s success. We also have a new member Ilona, who I would like to say warm welcome to and from the few interactions we have had she is certainly finding her feet very quickly.

As the pandemic is still with us, please be mindful at in-person events, as not everyone is comfortable with handshakes so let’s try to keep each other safe.

Katerina Damcova Chamber President

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

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We deliver Water We deliver Water Coolers, Bottled Water Coolers, Bottled Water and Water packs to and Water packsand to homes, offices homes, offices and warehouses warehouses

chamber news The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Join us!

FREE TO ATTEND

NEW MALDEN BUSINESS FORUM Tuesday June 7th 2022 6.00pm-7.30pm

New Malden Methodist Church, KT3 4BY

Join us for an opportunity to connect, engage and network with the New Malden business community.

Supported by:

Pearson Hards

Say hello, wave goodbye For those of a certain vintage will recognise that song title but it fits this article neatly.

To wave goodbye first. As some of you will know, Wanda Mcfarlane and Amanda McLoughlin have, after 15 and 9 years respectively, left Kingston Chamber.

Wanda is looking forward to her retirement and having more time to be with her partner. She has survived three CEO’s and each of us owe her considerable gratitude for her diligence, advice and calm approach to Chamber life. To many, she was the first point of contact with the Chamber and her warmth was always appreciated. In many ways, she was the Chamber matriarch.

Amanda, particularly in the last two years through Covid, was more visible and recognised in so many of our networking or online events.

In her nine years, she has initiated the business Expos (and made the event work online which a big achievement), made the KIckStart programme work so smoothly and it was fitting that her last major contribution was the successful Kingston Borough Business Awards. A very keen supporter of the Greggs sausage roll, Amanda will still be working in the borough in her new job so I know that our paths will continue to cross.

I count myself very fortunate to have worked with two wonderful, kind and generous colleagues and the Chamber wishes them well in their new ventures.

So say hello to IIona Saliev who will be the Chamber‘s Event/ Engagement Coordinator. She started the week of the Awards which really was jumping in the

deep end of Chamber life but she took to the role so serenely!

Most of her career has been in the hospitality sector, her last role was Hotel General Manager. She has lived in the borough for over 10 years (a Chessington resident) and knows all the strengths and weaknesses of the area. However, with her passion for working with and for people, and a set of transferable skills, she’s very well-suited to join us as the Event/ Engagement Coordinator. IIona has been with us for 8 weeks and has settled in so smoothly and is already contributing in every area that she works in. I am delighted that she has come onboard and am sure our membership will give her a warm welcome.

Harry Duckworth, who joined us from KickStart, is staying with us for the year and that is also good news. He now leads on the Chamber communications and e-news updates and contributes more and more to our plans and events. His knowledge on anything football related is impressive – test him out and you will be surprised at how someone so young knows so much!

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patron news Making Big Strides Towards Kingston’s Sustainable Business Culture

Five Key Fundamentals to Cloud Migration Success

By Richard McChesney, Senior Technology Implementation Consultant, Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting UK Moving to cloud solutions has become key for driving better customer engagement and accelerating communication. Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting UK is a data-driven, highly customer-experience focused organisation supporting businesses in their transformation, and in our experience, there are key ways to prepare for the transition: 1. Consider migrating a couple of days before any cloud product training. Once you’ve completed your cloud migration, invest dedicated time in employee training.

2. Dedicate time to tidying up your migration database, particularly if you’ve been using your current on-premise product for some time. Pre-migration, check out what data validation tools may help to assess how smoothly your migration will run, and whether any of your data flags migrationrelated problems.

3. Does your new cloud application have client login functionality? Communicate with your clients well in advance, and consider whether you need client training sessions.

IQ in IT is proud to announce achievement of a sustainability certification Green Mark Level 2 in cooperation with Kingston Council. Our continuous dedication not only to customer service and cyber security, but also to our environment. We are a step closer to carbon neutrality and are looking to help inspire other businesses towards a greener future.

As part of the Green Mark system, we have formalised our sustainability processes like having an allowance of volunteering days per year for each member of our team to support our community and give back. We have set goals and targets and executed many of them thanks to the RBK grant. We have replaced our heating valves with Tado Smart system to save energy on heating. We have installed a water butt to collect rainwater for the green wall we are in the process of building outside our office and many others.

We have dived into the paperwork and worked out our carbon footprint as well as improved recycling and composting within our office.

Find out more about IQ in IT https://iqinit.uk/ email us: team@iqinit.uk

It was not a simple process and we volunteered to go for the more advanced Level 2 certification and are looking to achieve the highest certification at Level 3 in the near future.

Join us at the round table discussion with Kingston council at 10am on the 25th of May https://iqi.click/green

Holland Hahn & Wills Events & Women in Finance Over the next few months, Holland Hahn & Wills intend to hold various events on financial planning. Topics will include “Do I have Enough to Retire?, Estate / Inheritance Tax Planning, Steps to Early Retirement and how to make Investing

4. Pay attention to your cloud product support hours. If you do need help, you want to make sure it’s at hand. Plan your migration timetable and estimated length.

This will vary according to how much data and how many applications are being migrated, and how much integration needs to be done.

5. Ensure you partner with an organisation that believes and invests in technology that makes a difference; technology for the real world. Moving your key applications to the cloud with an integrated solution will set you apart and empower more productive services, giving you more time with your clients to add enhanced value to their businesses.

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In other news, the IQ in IT team has welcomed a bunch of keen talent into the fold, with most of the hires being women. In this year alone, we have increased our proportion of female engineers to 33.3%. This is over 2% higher than the national average. Female representation across the business is 38.5%. Our managing director Katerina Damcova has been interviewed by Pax8 recently in a push to highlight the success as well as the issues which females are facing.

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

Less Stressful. If you are interested in attending any of these events, please email Katie at katie. lovatt@hhw-uk.com Katie will be presenting on Women in Finance to Kingston Chamber of Commerce next month. At Holland Hahn & Wills we are fortunate to work with a diverse team with many interests and have an almost 50/50 gender split. These types of events are thought provoking and provide opportunities to meet new and interesting people whilst helping to share knowledge and experience.

And finally, Chris Hirsch (left) crowned Summers Inman the winners of the Excellence in Customer Service Award at the 2021 Kingston Business Awards. Holland Hahn & Wills were proud to be both judges and sponsors of the event. The competition was strong and we enjoyed an evening amongst a wide array of businesses – we’re already looking forward to next year! www.hhw-uk.com

does not agree however parties can now amicably file an application together.

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Change is in the air, reports Pearson Hards. Is this the end of the blame game?

From 6th April 2022 separating couples will not need to blame each other for the breakdown of their relationship. Currently, divorcing couples must be able to identify issues that have triggered the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage such as unreasonable behaviour or adultery. The idea of a divorce is difficult and emotional in itself, but by bringing personal issues into the process this can hinder reaching an amicable agreement and instead cause parties simply to criticise each other.

How will the no-fault divorce work?

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There will be a requirement to provide a statement of irretrievable breakdown

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As the element of fault will be removed it will not be possible to contest the divorce, unless on the grounds of the validity of the marriage.

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An option for a joint application will be introduced. Applicants will still be able to submit a sole application if their partner

Ensure the language is in plain English.

Currently, once the Acknowledgement of Service has been filed, the Court will grant what is known as Decree Nisi. This will be changed to a Conditional Order and can only be applied for once 20 weeks have passed.

The final stage of the divorce is currently known as Decree Absolute, which will now be referred to as the Final Order.

Why is No-Fault divorce a good idea?

It means that, as solicitors, we will be able to work with our clients to focus on positive separation instead of alleging blame, which will be particularly beneficial where children are involved. Children deal better with a separation when their parents are not in constant dispute. Currently, it is all too common that the ‘blame game’ leads to increased conflict between the parties leading to the greater involvement of solicitors which ultimately increases the legal costs.

Do you need our advice?

Despite the introduction of this new legislation encouraging a positive approach, it unfortunately will not fully eliminate the risk of acrimony from divorce proceedings. However, we are pleased with this positive step forward and are here to help you. We are happy to meet in person, talk over the phone, by email or through video messaging. Both Emma Rothstein erothstein@pearsonhards.co.uk and Elena Mitejko emitejko@pearsonhards.co.uk are here to assist you at Pearson Hards with every step of your divorce.

Top award for Kingston University careers programme that supports Black students A Kingston University accelerator programme that supports students of Black African or Caribbean descent to achieve their full potential was named best widening participation initiative of the year at the National Undergraduate Employability (NUE) Awards.

Now into its second year, the ELEVATE programme aims to empower and upskill students as well as working with partner employers and organisations to support them in taking tangible steps towards racial equity.

The judging panel highlighted its success in empowering and upskilling Black students, providing employability support through student careers coordinators and developing students personally and professionally.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Kingston University’s Town House hosts Human Face of Venture Capital event for aspiring entrepreneurs Budding entrepreneurs and business owners from across the borough and South London were given the opportunity to hear from and network with a panel of leading investors at Kingston University’s RIBA Stirling Prize-winning Town House building.

Hosted by head of Kingston Business School Ian Roberts, the event featured a panel including Kingston alumnus Matthew Cushen, founding partner of Worth Capital, Sarah Barber and Jeffrey Faustin, of Jenson Funding Partners, and Saket Narula, investment director of Fortunis Capital.

The Q&A session covered topics such as the investor experience, coping with the pandemic, pitching business plans and female entrepreneurs breaking barriers.

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patron news No better time to employ Winners in an apprentice Customer Kingston College was delighted to welcome local businesses and community organisation leaders to a Networking Breakfast on 31 March.

Rebecca Dalton, Apprentice Recruitment Manager at South Thames Colleges Group commented: “There has been no better time to employ an apprentice and having a nationally agreed structured training programme help organisations to fill skills gaps, help to recruit and retain high calibre staff, motivate the workforce because they feel more valued, widen access and improve diversity of the workforce, be viewed as a ‘learning organisation’ investing in the future workforce, and to promote staff loyalty to the organisation.

Service!

Summers-Inman were delighted to win the Excellence in Customer Service category at the new Kingston Borough Business Awards in March.

There was also plenty of interest in work experience opportunities for our students which was wonderful and we look forward to progressing these.”

It is getting busy again!

As we head into the summer months ahead, we are beginning to see a more vibrant atmosphere around Kingston town centre and the riverside. The pressures from the growing cost of living will affect us all but there are some positive areas to report on. Many partners in Kingston are working hard to invigorate the retailer experience and to make Kingston the place to relax and socialise.

At the turn of the year, although the footfall was 14% below compared to 2019, Kingston is performing significantly better than greater London as a whole and the UK. Interestingly, the expenditure of consumers over October-December

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‘21 exceeded that of the same period in 2019 and this seems to be a continuing trend this year.

To many people, the health of a high street is reflected by the number of empty units.

Historically, it is not unusual to see empty units rise after Christmas, once businesses have had their busier trading period. It is therefore comforting to see that the level is similar to October 2021 - and with a healthy pipeline of openings in the coming months so it will be exciting to see new names enter the high street.

On the leisure front, Riverside Walk are pleased to announce that GoBoat have resumed their summer programme. From their location by the riverside, this is a fun, self-drive boating experience.

You are the captain; you choose the route.

Here is to a healthy and enjoyable summer!

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

At Summers-Inman we pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer service, ensuring that our working practices are transparent and that we have effectively developed a collaborative working relationship with our clients and key stakeholders to support successful project delivery. Our processes to achieve this form part of our assessed and approved BSI ISO 9001-accredited Quality Management System, demonstrating our commitment to ensuring that we are ensuring clear lines of communication that enable accurate understanding of our clients’ needs and requirements to fully meet project deliverables.

Our collaborative working ethics and transparency with our clients set us apart from our competitors. We ensure that out services are specifically tailored to each client and project, operating proactively to provide solutions that create the most benefit to our clients. We believe that continuous improvement goes hand in hand with a collaborative approach, creating benefits to clients, vital feedback and ultimately, successful delivery.

Staff are required to uphold these standards at all times, and undergo regular CPD sessions to ensure that their professional memberships are upheld by their respective institutions and to ensure that we are always working to the latest industry standards. www.summers-inman.co.uk

DON’T PANIC!

legal

TOP TIPS for dealing with HMRC furlough enquiries

The The Coronavirus Coronavirus Job Job Retention Retention Scheme Scheme (CJRS), (CJRS), commonly commonly referred referred to to as as ‘furlough’ ‘furlough’ was was introduced introduced by the UK Government in March 2020.

While relatively unheard of prior to the pandemic by the UK Government in March 2020. While relatively unheard of prior to the pandemic we we have, have, since March 2020, been consistently hearing or using this word. since March 2020, been consistently hearing or using this word.

In In this this article article Sheetul Sheetul Sowdagar Sowdagar from from Russell-Cooke Russell-Cooke gives gives some some top top tips tips to to wrap wrap your your head head around around furlough fraud and dealing with enquiries. furlough fraud and dealing with enquiries.

You may or may not know that the Oxford You may or may not know that the Oxford English Dictionary defines furlough as “to English Dictionary defines furlough as “to give somebody permission to leave their give somebody permission to leave their duties for a period of time”. duties for a period of time”.

In the press, we have seen increasing In the press, we have seen increasing mention of ‘furlough fraud.’ It has recently mention of ‘furlough fraud.’ It has recently been estimated that the UK Government been estimated that the UK Government is likely to write off £4.3 billion pounds in is likely to write off £4.3 billion pounds in furlough fraud. furlough fraud.

What What is is furlough furlough fraud? fraud?

Examples of furlough fraud could include: Examples of furlough fraud could include: • Furloughed staff being asked to • Furloughed staff being asked to continue to work; continue to work; • Claiming furlough pay for staff who • Claiming furlough pay for staff who did not qualify for the scheme; did not qualify for the scheme; • Claiming furlough pay for ‘made up’ • Claiming furlough pay for ‘made up’ staff; staff; • Over-claiming furlough pay; • Over-claiming furlough pay; • Not passing the full amount of furlough • Not passing the full amount of furlough pay to the furloughed employees; pay to the furloughed employees; • Deliberately providing false information • Deliberately providing false information to receive furlough pay from HMRC. to receive furlough pay from HMRC. While it is understood that only a very small While it is understood that only a very small minority intended to defraud HMRC, it is minority intended to defraud HMRC, it is known that HMRC have started ramping up known that HMRC have started ramping up their investigations and actively following their investigations and actively following up on tip-offs received. Many business up on tip-offs received. Many business owners in the UK who had accessed owners in the UK who had accessed

the furlough scheme to help retain their the furlough scheme to help retain their employees during the pandemic may employees during the pandemic may receive queries from HMRC. These could receive queries from HMRC. These could even be in cases where only legitimate even be in cases where only legitimate furlough claims had been made. furlough claims had been made.

show your intention of being cooperative, show your intention of being cooperative, but will also help address any issues, but will also help address any issues, without the need for escalation. without the need for escalation.

Help Help – – I’ve I’ve had had a a query query from from HMRC HMRC

This will allow you to refresh your memory This will allow you to refresh your memory and more importantly have all your and more importantly have all your documents ready to disclose to HMRC documents ready to disclose to HMRC if needed. if needed.

Below are some practical tips to help you Below are some practical tips to help you respond to any queries received. respond to any queries received.

Tip Tip 1: 1: Do Do not not panic! panic!

Understand that HMRC may be following Understand that HMRC may be following up leads or simply asking questions to up leads or simply asking questions to ensure that all claims made were done so ensure that all claims made were done so properly. properly.

Tip Tip 2: 2: Do Do not not bury bury your your head head in the sand. in the sand.

While it is easy to get distracted in While it is easy to get distracted in keeping the business running, it is keeping the business running, it is important to understand that this is not important to understand that this is not going to go away. If you cannot find time going to go away. If you cannot find time yourself to engage with HMRC, then make yourself to engage with HMRC, then make sure you instruct an adviser who can sure you instruct an adviser who can do so on your behalf. do so on your behalf.

It is often too easy to say that we ‘will deal It is often too easy to say that we ‘will deal with this later’ and soon enough a month or with this later’ and soon enough a month or more has gone by. It is always better to be more has gone by. It is always better to be proactive and start engaging with HMRC proactive and start engaging with HMRC as soon as possible. This will not only as soon as possible. This will not only

Sheetul Sheetul Sowdagar Sowdagar

Direct: Direct: +44 +44 (0)20 (0)20 7440 7440 4806 4806 Email: Sheetul.Sowdagur@russell-cooke.co.uk Email: Sheetul.Sowdagur@russell-cooke.co.uk

Tip Tip 3: 3: Make Make sure sure you you review review your your records and keep records and keep copies. copies.

Tip Tip 4: 4:

Be Be transparent. transparent.

In the event you realise that a mistake In the event you realise that a mistake has been made, or any overpayments has been made, or any overpayments have occurred, make sure you promptly have occurred, make sure you promptly inform HMRC. inform HMRC.

Tip Tip 5: 5: Keep Keep records records for for a a minimum of six minimum of six years. years.

Even if you were successful in addressing Even if you were successful in addressing any queries and the matter was any queries and the matter was subsequently resolved, do keep your subsequently resolved, do keep your records for a minimum of six years to assist records for a minimum of six years to assist you with any potential future queries. you with any potential future queries.

We We can can help help It goes without saying that if any actions It goes without saying that if any actions are being taken against you by HMRC, are being taken against you by HMRC, please seek independent legal advice please seek independent legal advice urgently. Contact our senior associate urgently. Contact our senior associate Sheetul Sowdagar in our professional Sheetul Sowdagar in our professional regulation team, for help. regulation team, for help.

russell-cooke.co.uk russell-cooke.co.uk +44 +44 (0)20 (0)20 8789 8789 9111 9111

technology

Your Business Security Journey When you start thinking about security technologies in business it can be quite overwhelming.

As a business owner you should consider your security posture: •

What your think about security technology in your business?

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When was the last time you did a risk assessment on your business?

•

When was the last time you did a risk assessment for your customers?

The Current Technology Security Landscape Cybersecurity is no longer about the future; it is centred on what’s happening today.

Analysts have been writing about threats for decades and businesses have been reading about them daily. Regulatory bodies have been discussing the need for change and governments have been leading with privacy legislation. Timeless

IMS focus on helping and managing clients to establish and meet privacy requirements and as the number of cybercrimes accelerates.

We also recognise it can be uncomfortable to talk to prospects and our clients about cybersecurity because they think they have all their bases covered with the most common objections being “It won’t happen to me” and/or “My data is not attractive to hackers”.

To help combat the rising threat of attacks on small and medium businesses, its increasingly necessary to consider security that starts at home. Turnkey solutions can provide a fully managed protection experience. Focused on discovering suspicious activity such as network changes, activity on key endpoints and servers, stolen credentials on the dark web, and suspicious O365 activity. We recognise and use a proven security architecture to ensure that our own infrastructure and all our managed client’s businesses are protected.

Below are 15 ways to protect your business from a Cyberattack: 1. Perform a Security Assessment

4. Train your users and tell them about data security, email attacks; Remind them of the businesses policies and procedures 5. Protect your computers with Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) 6. Utilise Multi-Factor Authentication 7. Keep all your devices up to date, especially Microsoft, Adobe and Java products 8. Subscribe to a Dark Web managed service, to know in real-time what password and accounts have been posted on the Dark Web 9. Use big data engines to review all event and security logs with Security Incident and Event Management (SIEM) 10. Cloud based security with Web Gateway Security to block threats before the reach the office network 11. Mobile Device Security

2. Secure your email

12. A Firewall with Intrusion Detection and Prevention

3. Apply security policies on your devices and network

13. Encryption, especially on mobile devices

14. Backup to a local device and to the cloud 15. Cyber Insurance to protect the business income and cyber damage recovery Businesses continue to face a rise in cyber security threats and with hybrid working models common across a considerable number of UK businesses, this is set to continue throughout 2022.

Timeless IMS aim to accelerate our client’s business growth.

Our aim is to keep you and your business Safe - Secure – Running - Growing.

Talk to Us - We work with clients who want to work with us on how technology can be used as an enabler within their business.

There are plenty of client of technology and IT companies out there that follow the commodity service levels and there are also many company owners that see their IT needs as a commodity service, with no respect, value or appreciation for what technology can do for their business.

For more of our articles please visit www.timelessims.co.uk/latest-news

Timeless IMS: Your outsourced IT Director Nothing stands still in the world of business.

For a limited time only, we are offering free hardware with Tech:friend Homeworker using the following link: https://bit.ly/30as8pw

LCCI

Photo by Moritz Kindler on Unsplash

Photo by Claudio Schwarz on Unsplash

Photo by David Rodrigo on Unsplash

Photo by Cedric Letsch on Unsplash

Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel on Unsplash

Photo by Lucas Davies on Unsplash

London builds bridges with overseas cities It’s fair to say that Richard Burge has had his travelling boots on recently. In the last few months, he has visited Hamburg and Berlin in Germany, Dubai, Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in a bid to build relationships with Chambers of Commerce and other key organisations in these localities.

It’s a bold, ambitious plan that Richard has been driving forward since assuming his current role as CEO of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) two years ago.

Essentially, these visits have been fact-finding missions, an attempt to explore synergies between these localities and London – still viewed internationally as a global destination for trade.

Ultimately, memorandums of understanding (MOUs) will be agreed with each Chamber before the implementation of three-year engagement plans that will, hopefully, boost trade between London and each of these overseas cities.

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He says: “We’re trying to create and maintain international relationships in a post-Brexit world. Despite all of the political rhetoric, London is a global, welcoming city with good connections to the outside world.

Essentially, we’re still the same outward-facing, pro-business city as we were before Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our engagement plans will be very specific and tailored to each city region; they won’t be a one-size-fits-all boilerplate. As I’ve been discovering in recent months, each city has its own strengths and challenges to overcome. My job is to see where the synergies and gaps are so we can build mutually beneficial relationships between London Chamber members and members in Chambers overseas.

I’ve learned something from all of the places I’ve visited. For example, there’s already something to work with in north Germany, where there are 4,500 British-owned businesses.

This gives us a strong foundation to build connections between Hamburg and London Chambers. Can we, for instance, facilitate more trade between SMEs in these two regions?

Can we get more small businesses here to export into north Germany?”

There are also clear synergies between London and Dubai, particularly the Thames Freeport, a major economic zone that connects Ford’s world-class Dagenham engine plant to the global ports at London Gateway and Tilbury.

Given that London Gateway is owned

by Dubai-headquartered DP World, there are opportunities to explore the trade of goods and services between London and Dubai, particularly as companies in the freeport can take advantage of tax benefits that make it easier and cheaper to move goods into and out of the country. This could

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

also encourage some Dubai firms to re-shore all or part of their operations to the freeport.

“I see opportunities everywhere,” says Richard. “Berlin is a significant city in the EU’s future and the business ecosystem in Los Angeles is quite similar to the one we have in London.

I also met the CEO of a San Diegobased tech business that has just launched an operation in London.

He stressed the importance of having a presence in the UK capital to position his company as an international business. We have to keep reminding ourselves of the attractiveness of London.

San Diego also has a strong trading relationship with Mexico, with good access to Mexico’s skilled labour force. Historically, this draws parallels between London and the EU, where the movement of labour has benefited both parties for many years.”

Equipping you for Lifelong Learning

skills

‘Lifelong learning is no longer a luxury but a necessity for employment.’ Jay Samit entrepreneur and former Vice Chairman at Deloitte Consulting.

By 2030 many of today’s school leavers will be embarking on jobs not in existence today. At Kingston College we recognise that innovating our curriculum is vital to equipping not only young people with the skills for their future careers but also our adult learners. Our flexible and dynamic courses meet the needs of a changing workforce and ensure that lifelong learning is at the heart of what we do.

What are the most enjoyable aspects or highlights of your course?

We spoke to John Betteridge, who is studying a Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship at Kingston College, about how the course has helped him excel in his position of Director of JVB Solutions, experts in residential and commercial electrical design, installation and maintenance across London and Surrey.

Time management has been the biggest issue, especially whilst dealing with Covid. Luckily my company is very supportive of the course and works with me to find the time required.

Working with the other managers and tutors on the course.

Can you provide examples of any particular achievements or describe how you have overcome any difficulties on your course so far?

How have your studies helped you in your current role?

To date I have found the biggest gain to be from Leading and Managing an Organisation, this module was the nearest to my day to day working role, and allowed me to reflect on how best to build a collaborative team derived from positive motivational techniques.

What are your hopes, goals and/or plans for the future?

To continue to grow and learn as a Project Manager and Director. To use the new skills I learn from completing my studies to assist my team and company to achieve the best from every given scenario.

Do you have any advice for other potential students looking to enrol?

The people I have met so far whilst completing my course, both students and tutors have been amazing. I can’t recommend the college/ university and the course highly enough. As an adult learner who has been out of the academic environment for well over a decade, I have found the move back into education much easier than I expected, this I attribute to everyone involved.

For specific information about this degree Apprenticeship, please email louise.haythornthwaite@stcg.ac.uk, our next course starts in Autumn 2022.

Why did you choose the course?

To gain a better understanding of managerial theory, whilst discussing live working environments with my peers.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

If you are an employer and interested in any of our Apprenticeships for your staff, please email our dedicated apprenticeship team at business@stcg.ac.uk

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

15 15

KINGSTON BOROUGH

BUSINESS

AWARDS 2021

Winners Announced!

Winners Announced!

It was our utmost pleasure to Digital, Marketing Local Independent Excellence in host the KBBA at All Saints, in Customer Service and Social Media Retailer the heart of Kingston. What Winner: Figment Agency Winner: Tony’s Fruit Stall Winner: Summers-Inman an atmosphere and coming together. The evening showed Category Sponsored by; Pictured: Steve Grant, Managing Director Pictured: Councillor John Sweeney (right), response to these inaugural awards has been “ Kingston University partner andand Leisure at Holland Hahn & Wills how theThe business community at Figment Agency with Lucy Kane, is a proud Portfolio Holder for Business Managing Director ofof Time & Leisure overwhelming with over 200 entries 14Managing sponsor the Kingston Kingston Borough Business Council, with Tony Goshawk, Tony’s can provide uplifting and Pictured: Chrisacross Hirsch (left), and Debbie Johnson categories.

The exceptional number submissions Awards. Once again, we Fruit areStall reminded of the www.figmentagency.com inspiring examples of what Partner, Hollandof Hahn & Wills, with Lee received, combined with the quality and strength of their diversity and commitment that our local Orchard, Director, Summers-Inman www.facebook.com/tonysfruitstall can happen in our Borough. entries from businesses ofwww.summers-inman.co.uk all sectors made the judges businesses bring to the community. The past I wouldexperience like to say aboth very big a challenging but rewarding one.

18 months have been a challenging time for all well done to our Winners. businesses, so we are particularly pleased to see “ Being a judge of Kingston Business Awards was the innovation and determination represented so Very well deserved and keep a fantastic experience. The standard of entrants strongly across the entries and in particular this raising that bar of excellence. was very year’s To our finalists, theyhigh, madedemonstrating excellence in their The awards process was incredibly well Professor Steven Spier, Vice Chancellor, Kingston University the judging so difficult so planned, diligent and transparent. I have no doubt they should recognise the best businesses have won but all of this Finalists will be invited to join sponsors and judges at the achievements in the year’s entrants are winners, displaying a unique celebration evening at All Saints Kingston on communities they work in. extraordinary resilience and creativity during a Thursday 17 March 2022 where the winners will be These Awards were a strong time of adversity.” announced. validation to using and Lucy Kane, Time & Leisure, Managing Director sourcing local businesses. “ This venue has a unique historical position in the heart of Kingston. It has hosted an eclectic, I would like to thank again our inclusive range of events as an important civic headline sponsor, Kingston center and it will provide the Awards a distinctive University, our Gold sponsors, and special sense of occasion”.

Kingston College and Kingston Forbes Low, CEO of Kingston Chamber of Commerce Council, and to all our Sponsors who have supported Health & Food and Creative and made this event happen.

A big thank you extends to the catering team of Nikki’s Kitchen, the compére Ryan Adam, our musician George Price and our media partners Time & Leisure.

Now to start planning the next KBBA!

16

Wellbeing

Effectiveness

Beverage

Winner: Ubitech Ltd

Winner: LeBoo Media Ltd The judging panel

Winner: Incognito Cocktail Bar

Pictured: Elise Sallis, Head of Communications & Culture, Wolters Kluwer, with Martin Booth of LeBoo Media

Pictured: Kirsten Henly (left), Chief Executive of Kingston First, with Hayley and Nick Robinson of Incognito Cocktail Bar

Category Sponsored by; Unilever Pictured: Katya Bridge (left), Senior Workplace Change & Comms Manager, Unilever UK & Ireland, with Aqib Mirza and Gordon Johnson, Ubitech Ltd

www.ubitechit.com

at Warren House,by; November 2021. Category Sponsored by; Category Sponsored Wolters Kluwer Kingston First

www.leboomedia.com

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

www.incognitobars.co.uk

Developing Young People Skills Winner: Sensational Kids Category Sponsored by; Kingston College Pictured: Aniesa Blore (left), Sensational Kids, with Stella RaphaelReeves, Vice Principal Higher Education and Business Partnerships at South Thames Colleges Group

www.sensationalkids.co.uk

Kingston Chamber Innovative Use of of Commerce Technology Winner: Ubitech Ltd Professional Category Sponsored by; Services IQ in IT Recognition Pictured: Blake Edwards (left), Winner: The HR Dept Category Sponsored by; Russell Cooke

Contribution to the Community Winner: Staywell Category Sponsored by; Pearson Hands

Operations Manager at IQinIT, with Aqib Mirza and Gordon Johnson, Ubitech Ltd

Pictured: Shane Brennan and Anne Bren, Staywell, with Claire Darby, Partner, Pearson Hards Solicitors

www.ubitechit.com

www.staywellservices.org.uk

Pictured: Rachel Stewart (left), Partner at Russell-Cooke Solicitors, with Sandra Porter, The HR Dept

www.hrdept.co.uk/elmbridge

Start Up of the Year

Sustainable Business

Outstanding Sole Trader/Freelancer

Resilience and Adaptation

Winner: JOLT LTD

Winner: SunrayRecycle

Winner: Brodies Dry Cleaners

Category Sponsored by; Kingston University

Category Sponsored by; Wilmott Dixon

Pictured: Ian Roberts (left), Head of Kingston Business School, with Martin Cook, Jolt Ltd.

Pictured: Mat Jones, Preconstruction Manager, Willmott Dixon, with Janine Martin, SunrayRecycle

Pictured: Dr Martha Mador, Head of Enterprise Education at Kingston University collecting the award on behalf of Brodies Dry Cleaners who could not attend the evening.

Winner: The Wych Elm Kingston

www.joltcharging.co.uk

www.secra.org.uk

www.brodiesdrycleaners.com

Category Sponsored by; Kingston Council Pictured: Matthew Essex (left), The Executive Director of Place, Kingston Council, with Michael Pearson and Charlotte Salaman, The Wych Elm Kingston

www.thewychelmkingston.co.uk

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

17

exp p

KingstonBusiness

Join us

23 June Free to attend 2022

23 June 2022

The Kingston Business Expo is back for 2022 as an in-person event.

Supporting • Inspiring Connecting

Kingston University Business Scho vibrant building provides the perfect setting for this enjoyable and unique day.

Supporting • Inspiring Connecting

Free for visitors, or book a stand and maximise on the opportunity to promote your business.

But do not take our word. Here are some views from attendees:

We are delighted to announce that our headline sponsors will be Kingston Council Kingston University and HSBC.

Headline Sponsors

The 2022 Expo will deliver the platform for you to showcase your company and offer you the opportunity to: •

engage with local networking and learn more from the benefits of using local suppliers

•

inform and understand the local borough conversations

•

stimulate business growth by providing informative and practical bite size seminars.

•

be involved with a host of different organisations and business sectors

Over 300 attendees come together from around the Borough and the wider surrey area, this event will bring more business opportunities into the south of the borough. Hosted at Kingston University Business School, one of the largest business schools in the UK, this modern and

18

It is clear that a great deal of effort was put into the show, the footfall and quality of footfall was the proof of this. In 2019, we exhibited at the show for a modest Silent Stage Sponsor investment of £300. Initially, five months later we received our first order and since then we have been rewarded with £6000 worth of revenue.

The Expo is a great event to showcase your business.

It proved to be the ideal way to get to know other businesses and find new clients/customers.

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

Keynote seminarsThe Royal Borough Future Skills

Kingston

Chamber of Comme

We welcome the Vice Principal of Kingston University, Professor Steven Spiers, will present a seminar on Future skills.

The UK faces a historic challenge – to emerge from this pandemic stronger with a more dynamic enterprise economy. The Future Skills report reveals employers believe a portfolio of skills for innovation is needed urgently for the UK to thrive, including problem-solving, communication and creativity.

“The creative industries make a substantial contribution to the UK economy, and crucially, they add value to other industries.

However, the importance of creativity and innovation to the future UK economy contradicts government declarations that university education for the creative industries is not important strategically, with reductions in funding no doubt to follow.

We asked employers about the challenge of remaining globally competitive over the next 10-20 years and the skills required to meet those challenges. The Future Skills report shows the overwhelming concern of the threat from emerging economies, and the greatest need was for creative problem-solving as well as adaptability, communication and analytical skills – these are the skills for innovation.”

This will be fascinating seminar and we look forward to hearing more on the day. Directly or indirectly, these issues will affect our businesses or the environment for the next generations.

Supporting SMEs in their transition to Net Zero We are delighted that HSBC will be a presenting a seminar on Supporting SMEs in their transition to Net Zero, presented

by Jenni Adams. Businesses have gone through various challenges during the last three years and one area that has become clear to them is that they need to adapt to is their approach to sustainability.

How SMEs can take advantage of new business opportunities and adapt to new circumstances, and how the banking sector can help, will be a part of this seminar.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Silent Speed Learning Stage Learn the secrets to success on the Silent Stage Multi award-winning business consultancy and professional services company, Business Clan, will be delivering a series of seminars on the Silent Stage.

Specialists from across their range of services will deliver 30-minute sessions where you can learn:

Take the guesswork out of business planning. Start with strategy

Finally, we have our Speed Networking which will be taking place throughout the day. Run by Omni Local Networking, this is a highly enjoyable and popular part of the day where you can sharpen your business sales pitch and meet new contacts, very quickly.

Register on the day to participate as spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first serve basis.

Bernice Choo, Marketing Strategist

Cash Flow Management Made Simple Shebu Miah, Accountant

How to consistently engage with your target audience on social media Leeza Morley, Digital Marketing Specialist

10 ways to improve your online success through Google Analytics Charlie Ketteman, Web & Digital Specialist

How to have conversations about mental health in the work place Dolina O’Neill, HR Consultant

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

19

THINK GREEN

environment SUPPORTED BY: The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Businesses have gone through various challenges during the last three years and one thing that has become clear to them is that they need to change.

They need to take advantage of new business opportunities and adapt to new circumstances, including increased costs and a shortage of resources.

Therefore, saving resources, such as energy and raw materials, and reducing the running costs of their business, while at the same time benefitting society and/or the environment, has become paramount.

Kingston Council, in partnership with Kingston Chamber of Commerce, has invited all businesses in and around the borough, to join our new THINK GREEN webinars. These are bite size programmes to help businesses understand growth opportunities in the green economy, building on the feedback and success of the Green Transition Roundtable discussions back in May 2021.

Led by a panel of business owners and specialists, they will share their specialism and practical experience.

THINK GREEN is open to SMEs, start-ups and students who want to learn or take the lead on green business growth and it is free to attend.

The webinars have looked at Green Groceries, Net Zero Hero and Decarbonising Transport and the May edition reviewed businesses who have achieved a Green Mark Certificate.

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Forbes Low, CEO of Kingston Chamber of Commerce, says “It has been my real pleasure to be the facilitator on these THINK GREEN webinars. I have learnt so much from the guests and they have opened my eyes to the ways I can change my own personal behaviour and start behaving in more sustainable ways. It isn’t about the big gestures, it is all the small steps that can make an economical and greener dfference. The guests really have been inspiring.”

Keep an eye out for these informative webinars on the Kingston Chamber and Kingston Council communications and website.

ask the expert

What are the business benefits of hosting a corporate awayday or staff teambuilding event?

By Donna Winning, founder of Donna Winning Events These events improve communication, morale and mental and physical health. They increase productivity, motivation and confidence levels.

They encourage creativity and build trust and respect throughout the team.

By appreciating your staff and encouraging the development of skills and collaboration, any business is going to prosper. Events are also lots of fun!

The benefits of holding team events are huge!

The last two years have been tough on everybody: working from home, juggling childcare and home schooling, sharing limited Wi-Fi whilst on a Zoom call when the doorbell rings. The only positives have been living in pyjamas and choosing a virtual background for conference calls!

During this time, your employees are likely to have been stressed and tired after a long time of working hard under pressure. Teambuilding activities and awaydays are one way to get your staff working together and realise their potential.

Lots of businesses overlook team bonding exercises either because of the expense or the time it takes to organise and attend them.

However, the most successful companies take full advantage of it and reap the long-term rewards.

As you can see, teambuilding activities are not just for a jolly day out of the office – they’re an essential part of the business and a brilliant way to get your staff motivated. Don’t let their efforts go unnoticed; instead, reward them with an incentive. It may not be a beach retreat but a day out locally to forget work for the day will do wonders for them and your organisation.

Donna Winning Events organises a variety of events including festivals, concerts, conferences, conventions, weddings, formal parties, intimate gatherings and celebrations. We plan bespoke events and focus on exceeding expectations.

We take pride in providing excellent one-to-one customer service, doing the little things that go above and beyond.

I started Donna Winning Events after ten years of working in the events industry because I’m passionate about what I do. I get the opportunity to meet some wonderful people across the world and share their stories. I love the uniqueness of each client’s ideas and having the ability to make them come to life. All of our clients and events

inspire me but the ones I appreciate most are the ones that test our abilities and allow us to grow.

Corporate events don’t always need to have cocktail tables and your name in lights. We can help you to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Whether it’s planning an incentive retreat, gala dinner, or Christmas party, we’ll think outside the box and suggest ideas that are personable yet professional and tailored to your brand’s image. When working with us, you’ll have the best venues and vendors.

Our team will handle the event logistics, supplier sourcing and onsite management, leaving you to focus on engaging with your guests.

The pandemic has already massively changed the way we look and run events; there was no choice but to evolve with technology and run virtual events during the last couple of years.

Already this year we’ve seen a huge increase in events and event budgets, where people just want to get together and have a good time with friends, family, employees and clients. This year is the busiest year for events in 40 years!

Our clients are celebrating occasions they wouldn’t have done usually, just because they now can. The last two years have taught us that we need to be on the ball more than ever and always have a plan B. It’s crucial to know your identity as a business and that it’s okay to say no.

We specialise in live, in-person events because it’s what we enjoy most. As a business, you don’t need to be the best at everything; just specialise in what you’re good at.

‘Make Something Extraordinary’ 07715 570967 | www.Donnawinningevents.com @donnawinningevents | contact@donnawinningevents.com The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

21

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profile

Monica Bradley is the founder and Managing Director of Surrey-based award-winning mortgage broker, MB Associates. Monica formed her company over 20 years ago and has grown the business considerably since her early days as a young mortgage broker.

Monica now has 19 people working in her Cheam-based firm and remains as passionate about her business today as when she first started. She is about to open a third office and has more plans for expansion.

Monica tells Borough Business magazine how she has achieved success…

I’m often asked what leads to success. There were some key things that helped me build and grow my business. The first was having a clear vision of what I wanted my future to look like.

I started in financial services in 1987 and knew that I didn’t want to work for anyone else. I started advising clients on mortgages and financial protection, as well as investments, inheritance tax planning and wills and trusts.

However, I became best-known for offering mortgage advice, so I chose to focus on that.

We’ve had success as a business quite simply because we provide a consistent and reliable service. If your business has a good reputation, people will tell their friends about you.

I personally enjoy dealing with people and have always been able to find new clients as I’ll chat to

anyone! Over the years, I’ve employed a proactive approach with clients and encourage my staff to do the same.

I made a lot of sacrifices when building my business. In my early career days, I became known for being late to parties as I was always working!

I’m often asked what it’s like to work in a maledominated industry. I’ve been strong, and have stuck to what I believe in, and I haven’t had any issues. I genuinely don’t think about it as I’ve always been treated as a professional who is well-regarded.

As a business, we’re used to dealing with a variety of people. Some clients face difficult financial situations. We’ve also helped older borrowers who have ended long-term relationships and thought they were too old to get a new mortgage.

These days I focus more on growing the business, rather than working in it, and I’ve been able to do this because I have a great team. My staff genuinely want to provide the best possible service for our clients. We always recommend what is right for the client, even if it means telling them it’s not in their best interests to buy a property straight away.

During these difficult times of rising costs, it’s more important than ever to serve our clients well. We feel very strongly about ensuring all

clients pay the lowest amount of interest on their mortgage, for the lifetime of the mortgage.

To succeed as an entrepreneur, having stamina and an appetite for hard work are both essential, along with a positive attitude. When things go wrong you need to focus on finding a solution rather than focusing on the problem.

Learn from the best. Find other people in your chosen field and ask what they did to be successful. This knowledge could help you achieve your goals much faster.

Have an open mind. Always keep learning as the business world doesn’t stand still. If I learn one new thing from a meeting, that meeting has been worthwhile. Think outside the box and be creative in your thinking.

Diversify if you can and think about other ways you can serve your clients. We’ve recently started offering mortgage clinics for companies as part of their employee benefits package. We go into businesses and offer free workshops for their employees to ensure they are getting the most competitive rate on their mortgage. What better way to help someone for the first time than to save them money?

More Information Visit www.mbassociates.net or call 020 8652 5240

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

23

chamber events

Upcoming events As we look ahead to the early summer, Kingston Chamber provides a range of events to cater for sole traders, freelancers, start-ups to well established businesses. We have kept some online networking but we see and hear a greater appreciation for the simple value of talking in person again.

The dates in the diary are: Tuesday 7th June New Malden Business Forum Wednesday 8th June Wych Elm Networking Thursday 23rd June Kingston Business Expo Tuesday 28th June Curry Night Friday 1st July Speed Networking Friday 8th July Networking Lunch Thursday 14th July Networking Breakfast Wednesday 27th July Wych Elm Networking

What does the Kingston Chamber membership mean?

Each month, I get to welcome and meet business owners at our Chamber Introduction meeting. It is an enjoyable discussion as I get to know new business personalities and how the Chamber can be of value to them.

One of the most common questions is ‘How do I get the most out of my Chamber membership?’.

The value and purpose of the Chamber does vary for many each member but there are three key areas that I believe answer the question.

24

1

the purpose of any business networking is to enhance your opportunities of gaining work. New business does not happen overnight (as much as we dearly wish it could).

It needs effort, consistency and demonstrating what your business can offer. Networking makes a big difference as people get to meet you, build a relationship and develop trust. Getting involved in Chamber activities builds that familiarity and that, we hope, may then develop into new work opportunities.

2

by being involved in the Chamber, it can offer local suppliers who can support your business, or in your domestic life. I often say that if a problem is resolved at home, such as plumbing or boiler services, it can free you up to concentrate on with your business. Using the Chamber network of advisors and skills is very rewarding. There is considerable business talent in the Borough. By extending your network, it also encourages you to form new friendships. Many of the ties in the borough are founded on friendships.

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

3

by being a part of the Chamber membership, you can learn and understand what really goes on in your local business areas. This sense of community engagement is a message I am hearing more often. In this tough year, it is the appreciation and valuing of our local community; what it offers, how it has pulled people together and creates a sense of purpose.

The Chamber encourages new members to embrace these three points to get the most out of their membership. It does take time, but this journey can be enjoyable and rewarding. There is an American business speaker, Zig Zagler, and the name is real, and one of his quotes is so true.

“If people like you, they’ll listen to you, but if they trust you, they’ll do business with you.”

COUNTY HALL KINGSTON

UPCOMING EVENTS. KINGSTON: A HOME FOR GOOD BUSINESS

JOIN US

AT COUNTY HALL KINGSTON

25 MAY

Explore the core principles of conducting ‘good’ business, and the steps existing businesses can take to increase their positive impact.

KINGSTON: A PLACE TO START YOUR BUSINESS

08 JUN

Learn about the resources and support available for those wanting to start a business, and why Kingston is the ideal location for launching your enterprise.

LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP HERE

County Hall, Kingston: Where History Meets Innovation

is going through seismic changes in working patterns, “ London commuting is in decline, entrepreneurship is growing. These trends present new opportunities for Kingston’s business community. ” Join our business events at County Hall and help shape the future of business for Kingston.

countyhallkingston.co.uk/events

RESPECTING HERITAGE.

STIMULATING THE ECONOMY.

the big interview

County Hall, Kingston: Where History Meets Inn The Trampery is a purpose-led enterprise dedicated to making business a positive force in society.

Join them in celebrating Kingston’s business community at the County Hall this summer, where you can meet local business owners and share your vision for the future of business.

The History of County Hall, Kingston County Hall has a long history. Designed by Charles Henry Howell and built by Higgs and Hill, the building was completed in 1893 and remained in use by the county council until its relocation to Reigate in 2020.

The original 1893 building, along with the 1930s Vincent Harris wing and the central courtyard will be placed at the heart of this new mixed-use development. Historic England, which prepared a detailed Heritage Impact Statement, supports the project which includes the demolition of two dilapidated buildings erected in the middle of the 20th century.

Sensitive design and appropriate sustainable uses will protect the listed building. The intention is not to alter it, internally or externally, but rather to transform the interiors through careful cleaning and redecoration.

The beautiful terrazzo flooring, historic signage, decorative detailing and bespoke fixtures and fittings will enhance the workspaces. This type of distinctive and characterful workplace is proving highly attractive to businesses, particularly those within the creative industries that, over the last decade, have been some of the fastest-growing sectors of the economy.

A Vision for the Future The restoration of the Grade II* listed building at County Hall and the creation of flexible workspaces for up to 600 people, along with podcast rooms, studios, an events hub and a café, will safeguard one of Kingston’s most significant buildings. In addition to conserving, preserving and protecting County Hall’s heritage for future generations, the scheme will also bring immediate, significant, benefits to Kingston’s business community and the local economy. This will be an outstanding new business destination for the town.

The events space, set within the impressive Court Room and Council Chamber, will be available for community use – for meetings, talks

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or lectures. These former civic spaces will also be available to local community organisations and charities at an affordable rate. Many of the areas within the listed building and the landscaped setting will be publicly accessible on a regular basis for the first time in the building’s history.

From Call the Midwife and Downton Abbey to Top Boy and The Bill, County Hall has been the set of an impressive range of TV and film productions.

Bringing it back as a film location offers fantastic opportunities for the local economy with £3.25 million per annum generated across hotels and catering as well as the potential for local employment and apprenticeships in the film industry.

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

novation

London is going through seismic changes in working patterns.

Commuting is in decline, entrepreneurship is growing, and people are prioritising work-life balance and seeking locations where they are able to experience a natural environment every day.

Introducing The Trampery

A Sustainable Future for Kingston

The Trampery, a highly acclaimed enterprise with a strong social and environmental conscience has joined the partnership at County Hall. Founded in 2009, the organisation currently operates six workspaces in London and, in addition to winning Best Workspace Provider in the UK Business Awards, it is one of only nine operators to receive The Mayor Of London’s Open Workspace accreditation.

This is sustainable development at its best with energy-efficient heating systems, solar panels. the highest sustainable drainage system, cycle storage and a car club, The new setting has been landscaped in a way that will promote post-Covid well-being, both physical and mental. With sensory planting, soft landscaping promoting biodiversity, seating areas and play areas, this is a place for people of all ages to meet, socialise and spend time outdoors.

The Trampery is excited to have County Hall as its first venue in the west of London. At the forefront of changing working practices in London, The Trampery is committed to providing a succession of unique projects, each of which presents an opportunity to develop innovative solutions that address changing needs.

It delivers accelerator programmes for entrepreneurs, both start-ups and scale-ups and has developed successful solutions for an impressively broad range of contexts from large-scale new developments to heritage refurbishments, from affordable workspace to high-spec event facilities and meeting rooms for community groups. Often, as in the case of County Hall, it will bring together developers, local authorities, universities, corporate partners and cultural institutions.

“London is going through seismic changes in working patterns. Commuting is in decline, entrepreneurship is growing, and people are prioritising work-life balance and seeking locations where they are able to experience a natural environment every day. All these trends present new opportunities for Kingston’s business community. The Trampery is excited to be part of this project to transform County Hall and create a vibrant new business campus for Kingston’s future.”

Charles Armstrong, Founder and CEO, The Trampery.

Opportunities for Business There is no doubt that the establishment of a new creative cluster for Kingston within this heritage location will generate local employment opportunities and create a need for local products, services and resources. Indeed, it is estimated that the redevelopment of the County Hall site will attract in the region of £160 million in direct capital investment into Kingston.

The project will also create up to 540 new jobs over the period of construction and, in total, site preparation and construction are expected to add a gross value in the region of £22.3 million to the county’s economy. The new residential and commercial communities at County Hall will also increase trade for local retail outlets, for Kingston’s leisure and hospitality industries and for the town’s night-time culture.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

With close proximity to the town centre and excellent transport links on hand, it is likely that those who work – or live – at County Hall will choose to use sustainable modes of transport when travelling – whether that’s cycling, walking or taking the bus or train. A recent assessment has indicated that more than 75% of travel on the part of people working or living at County Hall will be sustainable.

“There is no doubt that the Covid-19 pandemic had a significant effect on the local economy which will be felt for years – and this has presented new challenges.

With The Trampery’s arrival in Kingston, the creation of jobs, the provision of space to work and hold meetings and events and even peaceful places to take a break from the computer, will help boost the local economy,” says local resident and business owner Eric Holding.

“Business is at the heart of Kingston’s community.

In addition to a thriving and supportive business community and a popular university, Kingston has a business school offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across a variety of disciplines. It would be highly satisfying to keep this talent pool within Kingston, ensuring that those who want to start their own businesses have the space and support to help them flourish.”

“In its community plan, Kingston Borough set out its vision that the Royal Borough will continue to be one of the very best places to live and work, a place where people are happy, healthy and enjoy a good quality of life in a clean safe and tolerant environment where business is prosperous. We hope County Hall Kingston will have a part to play in the realisation of this vision, help to maintain the town’s position as a successful Metropolitan Centre, and improve the vitality and viability of the district.”

The plans for the redevelopment of Surrey County Hall are currently in the formal process of being evaluated and reviewed by Kingston Council.

Join us for a series of business events at County Hall, Kingston this summer and help shape the future of business for Kingston. For further information on the events and the County Hall vision, please visit the website on www.countyhallkingston.co.uk

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

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news BCC: interest rate rise “illtimed” as economic outlook weakens The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has criticised the decision by the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to raise interest rates.

Interest rates rose for the third time in four months in March as the Bank of England made efforts to ease the cost of living crisis. The most recent increase, from 0.5% to 0.75%, means that rates are now at their highest level for two years.

Suren Thiru, head of economics at the BCC, said: “The decision to raise interest rates, while expected, looks ill-timed against a backdrop of growing domestic and global headwinds, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

While interest rates remain low by historic standards, the latest rise will be viewed by many as a further step in a prolonged period of aggressive monetary tightening at a time when consumers and businesses are struggling under a myriad of rising cost pressures.

Increasing interest rates will do little to curb the global causes behind this inflationary surge and risks intensifying the headwinds facing the UK economy by damaging confidence and deepening the financial squeeze on consumers and businesses.”

The BCC has called on the Chancellor to tackle the escalating cost of doing business by delaying the national insurance rise and introducing a temporary energy price cap for small businesses.

“This would give firms the headroom to keep a lid on prices, protect jobs and make investment that is so vital to sustaining our economic prospects,” said Suren Thiru.

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Council funds local schemes to support green economic recovery A total of £300,000 has been awarded to 18 local businesses for innovative initiatives that support growth and help develop the borough’s green economy.

The money has been made available through Kingston Council’s new Recovery, Adaptation and Innovation Support for Enterprise (RAISE) grant scheme. The funding will support the borough’s post-pandemic economic recovery and help to take action to tackle climate change.

The successful initiatives range from funding staff bicycles and e-bicycles to allow carers to attend calls in a carbon-neutral manner, to saving honeybee trees which otherwise would have faced destruction.

Councillor Andreas Kirsch, leader of Kingston Council, said: “At a time when the impact of the pandemic is still real for many businesses and tackling climate change has taken on an even greater urgency in our lives, the new RAISE grant scheme has been designed to help boost recovery and generate opportunities that will benefit individual businesses and stimulate the growth of our green economy.

The RAISE grant scheme is part of the council’s drive to create opportunities for businesses of all shapes and sizes to thrive and harness the spirit of innovation across the borough. More than 70 applications were received from across the borough, ranging from early-stage businesses and inventions in development to mature businesses looking to innovate.

Businesses were invited to respond to a range of criteria. These included what they need to do to recover strongly from the past 18 months, how they could adapt to new working conditions and how they could respond to new challenges and opportunities such as tech advances and changing customer needs. They were also asked to consider how they could innovate through new products, services, or fresh thinking to boost performance or resource efficiency.

“Our local area has never been so important.

We’re committed to creating a future that enables economic growth, that’s digital, smart, environmentally friendly and has the infrastructure needed to support living and working locally.”

Creative hub to offer opportunities for entrepreneurs and young people Exciting plans to turn the basement of the John Lewis Partnership building on Kingston Riverside into a new creative hub and affordable coworking and business support space are taking shape.

The scheme, which will bring new opportunities for the borough’s entrepreneurs and young people, is part of Kingston Council’s heritage-led Transform Kingston programme. The council is working with business development expert Town Square Spaces, local arts charity Creative Youth and the John Lewis Partnership to deliver the space.

One part of the Kingston Riverside space will provide affordable workspaces for local entrepreneurs and start-ups. Town Square will deliver a programme of business support and expert advice sessions to drive entrepreneurship and support business growth. Over the next ten years, this will enable the creation of at least 500 new jobs across the local economy.

Next to this, Creative Youth will manage a creative hub that will inspire young people, emerging artists and the wider community to get

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

involved in the arts. It will be a space for people from different artistic disciplines to learn from each other and showcase their ideas, and will be open to the entire community to enjoy.

The scheme also includes improvements to the public space around the building. In conversations with the community about how the area could be improved, poor lighting and accessibility were highlighted as key issues.

Based on this feedback, new lighting is being installed along the front of the building and at the entrance to the old nightclub to make the area safer and more inviting. The raised brick platform in front of the building is being lowered and planters are being removed to make the area more accessible to everyone. Plug sockets are also being installed to enable the space to be used for public performances.

news

Kingston’s net zero journey showcased at Barwell business breakfast The innovation and

ambition underpinning the business drive in Kingston to reach net zero has been highlighted at the latest Barwell Business Breakfast run in partnership with Kingston Chamber of Commerce.

Delegates enjoyed a vegetarian breakfast at unit 50 Barwell Business Park and listened to speakers including event Chair/Chamber CEO, Forbes Low and Aviva Investors/ Barwell Asset Manager, Ken Butcher (pictured).

Ken told the even on 4 March: “Aviva Investors is committed to being net zero by 2040. Clearly it is a substantial task, but at Barwell this includes looking at sustainability credentials when constructing new buildings, making common areas

and common paths as sustainable as possible, and also ensuring that, when a building becomes vacant, the refurbishment is done with green and sustainable considerations front of mind. For example, ensuring the EPC [Energy Performance Certificate] is improved.

“Other considerations are the capacity to add solar panels to roofs, EV chargers, all-electric heating to offices and LED lighting ideally on sensors, metering, data management and remote access so we understand how much we’re using and how we can manage it.”

“We expect the unit to offer a high specification for a headquarter type unit of about 29,000 sq ft, which we hope will set the standard for future refurbishment of this estate,” Ken explained.

“We’re looking at triple glazed windows, superb insulation in the roof and the fact it’s down to structure gives us the

Team and Relationship Building, Wellbeing and Corporate Events at Kingston Rowing Club

opportunity to go that much further than you would if you were doing a more standard refurbishment.”

The Economic Recovery Task Force, set up by Kingston Council and drawing on expertise from partners including Kingston University, and Barwell Business Park, is supporting the borough’s green economy.

committed to tackling the climate emergency. We’re setting ourselves our own target to meet net zero on all operations on our estate by 2030, and then for the borough by 2038.

This will be very challenging and that is the challenge for our community and businesses – how we’re going to do that. We really want you to join us in this massive challenge.”

Kingston Council’s Green Economic Recovery Lead, Ioanna Rossi, said: “What is the call to action for businesses? What is the corporate vision? There are two elements. One is what you can do as businesses to decarbonise and reduce the negative impact on the environment. And the second is what you can do to take this as an opportunity to grow, to innovate, and to be ahead of the game.”

Kingston Council’s Assistant Director of Regeneration & Economic Recovery, Duncan Brown, added: “The council is very

HIGH QUALITY WAREHOUSE/ R & D/INDUSTRIAL UNITS IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE TO LET

Is your aim to work on team dynamics, boost morale and build closer connections between your colleagues, perhaps more so in these days of home and “hot desk” working? Is your aim to find relationship building projects that feel “miles away” from the stresses and strains of your working desk and boost well being? Or, is your aim to have some (mentally and physically) energetic fun with colleagues or clients?

The great news is that the experienced coaches at Kingston Rowing Club have teamed up to provide top class (and catered) learn to row (full or half) days that are tailored to make sure that your boxes are all ticked when it comes to giving you all you might need from a healthy outdoor team and relationship building event.

People rightly say that rowing is the ultimate team sport - the more you operate in sync with other members of your crew, the quicker and smoother the boat moves in the right direction. The perfect metaphor for the way you would like your team and your client relationships to perform!

And, of course, it’s great fun too.

Kingston Rowing Club (a not for profit community sports club with members ranging from 11 to 80+ and providing subsidised access to rowing for juniors from many of Kingston’s local schools) would be delighted to welcome businesses wishing to invite their staff and/ or clients to a very different kind of relationship building event. Our purpose-built boathouse sits right on the most attractive and calmest part of the River Thames (non-tidal water that’s easier and smoother to row on) and we have a delightful bar and balcony, with sunset views, where end of the day experiences can be swapped and enjoyed.

For further information please follow this link www.kingstonrc.co.uk/team-building-corporate-events for more information, discuss your options and pricing.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Clear height of 3.55m to underside of haunch and 5.48m to apex

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BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

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11/04/2022 17:31:06

health and wellbeing

Photo by Darius Bashar on Unsplash

WELLBEING WITHIN THE WORKPLACE

By Reeta Minhas-Judd

The majority, of people spend more time at work than at home and therefore their wellbeing within the workplace is pivotal. As an employer, it is our duty of care to ensure that our workforce is in a good place mentally.

If you notice that your employee’s mood may be changing, and they are not being as efficient in their duties or if they are not as focused on their jobs. Maybe they are taking time off when previously their attendance record was impeccable.

I implore you to consider your plan of action before going in with rage and frustration, it could be that they are just bored with their job role and need motivating, or it could be something which runs far deeper than that.

All businesses look to make financial gain understandably, but at what cost? With the aftermath of Covid and the stress it has had on our mental health, it is not surprising that so many

are now suffering with issues and concerns which they have previously not experienced. This in turn will impact on their efficiency at work. If you see an employee struggling and becoming introverted, be kind and show compassion. It could be something as simple as they are struggling with a workrelated issue, or it could run deeper. As a Life therapist I can recognise when somebody is just generally unhappy or if it runs to a far deeper level.

What was not considered during the lockdowns was how it would impact on individual’s mindset.

It was prudent for the government to want everybody to stay at home to contain the spread of the virus, but this in turn has affected the

mentality of people’s outlook. In hindsight, who would have thought that the conformity of staying in the secure surroundings of your own home would have been so detrimental. My workload has increased exponentially in the past few months, this is a telling sign that peoples mental health is suffering.

I would urge anybody who is finding that they are just not able to move forward with life and are experiencing daily struggles to please contact me and take advantage of my skills with the offer of a FREE Life therapy session which will cost you nothing financially but could help you move forward with your life and save your sanity.

I am Reeta Minhas-Judd I am a Life Therapist I have run my own wellbeing company, RMJ Wellbeing, for the past three years.

My focus is primarily on the positive health and wellbeing of my client’s. Whether you are a business or an individual struggling mentally, my ultimate goal is to help you to enjoy a happy existence.

If you would like a taster of how I can h help, why not book a FREE 90 minute Life Therapy Session and make your dreams a reality!

For more information visit www.rmjwellbeing.com or email me on reeta@rmjwellbeing.com I look forward to assisting you with your health and wellbeing requirements.

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BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

health and wellbeing

Top ways Pilates can help improve your overall health Pilates is a simple form of exercise that anyone can do, regardless of your age or fitness level. If you are not already aware of what Pilates is or how it can improve your health and wellbeing here are the top reasons you should start practicing Pilates.

in Kingston

PILATES

If you have ever experienced pain then you will fully understand how difficult simple, everyday tasks can be, let alone a 10k run. Pain can significantly change your lifestyle and can feel soul destroying if you are used to being active. If you suffer with pain you are not alone – 80% of adults in the UK experience back pain at some point in their lives. ‘How to reduce back pain” is one of the most Googled searches online. Practicing the Pilates repertoire of exercises regularly can alleviate back pain. The focus of the practice is on building back strength, mobility, flexibility, precision of movement and core strength. Pilates exercises are safe and reformative and will provide you with results that will help you lead a more active lifestyle free from the limitations of pain.

2. It Strengthens Your core

Pilates is particularly good for your core and stability muscles. The core muscles are a crucial part of the physique because their function is to keep your body stable, support your back muscles and internal organs. A weak core can have a negative effect on your quality of life.

Pilates exercises can target your core muscles and improve your balance, keep your back healthy and reduce your overall risk of injury. It will greatly enhance your movement during daily activities, such as walking gardening or general housework. You will also feel the benefits when you do other, more physical activities like tennis or running, as shown by Andy Murray and Allyson Felix – two Olympic gold medallists in their respective sports who practice Pilates.

3. Stress Management and Relaxation

The body-mind practice of Pilates synchronises movement and breath. Focusing on breathing and its related physical and psychological benefits like regulating the nervous system, for example. Performing these exercises increases your body awareness and concentration, bringing you into the present moment to give you a sense of calmness and emotional contentment.

The mindfulness nature of Pilates can reduce stress, increase mood-boosting hormones and help you become more resilient to life’s challenges. The Pilates method can ultimately restore your overall sense of wellbeing and happiness.

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Pilates is a controlled exercise performed in conjunction with deep breathing that aims to train the whole body and mind, improving posture and “body awareness” regardless of your current physical condition.

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The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

ering packages for Reformer and Matwork classes Please ask at Reception

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BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community and matwork sessions

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We care about choice

We care about interaction

We care about dignity

We Care For Your Loved Ones We are passionate about care At The White House Nursing Home in New Malden, we specialise in providing high quality nursing, palliative and specialist care to our residents.

The White House Nursing Home is rated as “Outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission and is also accredited with the GSF (Gold Standard Framework) with ‘platinum’ status for providing recognised standards of care for all residents right up to the end of their lives.

All our care is provided by qualified, experienced and devoted nurses and care assistants through tailored and person-centred care plans.

Digital care planning allows family to see what their loved one is doing ‘live’ through a relatives gateway and care plans can be reviewed online.

Activities can contribute to the integrity of an individuals health and wellbeing which is why social interaction and engagement is an integral part of life at TWHNH.

Please get in touch for further details.

Here at The White House Nursing Home in New Malden, Surrey, we specialise in providing quality nursing care for the elderly.

Our philosophy is to create a secure, happy and homely atmosphere for our valued residents and staff.

Our 30 bed nursing home comprises of individually and beautifully decorated rooms equipped with a range of facilities that include ceiling hoists, 24 hour call-bell systems, digital TV as well as wi-fi.

We are registered to care for a range of nursing needs and provide exceptional, personalised standards of care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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health and wellbeing

Pedalling rush: how to treat cycling injuries Cycling has become one of the most popular outdoor activities during spring. Its health benefits are numerous, improving muscle strength and endurance, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, and preventing obesity. However, cyclists often find themselves prone to injuries caused by a sustained suboptimal posture.

Although knee and foot problems are fairly frequent in cyclists, according to a recent study that analysed Tour de France athletes’ injuries, upper limb fractures were the most common.

Injuries can be categorised into tendon, bone, joint and nerve-related problems.

and using the brake or gear pedals. Nerve related problems, including Carpal tunnel syndrome, can be exacerbated by the prolonged hyperextension posture of your wrist during cycling. Osteoarthritis is a common joint-related condition, particularly at the base of your thumb, aggravated by hand positioning during cycling. And the common collarbone or clavicle fracture occurs when the rider tumbles over the handlebars, with the resultant force on the arm and shoulder girdle leading to a break in this bone. “ Fortunately, there are many prevention techniques and surgical and non-surgical treatments available.

“Conservative treatment usually suffices for tendonitis and bursitis - continues Prof Imam - including injections and physiotherapy. If the non-operative options fail, Arthroscopic (key-hole) or minimally invasive surgery can be your next option. Fractures can be treated with anatomic correction of the displaced bone and placement of screws and plates to allow for a rapid recovery of function with essentially no long-term deficit.”

The three reconstructive techniques most common for upper limb procedures include traditional open surgery, arthroscopic repair, and mini-open repair.

During arthroscopy, your surgeon will insert a small camera called an arthroscope into your joint that will display pictures on a television screen. All-arthroscopic (Key-hole) repair is the least invasive method, so it is associated with quick recovery.

If your injury is large or complex, or if surgery is undertaken outside the joint, a traditional open surgical incision is often required.

Professor Mo Imam, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at New Victoria Hospital, says, “Upper limb injuries are fairly common in cyclists.

Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons that can be aggravated by gripping the handlebars The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

In replacement surgery, the damaged parts of your joint will be removed and replaced with artificial components, called a prosthesis. The treatment options include replacing just one part of your joint or both sides of the joint, like replacing the ball and the socket.

Tips for preventing upper limb cycling injuries To minimise your risk of hand, wrist and other upper limb injuries while cycling this spring, here are a few helpful tips to get you on your way: • Adjust your bicycle to fit your build/ stature.

Appropriately sized frames, handlebar and seat heights will improve your ability to control your bike and reduce your risk of injury.

• Change riding positions. Slight variations in your position can reduce overstressing muscles and pressure points on your body.

• Stretch. Stretching is too often neglected, and this can reduce the effectiveness of exercise because better flexibility results in better fitness.

If you are concerned about symptoms or need further information, please call New Victoria Hospital on 020 8949 9020 or visit newvictoria.co.uk

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

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David Symons JOLT LTD

www.joltcharging.co.uk Our goal is to make the journey to EV ownership an effortless and informative one. We put customers first in everything that we do, and we don’t take money upfront, we don’t overpromise, we don’t leave the job until every customer is 100% satisfied with the installation and this has proved to be a winning formula for us.

Our HQ is still the shed at the bottom of my garden, but we are hoping to move to somewhere with running water quite soon!!

We are Electric vehicle charging point installation specialists. Installing charge points for owners of electric vehicles both domestically and commercially.

Having started Jolt just over a year ago, we now have five employees, have won two awards, ‘Start Up of the year’ and ‘EV Installer of the year’ and are on course for a turnover of over £1m in our second year.

In the next couple of months, we will be launching Franchise opportunities throughout the UK, meaning we will be able to support many more people on their journey to EV Ownership. and just as importantly help to fulfil the dreams of people to become the proud owner of their own business.

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What has been your greatest business success to date?

We knew our biggest obstacle would be raising the awareness of our brand in a sector with business with massively deep pockets. To have achieved the phenomenal sales growth that we have in just 12 months makes us very proud.

What gives your business ‘the x-factor’?

We would also say still being around after a year and not losing all our cash has to be close second!!

We set out from the beginning that we would be an honest company, with good morals and a genuine approach to everything that we do.

This has proved to be a successful approach with the busines now having over 150 five-star reviews both within Trustpilot and Google and it has allowed us to become a ‘Which approved’ installer, giving us the credibility to go up against the big players in the sector

What has been your lowest moment?

What motivated you to set up in business?

Tell us a bit about your business?

ago, thinking about if we should set this up or not where we are now, that is an amazing feeling.

We had been looking for some time for a business opportunity within a growth sector, which was scalable and one that that could have a positive impact on people’s lives. When the Government announced a little while ago that there would be a phasing out of petrol and diesel vehicles over the next 10 years it got us thinking that there must be a business opportunity somewhere here for us. After much research we felt there was a gap in the market and jolt was formed.

What do you like most about working for a start-up?

Creating something from scratch that no one else has done is the best feeling ever. It does not feel like work when you are doing something you really enjoy, we have obviously had our ups and downs but when we look back to where we were a year

BOROUGH BUSINESS - The voice of Kingston’s business community

I don’t think there has been a specific low moment, I would say that it is very easy to underestimate the amount of work needed to set up a business from scratch, so I would say work life balance was probably the biggest challenge.

In terms of business achievements, where do you want to be within the next year 5 years?

Our goal is to become a trusted a national brand for not just EV installations but also for Solar Panels, heat Pumps and other technologies that will support homeowners and business owners on their journey into renewable energy.

What would be your top tip to someone thinking of starting up their own business?

The biggest thing that we have learnt is that you don’t have to be brilliant at everything for a business to be successful but as a business owner you need to make sure that you do not compromise on something just because you don’t want to do it or don’t think you are going to be any good at it. Know what you are great at and exploit that, know what you are not so good at and put a safety net in place to make sure that it still gets done. Do not Compromise.

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