Business Connexions Jan 24

Official Magazine for Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce | Issue 24 | Jan 2024

Inside • WANDSWORTH BUSINESS AWARDS 2024 The biggest annual event in the Wandsworth Chamber calendar and a chance to showcase the best of Wandsworth emerging talent and local businesses. Page 8

• PATRON FOCUS Providing better healthcare to the whole community is paramount to the vision of Ian Garlington, Director of Better Communities at South West London and St George’s Mental Health Trust and why forging a new relationship with the Chamber is key. Page 14

• HEALTH & WELLBEING Posture integrity in the workplace.

By Chucks Onwere. Page 31

Later life planning

Navigating the financial, physical and mental challenges of retirement. Page 4

WELCOME & CONTENTS

Welcome to the latest Edition of the Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce Magazine Starting a new year always feels a bit like a clean slate where one can look to build on previous successes, draw a line on challenges faced in the previous year, take learnings from what has taken place and look forward with fresh eyes and optimism. I hope this is the case for you and you are ready and raring to go for a good year.

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elcome to the January edition of the Business Connexions Magazine, and welcome to 2024!

Happy New Year.

2023 was a successful year for Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce, with 52 new members, 47 events, the launch of Building Wandsworth our property & construction network and bringing back the Wandsworth Business Awards with a bang.

Inside: Jan 2024 4-6 8-9 10 11

Later Life Planning Wandsworth Business Awards Property & Construction Network Event Legal

Patron Focus

12 Patron Focus 14

Of course, we are still experiencing challenging times with the economic situation, the impact of Brexit and ongoing wars, and this can be compounded by the short days and cold of Winter, but the magic of New Year seems to have us thinking of goals and new visions so I hope you have used those to feed into positive action, focus and a good start.

After all, we are nearly at the end of January, one twelfth of the way through the year so it’s important we make it count. We’re also in times of incredible change with the Net Zero agenda and the accelerating change of technology so it’s also a time of opportunity for business leaders to innovate and solve problems.

Whether you have been experiencing the January blues or feeling the same optimism as I am, at the Chamber we want to help you start the year well by bringing 16-17 News 22-23 Skills

back the Wandsworth Business Awards roadshow. There are 6 free Mix & Mingle events taking place across the Borough in January and February (hopefully you have already attended one!)

The focus of the above events is to encourage you to enter the 2024 Business Awards but you are welcome whether you plan to go for an award or not. Many of the events are in workspaces we are developing relationships with and hope to meet many of the resident businesses from those workspaces as well. This poses a great networking opportunity for us all.

Networking is essential for finding and creating opportunities in our businesses so I encourage you to prioritise this, whether that be making new connections online or offline or reconnecting with old connections.

We have events planned throughout the year so please do keep an eye on the Wandsworth Chamber website and emails to ensure you don’t miss out.

Beverley Corson Chief Executive Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce

28-29 Chamber Events

Economy

24

30

Sport

31

Health & Wellbeing

32

New Members

33

Starting Up

34

5 Minutes with…

Scan the QR code with your phone camera to see our events and get them in your calendar app.

Enquiries 64 Park Road, London SW19 2HT t: 020 3633 6575 e: enquiries@wandsworthchamber.org w: www.wandsworthchamber.org

Publisher Benham Publishing Limited, Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ t: 0151 236 4141 e: admin@benhampublishing.com w: www.benhampublishing.com

Published January 2024 © Benham Publishing

Editor Sarah Dale t: 0151 236 4141 e: Sarahdale@benhampublishing.com

Advertising and Features Karen Hall t: 0151 236 4141 e: karen@benhampublishing.com

Studio Mark Etherington e: studio@benhampublishing.com Media No.1938

Disclaimer Business Connexions is mailed without charge to all Chamber members and distributed to businesses in the Borough.

All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce.

Views expressed in publication are not necessarily those of Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission of the Editor. © 2024.

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.

Cover image: pixabay

Business Connexions | 3

LATER LIFE PLANNING

Later life planning Freedom Wealth Management is a large wealth management company that puts the client at the heart of its business and builds its brand on trust and reputation.

4 | Business Connexions

® LATER LIFE FOUNDATION PLANNING BLACK HEROES

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Drafting a will ensures that assets are distributed according to one’s wishes. Establishing trusts can provide added control and flexibility, especially for complex family situations.

Powers of attorney and healthcare directives should be in place, designating individuals to make financial and healthcare decisions when

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the individual is no longer able to do so.

Financial Planning

Advance care planning is equally crucial.

Central to later life planning is financial

preferences in advance, including end-of-life

preparation. Individuals must assess their

decisions. Creating a living will or a durable

current financial status, including savings,

power of attorney for healthcare enables

investments, and retirement accounts.

medical decisions on their behalf.

outline anticipated expenses and ensures

Social and Lifestyle Considerations

Many people opt for retirement savings vehicles such as pensions, ISAs, collectives and bonds, to name a few tax wrappers, taking advantage of tax benefits and compounding interest over time.

Furthermore, estate planning is a critical component. Drafting a will ensures that assets are distributed according to one’s wishes. Establishing trusts can provide added control and flexibility, especially for complex

Healthcare Planning Later life planning necessitates careful

Legal Considerations

healthcare directives should be in place, designating individuals to make financial

the key areas to consider when considering this important area.

Later life planning extends beyond financial and healthcare aspects to encompass social and lifestyle considerations. Housing choices are a significant factor. Some may choose to age in place, modifying their homes to accommodate changing needs. Others might explore retirement communities or assisted living facilities. Each option comes with its own set of financial and lifestyle implications.

Maintaining social connections is essential for emotional wellbeing. Planning for social engagement, whether through community activities, clubs, or regular family gatherings, helps combat isolation. Additionally, addressing transportation needs ensures continued independence and access to essential services.

family situations. Powers of attorney and

Please find below a brief explanation of

individuals to designate someone to make

Creating a comprehensive budget helps that resources are allocated wisely.

One key area of wealth management is later life planning.

This involves expressing one’s healthcare

and healthcare decisions when the individual is no longer able to do so.

consideration of healthcare needs.

This involves choosing appropriate health

Later life planning involves making decisions

insurance coverage, understanding the

and taking actions to ensure a comfortable

medical options that are in front of you,

and secure future as individuals age. This

and planning for potential long-term care.

multifaceted process encompasses financial,

Long-term care insurance is an option for

healthcare, and lifestyle considerations to

those who wish to safeguard against the high

promote wellbeing in the later stages of life.

costs of assisted living or nursing home care.

Legal aspects play a vital role in later life planning. In addition to wills and trusts, individuals may need to address issues like guardianship, especially if cognitive decline becomes a concern. Keeping legal documents up-to-date is crucial, as changes in family dynamics or legislation may impact the validity of existing plans.

Business Connexions | 5

LATER LIFE PLANNING

Adapting to Changing Circumstances

Conclusion

Later life planning is not a one-time task; it

dynamic process that addresses financial,

requires ongoing evaluation and adaptation.

healthcare, legal, and lifestyle considerations.

As circumstances change, such as fluctuations

By taking a proactive approach, individuals

in health, finances, or family dynamics, plans

can navigate the challenges of ageing with

may need adjustments. Regular reviews with

greater confidence and ensure a fulfilling

financial advisors, legal professionals, and

and secure future. Regular reassessment

healthcare providers can help ensure that plans remain relevant and effective.

Emotional and Psychological Preparation Preparing for the emotional and psychological aspects of ageing is often overlooked but

Later life planning is a comprehensive and

and adaptation to changing circumstances are key to maintaining the effectiveness of these plans over time.

Freedom Wealth can help and advise on all these key areas to help ensure you consider and make the correct decisions.

crucial. Accepting the changes that come with

If you would like any further advice or

ageing, maintaining a positive mindset, and

just to discuss, please contact us on the

seeking emotional support contribute to overall wellbeing. Engaging in activities that bring joy and purpose can enhance the quality of life in later years.

6 | Business Connexions

contact details below.

E: info@freedomwm.co.uk W: www.freedomwm.co.uk

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Preparing for the emotional and psychological aspects of ageing is often overlooked but crucial.

Accepting the changes that come with ageing, maintaining a positive mindset, and seeking emotional support contribute to overall wellbeing.

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Business Connexions | 7

BUSINESS AWARDS 2024

Wandsworth Business Awards 2024 W The biggest annual event in the Wandsworth Chamber calendar is the Wandsworth Business Awards, which is a chance to showcase the best of Wandsworth to a wider audience.

This will take place on Wednesday 12th June at The Clapham Grand.

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andsworth Chamber invites you to join them in celebrating Wandsworth’s emerging business talent and established local businesses who excel in a variety of ways.

Supported by Wandsworth Council these awards are incredibly important locally, and help us encourage residents to get behind their community businesses and encourage commerce within the borough.

Wandsworth Borough has over 20,000 businesses and virtually all are SMEs, which means we really are an SME business borough.

We are a creative, diverse borough and the 2024 Wandsworth business awards are a fantastic way to recognise and celebrate the hard work, resilience and success these businesses achieve.

BUSINESS AWARDS 2024

How to Enter

If you are a business based within the borough of Wandsworth, we encourage you to enter into the Wandsworth Business Awards. It is completely free to enter. Each business can enter up to 3 award categories.

There are 12 categories to choose from including: ● Business Owner/Entrepreneur of the Year ● Diversity and Inclusivity Champion ● Retailer of the Year Award ● Hospitality Business of the Year Award ● Best Customer Service ● Best Start Up Business Award ● Innovation Award ● Best Charity Award ● Environmental/ Sustainability Champion ● Best SME Business ● Best Large Business (businesses with 50+ employees) ● Health and Wellbeing Award Find out more and enter the awards here - Wandsworth Business Awards - How To Enter (wandsworthchamber.org)

Wandsworth Business Awards Mix & Mingle Networking Events

Wandsworth Chamber will be hosting 6 Mix & Mingle Networking events for the Wandsworth Business Awards at various locations around the borough.

Each event will last 2 hours, where there will be speeches, networking, a welcome drink on arrival and you will have the chance to hear more about how to enter the Wandsworth Business Awards 2024.

The awards are a great way to promote, celebrate your business and connect with other business owners from Wandsworth, members of Wandsworth Chamber and Wandsworth Council. ● Tooting & Balham Tuesday 16th January 6-8pm at Tooting Works ● Putney & Roehampton Tuesday 23rd January 6-8pm at The Landing ● Earlsfield & Southfields Monday 29th January 6-8pm at The Earlsfield ● Battersea & Clapham Junction Monday 5th February 6-8pm at The Plough ● Battersea Power Station & Nine Elms Tuesday 20th February 6-8pm at The Engine Room ● Wandsworth Town Monday 26th February 6-8pm at Homework Wandsworth To book onto any of the 6 Mix & Mingle events please visit the Wandsworth Chamber events page here - Events Calendar (wandsworthchamber.org)

Sponsorship opportunities

Wandsworth Business Awards offer sponsorship opportunities that will raise the profile of your organisation within Wandsworth’s business community, community leaders and to existing and prospective clients and peers. The 2023 awards attracted a record attendance and it is clear that this is a unique opportunity for sponsors to: ● Promote your business to the extensive Wandsworth networks and local media ● Generate new leads and relationships ● Enjoy unrivaled networking and promotion at the awards ceremony.

To find out more about sponsorship opportunities please email Beverley Corson (beverley@wandsworthchamber.org) or Alex Wyatt (alex@wandsworthchamber.org).

Photography: Charlie Round-Turner.

Business Connexions | 9

EVENTS

Wandsworth Property & Construction Networking Event

After the success of the first Building Wandsworth Property & Construction networking event back in May 2023, Wandsworth Chamber were pleased to continue growing this network with its second successful event in November.

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nce again, the event was kindly sponsored by one of Wandsworth Chamber Patron members, Handelsbanken, and hosted in the stunning venue that is Polestar Battersea electric car showroom in the iconic Battersea Power Station. Add to that delicious food and drink, it was a great opportunity to network and continue to build relationships with peers in this sector.

Attendees were blown away by the guest speakers Angelika Kovacic and Martha Tsigkari from Foster + Partners, a global studio for architecture, engineering, urban and landscape design, based in Battersea who are proud to work in close proximity and with Battersea Power Station Development including the creation of Battersea Roof Garden, the associated office building which is nearing its completion and the Apple HQ and Battersea store.

Angelica and Martha were excellent speakers who spoke about ‘How innovation, disruption and uncertainty can create new possibilities for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry’ which was not only providing a powerful message to businesses in this industry about the advancement of technology that is available and should be innovated or adopted, but also a message to all businesses about the exponential development of technology that is taking place right now and will disrupt all industries increasingly over the coming months.

Going forward, Wandsworth Chamber will be working with some of their property and construction members to further develop this network. Beverley Corson will be initially working with one of their Chamber members, Dennis Austin from daab design Architects, to create a skeleton plan for events in 2024 followed by the assignment of a committee to explore relevant needs and topics that will be beneficial.

There is significant potential for the network to grow and have a beneficial impact so watch this space.

Beverley Corson CEO

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LEGAL

THE FUTURE IS NOW—

the Future Fund and the ticking clock for borrowers Russell-Cooke Senior associate Sally Johnston provides insights into the Future Fund, a UK Government-backed scheme launched in 2020 to aid start-ups during the pandemic, as businesses approach the three-year maturity date.

redemption, or instead to accept conversion of the loan into shares. If the other lenders (by way of a 50% majority election, no later than 30 business days prior to maturity) elect to redeem their loans, then all the other loans will be redeemed.

Setting the scene: the Future Fund since 2020

Depending on the liquidity of your business, this will be the most straightforward option – and may be the only option for businesses that are unable or are unsuccessful in exercising the alternatives outlined below. If your business is unable to repay the loan, you may need to instruct an insolvency expert.

The Future Fund was launched by the Chancellor in May 2020 as a £1.4 billion scheme designed to support UK start-ups to secure investment during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The key mechanism of the Government-backed scheme was that the Future Fund would offer UK-based companies convertible loans ranging from £125,000 to £5 million, if those companies could match investments from other lenders.

This scheme is currently delivered by the British Business Bank.

Many businesses that benefited from this investment are now rapidly approaching the three-year maturity date.

For businesses who have not converted the loans into shares before the maturity date, the British Business Bank have indicated that they will be electing for repayment of not only the principal, but also a redemption premium matching the principal amount (along with accrued interest).

The risk of a potentially crippling redemption premium means that the clock is ticking to make a decision for borrowers on how to trigger conversion of their Future Fund loan if repayment of such an onerous loan is not an option.

If your business has borrowed under the Future Fund scheme and the loan has not yet been converted into equity or repaid, you can evaluate the following options:

1. Repayment The first and the likely least attractive option is to allow the loan to reach its maturity date.

As outlined above, the current default is that the Future Fund will demand repayment of the principal, redemption premium and accrued interest (as of the Future Fund’s latest update on 23 June 2023).

The Future Fund and matched lenders can, however, decide separately whether to elect for

2. Extend the loan Borrowers can request an extension to the maturity date of their Future Fund loan. Evidence suggests that some borrowers have been able to negotiate extensions of up to two years – although this is entirely at the discretion of the Future Fund.

This option is available where businesses respond to an initial notification from the Future Fund confirming eligibility for a Maturity Extension Request within 20 business days.

Guidance from the Future Fund indicates that they will consider ‘the commercial objectives of the business, the adequacy of the results of Know your Business/Client checks, antimoney laundering and fraud and financial crime checks, and wider public policy aims and proper safeguarding of taxpayers resources’ when evaluating submissions for an extension.

This could buy your business invaluable time to then seek one of the options below, where the redemption premium will not be payable.

3. Issues new shares: qualifying and non-qualifying financing Your business could initiate a funding round with the aim of raising enough equity through issuing shares to new investors to match an equal or greater amount than the Future Fund loan.

This will trigger a conversion through a condition in the loan, called a ‘qualifying financing’.

If you issue shares to new investors, but the value is lower than the amount of the Future Fund loan, then you can still trigger conversion of the loan if a majority of the lenders (excluding the Future Fund) elect for the loans to be converted (this

election will need to be received no later than ten business days prior to the financing). This can also occur if the financing is less than 25% of the Future Fund Loan, and the Future Fund consents to the conversion. These are non-qualifying financing triggers.

In either case, the loan will be converted into the most senior class of shares then in issue in the relevant company, with identical rights and preferences issued to the investor(s) in the financing at the conversion price.

The Future Fund requires 20 business days’ notice of a qualifying or non-qualifying financing round – and on this basis, it will be important to factor in further time.

4. Exit Depending on the terms of the transaction, an exit event, such as a share or asset sale of the company will likely trigger automatic conversion of the Future Fund loans into shares.

An automatic conversion is triggered if the lender will receive a greater amount as cash for the sale of the shares than it would otherwise receive had it been repaid its loan with a redemption premium, or if the lenders would receive any non-cash consideration to receive repayment of the loan and the redemption premium (the latter in accordance with specified conditions within the Future Fund loan agreement).

If you are able to find a prospective buyer, seeking advice on how to structure the deal and the corresponding tax implications will be crucial.

It will also be important to factor in ample time to facilitate the exit, depending on the size and complexity of your business.

When should I seek legal advice?

The maturity date of a Future Fund loan is a critical milestone for a business that requires careful planning and consideration.

Understanding which of the above options best serves your business will be paramount.

It is important to speak with a corporate solicitor for guidance on how to navigate the right course for your business. We would recommend seeking advice sooner rather than later to ensure sufficient time for all of the options to remain feasible.

Sally Johnston is a senior associate in the startups teams. She regularly advises startups and growing companies on a range of matters. Whilst Sally’s expertise is advising on fundraising and growth, her knowledge extends to share schemes and incentives, brand protection, key commercial contracts and M&A.

Sally Johnson

Direct Phone: +44 (0) 20 8394 6442 Email: sally.johnstone@russell-cooke.co.uk

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

Business Connexions | 11

PATRON FOCUS

Iconic Battersea Power Station to bring even more jobs to Wandsworth Sarah Banham, Head of Communities & Sustainability at Battersea Power Station Development Company, talks to Sarah Dale about the new town centre, recruitment and working with the business community.

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hen Sarah Banham first walked through the doors of Battersea Power Station in October 2022 after its transformative restoration, she was blown away.

“The Chamber has helped me on several occasions, for example, I was holding a public consultation in the autumn and my usual graphic designer was on holiday, but I remembered I had met a graphic designer – Stuart Serjent of Serjent Designs – and he helped me out. When I needed signage, I asked Rob Kelly from Displayways, who turned it around really quickly for me.

“I was really proud,” said Sarah, Head of Communities & Sustainability at Battersea Power Station Development Company.

“It felt like when your child is getting married or moving into their new home.

“It’s about relationships and knowing I can pick up the phone and ask the Chamber for help.

The estates team will often come to me looking for a service and I can direct them to someone from the Chamber.

“The atmosphere here now is really buzzy, it’s incredible.”

Approximately half of the Battersea Power Station development is now complete, with outline planning permission granted for the remaining 18 acres, including shops, leisure, eateries, homes and offices. 50 Electric Boulevard, 200,000 square feet of sustainable office space, is nearing completion, and more shops are opening with a new cookshop and cookery school, Borough Kitchen, just opened.

There are 6,500 people going to Battersea Power Station every day to work too.

Connectivity is important to the business and the site is connected to the Tube, Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, which are “incredibly popular”, and cycle lanes. There are cycle racks on site, something Sarah, a keen cyclist, welcomes.

Battersea Power Station joined Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce in 2010 and became Patrons in 2012.

“We joined the Chamber for a lot of reasons,” said Sarah, who has worked at Battersea Power Station for 17 years.

“We’re creating a town centre and we want to benefit the business community in Wandsworth. We want to ensure the benefits of the development are felt not only in Battersea Power Station but the wider area.

I live in Battersea so it’s really important that the benefits go beyond the Power Station.”

12 | Business Connexions

Photo: Charlie Round Turner

Being a Chamber Patron has been “invaluable” for meeting other business owners, adds Sarah.

“It’s really important that we’re giving back to our local community,” she said.

“We’re building this very large project and we want to ensure we are working with the local business community. We have a really strong business community.”

She advises new members to “find likeminded businesses, swap ideas and get out to as many networking events with the Chamber as possible”.

“Look at how you can help them and how they can help you; that exchange of ideas is so important,” she added.

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“You are making connections with all sorts of different people. They become your business family. It acts as an address book for local businesses.”

Sarah says the benefit of buying goods and services locally not only benefits the local economy, but it is also sustainable.

The biggest challenge facing the business currently is recruiting new team members across the board.

“We need more people to know that we have jobs available,” she added.

“We want to employ local people. We have established the Battersea Academy for Skills & Employment and work with Wandsworth Work Match to maximise these opportunities. Roles available include cleaners, gardeners, engineers, security, retail and hospitality.”

For more information about vacancies, please visit: www.baseskillsacademy.co.uk

We’re building this very large project and we want to

ensure we are working with the local business community.

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We have a really strong business community.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Supply Wandsworth.

Celebrating one year of supporting local businesses in supply chains

Wandsworth Council is reviewing the progress of Supply Wandsworth in 2023 and outlining what’s next for this local procurement programme.

Supply Wandsworth is set up to increase and enhance the Wandsworth economy by helping local businesses to access supply chain opportunities, amidst government legislation changes to procurement and a challenging economic environment for the borough’s businesses.

The initiative has completed the first year of a two-year project, focused on engaging with tier one public and private sector stakeholders.

Led by Wandsworth Council’s Economic Development Office, a range of support services are offered to local SMEs and Third Sector organisations seeking to become approved suppliers, potentially bidding for or winning future contracts in Wandsworth and beyond.

Buyers included the U.S Embassy, Galliard Homes, South Thames College Group, Roehampton University, Battersea Power Station and the council’s Adult Social Care and Public Health Teams. Representatives had the opportunity to meet, greet and discuss future contracts in individual one-to-one meetings, sharing knowledge and offering practical tips on becoming organisational approved suppliers. Alongside this, guests enjoyed the catering skills of local catering firm Food by Toby.

Support has included webinars and one-to-one sessions which are also available online through the Wandsworth Enterprise Hub. Live events Supply Wandsworth, working alongside commissioned partners, Branduin Business Support Ltd, held the first Meet the Buyer event at Tooting Works on 14 Nov 2023. Local suppliers turned out despite heavy rain and cold weather to showcase their business offer to a range of public and private sector buyers.

Planning the event was managed through a Stakeholders’ Management Group meeting, allowing tier one public and private sector buyers in the borough to discuss how to develop a cross-sector local spend strategy.

2024 As we plan for 2024, our goal is to continue to engage and influence tier one buyers of goods, services and works within the borough to: • offer contracts to local SMEs and Third Sector groups • to develop a Supply Wandsworth Directory • to develop a robust communication plan for sharing contract information • and to challenge procurement / purchasing practices and embed new policies for legacy change wherever possible.

• The council will also aim to support local procurement through a close working relationship with our planning team and Section 106 planning obligations.

The Supply Wandsworth Directory will become a central resource for buyers to understand and gain access to the local suppliers’ market.

See link - Submit your details for the Supply Wandsworth directory - Company details - Section 1 - Wandsworth.gov.uk (achieveservice.com) Thank you for taking time to find out more about Wandsworth’s localised supply chain initiative. We hope you will continue to support and engage with Supply Wandsworth and our future work.

A special thank you to our partners for their ongoing support.

Business Connexions | 13

PATRON NEWS

Providing better environments and better care for Better Communities Providing better healthcare to the whole community is paramount to the vision of Ian Garlington, Director of Better Communities at South West London and St George’s Mental Health Trust. He talks to Sarah Dale about the Trust’s plans and why forging a new relationship with the Chamber is key.

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an Garlington is passionate about abolishing the stigma associated with ill mental health and ensuring everybody has access to high-quality, inclusive care.

Springfield Village is home to shops and cafés, restaurant, gym and over 800 new homes, and the 32-acre park features a pavilion café, amphitheatre, youth shelter, play areas, sensory garden and trim trail. By 2027, Springfield will be transformed into a “vibrant new community with mental health at its heart”.

People may have preconceived ideas about mental health hospitals and mental ill health in general, says Ian, and his aim is to tackle those preconceptions.

“We have seen the importance of high quality outdoor space during Covid - if people can live in affordable homes, have a strong family and friends’ network, green space, we know all these things are so important to support mental wellbeing,” said Ian.

“There is a certain stigma around mental ill health, that it is scary and unpredictable. But so much is changing in terms of attitudes and awareness to bring the reality into focus,” said Ian, Director of Better Communities.

“What we do is two-fold: we look at how our sites can support people’s mental health and we work to promote positive mental health to help prevent mental ill health in the first place.”

“Last year, our services saw 46,000 people – many on several occasions – and only 1,500 of them were looked after at our hospital, the rest were in community settings such as their own homes or in our crisis cafés. That’s really important; the person in our care is also going about their everyday business, they may be in front of you in the supermarket queue. Mental health is part of all of us and mental ill-health is there for many of us. We need to talk about it to reduce the stigma.”

The Trust, which is one of Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce’s newest Patron members, serves 1.2 million people across the boroughs of Wandsworth, Kingston, Merton, Richmond and Sutton and employs 2,500 members of staff.

It provides acute and urgent care services; community services for adults; child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS); eating disorders services; and a specialist service line which includes forensics, deaf services, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), neuropsychiatry, cognition and mental health in ageing, and neurodevelopmental services.

14 | Business Connexions

The Trust’s Better Communities programme, which Ian leads, aims to transform care and environments to reduce mental health stigma, and deliver inclusive, innovative and improved mental health services for the community.

Through the sale of surplus land and with some additional funding, the Trust is investing more than £250 million to develop new facilities across Wandsworth, Richmond and Kingston in line with local consultations.

Until recently, they provided mental health services from buildings at Springfield Hospital, constructed in 1840 as one of the first county asylums, while mental health services have been provided at Tolworth Hospital for decades.

The programme of work includes the new Trinity and Shaftesbury buildings within Springfield Village at the Trust HQ in Wandsworth, delivered in autumn 2022 and autumn 2023; a refurbished facility - Richmond Royal Health Centre - at the site of the former Richmond Royal Hospital, to be delivered in autumn 2024; a new 32-acre public park at Springfield Hospital in Wandsworth in summer 2023 and to be completed by autumn 2027; a new outpatient facility at Barnes Hospital in Richmond, to be delivered in summer 2025; and five new wards at Tolworth Hospital, Kingston, to be delivered in summer 2027.

“We also bring so much to our communities beyond our core healthcare services. Whether that’s supporting supply chains, boosting local employment, developing community assets like our new park or empowering people to support their wellbeing through our mental health first aid training programme.”

The Trust is a large employer in the area and is looking to recruit more local people.

Katherine Robinson, Director of People for the Trust, said: “Our ambition is to understand the commercial needs of our communities and how we can meet them. For example, a lot of refugees in the boroughs have permission to work and are ready to work, they just need the opportunities.

“We need more psychiatrists, psychotherapists and nurses, but there are also 200 different careers at the Trust, from plumbers and project managers, to admin roles and apprenticeships.

We’re keen too to talk with local schools and colleges, both to inspire the next generation to think about NHS careers and to promote positive mental health.”

Business Connexions | 15

NEWS

Wandsworth Walking and Cycling Strategy – one year on

Wandsworth’s work on climate change achieves A-list award

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andsworth Council has been named as one of just 119 towns and cities worldwide to receive a top grade for climate change action.

A new approach to make sure cycle parking solutions are joined up across the borough, including more parking at stations, has also been agreed as part of the one-year review.

Environmental impact non-profit CDP bases its A-rating on actions including being transparent about the climate change response, completing climate risk and vulnerability assessments, publishing a climate action plan and setting science-based climate targets.

The ambitious strategy is an integral part of the council’s Future Streets initiative to transform Wandsworth so that children aged 10-11 in the last year of primary school can walk or cycle to school more safely.

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This is the second year running that Wandsworth has achieved the A grade - and is one of just four local authorities in London to do so in 2023.

A-list cities take four times as many climate mitigation and adaptation measures as non-A listers and this year just 13 per cent of cities that were scored received the top grade.

Wandsworth’s approach to mitigating climate change and improving air quality involves working closely with the local community and setting ambitious, achievable targets that can be met by the borough working together as a whole.

This year a Citizens’ Assembly made up of randomly selected members of the public has made 53 recommendations to clean up the air, improve people’s health and tackle climate change.

Public sector partners, businesses and community groups have been able to share knowledge with the council and each other through the Wandsworth Sustainability Partnership.

Work continues to decarbonise council buildings, schools and council homes.

Wandsworth has also been working with partners to help people in privately-owned homes improve their energy efficiency, as part of the council’s work to increase sustainability and ease the burden on residents of increased fuel costs.

Other measures during 2023 include: • A new Air Quality Action Plan.

• The appointment of a dedicated officer to work with local people on improving biodiversity.

• The Cleaner Borough plan to improve waste collection services and increase recycling.

• The Future Streets campaign to encourage sustainable travel, including a new Walking and Cycling Strategy, more electric car charging points and a scrappage scheme to help people switch to ULEZ-compliant cars.

Cabinet Member for Environment, Judi Gasser, said: “Of course we are proud to receive an A-grade again this year, but we know we can’t be complacent.”

“The council is just part of the solution - we will continue to work with partners and, most importantly, listen closely to local people to ensure we are taking the bold action necessary to meet the climate change emergency.”

16 | Business Connexions

he Wandsworth Walking and Cycling Strategy has been in place for a year - and work to encourage walking and cycling is well under way.

Some of the actions set out in it are already being rapidly achieved, including: • 26 new bike hangars on borough streets and 25 on housing estates, creating space to store a total of 306 bikes. There are currently 118 bike hangars in total with a further 110 locations providing space for 660 bikes are expected to be delivered by the end of 2024.

• The continued roll-out of School Streets to enable children to travel safely to school.

• A standalone Cycle Parking Strategy including more cycle stands put in better locations, and better maintenance of existing ones, bike hangars and lockers, designated bays for dockless bikes in busy areas and encouraging more use of cargo bikes and hire bikes.

• Supporting Clean Air Day and Car Free Day, including 19 Play Streets on Car Free Day. • Launching a cargo bike delivery hub for businesses.

• A community cargo bike scheme.

• Better management of e-bikes.

Work on other parts of the strategy have been accelerated, including the development of a cycle route network. Work is progressing and residents will be able to take part in a consultation.

Improvements are being made to highways, including Old York Road and Burntwood Lane.

Consultation will also take place on identifying a proposed network of ‘quietway’ cycle routes away from major roads.

Cabinet Member for Transport Jenny Yates said: “Encouraging walking and cycling is a key part of Future Streets. We need to make it easy for people to make short journeys by foot or bike rather than by car. That means making it safe, giving them somewhere to park their bike and giving residents and businesses the ability to hire bikes.”

“And we have been talking to local people to make sure they have input into our plans.

We will continue to work tirelessly to achieve our target for 78 per cent of trips to be made by foot, bike or public transport by 2030.”

New look library opens in Wandsworth town centre A bigger and better Wandsworth town centre library has opened - and the modernised library is already proving popular with visitors of all ages.

O

n the ground floor is a wellstocked bright and colourful, riverbank-themed, children’s library in its own area with separate family toilets and baby changing area, while also on the ground floor is a big collection of fiction titles for teen and adult readers.

Upstairs boasts an extensive non-fiction collection including biographies, history, community languages and plenty of practical titles.

The new library stocks more than 40,000 books as well as e-books, audio books and a wide range of online reference tools.

People can also access daily newspapers, magazines and periodicals, surf the web free of charge, access the library’s free wi-fi, use computers and hire meeting space as well as access printing and photocopying facilities.

The first floor also boasts exhibits from Wandsworth’s Heritage Collection which are on display to the public.

These historic artefacts have their own dedicated section and will be regularly updated with different items of local historical interest.

The new library – which opened its doors in November - is almost directly next door to the previous one, with its entrance accessed via the Old Burial Ground in Garratt Lane.

Earlier in 2023 a new look, bigger and better Northcote Library opened its doors to the public and has proved hugely popular in that part of Battersea with a more than 40 per cent increase in visitors.

There has also been investment to upgrade the buildings at Putney, Tooting and York Gardens libraries.

Wandsworth has 11 libraries and a home delivery service, which are all managed on a day-to-day basis by charitable social enterprise GLL.

NEWS

Wandsworth launches bold developers’ protocol Wandsworth Council has launched a bold new protocol for developers in the borough.

L

aunched by Leader of the Council, Simon Hogg, the protocol sets out how the authority will work with developers and reaffirms its ambitions for delivery of social homes for rent in the area.

Councillors have already met with representatives from the development industry at Wandsworth Town Hall to set out how best to build more social housing in the borough.

The aim of the meeting was to set an understanding from both sides as to how the process for building more affordable housing could be improved, but also to show the willingness and welcoming nature of the council for investment and growth.

Higgins Group is one of Wandsworth’s development partners and has recently agreed a deal to convert private housing on one of their sites into genuinely affordable social rented homes.

Declan Higgins, Higgins Group CEO, said: “Following a successful partnership arrangement with Wandsworth Council we were pleased to attend the developer briefing to see the launch of Wandsworth Council’s Developer Protocol.”

“The protocol clearly defines the council’s key objectives and provides a great overview of the partnership approach we’ve adopted at the former Atheldene Health Centre, a development that delivers 83 genuinely affordable,

sustainable homes alongside a high-quality NHS facility.”

Building better relationships with developers for the sake of residents is crucial to setting the tone for how more social housing can be built with the community at the forefront of everyone’s mind.

The protocol is a list of 10 statements that sets out the council’s commitments to, and expectations from, developers working in the borough.

This includes high standards of environmental sustainability, developers to engage meaningfully with residents, delivering affordable housing for local people as a priority, a Design Review Panel to provide feedback on schemes and Wandsworth’s aim to seek long-term relationships with developers that promote economic growth locally.

Councillor Simon Hogg, Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: “The meeting was a great opportunity for the council to clearly convey our position on building social rent homes.”

“We understand that this is a two-way conversation, and it is important to strengthen relationships with property developers.”

“The protocol allows us, as a council, to be clear about how we intend to work with developers to deliver desperately needed affordable homes to local people, but also to understand their needs.”

Residents’ views shaping future of Furzedown Rec

F

eedback from residents is helping designers come up with plans for an improved and new-look Furzedown Recreation Ground.

More than £680,000 has been set aside to fund improvements at the popular local green space.

Families living near Furzedown Rec were asked for their views on proposals to upgrade play facilities and a series of landscaping improvements.

In total 460 people responded to the council’s first stage consultation - with 98 per cent living close to the Rec. Most agreed the space needed improving, with a particular emphasis on updating the playground and expanding its facilities so that more children can use it at the same time.

Judi Gasser, Wandsworth’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “We are really grateful to local people for sharing their views and giving us a better understanding of the range of improvements they want to see at the Rec.” “All the feedback we’ve received so far is being carefully considered as we draw up fresh plans, which will be shared with local people in a second round of consultation that will help finalise the designs.”

“We have set aside a considerable sum of money to fund improvements at Furzedown Rec and will now be working hard to come up with a set of plans that best meet the needs of local people.”

The next round of consultation is likely to be held in the spring of 2024 when local people will again be asked for their views and comments.

Borrow don’t buy at the Library of Things A new Library of Things has opened in Wandsworth so local people can save money and be more sustainable.

T

he new initiative means people can borrow expensive items such as tools and gadgets, rather than spending money on products that may only be used occasionally and then clutter up cupboards.

The council has teamed up with the social enterprise Library of Things to open the branch in Southside Shopping Centre, Wandsworth Town Centre.

The list of items available to borrow will be based on initial feedback on what people said they wanted.

Popular items in other branches include sewing machines, ice cream makers, steam cleaners and hedge trimmers.

Borrowers reserve an item online, pick it up from a locker in Southside, pay a small daily fee and return it when they are done.

People can also track how much waste they have saved by borrowing instead of buying and can take part in skill-sharing sessions with their neighbours to learn practical skills like DIY and repairing.

The initiative is part of the council’s work to become a more sustainable borough.

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “Library of Things is a fast-growing movement and we’re really pleased to be part of it. Instead of everyone buying expensive items they only use once or twice, we can share what we need. It saves money and waste and connects people with their community.”

Find out more at: libraryofthings.co.uk/Wandsworth

Business Connexions | 17

Looking for inspiration?

If you want your business to be at the heart of the most food and drink obsessed community in London, the Food Exchange at New Covent Garden Market is the destination for you.

The Food Exchange is where curious and ambitious food entrepreneurs innovate, collaborate, explore and inspire. Located in the UK’s largest wholesale market for fresh fruit, vegetables and flowers, as well as a fast-expanding range of products for the retail and foodservice sectors, the Food Exchange is a unique location for any dynamic, engaged business.

Specifications

In short, this is where food and drink happens and studio units are currently available on the second and third floor of this ground-breaking venue, ranging in size from 300-1,200 square feet.

• 4 x shared meeting rooms (free to use) each with

This contemporary office space comes with flexible terms and a simple pricing structure. Surround your business with like-minded thought and practice leaders. Share experiences, great food and drink and create hi-powered networks that will give you access to new suppliers and clients.

Please get in touch for more information or to rent one of our state-of-the-art studios. Please email: Matthew Dawe, Property Manager Covent Garden Market Authority Property.Lettings@cgma.co.uk newcoventgardenmarket.com/food-exchange 020 7720 2211

Food Exchange

By New Covent Garden Market

18 | Business Connexions

• BREEAM ‘Excellent’ specification (accreditation for sustainability) • Floor to ceiling windows in all studios • Independently controlled heating and cooling seating for 10 people and TV for presentations (two on each floor) • 2 x shared kitchens (one on each floor) • 2 x shared drinks/refreshment bars with free self-serve tea and coffee • Commercial grade WiFi connectivity supported by 1GB fibre connection • Ethernet ports to support physical data connection • Shower and changing facilities • Lockable and sheltered bike storage facilities • Access 24 hours per day 365 days per year

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Serving local businesses for 50 years

T

he Market has a rich and storied history.

More importantly though, we’re establishing the platform for NCGM to reaffirm its status as the primary fruit, vegetable and flower hub for London, a position it has proudly held for several centuries.

We are less than four years away from successfully completing the most comprehensive redevelopment programme ever undertaken by a UK wholesale market.

By 2027, NCGM’s landlord Covent Garden Market Authority (CGMA), working with its tenants and development partner Vinci St Modwen, will have rebuilt the country’s largest wholesale market in its pre-existing location, while enabling traders to continue to function as normal, which is no mean feat.

We’re building a market that will set new standards and lead its industry for many years to come. For the market’s tenants, their customers, and the local community, we’re aiming to deliver a better working and trading environment for everyone.

The ‘new’ market will retain its traditional strengths, but provide a home for a more varied mix of tenants, all operating from state-of-the-art facilities. It is for fresh fruit, veg and flowers that we are world renowned, but as it develops, the market is spreading its wings. Frozen produce, dairy, bakery and drink have become a larger part of the offer, while the site also hosts a Kombucha brewery and two ice sculpting companies.

Throughout 2024, New Covent Garden Market (NCGM) will be celebrating 50 years since its move from WC2 to Nine Elms. As one of the largest employers in the Borough of Wandsworth, we’re very proud to have been serving local businesses and being part of our local community from the day we first opened our doors here – November 11th, 1974.

The tenant base also includes all manner of sustainable, ethically responsible purveyors of nutritious, healthy food and drink. Our Food Exchange office space is fully occupied and a dynamic and inspirational home to a heady mix of businesses that will play a big part in future food innovation and production.

Founding tenants included Oppo Brothers Ice Cream, health-conscious desserts famous for flavour, not calories, and Oddbox, the rescuers of wonky veg, who sell directly to consumers to reduce food waste. We’ve made a conscious decision to select businesses that are ethically sound and culturally diverse within this space.

It’s created quite the foodie community.

On the first floor of the Food Exchange is Mission Kitchen, an 18,000 square foot shared workspace for independent food businesses that offers flexible access to commercial and development kitchens, co-working space and inspiring events for London’s next generation of food innovators.

This is a joint CGMA and Greater London Authority enterprise that represents a significant investment for CGMA, in financial, social and intellectual terms. Just over two years old, it has well over 100 members

and that number is growing by the month.

We expect many of those members to grow and eventually fly the Mission Kitchen nest to bigger things.

The buildings are important, but never more important than the people. New Covent Garden Market is nothing without its wonderful tenants. CGMA seeks to create a platform for tenant businesses to compete, both internally and externally, but they as traders continually show their ability to adapt and evolve to the fast-changing needs of the wider marketplace in which they operate. They are immensely proud to represent New Covent Garden Market and the district of Nine Elms.

When the redevelopment is completed, NCGM will still be in its unrivalled and unmatchable location, which is a huge advantage when it comes to serving the London population and the millions of domestic and international tourists who travel here each year. And the Borough of Wandsworth will be able to boast that it is home to the oldest and newest wholesale market in the country.

Now, that’s something to celebrate!

❛❛We’re building a market that will set new standards and lead its industry for many years to come.

❜❜

Business Connexions | 19

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

WANDSWORTH LAUNCHES ITS NEW NIGHT TIME STRATEGY and wants to

work with businesses to improve the night A new, groundbreaking Night Time Strategy for Wandsworth has been officially launched and you can read the document or find out more at wandsworth.gov.uk/night-time-strategy The document sets out the borough’s strategic vision for the evening and night-time, focusing on: • Ensuring the borough’s night-time economy thrives • The safety of women and vulnerable people moving around the city at night • How best to support night workers, including people working in entertainment, leisure and hospitality businesses, health care, warehouses, deliveries and offices Wandsworth is the first borough to deliver a comprehensive Night Time Strategy since the GLA recommended that all boroughs produce one, and to celebrate, London’s Night Czar Amy Lamé welcomed its official launch at Wandsworth Town Hall at the end of last year.

It was drawn up following extensive input from people who live, work and visit the area at night.

The strategy includes recommendations such as better lighting and transport and encouraging a broader range of night time businesses in town centres – beyond just eating and drinking.

Now the council will draw up an action plan and will work with partners including businesses, Transport for London, the Met police and community groups to deliver improvements. It will also be considered by the council when making planning, highways, community safety and licensing decisions.

Deputy council leader Cllr Kemi Akinola said: “We spoke to hundreds of people before finalising our strategy because we know that how you experience the night time depends on who and where you are. Now we have set out our strategic vision, the work will begin in making sure that we can deliver the quick wins and long-term changes that will make a huge difference.”

Amy Lamé, London’s Night Czar said: “I am delighted to see the launch of Wandsworth’s new night-time strategy which will help local businesses to thrive, make neighbourhoods feel more welcoming and streets safer for everyone, particularly women and girls, after dark.

“Wandsworth is the first borough to publish their night-time strategy since the GLA’s recommendation, and I hope this encourages other boroughs to follow their lead. The Mayor and I are committed to working in partnership with every borough to ensure our high streets, public spaces and workplaces are fair, safe and inclusive at night as we build a better more prosperous London for everyone.”

We are keen to hear from businesses who would be interested in working with the Council to help improve the night-time, if that sounds like you please get in touch by emailing NTS@wandsworth.gov.uk Business Connexions | 21

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP UNIT

Be One Step Ahead Unlock your workforce potential

Our free Business Partnership service is here to help support you and your business with: • ACCESSING FUNDING and making the most of new government initiatives • APPRENTICESHIPS from Level 2 to Level 6 (GCSE to Degree Level) • EMPLOYEE TRAINING – upskilling and retraining of your employees using our extensive online and training packages • LEVY SUPPORT and guidance.

You can place your trust in our exceptionally talented team, to build a bespoke plan that meets the specific needs of your business.

LET’S TALK business@stcg.ac.uk stcg.ac.uk/employers

NEW YEAR,

NEW START

with South Thames Colleges As we begin a new year, many organisations are contemplating the year ahead and what they need to put in place to grow their business during 2024.

Achieving growth often requires upskilling of employees to support your organisational objectives. Here at South Thames Colleges Group, we have a wide range of training opportunities starting in January 2024 to support your staff development.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships can benefit your business by enabling you to bring in new talent who can be trained with the skills and professional qualifications you need to support your business goals.

Apprenticeships can also be used to upskill existing staff, helping you to get the most out of your workforce, providing vocational training that is tailored to your organisation.

We work with you throughout the process whether you are a levy or a non-levy payer, guiding you inassessing funding and selecting the best people for your role if you are looking to attract new talent in.

South Thames College has January starts for Accounting and Customer Service Apprenticeships.

We also have Apprenticeship starts at our sister Colleges in Construction, Engineering, Hospitality, Lab Technician and Information Communication Technician.

Contact: Business@stcg.ac.uk to find out more.

Professional Courses

From Accounting courses to Door Supervisor courses we have a range of flexible professional courses to support the development of your business.

Check out: https://stcg.ac.uk/south-thames-college/january-starts or scan the QR code to find out more.

Business Connexions | 23 Business Connexions | 23

ECONOMY

A ‘step in the right direction’ for UK business – says BCC The Autumn Statement has given hope to UK businesses, says the British Chambers of Commerce.

T

ax cuts for working people and British business headlined Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s ‘Autumn Statement for Growth’.

Aimed at building a stronger and more resilient economy, the Chancellor set out a plan to unlock growth and productivity by boosting business investment by £20 billion a year, getting more people into work and cutting tax for 29 million workers – the biggest tax cut on work since the 1980s.

Hunt said after a global pandemic and energy crisis, the Government had “taken difficult decisions” to put the economy back on track.

In his financial update, he announced 110 growth measures to back British business.

She said the statement “provided some welcome remedies at a time when businesses of all sizes need certainty and security from the Government in the difficult months ahead”.

“The decision to make full expensing permanent will be a boost to companies wanting to invest. Our research shows that 34 per cent of businesses have already benefitted from the policy, rising to 47 per cent for manufacturers.”

“We have long called for the electricity grid to be upgraded to help companies transition to net zero.”

“In our recent net zero survey, more than a third (37 per cent) of businesses told us they were not getting what they needed from the grid, in terms of energy supply and connectivity.”

He said the measures “do not just remove barriers to investment, they reward effort and work”.

“If we can reduce grid connection times it will make a big difference.”

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said: “We are pleased the Chancellor has listened to our calls to help businesses deal with the current economic challenges.”

“We welcome the planning reforms and investment announced by the Chancellor to help tackle this huge infrastructure problem.”

“Our chamber network called on Jeremy Hunt to offer ‘much needed solutions to Britain’s investment problem’.”

“Business trying to invest in a low carbon future will now be looking for a speedier path to grid connection.”

The BCC also welcomed support for small businesses.

“Smaller firms will be relieved to see a package of measures that alleviate the cashflow problems they face, such as continued business rates relief for hospitality, retail and leisure, and new rules to help them get paid on time.”

“The Government’s plans to support people back into work have the potential to help grow the economy.”

“There are just under a million unfilled vacancies in the UK and three quarters of businesses tell us they cannot get the staff they need.”

“Plans to support people suffering ill health could make a real difference, but there must be a focus on getting them into work that matches their capabilities and potential.”

“Business investment is the lifeblood of local economies, creating jobs and supporting public services.”

“The Chancellor has taken a step in the right direction, but nothing can be taken for granted and we must all continue to focus on encouraging companies to grow.”

We are pleased the Chancellor has listened to our calls ❛❛ to help businesses deal with the current economic challenges.

Our chamber network called on Jeremy Hunt to offer ‘much needed solutions to Britain’s investment problem’.

24 | Business Connexions

❜❜

WWW.VISITCLAPHAMJUNCTION.COM Business Connexions | 25

START UP WANDSWORTH The START UP WANDSWORTH BUSINESS HUBS provide aspiring entrepreneurs and start-ups with affordable workspaces, where they can collaborate and network with other local businesses.

Putney Business Hub

(Putney Library)

This hub is wheelchair accessible • 18 Desk Spaces (2 height adjustable desks) • 3 Office Spaces (up to 4 team members) • Soundproof booth (up to 6 people) • Soundproof Phone Booth • Breakout Areas • 2x 2 Seater Setups in main hub • 10 seating spaces in breakout area • Kitchenette Facilities • Printing Facilities • Out of Hours Access • Ensuite Toilet Facilities

York Gardens Business Hub (York Gardens Library)

This hub is NOT wheelchair accessible • 18 Desk Spaces • 3 Office Spaces (up to 4 team members) • Soundproof booth (up to 4 people) • Meeting Room (up to 6 people) • Coworking Lounge (up to 20 people) • Breakout Areas • 2x 2 Seater Setups in main hub • Visitor work desk • 11 seating spaces in breakout area • Kitchenette Facilities • Printing Facilities • Out of Hours Access • Ensuite Toilet Facilities

If you are interested in hiring a fixed desk or an office first complete our registration form. Once registered, express your interest by emailing

Start Up Wandsworth@gll.org

26 | Business Connexions

Business Hubs

As part of our BUSINESS SUPPORT PROGRAM you can also access expert led workshops, skill development session and 1-2-1 consultations via our Eventbrite.

We provide: • Sessions led by industry experts • Professional skill development workshops • Signpost to additional business support • 1-2-1 Consultations with our dedicated business manager • Events through our partners such as the British Intellectual Property Center (BIPC)

All our workshops are FREE!

Business Connexions | 27

CHAMBER EVENTS

WANDSWORTH CHA

SAVE the dates Wandsworth BUSINESS FORUM Connect with Wandsworth Council and Experts for

REGULAR BUSINESS UPDATES 1st Wednesday of Every Month 9.30am -11am Venue: ONLINE Registration Link: https://cutt.ly/ZyNAqnQ 28 | Business Connexions

AMBER EVENTS • Tuesday 23rd January Wandsworth Business Awards Mix & Mingle Networking event at The Landing by Spacemade 6 pm – 8 pm • Monday 29th January Mix & Mingle Networking event at The Earlsfield Gastro Pub 6 pm – 8 pm • Monday 5th February Mix & Mingle Networking event at the Plough Bar & Kitchen 6 pm – 8 pm • Wednesday 7th February Wandsworth Chamber Business Forum 9.30 am, Online • Wednesday 14th February Business Networking at the Earlsfield 6 pm – 9 pm • Tuesday 20th February Mix & Mingle at The Engine Room, Battersea Power Station 6 pm – 8 pm

• Thursday 22nd February Breakfast Networking at Russell-Cooke, Putney 8 am – 9.30 am • Monday 26th February Mix & Mingle at Homework Workspace 6 pm – 8 pm • Wednesday 6th March Wandsworth Chamber Business Forum, 9.30 am, Online • Wednesday 13th March Business Networking in Clapham Junction at The Hannah 6 pm – 9 pm • Wednesday 27th March Chamber Big Breakfast at The Pestana Hotel 8 am – 10.30 am • Wednesday 3rd April Wandsworth Chamber Business Forum, 9.30 am, Online • Wednesday 10th April Business Networking at the Earlsfield 6 pm – 9 pm

Please visit the events page of our website regularly to see what’s on and why not join us as we network through 2024.

For further details go to

www.wandsworthchamber.org/events

SCAN THE QR CODE

(Caltrics.com) with your phone camera to see our events and get them in your calendar app.

Business Connexions | 29

SPORT

The new racket sport I’m recommending At first glance, it’s not surprising to see tennis star Andy Murray and his brother Jamie with rackets in hand, but look again, and you’ll see these are not tennis rackets. In fact, they aren’t really rackets at all, but bats. Padel bats, and that’s because Britain’s most successful tennis playing siblings have put money into the new sport sweeping the country, with courts recently opened in Crystal Palace.

P

adel is the world’s fastest growing sport and is best described as a cross between tennis and squash, played on court one third the size of a tennis court with enclosed walls. It’s fast paced, highly sociable (played in doubles pairs) and those that have adopted it, say it’s extremely addictive.

Murray explained: “I decided to invest in padel because I think it’s a really easy entry point into racket sports. Many people are put off the idea of joining a tennis club because it’s not somewhere they feel they’ll fit in or the expense of it stops them, but padel is much more accessible.

“It’s a much easier sport to pick up and learn, and so people who would battle to have a decent game of tennis, can actually have pretty good rallies in padel after one or two sessions”.

Game4Padel, the UK marketleader, is the company they have backed. With 15 venues

30 | Business Connexions

open around the country already they are planning on opening around another 20 venues in 2024 in destinations as varied as sports clubs, business parks, hotels, schools, and universities and even shopping centres.

Murray continued: “I first played padel in Spain when I was training there as a teenager. The sport is massive there – it’s the second biggest participation sport after football and there are over 20,000 courts. Part of the reason it’s grown so quickly is that it doesn’t require as much space as a tennis court, so padel does well in towns and cities where space is limited”.

The sport originated in Mexico in the late 1960s when a Spanish squash player modified his squash court to incorporate elements of tennis.

It took till 2011 for padel to come to the UK but since then it’s seen something of an explosion and is rapidly gaining pace as a sport for everyone, whetherthey’ve ever picked up a racket before or not.

“Game4padel set up a padel court in Westfield shopping centre last year, and it was a huge hit”, said Murray. “People were really fascinated

by what this new sport was, and they didn’t find it intimidating at all”.

Westfield are currently awaiting a planning application for three courts at their Shepherd’s Bush site, as they can see the potential to attract a new audience to the centre and build a community – a quality that padel also adds.

The social side of the game is easy to see as people chat whilst playing because they are so close to each other at the net and have a drink or a coffee afterwards.

The new courts in Crystal Palace are already doing well, attracting a mix of fitness fanatics and trend setters, as well as families, older people, work colleagues and teenagers.

Whether the sport will take over from tennis, Murray isn’t so sure: “I think there’s a place for both. There are still plenty of people that play tennis and love tennis. The tennis Tour and the Grand Slams are such huge events that attract massive audiences, that I can’t see that changing. But can padel sit alongside that?

I think so. There’s definitely room for both”.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Posture integrity

in the workplace

By Chucks Onwere

1 3

We all demonstrate a level of work “integrity” at work, but have you ever thought about your “posture integrity” at work?

Is your sedentary working environment conditioning or deconditioning you and how do you sit at work.

2 4

Are you a forward sloucher (Fig. 1) or a backward sloucher (with feet on desk) (Fig. 2) a leg crosser (Fig. 3) or do you get up and stand when possible (Fig. 4)

T

here are two postural phenomenon’s called Upper Cross Syndrome and Lower Cross Syndrome which are exasperated by extended periods of time sitting.

Lower crossed syndrome is a postural imbalance that involves tightness in the hip flexors and lower back with weakness in the abdominal muscles and glutes. This imbalance can lead to lordosis in the lower back and can contribute to lower back pain.

Upper crossed syndrome is characterised by tightness in the chest muscles and muscles at the base of the skull, with weakness in the muscles around the shoulder blades and neck. This imbalance often leads to a forward head posture, rounded shoulders and potentially neck pain, headaches, and shoulder issues.

This leads to increased stress, lack of motivation, poor self-esteem which down regulates your visceral organs potential and then a re-evaluation of your purpose and value within the organisation. The stress leads to sub optimal choices in every walk of life, and a development of poor habit loops.

All the while your mental health hygiene is suffering silently in the background.

You have a workforce displaying decreased productivity, and low morale. Senior managers now have a harder task to motivate staff and then this added load collated with their current load starts impacting their own health and productivity.

The cycle perpetuates.

However here are my 5 top tips for improving “posture integrity”.

(1)

Ergonomic setup: Adjust your chair, desk, and computer screen to the right height to encourage a neutral spine.

(2)

Regular breaks: Take breaks to stand, stretch, and move around to prevent prolonged sitting.

How you sit at your desk has far greater implications for your health than you think.

Both conditions can indirectly affect our mental health due to the chronic pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.

(3)

Posture Integrity Awareness: Be mindful of your posture throughout the day, consciously sitting up straight and aligning your head over your shoulders. Learning how to breathe efficiently when in a sedentary position.

(4)

Ergonomic aids: Using lumbar support or ergonomic chairs to maintain proper spinal alignment.

(5)

Corrective Posture Program*: Have a Corrective Posture Specialist have your whole team assessed to correct their individual muscular imbalances.

Ultimately when you demonstrate a high level of postural integrity, from a mental health perspective you are more motivated to do exercise, eat well, make clearer decisions, have a better outlook on life all because you have corrected your posture and hence now you are not masquerading as a poorer version of yourself biomechanically but are now a much more efficient machine and living a more authentic life.

* If you would like more information on how l can help your organisation become more posturally aware and to enhance individuals posture integrity at work which ultimately will lead to more productivity, greater mental hygiene and an overall feel-good factor around the working environment then feel free to contact me at: hello@concept3movement.co.uk Business Connexions | 31

NEW MEMBERS

WELCOME

to new members u Adaab Design Architects

u Adler Consulting Ltd

u Jack Bowyer Property Ltd

u Black Heroes Foundation

Dennis Austin 103a Silverthorne Rd London SW8 3HH 020 3633 6575 Jack Bowyer 33 Causeway House 5 Creek Lane London SW18 1AG 0770 7013642

Jonathan White 83 Disraeli Road London SW15 2DY 0797 7929944

u Chesterfield Gordon Thomas Meilak The Hope, Studio 1 7 Heather Close London SW8 3BS 0754 0446656

Joyce Fraser Scratch Hub Battersea Arts Centre London SW11 5TN 0778 6435465

Find us on the Chamber Directory: https://www.wandsworthchamber.org/directory

Whether you are part of a large organisation or work from an office at home, there are many good reasons for joining the Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce.

As the business hub of Wandsworth, your Chamber is influential in helping to create the right business environment for local companies to flourish.

Through membership you have the ability to use our “business voice”, the opportunity to meet key stakeholders, network and do business with many other local businesses that you won’t find anywhere else.

So, do it now, online, and start enjoying the many benefits on offer.

www.wandsworthchamber.org For more information or to discuss how we can help you, please contact us at:

Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce

020 3633 6575 enquiries@wandsworthchamber.org 32 | Business Connexions

STARTING UP

Starting

UP

SIMON PRIDGEON

Exemplia Learning

www.exemplialearning.co.uk

Q1 In a few words tell us a bit about

Q4 What do you like most about

We are in essence a people focused coaching and training business. We specialise in delivering early careers and graduate programmes, middle and senior management coaching, and innovative approaches to empowering teams and businesses with their learning & development.

Being able to shape our products and services for the customer.

your business?

Q2 What gives your business ‘the X-Factor’?

Our passion for learning and real practical impact.

We set ourselves apart by combining our expertise with helping people really understand their customer with operations management and processes excellence.

Q3 What motivated you to set up in business ?

Collectively, we have worked in the learning industry for over 40 years and got frustrated at how much learning didn’t take account of eventually delivering something for the end customer. Too often training and coaching takes no account of customer or operations. You may have a great day’s training, or a really insightful coaching session, but when you return to the workplace and your processes are still failing to deliver for the customer, this undermines any positive impact learning may have had.

Post-Covid there was a real role for face-to-face training and coaching to bring people back together and re-engage with organisational culture.

working as a start-up ?

Q5 What has been your greatest business success to date ?

Every time we have someone say thank you.

Which luckily, is all the time.

Q6 What has been your lowest moment?

When you want to continue coaching someone, but the business can’t invest further. We always go above and beyond, but there is only so much we can do for free!

Q7 In terms of business achievements, where do you want to be within the next 5 years ?

We want to inspire as many people as possible!

And continue to find inspiration ourselves from the people we have the pleasure of working with.

Our wider strategy and 5-year plan is bit more of a secret I’m afraid.

Q8 What would be your top tip to

someone thinking of starting up their own business ?

Look at the context of what you will be doing and make sure you really love what you are doing.

It will not always be easy, so you have to enjoy it to have resilience for the harder times.

You may have a great day’s training, or a really insightful ❛❛coaching session, but when you return to the workplace and your processes are still failing to deliver for the customer, this undermines any positive impact learning may have had.

❜❜

Business Connexions | 33

5 MINUTES WITH ...

minutes with ...

ADAM KNIGHT

Founder ANGEL SWIM LONDON Q1 Who are you?

My name is Adam Knight. I am 32 years old, from South West London. I am teaching people of all ages to swim. This has been my biggest passion for the past 16 years. I love a good old challenge for charity too. In the last few years, I have competed in Ironman Triathlons, run marathons and swam the English Channel.

Q2 What’s your business all about?

Angel Swim London is a private swim school that helps babies, children and SEN learn to swim. Our swim school has 3 unique selling points: 1. Small class sizes of 4 or 2 per class 2. Warm, private swimming pools 3. Highly trained, experienced teachers These three ingredients are the key to swimming success. In the past six years we have grown to nine swimming pools, 20 teachers and 700 weekly swimmers.

We currently offer swim classes in Chelsea, Putney, Battersea, Balham, Hampstead, Hendon, Surbiton and Esher.

Q3 Three words to describe yourself?

Energetic. Enthusiastic. Ambitious.

Q4 Ideal Customer?

Anyone who wants their baby or child to learn a lifesaving skill, build confidence and be safe around the water.

Q5 Biggest achievement?

The biggest achievement has been sharing our knowledge of water safety at international swim projects around the world. To date we have run swim teacher training courses and free swim lessons for charities in Vietnam, Mozambique, Jamaica & India.

Being able to empower local people with the skills and knowledge to help their community and prevent future generations from drowning is the most rewarding experience. I could teach 100 children to swim in a week on my own. But if I train 20 locals to become swim teachers then we can teach thousands of children to swim in a sustainable, community led solution.

34 | Business Connexions

Q6 Biggest gripe?

Entitled, lazy people who expect all the rewards without doing any of the work.

Q7 Your inspiration?

My inspiration in life is Francesca Trotman, founder of Love the Oceans in Mozambique and Charlotte Holt, founder of Likkle Swimmers in Jamaica - they are selfless, driven, inspirational women who work relentlessly to empower and improve the lives of their people.

I feel honoured and privileged to have worked with them both. My inspiration in business is a man called Chris Rees.

I worked for him while studying at Southampton University. He runs a private swim school and was a master delegator, leader and team builder.

Q8 Philosophy in Business?

Lead by example and look after your people.

Even after 16 years I still teach and run monthly practical swim teaching workshops for my team. If you work for someone that shows up and genuinely cares, you will be motivated to go the extra mile yourself.

As a business owner it can be easy to get caught up in the chaos. Pay close attention to your team, check in with them regularly and show gratitude at every opportunity.

If your staff feel recognised and appreciated, they will perform better and so will your business!

Q9 Sporting Hero?

Muhammad Ali - Heavyweight Boxing champion of the world. Not only does he embody hard work, courage, discipline, and an unwavering belief in oneself, he also spoke up for and represented his people in a time of oppression and inequality. He was not just an elite athlete, but a master salesman too - bursting with confidence and charisma - qualities which are key in any business owner too.

Q10 Biggest tip for success?

Passion. Patience. Persistence.

If you run a business, you need to exude passion about your product. Every time I see my team, I remind them of the amazing impact of their work. When they are engaged and passionate this filters through to the clients!

Success doesn’t happen overnight.

Our swim school began with a handful of clients, we had loads of bigger more established competition and little to no reputation, so progress was slow.

Keep at it.

We have had staff come and go, been shut down by COVID for two years and lost valuable swimming pools. In business and in life you will experience challenges and adversity, it is how you react that defines you. Keep at it.

W: www.angelswim.london

❛❛Even after 16 years I still teach and run monthly practical swim teaching workshops for my team. If you work for someone that shows up and genuinely cares, you will be motivated to go the extra mile yourself.

❜❜

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