Business Connexions September 2021

Official Magazine for Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce | Issue 15 | Sept 2021

Inside • News BATTERSEA POWER STATION Underground to open after 10 years in the making Page 12

• The Big Interivew VICTORIA OLADOSU Hallmark Care Homes The personal touch Page 14

• The Person Behind the Business SIMONE RAWLEY A2 Dominion A safe place to call home Page 31

NEW CHAMBER PATRON

Henley Homes CEO

TARIQ USMANI MBE

on how the company is strengthening its links with businesses in the borough

Page 17

Has Covid-19 affected you?

Are you more Worried, Isolated, Lost your routine, Do you feel low? We are here for you.

FREE NHS Talking therapies

If you’ve got things on your mind that are affecting your day to day life, talking to us about your problems can really help Wandsworth Talking therapies Call 0203 513 6264 or Wellbeing Helpline 0203 513 4907 Visit www.talkwandsworth.nhs.uk talkwandsworth @Talk Wandsworth - Wellbeing TalkWandsworthWellbeing

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WELCOME & CONTENTS

Welcome to the latest Edition of the Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce Magazine WELCOME to the September 2021 edition of Business ConneXions, as you receive this issue, many businesses will be starting their preparations for Christmas and still unsure of what trading conditions will prevail as we recover through this Pandemic.

Through the Chamber movement, we continue pressing on the Government to support businesses and we will continue to work locally with Wandsworth Council to help with access to grants and other business support.

The Wandsworth Business Forum is now held online on the 1st Wednesday of every month, and this is an opportunity to share your concerns and speak directly to senior officers from the Council – see our Events Page for further details and to register.

We know that our businesses will continue to play their part

Inside Sept 2021

in getting back to normal in the safest possible way and we are here to support them.

We are in the process of affiliating to the London Chamber of Commerce International and are forging stronger links and connections for our local businesses. We will report more on the benefits, discounts and access to services this affiliation will offer our members as the relationship develops.

We continue to thank all our Members who have stayed with us, to our Patron Members who have supported our work and welcome new Members who have joined during these trying times. We especially welcome new Patron Member Henley Homes, an Award-winning property company who are based in the borough and want to get more involved locally.

Henley Homes have already

18-19 21-23 24 25

donated 100 laptops to 30 schools in the borough and are actively involved in supporting youngster. We look forward to working with them.

If you know a business who is not a member, why not ask them to join Wandsworth Chamber and help to create a better business environment. We continue to urge everyone to actively promote and support a Buy Local, Shop Local, Help Local way of living. With over 300,000 residents and in excess of 18,000 businesses in our borough, we have a great opportunity to really make a difference and hasten recovery.

Stay safe and well.

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Economy

9-10

News

11

Legal

12

Battersea

4-5

14-15 Big Interview 17

Patron Focus

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Published September 2021 © Benham Publishing

Advertising and Features Karen Hall e: karen@benhampublishing.com t: 0151 236 4141 Studio Mark Etherington e: studio@benhampublishing.com Media No.1811

Richard Burge Skills News Technology

Environment

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

Editor Jez Davison e: Jez@benhampublishing.com

Steve Pinto CEO Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce

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

The Person Behind the Business

Optimism and Opportunity

Enquiries Studio F8 (Le Bureau) Battersea Studios 80 Silverthorne Road London SW8 3HE t: 020 3633 6575 e: enquiries@wandsworthchamber.org w: www.wandsworthchamber.org

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Health & Wellbeing

32 33 33 34

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Chamber Events New Members Starting Up 5 Minutes with…

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. © 2021.

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.

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Our Patron Members

Business Connexions | 3

OPTIMISM AND OPPORTUNITY

A land of

optimism and opportunity Over the last year-and-a-half we’ve heard a lot about the resilience, tenacity and adaptability of Wandsworth businesses as they fought their way through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, though, with the worst of the health crisis hopefully behind us, the narrative has changed. Growth is back on the agenda, with many businesses actively searching for new opportunities at home and overseas and generally feeling more optimistic about the future.

Local Authorities had until 30 July 2021 to meet all necessary conditions and prove that they have spent or made a validated attempt to spend 100% of their first two ARG allocations combined, in order to secure the further top up.

Employment is beginning to rise again. The latest labour market data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that in July, the number of payroll employees increased by 182,000 to 28.9 million. In the three months to June 30 this year, there was a quarterly increase in the employment rate of 0.3 percentage points, to 75.1%, and a decrease in the unemployment rate of 0.2 percentage points, to 4.7%.

As at end of August 2021, the council have paid out £107.5m in ALL business grants since March 2020.

Commenting on the ONS labour market statistics, Suren Thiru, head of economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The latest figures confirm that the UK jobs market is recovering strongly as the boost to demand from the easing of restrictions helped drive higher payroll employment in July.

“However, record vacancies confirm ongoing recruitment difficulties. Although the changes to self-isolation rules will help, with many firms facing a more deep-rooted squeeze on labour supply from the impact of COVID and Brexit, staff shortages may persistently weigh on economic activity.”

Although the impact of COVID and Brexit will inevitably bring challenges, there will be opportunities as firms explore new markets and develop new products and services.

Where will these opportunities lie for Wandsworth firms? As the country creates a greener economy, new environmentally friendly products and services will be in demand. New and emerging technologies, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, are also being adopted more frequently to make business operations more efficient and to promote new products to consumers.

Advanced manufacturing is another sector that could be explored further, while Wandsworth’s traditional strengths in creative arts and tourism could underpin an economic recovery once more visitors return to the borough.

It’s clear that businesses will continue to need support as they chase these opportunities and navigate through the remainder of the pandemic.

The good news is that Wandsworth Council is providing this support by securing additional funding for local businesses.

Initially the funding received from Government for Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG), was £6.59m recieved on 6/11/20 then £2.93m received on 13/1/21 as top up with £2.9m received on 16/7/21 as further top up.

4 | Business Connexions

Wandsworth Borough Council’s ARG spend at end of July 21 was £10.36m. Total ARG funding (total of three different amounts) of £12.45m

For the financial year 20/21, the council awarded £69.4m in Covid-related business rates reliefs.For the financial year 21/22, these reliefs have been reduced from 1 July 2021, but the yearly amount awarded is estimated to be £40.3m Cllr Rhodri Morgan, Wandsworth’s cabinet member for economic development, skills and employment, said: “We know that many businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, are still feeling the impact of the pandemic. We have fantastic local businesses that truly are the lifeblood of our borough and we hope that by releasing these funds we can continue to ensure that our business sector and our high streets thrive.”

Besides securing funding for businesses that need it, the council is also helping in other ways. For instance, it is removing ‘permitted development’ rights in selected locations across the borough to protect town centres, local shopping parades and other business premises that may be vulnerable to change to residential use.

The move follows the introduction of new government rules that allow change of use from town centre uses (commercial, business and service use) to residential without any need for planning consent.

Despite these positive developments, however, there will be further challenges as we head into the winter months. The BCC’s director general, Shevaun Haviland, has called on the government to bring forward a COVID strategy for the coming months, and put in place a contingency plan for the possibility of a variant evading the vaccine.

She said: “What we’d really like to see is a contingency plan that looks to the next three to six months. It would consider things like booster jabs or, if we have a variant that causes cases to rise again, what kind of business support could be put in place.

“This is really important because it gives businesses clarity and certainty which allows them to concentrate on doing what they do best – powering the economic recovery and investing in jobs.

“We really want to see business and government looking at the longer term and thinking about things such as investment in skills, in global trade and the levelling up agenda. These are the things that will help our businesses move on from just surviving and get back to growing and thriving.”

OPTIMISM AND OPPORTUNITY

“We know that many businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, are still feeling the impact of the pandemic. We have fantastic local businesses that truly are the lifeblood of our borough and we hope that by releasing these funds we can continue to ensure that our business sector and our high streets thrive.”

Business Connexions | 5

HR

Fifth open letter to chamber members, from me, Martin Pocock

Dear Chamber Members,

It is Martin here, owner of Pocock’s Chartered Accountants and Insolvency Advisors. I think business’s can be put into three categories: 1 Companies badly affected

by Covid

Many companies have been forced to borrow money and delay payments to HMRC and other creditors primarily due to lack of sales. These creditors are now going to want their money back.

With regards to the banks and HMRC hopefully these institutions will allow you an extended time to pay. However I have noticed that trade creditors are becoming more aggressive, and we are seeing an increase in winding up petitions being issued. If you believe creditors may take this course of action it is important to have a plan B. The earlier this is put in place the better.

Give me a call on 07801 178 848 if you get a statutory demand, a threat of a Winding Up Petition or any other type of recovery action.

Directors are often tempted to put more of their own money or borrowed money into failing business’s without asking the question “when I will get this money back”. Further they often agree to give a Personal Guarantee (PG). Some Directors fall into the trap of deferring their own salaries and using their credit cards to pay for their day to day living expenses.

There is nothing good about these strategies!

These strategies appear to save the business short term, but the key point is that if the deficit is say circa £100,000 and you put £50,000 into the company it is still insolvent by £50,000 and the £50,000 will be lost if the company were to be liquidated. This money would have been better invested in an entirely new business or just kept in your bank for better opportunities later on. The earlier you seek advice the more money you may save.

THE KEY POINT IS SEEK ADVICE BEFORE YOU INVEST PERSONAL FUNDS AND TIME INTO A BUSINESS THAT HAS CASHFLOW PROBLEMS

2 Businesses that are profitable but have cashflow problems

All business should look at ways of conserving cash as we are still in uncertain times. The easy ways are to extend your bounce back or cbill loans up to the maximum of 10 years. You can take payment holidays or go onto paying interest only. To do this you will need to talk to your lender. This may affect your ability to get further loans in the future from your lender so I would advise that you only do this as a last resort.

Other ways of conserving cash are to agree a time to pay with HMRC. Contact HMRC if you need to do this, and you should easily get a time to pay over ???

With regards to trade creditors you should put them in 2 categories.

Those that are needed and essential for the business and those you no longer trade with.

Those that you no longer need try and seek payment plan???. Once you agree a plan, stick to it as you do not want the creditor to take recovery action.

Again good luck and I hope your cashflow improves and your company remains profitable.

I am now going to repeat what I have said in previous letters as it is still relevant. The message has not changed. My aim is to save your money.

The most important thing when running a business Make sure the business is paying you and you are not pumping personal funds into the business to keep it afloat. When you are

paying money into the business it means you are not being paid by the business. Often money paid into a business short term is from expensive funding i.e. credit cards.

If you have to pump short term funds into the business make sure it will be able to repay within a reasonable time period. Do a cashflow to make sure this will happen. I have come across directors who have not taken a salary for a business for over 1 year.

By the time they consult me the money is effectively gone and often they have run up large personal liabilities.

This money would have been better spent on a new business or protecting the family home.

Hopefully for you, you will not need my services but if you are in any doubt pick up the phone and call me on 07801 178 848.

Liabilities

Hopefully either you have been able to trade through lockdown or if not are in a position to re-open without have run up too many liabilities. Many businesses will be viable but have run up large liabilities over the lock-down periods meaning that the owner/ shareholders will not be able to draw a salary or pay dividends for a long period of time. All you will be doing is paying historic liabilities and potentially running up personal liabilities in order to maintain your family’s standard of living.

I want you to know that you can liquidate your business and start again if you need or wish to. I want to warn you against funding a business from your and your family’s personal assets. This is common and once the pattern is set, a chain of events and circumstances can ensue until the business collapses and brings you and your family down with it.

It should be obvious if your income from the business is not covering your family’s outgoings, but this is very easy to ignore. The key factors to look for are: • Extending a loan on a credit card or getting an additional one • Accepting some parental support to ease your personal cashflow • Not repairing the car • Not spending some money on the leaky house roof • Your partner has to find additional work • Trimming or cancelling the family holiday • Difficulty in paying school fees You should check that your new business will be viable and provide an income for you and your family.

If a business does not provide for the standard of living you and your family desire, then you must surely ask yourself why you are doing it.

It is easy to believe there are no other options. There are always options. For example, many people go to work for someone else after liquidating their business and find it a welcome relief!

It is entirely normal and legal to place a company into a Creditors Voluntary Liquidation, at any time and then start or do something new. If you, and your board do not understand this option and would like to explore this, then please get in touch.

My aim here is to protect you, your personal assets and your income going forward.

At this early stage I do not charge.

Give me a call.

Stay safe and keep well.

Martin

My background For those of you who do not already know me from the regular chamber meetings, I have spent the last 30 plus years doing this king of work. I qualified as a chartered accountant with PWC and then worked in Australia for several years. I then chose to specialise in distressed situations and am

very aware of the pitfalls and challenges which do not occur in the normal course of business.

This is a specialised area with very few true specialists! It is akin to sailing along a rocky coastline at night in a storm compared to crossing an ocean. I know where the rocks are and how to steer you round them.

I have plenty of testimonials which I can share with you and former clients who you can call should you wish to. I do not think its right to note them here in this very public setting.

So, give me a call or catch me on the weekly chamber meeting calls.

In formal language, I specialise in all aspects of corporate finance and insolvency including • Liquidations • Administrations • Creditors Voluntary Liquidations • Company Voluntary Arrangements • • High court winding up petitions • HMRC Time To Pay agreements •

Email: pococks@hotmail.com

Call 07801 178 848

Pococks Chartered Accountants and Insolvency Advisors

ECONOMY

Nearly three in four exporters report no sales growth in Q2 The latest British Chambers of Commerce’s (BCC) Trade Confidence Outlook has shown that exporters still face significant issues as they chase business overseas.

The survey of more than 2,800 UK exporters revealed that the percentage of firms reporting increased export sales in Q2 had risen to 27% from 20% in Q1.

Although this was a seven-point rise from the previous quarter, it still showed that almost three in four exporters reported no sales growth during the second quarter.

The percentage of businesses reporting decreased export sales fell to 28%, down from 41%, but this remains a historically high proportion. In addition, 45% reported no change in their export sales.

The percentage balance data shows that the proportion of firms reporting increased export sales recovered slightly after taking a downward turn in Q1. The balance of manufacturers reporting increased overseas sales was up to +8% from -9%, while the balance of services firms reporting increases rose to -7% from -26%.

Overall, 35% of manufacturing exporters surveyed reported increased overseas sales in Q2, with 27% reporting a decrease and 39% reporting no change.

The breakdown of services between business-to-business (B2B) and businessto-consumer (B2C) exporters reveals that a considerably larger proportion of B2C exporters are seeing a fall in overseas sales; 38% of B2C exporters surveyed reported a decrease in export sales, in comparison to 21% of B2B firms.

The proportion reporting increased sales, though, was similar between B2B and B2C (23% and 22% respectively).

For B2B this represents an 11-point fall from 34% reporting increased sales in Q1.

While 55% of B2B firms reported sales staying constant in comparison to 40% of B2C businesses. It should be noted that these numbers come on the back of historically high proportions of both B2B and B2C firms reporting decreased sales in the previous quarter, 31% and 51% respectively.

Across several metrics – including domestic sales, confidence and expectation of workforce growth – exporters were more likely than non-exporters to report rises. This ties with historical data showing exporters are more likely to display confidence as they push into new markets or develop new products.

Given that the recovery in overseas sales continues to lag domestic sales by a significant margin, the survey highlights exporters’ struggle to grow sales in the face of the issues currently affecting trade.

Respondents cited issues arising from Brexit as the main cause of difficulties with export sales in the quarter. Many pointed to ongoing issues with the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), increased red tape or costs, and losing EU-based clients or customers to the perception that trade was now simply too difficult or complex.

Responding to the findings, head of trade policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, William Bain, said: “Our exporters are among the best problemsolvers and innovators in our economy, yet our data demonstrates that they are still struggling mightily to resolve the issues that they currently face.

“As the UK and EU economies open up, we urge both sides to address the key pressures upon exporters – the red tape around import VAT and the new portals, paperwork and checks for agrifood exports, consistency of approach on customs rules and checks, looming deadlines on CE-marked goods, and the restrictions on labour mobility and service provision.

“It’s clear that the TCA needs to be built upon and applied in ways which cut the current red tape costs and burdens on EU exports. We must solve these issues so that exports can become a driving force in our recovery from the pandemic.”

“Our exporters are among the best problem-solvers and innovators in our economy, yet our data demonstrates that they are still struggling mightily to resolve the issues that they currently face.”

Business Connexions | 7

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NEWS

Families learn new digital skills

NEWS

JOIN US TOD AY

in latest phase of pioneering project

Wandsworth Council and Battersea Power Station are building on their joint venture to tackle digital exclusion across the borough and are now offering new skills sessions to local families.

In the very early days of lockdown, the council and the power station teamed up to create their Power to Connect scheme to provide schoolchildren in Wandsworth with the digital equipment and skills to continue their learning.

Since its formation in April 2020, Power to Connect has delivered more than 1,320 tablet devices and laptops to 72 Wandsworth schools and community organisations, along with £10,000 worth of data top-up vouchers and wi-fi dongles to lower income families.

The partnership with Battersea Power Station forms just one part of the council’s wider efforts to offer digital support to families in need. In total the council has overseen the provision of more than 7,200 laptops and tablets to local families throughout the pandemic.

Now that families have the hardware to help them explore the digital world, the initiative is being expanded to make sure families have the skills and expertise to explore the digital world.

The first series of digital skills session were held in June at St George’s primary school in Battersea.

The parents whose children were given laptops and tablets were present and taught about privacy settings, social media and online safety.

These sessions are set to continue next month when more parents will be invited to attend classes at St George’s.

Cllr Will Sweet of Wandsworth Council said: “More than a thousand Wandsworth families whose children didn’t have a laptop or a tablet were able to continue their learning online as a result of this partnership. It’s helped make a huge difference by keeping them on top of their lessons and up to speed with their learning.”

Isabel St Chapman, director of Power to Connect, added: “We are thrilled to be expanding our work at Power2Connect and delivering digital skills sessions in schools.”

Seize the COP26 opportunity - London Assembly

London Assembly’s Environment Committee has highlighted the opportunities presented by the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).

More than 190 world leaders will meet to discuss global action against climate change at the 26th COP26, which takes place in Glasgow in November.

The London Assembly Environment Committee has been hearing how London should engage with COP26.

As a result of the committee’s meeting, the chair has written to Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, to ensure London proactively seizes the range of opportunities presented by this historic meeting.

The letter asks for key information, including: • How the mayor will engage with government for appropriate measures to address emissions and resolve the health risks facing London • How the mayor will use the opportunities COP26 presents and his convening powers to get all Londoners involved in the move to net zero and decarbonisation

• Regular updates on the additional work the mayor will be doing in the lead up to COP26 and during the event itself Chair of the London Assembly Environment Committee, Zack Polanski AM, said: “COP26 in Glasgow presents an historic opportunity for London to really show the world how serious it is about weighing into the climate change discussion.

“London is a fantastic city that leads on so many fronts but there is more to be done here when it comes to tackling climate change. There is room for everyone to step up to the mark.

“COP26 is a prime platform for the mayor to encourage different parts of London’s economy to make even bolder commitments. It’s also a good time to continue to up the ante on lobbying central government for even more powers to meet London’s environmental targets.”

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

Business Connexions Connexions || 9 Business 9

NEWS

Mayor of Wandsworth

issues charity appeal The Mayor of Wandsworth is appealing to residents and businesses to give generously to his chosen local charities.

Since being elected to serve as the borough’s first citizen, Cllr Richard Field has carried out more than two dozen engagements as he visits people around the borough. He can expect to attend several hundred over the course of his mayoral year in office.

At many of these events, he uses the opportunity to raise the profiles of his two mayoral charities in a bid to generate goodwill, support and funding for these good causes.

This year’s civic charities are Regenerate-RISE, an organisation that supports isolated older and vulnerable residents across the borough and the Full Circle Fund Therapies, of which he is patron, which offers care and support to very sick children and adults at St George’s Hospital in Tooting.

The vital community work of Regenerate-Rise during lockdown

was highlighted in March by BBC London. Cllr Field said: “The work carried out by these two local charities and their volunteers really does make a hugely positive difference to the people and groups they support.

“They are true pillars of our community and I’m determined throughout my mayoral year to do everything I can to raise their profiles and hopefully raise funds to help them continue their vital work.

“I know this past year has been extremely difficult and challenging for all our residents and that many are feeling the pressure financially.

But for those who are in a position to do so, I would please ask them to make a donation and help support the efforts of those who are working tirelessly to assist local people who are vulnerable and less fortunate than most.”

To find out more about the two charities and make a donation, visit https://www.wandsworth.gov.uk/the-council/councillors/the-mayorof-wandworth/mayors-charities/

Further protection for town centres and employment areas

Wandsworth Council is removing ‘permitted development’ rights in selected locations across the borough to protect town centres, local shopping parades and other business premises that may be vulnerable to change to residential properties.

New government rules came into effect on August 1 to allow change of use from town centre uses (commercial, business and service use) to residential without any need for planning consent.

The council has made a so-called ‘Article 4 Direction’. The effect of the Direction is that such changes of use to residential will require planning permission. This aims to protect the character of town and local centres, keep shopping areas vibrant, protect community facilities and local services and prevent further vacancies at a time when centres are recovering from the pandemic and changing shopping habits.

The Direction focuses on the ‘Central Activities Zone’ of

Battersea and Nine Elms as well as Wandsworth Town, Clapham Junction, Tooting, Balham and Putney town centres. It also covers the borough’s local shopping centres in Battersea Park Road, Southfields Bellevue Road, Clapham South, Earlsfield, Lavender Hill, Queenstown Road, Mitcham Lane and Tooting Bec. In addition, all locally important parades have been included.

The Article 4 Direction was made on July 30, 2021, and the public have until September 24 to make representations.

The Direction will come into force on July 31 2022, subject to consideration of any representations by the public and the Secretary of State, and confirmation by the council.

For more information on the proposed Article 4 Direction, visit https://wandsworth.gov.uk/change-of-use-from-class-e-to-c3

Financial lifeline for Wandsworth businesses

Wandsworth Council has secured additional funding to support hard-hit businesses as they face up to the pressures of the pandemic.

The council was required to distribute at least £9.5m of Additional Restrictions Grant funding by June 30 to be eligible for a further £2.9m.

In fact, the programme went so well that the target was exceeded and some £10.3m has now been distributed. The balance of the additional funding stands at around £2.2m and the council is considering options as to how to distribute it.

In total, since the start of the pandemic in March 2020, the council has awarded more than £150m in financial support to businesses.

Cllr Rhodri Morgan, Wandsworth’s cabinet member for economic

development, skills and employment, said: “We know that many businesses, especially in the hospitality sector, are still feeling the impact of the pandemic. We have fantastic local businesses that truly are the lifeblood of our borough and we hope that by releasing these funds we can continue to ensure our business sector and our high streets thrive.”

The council’s finance spokesman, Cllr Kim Caddy, added: “The aim of the council since the beginning of lockdown has been to ensure we can deliver financial support to businesses quickly and efficiently with the minimum of fuss and delay. We will continue to dothis as long as we need to.”

Businesses can find out more about the financial support available at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/business-rates-grants

10 | Business Connexions

LEGAL

Can employers force their employees to have the vaccine?

As most adults in the UK have now received their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, employees are starting to return to the workplace.

In the US, employers such as Google and Netflix have suggested that they will be obliging their employees to be vaccinated before returning to the office. This decision reflects the view of many managers and employers here who, in a survey earlier this year, indicated a preference for a mandatory vaccination policy. Some employees, however, consider that this would be an infringement of their human rights and that they should be free to choose whether to have the vaccine or not.

How can litigation best be avoided in these circumstances?

The Government has to date only legislated for the vaccine to be compulsory for workers in registered care homes in England. If employers outside of this sector were to introduce a blanket policy requiring employees to be vaccinated before coming into the office, without making any exceptions, a number of legal issues could arise.

A duty of care Employers are responsible for health and safety management in the workplace.

They must protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees and the people that they come into contact with, such as customers or service users.

Clearly, minimising the risk of exposure to COVID-19 falls within that remit. Many employers may see these duties as justifying the imposition of a mandatory vaccine policy. However, requiring all employees to be vaccinated before coming in to work, and disciplining those that refuse, may in some circumstances breach the implied duty of trust and confidence or constitute discrimination.

Despite the apparent success of the vaccine in reducing the number of serious cases of COVID-19, some employees may be at greater risk if they have the vaccine and may have

Jeremy Coy

been advised by their doctor not to get vaccinated. Requiring such employees to be vaccinated as a condition of returning to work could lead to an unfair dismissal claim if the employee has more than two years’ service.

Pregnant women may also have protection under discrimination law.

Current Government advice is that pregnant women should be vaccinated.

However, previously, the advice was that pregnant women should not be vaccinated. The change in advice and the fact that other drugs have affected foetal development in the past may lead to some pregnant employees not wanting to be vaccinated. Most employers are likely to be reluctant to force them to do so.

Generally, employers should also take into account any relevant religious or other protected beliefs, as introducing a policy which is harder for one group to comply with could amount to indirect discrimination on one of these grounds.

Uncharted territory Most of the legal issues which could arise from the introduction of vaccination policies have not yet been tested in the Employment Tribunals. However, in the meantime, employers can minimise the risk of such claims by explaining their reasoning to staff and taking proper account of any legitimate objections that are raised. Employers should therefore inform staff of the available information on the potential advantages and disadvantages of vaccination, to assist them in making an informed decision. They should explain that they are acting in accordance with their duty to take reasonable care of the health and safety of their employees and to take reasonable steps to provide a safe workplace and system of work. They may also wish to support their staff by offering paid time off to attend vaccination

Senior Associate Direct: +44 (0)20 8394 6225 Jeremy.Coy@russell-cooke.co.uk

appointments and for absences if the vaccine makes them unwell.

Acas and Public Health England also recommend sharing information about the vaccine to counter any inaccurate claims about its effectiveness and safety, as well as letting staff know where they can get the vaccine in their local area.

The carrot or the stick?

An employer could argue that a vaccination directive amounts to a reasonable management instruction on the basis that it is intended to protect health and safety. Ordinarily failure to follow an employer’s reasonable instructions can lead to disciplinary sanctions, including dismissal. However, whether a vaccination requirement would amount to a reasonable management instruction for these purposes would depend on a range of factors including the nature of the employee’s role and the employer’s business, how effectively the employee could work from home, the employee’s reasons for not wanting to have the vaccine, and how closely employees were required to work together within the organisation in question.

Some employers may seek to amend existing employment contracts to require vaccination. Generally employment contracts cannot be changed without employees’ consent and simply imposing the change could result in claims of constructive dismissal and discrimination.

Given the risks involved, it seems likely that many employers will shy away from imposing blanket requirements or changing contracts, and will instead elect to introduce a vaccination policy which encourages as many employees as possible to have the vaccine, but which also takes into account legitimate individual concerns and objections.

russell-cooke.co.uk +44 (0)20 3826 7550

Business Connexions | 11

BATTERSEA

BATTERSEA POWER STATION Underground to open Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed that the two new tube stations making up the Northern Line Extension will open to the public on Monday September 20.

The two step-free, Zone 1 stations at Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms are set to dramatically improve the connectivity of these vibrant south London neighbourhoods and contribute to the capital’s recovery from the pandemic at a vital time.

Major construction on the 3km twintunnel railway between Kennington and Battersea Power Station, via Nine Elms, began in 2015. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the construction project has stayed on track for an autumn opening.

Tube services on the extension will start on Monday September 20, running from Kennington station on the Charing Cross branch. There will be an initial peak time service of six trains per hour on the extension, increasing to 12 trains per hour by mid-2022. There will be five trains per hour during off-peak times, doubling to 10 trains per hour next year.

The Northern Line Extension is the first major tube extension this century and is supporting around 25,000 new jobs and more than 20,000 new homes. In addition, construction of the extension boosted the UK economy and supported around 1,000 jobs, including 79 apprenticeships.

Cllr Govindia outside the Tube

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Around 100 members of station staff are currently undertaking training to become familiar with the two new step-free tube stations, and Northern line drivers are receiving instruction on the new route. Work is also nearing completion on Art on the Underground’s major new permanent artwork by London-based Brazilian artist Alexandre da Cunha, which is being installed at Battersea Power Station Underground station ahead of the launch.

Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said: “After an incredible effort from the huge number of people who worked on this project, it’s fantastic that we are now on the final countdown to the Northern Line Extension opening later this month.

“The two new stations at Nine Elms and Battersea Power Station are the first new stations on the Northern line for 80 years. They will hugely improve connectivity between these two areas and the rest of London and play a major part in the capital’s recovery from the pandemic by supporting thousands of new jobs, homes and businesses.”

Stuart Harvey, director of major projects at TfL, said: “In just a few weeks’ time, we’ll be opening the first major Tube extension this century and welcoming our first customers to the new stations at Nine Elms and Battersea Power Station. It has been a huge collaborative effort with our London-based stakeholders and suppliers from around the UK.

It’s going to be a fantastic moment when this thriving south London neighbourhood makes it onto the Tube map for the first time, which will also highlight the vital importance of public transport in connecting communities and assisting London in its continuing recovery from the pandemic.”

Councillor Ravi Govindia, leader of Wandsworth Council and co-chair of the Nine Elms Vauxhall Partnership, said: “It’s fantastic to finally have a date for the tube opening in Battersea for the first time, bringing long-awaited new travel connections to the area.

“This huge £1bn transport investment to extend the Northern line to Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms has been over 10 years in the making, so we are delighted that this growing Wandsworth neighbourhood is now firmly on the London Underground map.

“Our leadership and resolution with partners including TfL, GLA, Lambeth, Battersea Power Station and all local developers to transform the area from a transport backwater to a thriving centre for homes and jobs will bring benefits and opportunities for all of our residents and businesses for decades to come.”

Simon Murphy, CEO of Battersea Power Station Development Company, said: “We are delighted to have played a key role alongside

TfL, Wandsworth Council and the Nine Elms Vauxhall Partnership in delivering the first major extension to the London Underground in nearly 25 years. The Northern Line Extension is a gamechanger for this area of London and an extremely significant milestone in the regeneration of Battersea Power Station, which is soon to be one of the most well-connected developments in the capital. We look forward to welcoming further visitors to the thriving riverside neighbourhood we are creating once the new Battersea Power Station Underground station is open on September 20.”

“Wandsworth Chamber is delighted to see the opening of the Northern Line Extension. The new underground station in Battersea will be a huge boost to the borough and we expect to see many benefits for commerce as a direct result of this exciting new infrastructure. We congratulate Wandsworth Council and the many development partners who made this happen. Wandsworth Chamber has been involved in helping to open up the local supply chain in this development area from day 1 and this is a magnificent milestone for the borough, for our residents and businesses.” Steve Pinto Chief Executive, Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce.

‘This huge £1bn transport investment to extend the Northern line to Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms has been over 10 years in the making, so we are delighted that this growing Wandsworth neighbourhood is now firmly on the London Underground map.’

Business Connexions | 13

BIG INTERVIEW

Victoria has the personal touch Victoria Oladosu

Hallmark Care Homes Victoria Oladosu only joined Hallmark Care Homes in July this year but it didn’t take her long to be struck by the company’s unrelenting focus on family values.

“Actually, that came across in my interview,” says Victoria, who is the general manager of Hallmark’s Kew House care home in Wimbledon. “They wanted to build strong communities and put people – residents, relatives and the team – at the centre of everything they do.

“It’s like being part of a family. We’re refurbishing the home and we’re asking staff, residents and relatives to get involved in this process; the home is for them, after all. We’re trying to find out what they want, from the colour schemes in the home to what sort of uniforms they want to see the team wear.

“Even in my short time here, I’ve realised that we go the extra mile to make people feel important. For example, we have no dedicated gardener; every flower in our garden is planted by residents and staff.

They grow their own vegetables, too. All of this creates a family feel to the home, which is why I wanted to come here.”

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It’s also part of the reason why Kew House is rated outstanding by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The home is one of 19 within the family-run Hallmark group, which is recognised for providing high-quality care and outstanding, innovative facilities. Hallmark are a ‘Top 20 Care Home 2021’ Award winner by carehome.co.uk.

When Hallmark purchased its first home back in 1997, it was because the company wanted to make a difference – to ensure that older people get the quality of care they deserve after a life of contributing to society.

Victoria says: “Our aim is to provide the highest quality of care and facilities while employing caring, passionate people. We want our residents to live an active and fulfilled life. Our relationship-centred care enables residents to keep on doing the things they’ve always loved – the things they perhaps thought they could no longer enjoy. As part of our communities, they’re able to cook, help out in the garden and carry on with the everyday routines which help them live their best lives.”

Originally from Lagos in Nigeria, Victoria has worked in health and social care for more than a decade. Her career path was influenced by her parents; her father was a doctor and her mother was a nurse.

BIG INTERVIEW

We need to change perceptions that this industry is only for low-skilled workers. At Kew House we promote from within. One team member started as a cleaner, became a receptionist and now he’s doing an NVQ level 2 qualification in administration.

You can progress here in a variety of different job roles.

Victoria says: “My parents had a private clinic when we were growing up and I spent many weekends helping out in the clinic. I discovered that doctors focus mainly on the patient’s condition but nurses focus more on the patient and how they’re feeling. The nursing role really appealed to me.”

Victoria worked as a fertility nurse in the Bridge Clinic Fertility Centre in Nigeria before moving to the UK to complete a nursing science degree at the University of Bedfordshire.

She then embarked on a nursing programme at the University of Surrey but her intention was always to return to her native Nigeria. But then her career took an unexpected twist.

Victoria recalls: “On the Tuesday before I got my flight back to Nigeria, I got a call to say I’d got a job as an overseas nurse at a home in

Billingshurst, Sussex. I couldn’t wait to get started and I cancelled my flight.”

In 2019, Victoria became general manager of a 75-bed home owned by a different care group. Although she enjoyed her time there, when the opportunity to work for Hallmark arose, she grabbed it with both hands.

She says: “I love my job but there are challenges, such as tackling a major skills shortage in the industry.

We need to bring more people into the sector to care for people who are living longer. We also must do more to develop career paths for social care workers; the industry retention rate is far too low.

“We need to change perceptions that this industry is only for low-skilled workers. At Kew House we promote from within. One team member started as a cleaner, became a receptionist and now he’s doing an NVQ level 2 qualification in administration. You can progress here in a variety of different job roles.”

In her free time, Victoria gives career advice to children through a voluntary role at Learning to Work, a not-forprofit organisation that forges links between academia and industry. It’s clear that she’s passionate about developing the next generation of social care talent.

“I also want to inspire more people to become strong leaders in this industry,” she says. “We need more leaders to sustain a profession that gives so much back to people who have contributed a lot to society over the years.”

Victoria Oladosu the inside story: Favourite food? Seafood linguini.

Favourite tipple? Whiskey on the rocks.

Favourite holiday? Anywhere in Italy.

I think I’m going to retire there.

Describe your family life? I have a partner in the US but I don’t have kids.

I have plenty of time to focus on my job and my volunteering roles. I also sing in a church choir.

How do you spend your downtime?

I walk a lot! I like getting out and about in various parks and I’ve completed several National Trust trails.

What are your key strengths as a manager? My attention to detail.

I genuinely care about my work and other people. I have a lot of experience that I can bring to my current role – including bags of energy!

And your limitations? I find it hard to say no and in the past I’ve regularly worked extremely long hours, so I need to know when to stop.

Best thing about doing business in the borough? The people. There’s a nice, easy feel to being in Wimbledon; it has a lovely community spirit.

Famous person you’d most like to spend dinner with? George Clooney.

Most interesting fact about yourself?

I’m a twin, I love cars and I have high energy so need very little sleep.

Business Connexions | 15

AWA R D -W I N N I N G D E V E LO P M E N T S S I N C E 1 9 9 9

W E M B L E Y, H A 9 : 2 4 8 A PA RT M E N T S , c . 1 6 , 0 0 0 s q . f t O F R E TA I L S PA C E , AND A NEW PUBLIC PLAZA

PATRON FOCUS

Wandsworth Chamber signs up new Patron Henley Homes is the latest company to become a Patron of Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce.

With its headquarters in Nine Elms, the company wanted to further grow and strengthen its links with businesses in the borough.

CEO Tariq Usmani got in touch with the Chamber to get the ball rolling and is now looking forward to attending Chamber events and sharing knowledge and best practice with likeminded professionals.

After establishing the business in 1999, Tariq has led the development of Henley into an efficient, progressive and design-led property development group with a reputation for creating outstanding and award-winning homes – many of which are in and around London. Specialising in residential and mixed-use developments and regeneration schemes, the company has become well recognised for its attention to quality and detail, as well as a strong, focused approach to customer care.

Tari explains: “I’ve worked in the borough for more than 25 years. I felt that we should be more active in the borough, given that our headquarters are based here, and the best way of doing this is through the Chamber of Commerce.

“Steve Pinto and team are very approachable, responsive and efficient and really want to deliver for their members. We can attend Chamber events and share our experiences with other business leaders. It’s not just an opportunity to cross-sell to each other; it’s a chance to find common ground and discuss business issues that may be affecting us all.”

With Tariq’s vast industry experience built up over more than 30 years, he appears to be well placed to add value to other Chamber members.

For example, he can pass on the knowledge gained from surviving two recessions since he launched the business 22 years ago.

“As a business we’ve been resilient and survived both recessions with no casualties across the group,” he says. “We can give valuable insight on how to survive challenging economic conditions. Mostly it’s down to mindset: the ability to see solutions, not

problems, and the willingness to be agile, proactive and dynamic.

“When the first lockdown was imposed in the spring of 2020, we had seen it coming and had already started to restructure the business accordingly.

We reviewed processes and procedures so that people could work from home. That was so important for business continuity.

“I have the mobile numbers of all of my staff and made sure I called them to make sure they were happy with the remote-working arrangements we had put in place. You still have a responsibility to look after your staff, even if they’re not sat in the office.”

With around 220 staff, a strong order book with 700-plus properties in the pipeline and an annual turnover of more than £100 million across the group, Henley is looking to the future with confidence.

Tariq says: “Succession planning will be a key focus as we move forward. I’m getting to the age where I don’t want to be as central to the business as I am currently. We have a team of skilled, relatively young directors and going forward they’ll start to take more of a leading role in the company.

‘We can give valuable insight on how to survive challenging economic conditions.

Mostly it’s down to mindset: the ability to see solutions, not problems, and the willingness to be agile, proactive and dynamic.’

“There’ll be challenges along the way but we’ll navigate them. I don’t believe in the word “problem”; I see only solutions. Challenges are good in business; they’re a way of sharpening your mind and adapting to new situations.”

Business Connexions | 17

RICHARD BURGE LCCI

LCCI expands international reach

Richard Burge, CEO of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), explains how the organisation is forging links between Wandsworth firms and businesses overseas…

It has been more than 18 months since Richard Burge assumed his current role as CEO of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). In that time, he has had many challenges to overcome, notably helping businesses to navigate through the worst global health pandemic in living memory.

Now, though, Richard’s focus is on the future – and in particular, on forging new connections with Chambers of Commerce and their members in overseas cities.

He says: “Since I took on my current role, we’ve worked hard to ensure that there are really good Chambers at a borough level in London, organisations that provide good granular services to local businesses. In many cases this has worked very well.

18 | Business Connexions

RICHARD BURGE LCCI

London is not only a gateway to the rest of the UK, it’s a gateway to businesses all over the world.

The city is recognised as a global hub for business, particularly in international financial services.

It’s also home to a growing number of small, indigenous businesses that are driven by innovative entrepreneurs.

“Now we’re aiming to expand and grow our international operations. LCCI International has been approved by our board and the aim is to build relationships with up to 35 cities across the world. Some of these cities will be in Europe; others will be further afield.

“We’ll focus on networking with the relevant Chamber within these cities and subsequently build links with their members.

We’ve already started discussions with Chambers in five cities, including Hamburg and Berlin, and we’ll be launching LCCI International at the Dubai Expo later this year.

“The idea is to have a threeyear agreement with each city.

Businesses that are members of Chambers in these cities will benefit from the services that we provide at LCCI.” If anyone can make this project work, Richard can. He has a wealth of experience in

international trade and global affairs, particularly in relation to social impact investment and the use of innovative technology.

An independent advisor on international affairs, he has had a varied career that has seen him lead four multi-million-pound organisations including a famous charity, a UK government agency, a private company and a membership body over a total of 18 years.

Richard has also been on the board and a non-executive director of five multi-millionpound operations and has worked in more than 55 countries, principally in emerging economies, specialising in Africa, the wider Commonwealth and post-conflict situations.

He says: “We want to reflect London’s status as a global city.

It’s far more than just a subset of the UK. “London is not only a gateway to the rest of the UK, it’s a

gateway to businesses all over the world. The city is recognised as a global hub for business, particularly in international financial services. It’s also home to a growing number of small, indigenous businesses that are driven by innovative entrepreneurs.

“One of the key strengths of London is the diversity of its people; this is recognised internationally. It’s also benefiting from growth sectors such as biomedical and financial and professional services.

In addition, we’re starting to see the entertainment sector adopt disruptive technology-led business models.

“This is a highly competitive world and London has a major role to play in it. We have the power and influence to forge relationships with cities and businesses all over Europe and beyond.”

Business Connexions | 19

The Wandsworth Common

Halloween Beer & Cider Festival October 27th - 31st

This will be our 12th festival after an 18 month gap caused by the Covid Pandemic. As such it will be a great opportunity to meet and greet friends, family and work associates in the flesh over a pint as opposed to the dreaded zoom call.

This year we have decided to focus heavily on our local breweries in order to assist them to getting back to normal. Entry is via on-line ticket in advance from Eventbrite.

At just £10 entry including your first pint this may be a great opportunity for local businesses to come along and have a team building social event after so much doom and gloom.

For those who have yet to come to the Wandsworth Common Festival the event takes place in the award-winning garden of Le Gothique under a huge canopy which can be heated and lit.

Indoor drinking areas are provided within the Gothic Bar and mezzanine floor restaurant and there may also be an opportunity to visit the Great Hall where live entertainment is planned on both the Friday and Saturday sessions.

Tickets are just £10 and this includes your first pint. Most beers are priced at £5 a pint or less so you can appreciate this is a fun event that won’t break the bank in these cost conscious times.

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The Festival will have street food vendors offering loaded burgers, foot long chilli dogs, Melton Mowbray pork pies, Scotch eggs and farmhouse cheese boards..

Le Gothique itself has bounced back from its Covid enforced closure and is hosting not only this beer festival but weddings, birthday parties, christenings corporate Summer and Christmas parties. A new venture from 2021 sees us offering a funeral and wake venue to those looking to pay their respects in an environment outside the usual Crematorium or Church service.

Le Gothique is celebrating 35 years on Wandsworth Common and we hope to see as many local residents and businesses as possible in the coming months.

With its all-weather outdoor facility and internal restaurant and bar it remains Wandsworth’s No.1 party venue. So why not visit a piece of history on your doorstep soon.

Contact Mark or Andrew Justin directly on 0208 870 6567 to arrange personalised menus and viewings. This father & son family run independent restaurant, bar and event space really needs your patronage.

SKILLS

Retraining essential as one in five firms consider job cuts The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has called for the government to extend skills training as new research showed nearly one in five companies are considering staff redundancies as the next phase of furlough tapering begins.

With older workers much more likely to still be on furlough, there’s concern that they could go unutilised unless support for retraining is immediately put in place.

Carried out by BCC, the survey asked more than 250 businesses with employees still on furlough what their response might be to employers’ contributions to the scheme rising.

Nearly one in five (18%) said they would make staff redundant.

The BCC survey comes after HMRC data showed older workers were far more likely to remain furloughed than younger ones, raising concerns about what plans are in place to re-skill those who are left without jobs as the scheme winds down – with skills shortages continuing to bite across the UK labour market.

Jane Gratton, head of people policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Recent changes to the furlough scheme is likely to result in many thousands of people being released back into the labour market, as employers who are still struggling to recover from the recession are forced to make redundancies and cuts to working hours.

“With widespread skills shortages across the economy, some will find new jobs where their skills are in demand, while others will need to retrain for opportunities in a different sector.

“Whether furloughed workers are returning to the workplace or the wider labour market, it’s crucial that employers and the government give them the support and training they need to be re-engaged and productive. Alongside rapid retraining opportunities, the government should extend the Kickstart scheme into 2022 and expand it to enable older workers to gain new skills and experience.”

Jane Gratton said: “As firms are released from lockdown restrictions, the skills and labour shortages they experienced before the pandemic are once again starting to bite. The encouraging increase in job creation across the manufacturing and services sectors is being held back by recruitment difficulties at all skill levels, jeopardising growth and productivity.

While some workers may need re-skilling or upskilling to re-enter the labour market, firms that are looking to grow their workforce are finding it hard to source suitably skilled staff.

“Whether people have found work in a different sector, changed their working patterns or left the UK during the recession, firms are now struggling to find the people they need. It’s vital that business, government and the skills system work together to find solutions.

A recent BCC survey showed that seven out of ten firms were having difficulty hiring the right talent for their business.

The sector with the highest proportion of firms reporting difficulties was construction at 82%, followed closely by hotels & catering at 76%. Of respondents in production & manufacturing, 68% reported difficulties in recruitment. Consumer services firms were the least likely to report difficulties but even in that sector the proportion facing issues was 61%.

“Adopting more remote and flexible working patterns will help firms attract skills from a wider talent pool. But we also need access to rapid and agile training and reskilling opportunities for adults in the workforce, alongside a flexible and cost-effective immigration system that ensures fast access to skills when these can’t be recruited locally.”

“While some workers may need re-skilling or upskilling to re-enter the labour market, firms that are looking to grow their workforce are finding it hard to source suitably skilled staff.”

Business Connexions | 21

WORKFORCE TRAINING South Thames College works with local employers to support them with training and development needs.

Apprenticeships • We’ll identify how and where an apprentice can benefit your business • We’ll help you recruit the right candidate • We’ll assist you to access appropriate funding and grants

Workforce Skills We can help you identify skills gaps, recommend training and professional development for your staff, and help access funding where appropriate We can design Government funded pre-employment courses to help you fill vacancies and support your recruitment

Bespoke and Commercial Training • We can help your business with all its staffing needs • We can design programmes specifically for you

Contact our Team today: 020 8918 7735 business@stcg.ac.uk stcg.ac.uk/employers

Free Online Professional Development Training for Your Staff Find out more at stcg.ac.uk/employers/ workforce-training-development

Part of the South Thames Colleges Group

Going from Strength to Strength to Support the Business Community On the 11th May it was confirmed in a letter from the Department for Education that STCG could use the title ‘University Centre South Thames Colleges Group’ This is a very positive outcome for the College Group, and we are extremely proud of being able to use this title. STCG is the largest provider of college based Higher Education in London and has a history of delivering first class university level courses. Students benefit from first class facilities, small class sizes and excellent employment opportunities on graduation.

The Vice Principal of Higher Education and Business Partnerships Stella Raphael-Reeves and the Head of Higher Education, Donna Pike (Principal Fellow) at STCG are working closely with all our HE partners to ensure Strategic Alliance Documents are set up, signed off and collaborative project plans are in place ready for the new academic year.

We have a number of very exciting projects in the pipeline including a variety of new Degrees and Foundation Years in a range of curriculum areas across the Group.

In June we held the first of our ‘Influencer Talks’ on Online Fitness opportunities with St Mary’s Institute of Sport and explored the world of Sport and Fitness. This was the first of a series of Webinars (Ted Talks) which will be open to all starting in September 2021.

At the time of going to press, Clearing for our Undergraduate courses is still open, but places are filling fast so if you are looking to develop your team or yourself please visit our website STCG/Undergraduate/Clearing now.

The Business Partnership Team led by Head of Business Partnerships Kathryn Elliott are also working behind the scenes on opportunities with large and smaller business to offer a portfolio of provision from Level 1 to Degrees to support and meet skills gaps in London. This includes Apprenticeships

and Higher Level Apprenticeships in a large number of subject areas. We are also working hard to transform the impact of education on entrepreneurship and self-employment and offering a free 5 day Entrepreneurship programme to anyone above 19 who is interested in starting their own business.

• Apprenticeships • Pre – Apprenticeships • Online Provision • ESOL • Work Force Development Courses • Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment – Visionnaires – 5 Days over 5 Weeks (Free) Offer • Kickstart and Pre Kickstart • Bespoke offer to support employment (Barista Training) • Sector Skills Academies • Functional Skills We are also currently bidding for a Mayor’s Hospitality Hub at STCG to support training and good work for all in the Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms Developments.

The Business Partnerships Team are an innovative, current, supportive, professional and ambitious team whose core values are to; • Listen to our employers and offer flexible and adaptable solutions for their changing workforce • Identify and fill skills gaps and offer the appropriate training required including but not confined to Apprenticeships or bespoke training • Help employers to recruit their future work force through Apprenticeships • Working with industry experts within each curriculum area • Enthusiastic and committed to Quality and Performance (Ofsted rated Good in all areas across the group of colleges) • Future Focused

“I have learnt new strategies to help with my studies and to

understand the theory behind learning techniques, I have also had the chance to meet new like-minded people.

My tutor has gone out of her way to help me with my disability and the transition into education as a disabled person, and the College community helped me enormously with my struggles

”

of getting around.

TRACY PARTRIDGE-SMITH Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – Generic Pathway

Please feel free to contact us at: Business@stcg.ac.uk Business Connexions | 23 Business Connexions | 23

NEWS

Mayor to invest nearly £3m in Creative Enterprise Zones The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has announced a new investment of nearly £3m to boost his Creative Enterprise Zones (CEZ) programme.

Launched by the mayor in 2018, the programme has supported artists, creative businesses and local people entering into the creative sector and securing new jobs.

The innovative programme has supported artists, freelancers and small creative businesses in the capital to thrive by creating long-term affordable workspace, offering business support and helping to develop vital skills. This new investment from City Hall, which builds on the £11m already invested by the mayor, will boost existing CEZs and help bring forward a further six zones over the next two years.

Funding will support three new zones in 2021-22 and a further three in 2022-23.

The mayor’s intervention comes at a time when the creative and cultural sector is rebuilding following the pandemic, which is made more difficult by the existing challenges of retaining workshops, studios and workspaces against the threat of closure and rising rents.

Sadiq Khan said: “Our creative industries are critically important to the fabric of our city and will play an essential part in our economic and social recovery.

“The CEZ programme has proved to be a valuable springboard for cultural enterprises right across the city. Throughout the pandemic, it became a lifeline for creative businesses and artists, providing support for them when they needed it most.

“That’s why I am investing to create six more zones. London’s cultural and creative sector is a major contributor to the economy, it can help jumpstart the recovery and bring muchneeded tourism to our city. However, support must start at grassroots level, with studio spaces, training and innovation. Investing in our city has never been more important - I’m encouraging local authorities to apply for accreditation and see how a CEZ can benefit your borough.”

£700k funding boost for local high streets Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has announced a £700,000 funding package for innovative projects aimed at ensuring London’s high streets can flourish and thrive as they emerge from the pandemic.

In partnership with councils, business groups and other local organisations, 35 exemplar projects will be given seed funding of £20,000 each to address issues such as bringing vacant buildings into use, protecting cultural spaces, boosting community business and supporting employment on the high street.

London’s high streets have been impacted hugely by the pandemic, with a loss of more than £5 billion in retail sales just in central London as a result of COVID last year. Across the UK, The British Retail Consortium estimates there are around 5,000 fewer shops since the start of the pandemic, meaning one in seven shops now lie empty.

While the longer-term impact of COVID on London’s high streets remains uncertain, the mayor has reiterated that the capital’s leaders will have to be “bold and innovative” over the coming months to ensure high streets can survive as diverse bustling centres of London’s economy.

Sadiq Khan said: “I’m pleased to be able to announce new funding for projects all across the capital that are leading the way coming up with solutions for the future of our high streets. Whether it’s new ideas for shared working space, bringing old offices back into use or providing space for exciting cultural activities, these ideas will stimulate economic activity and enrich social and cultural life in our local communities.”

Crossrail concerns continue London Assembly has responded to a new report from the National Audit Office (NAO) into Crossrail’s 2019 revised schedule and budget.

Chair of the London Assembly Transport Committee, Caroline Pidgeon MBE AM, said: “It’s deeply disappointing that the cost estimate for Crossrail exceeds the funding package. The current estimate is between £30 million and £218 million above the current available funding to complete the programme, with a middle estimate of £120 million over.

“The full line is expected to open in May 2023, with the central section in the first half of 2022, but it seems current funding will be exhausted sometime between July and September 2022.

We need assurances about what is being done now to stop Crossrail running out of money.

“The NAO notes that there are still significant issues that could arise as the railway is brought into service. Crossrail and Transport for London (TfL) need to ensure they have a clear plan for handing the Elizabeth line over, in preparation for the start of passenger services.

“Londoners have waited long enough for this line; they don’t need to have to deal with further problems, once it’s up and running.”

10% OFF for all chamber members

24 | Business Connexions

TECHNOLOGY

One in four firms will continue to allow homeworking, says poll

The technology revolution gathered pace during the COVID-19 pandemic. With many offices closed to reduce the spread of the disease, millions of workers carried out their day jobs from the comfort of their own homes, using Teams, Zoom and other innovations to connect with work colleagues, friends and family.

Now, although the worst of the pandemic is behind us, a new study has revealed that one in four businesses intend to allow their staff to work from home at least some of the time.

The YouGov survey found that 24% of businesses would allow all of their workers to work from home at least one day a week once all coronavirus restrictions had been lifted. Another 18% said they would do this for most of their workers.

This is lower than at the height of the pandemic, when two in five (39%) firms allowed all workers, and one in five (20%) allowed most workers to work remotely. However, it is still a significant increase compared to before the start of the pandemic, when just 17% of businesses said they would allow all staff to work remotely.

Struggling lunch places, gyms and shops in the city centres are desperate for the return of office workers, but they’re unlikely to see the same influx of people as previously.

According to the YouGov survey, only one in five business decision-makers (19%) said their company plans to require all workers to come in five days a week – down from one in three (35%) before COVID-19.

Meanwhile, many are only asking their employees to come in one (7%), two (12%), three (11%) or four (6%) days per week.

A fifth of businesses (19%) plan to let their staff choose whether to come in at all once all restrictions end – up from 11% before the coronavirus crisis.

There does not appear to be any rise in businesses cutting costs and making all of their staff work remotely at 9% – similar to before the pandemic (8%).

The survey comes after Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, urged workers to return to the office, saying that young people in particular will benefit from face-to-face contact with colleagues.

Speaking to LinkedIn News, Mr Sunak said he would not have done as well if he had worked virtually, claiming that being in an office was “really beneficial for me when I was starting out in my career”.

Mr Sunak, who worked in finance before entering the world of politics, said: “The mentors that I found when I first started my job I still talk to, and they’ve been helpful to me all through my career… I doubt I would have had those strong relationships if I was doing my summer internship or my first bit of my career over Teams and Zoom.”

“A fifth of businesses (19%) plan to let their staff choose whether to come in at all once all restrictions end – up from 11% before the coronavirus crisis.”

Business Connexions | 25

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ENVIRONMENT

CARBON FOOTPRINT

a mystery to nine in ten small firms Only 11% of businesses are measuring their carbon footprint, research published by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and O2 has found.

This figure falls to 9% for small businesses and 5% for microbusinesses with fewer than ten employees. By contrast, 26% of larger firms with more than 50 employees are measuring their carbon footprint.

The research also showed only one in seven (13%) have set targets to reduce their emissions – down from one in five (21%) when firms were surveyed before the pandemic in February 2020.

In addition, almost two thirds (64%) of businesses surveyed said they don’t see net zero targets as a high priority in the wake of the pandemic, although half (49%) admit their customers are worried about the environment.

The findings also show that one in five businesses (22%) don’t fully understand the term ‘net zero,’ and almost a third have yet to seek advice or information to help them develop a net zero roadmap or improve their environmental sustainability.

With the impacts of the pandemic and other priorities weighing heavily on small and medium-sized businesses, the research found that smaller firms were far more likely to be behind on climate action.

When it came to setting carbon reduction targets, 27% of larger firms have done so, compared to just 9% of microbusinesses.

The main barriers preventing respondents from making their business more sustainable are high upfront adaptation costs (34%) and a lack of finance (30%).

Getting access to grants (28%), tax allowances (14%) and reducing the costs of making adaptations (14%) were cited as the three steps businesses would most like to see to help them reduce their carbon consumption within the next six months.

In response to the findings, the BCC and O2 have launched a free online hub to help businesses find out how to measure their carbon footprint, set targets and develop an overall net zero strategy.

The new hub provides a one-stop-shop for businesses to find out everything they need to know about net zero. It is packed with information on how to apply for grants, where to seek specialist advice and practical tips from firms that have already taken action.

Jo Bertram, managing director, business & wholesale at Virgin Media O2, said: “In May, the Government called on small businesses to lead the charge and pledge to reach net zero by 2050 or sooner, but our research shows that to do this, they need more support. From microbusinesses to larger firms, SMBs have told us they’re concerned about the environment, but in the wake of lockdowns and growing economic pressures, the majority are understandably facing barriers to improving their sustainability.

“That’s why we’ve launched the Net Zero Hub: to provide businesses of all sizes with the free online resources they need to accelerate their net zero journey.”

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the BCC, said: “This research is a real eye-opener and shows just how big a challenge the UK’s net zero target is.

The dual impacts of the pandemic and Brexit have been a huge body-blow to many businesses, so it’s unsurprising that targeting emissions has taken a back seat.

“But change has to come, and our Net Zero Hub makes clear that the earlier firms adapt then the greater the advantages will be – they cannot afford to get left behind.

“The climate challenge is one that affects every single one of us and business has a big part to play in tackling it. But the government must also recognise that smaller firms will need access to grants, subsidies and other financial support to help them take effective steps on the journey to a greener future.”

“BCC and O2 have launched a free online hub to help businesses find out how to measure their carbon footprint, set targets and develop an overall net zero strategy.”

To find out more about how the new Net Zero Hub, visit https://www.britishchambers.org.uk/page/net-zero-hub-2 Business Connexions | 27

ENVIRONMENT

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HEALTH & WELLBEING

How processes can help reduce workplace stress It’s World Mental Health Day on the 10th of October, and research carried out by Process Bliss has shown that 43% of people have changed jobs or called in sick due to work-related stresses.

Stress is a huge issue in business - most of it stemming from bad communication, lack of control and lack of guidance. Founder of Process Bliss, Alister Esam, was once a stressed CEO who micromanaged his staff.

His salvation was processes – he found that when properly implemented, they helped to ease stress, boost wellbeing and ensure positive communication and control.

The research also reveals that a third of people have called in sick due to work-related stress. The main sources of SME workplace stress were having to chase colleagues for updates (33%) and a lack of information or clarity when asked to do something (31%).

Other sources of workplace stress cited were a lack of control over a situation (28%), a lack of guidance/ direction from the boss (26%) and a lack of response to emails (25%).

When staff receive proper training and have processes that enable them to do their job well, it avoids these sources of stress. It also prevents micromanaging, which tends to happen when employers lack trust in their employees. Alister once suffered from micromanaging tendencies and worked 80 hours a week to ensure that

everything in the business ran in the way he wanted it to.

Implementing successful processes allowed better communication and control, and meant he could reduce his hours to just 14 a week.

Processes are essential for a successful business. They need to support employees and be useable, so they don’t become a document nobody reads. Good processes will ensure that employees have everything they need to do their jobs and creates a greater level of trust for managers and their workplaces. Some of the most common process failures include employee onboarding, credit-checking and HR disciplinary processes. These processes have a significant impact on the business – and 43% of small businesses say their company has lost customers due to failed processes.

However, just documenting processes is not enough; to truly realise the benefits of process, people need to embed it into their organisations in a way that empowers employees rather than controls them and generates trust from the management.

Employees work best when they are motivated, engaged, trusted and work in a reduced-stress environment.

Workplace stress comes from many different areas, and implementing real processes can help to give guidance and make sure employees feel supported and happy.

“Processes are essential for a successful business. They need to support employees and be useable, so they don’t become a document nobody reads.”

Alister Esam is an innovator, investor and CEO, and the author of The Dirty Word: The word that fills people with dread is the key to business freedom, WHICH IS OUT NOW. Business Connexions | 29

THE PERSON BEHIND THE BUSINESS

Simone champions build-to-rent properties Simone Rawley has spent the vast majority of her career in the world of estate agency. Starting out as a trainee estate agent at the age of 18, she worked mainly in sales and lettings before moving into her current role in 2014.

Now Simone is the business development manager at A2Dominion, a specialist not-for-profit residential property group with a strong social purpose. Essentially, this purpose is to build high-quality, affordable homes for residents who need them and to reinvest any profits into creating more new homes, maintaining the properties and supporting local communities.

Simone says: “Having a safe and secure place you can call home is one of the most important things in life. For more than 60 years, we’ve been building and maintaining quality homes in London and southern England. Whether you’re looking to rent as a private tenant, need social or supported housing or want to buy a share in your own home, we have a home for you.

“When I joined this company in 2014, I was attracted by its strong social purpose and desire to create vibrant communities. Our mission is to help make people’s lives better. We don’t just want them to live in one of our homes, we want them to really enjoy being part of the local community.”

It’s clear that A2Dominion’s focus is much wider than bricks and mortar.

The company organises workshops to develop skills and help people find good jobs. It offers personal, oneto-one support for older and more vulnerable residents and organises community activities for people of all ages.

Not only that, A2Dominion is also helping to address a chronic shortage of affordable housing in the UK. Simone says: “We certainly need more affordable homes in this country.

We have around 40,000 homes in management and our geographical spread is everywhere from London to Oxford and Bristol, which means we can accommodate people who want to relocate to another area of the south east.

“You can rent from a private landlord but there are risks involved. You don’t know how reliable that person is, for example. If you’re renting from a buildto-rent provider like us, you know you have the backing of an organisation that has a dedicated property management team and is available around the clock. Often our property managers know the tenants by their first names. Build-to-rent is a good, safe option that allows tenants to stay with us over the long-term.”

While the COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for many companies, the construction industry kept working throughout, allowing A2Dominion to keep building affordable homes.

“It was challenging to manage these builds but we adapted,” says Simone.

“We held meetings with property managers via Zoom. We were there for them, even if it was often in a virtual capacity.

“As part of my role, I work closely with our development team to ensure that what they’re building is suitable for our tenants. We ensure that the internal fit-out is of a high standard, even down to the quality of the carpets to ensure they’re soft underfoot.

“I also run the marketing campaigns for the company to build awareness of the A2Dominion brand and build-torent. My role is quite varied and no two days are the same!”

Simone Rawley

Business Development Manager

A2Dominion

“Having a safe and secure place you can call home is one of the most important things in life. For more than 60 years, we’ve been building and maintaining quality homes in London and southern England.”

Business Connexions | 31

Chamber Events Scan the QR code (Caltrics.com) with your phone camera to see our events and get them in your calendar app.

E V A S e t a d the

Until circumstances allow, we will continue to have online events via the Zoom platform.

In addition to our regular forum and open for business events we will be having a number of seminars and workshops.

Please vist the events page of our website regularly to see these.

Wandsworth Business Forum

Connect with Wandsworth Council and Experts for Regular Business Recovery Updates 1st WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH 11AM to 12.30PM Venue: ONLINE Registration Link: https://cutt.ly/ZyNAqnQ

For further details go to

www.wandsworthchamber.org/events 32 | Business Connexions

STARTING UP

WELCOME

to new members Art of Love Community Interest Company Carl Stanbury Studio 215 Red Studios, Wimbledon Arts Studio 10, Riverside Yard, London SW17 0BB contact@artoflove.london uuu

Black Heroes Foundation

Joyce Fraser Scratch Hub Battersea Arts Centre, London SW11 5TN 07786 435465 joyce@blackheroesfoundation.org uuu

FootHealth Battersea

Starting Up...

Bilal Uslu

Gricore Ltd www.gricore.com info@gricore.com

Q1

uuu

Bilal Uslu 67 Hanford Close Southfields London SW18 5AX info@gricore.com uuu

Paul’s Cancer Support Centre Tara Sherjan 20-22 York Road London SW11 3QA 02079243924 fundraising@pauls.org.uk uuu

PowerPrint

Harvey Kutner 111 Lavender Hill Clapham London SW11 5QL 020 7223 8953 info@pprint.co.uk

What gives your business ‘the x-factor’?

We are always committed to catching and pushing the performance level. Leveraging the power of technology and deep experience, we offer end-to-end solutions for startups to large, small, and medium-sized businesses. We ensure the development of reliable and scalable software solutions for all kinds of operating systems, browsers, and devices.

We bring together deep industry expertise and the latest IT developments to offer custom solutions and products that perfectly match the needs and behaviors of their users.

Q3

What motivated you to set up in business?

After a long and successful professional career, I wanted to do something new. I have decided to followed my passions to make my ideas come true. The only way to offer creative products and services that fit my vision was to start a new business.

Q4

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

It’s totally up to you what your business will produce, sell, or which services it will offer. You’re not restricted by the standards and procedures of corporate culture. You can build your company according to your own ideas. Only this freedom makes it possible to take advantage of new opportunities.

Q5

What has been your greatest business success to date?

It is invaluable to find the products you have developed are adding value to its user’s life. I have developed many products to date which have reached more than thousands of companies and millions of end users.

Q6

What has been your lowest moment?

Waiting for the right moment to start my new business during the pandemic has been tough. If I have new ideas, I would like to make them true in a short time. Fortunately, I encouraged myself and set it up.

Q7

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

I would like to develop my own software products and provide services related to them. Esspecially, I am planing to have a set of products about software development on cloud platforms and mobile devices. These products will ease the development of software products and the management of the software development lifecycle for my clients.

Q8

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

I would say stop thinking about them and take action to make them real. There are always challenges to take action, but once you get involved you will realize that they are not as big as they seem.

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ScreenGold

Katherine O’Mahony 45 Mandrake Road Tooting Bec London SW17 7PZ katherine@screengold.co uuu

The Massage Company - Putney Ltd Elliot Walker Unit D2, Putney Exchange Putney High Street London SW15 1TW 0204 5418000 elliot@massagecompany.co.uk

Our aim is to bridge the gap between technology and the business environment. We enable businesses in different fields to use technology to better serve their customers.

We have professional experience in software engineering, development, and design. We offer software engineering, software development services and consultancy for all industries.

Q2

Sarah Pellumbi 90 Battersea Rise, London SW11 1EJ 020 7228 8383 sarah.pellumbi@foothealthbattersea.co.uk

Gricore Ltd

In no more than 50 words tell us a bit about your business?

Business Connexions | 33

5 MINUTES WITH ...

minutes with ...

Sara May

Associate Director, Fine & Country Q Who are you?

Q Biggest achievement?

Q Sporting Hero?

Sara May of Fine & Country, dealing with the sale and marketing of high value property in Putney, Coombe, Wandsworth and Kingston. I have over 25 years’ experience in property as an estate agent, winning awards and as an investor and developer with in-depth knowledge all over London. I had press acclaim for a development in Chelsea where I converted commercial to residential, incorporating art. I am an artist too and have exhibited.

Saving the life of a boy who would otherwise have drowned in a swimming pool.

Emma Raducanu.

Q What’s your business all about?

Fine and Country’s head office is based in Park Lane, Mayfair.

We pride ourselves in being a luxury brand. We have 300 branches worldwide including Cannes, and Hong Kong. We have won awards for marketing and are very active and innovative on social media as well as producing Refined, and The Collection magazines.

Q Three words to describe yourself?

Resilient. Tenacious. Hardworking.

Q Ideal Customer?

High end clients looking for service and old school values.

34 | Business Connexions

Q Biggest gripe?

Viewings carried out on Sundays to prospective purchasers who then change their minds about buying.

Q Your inspiration?

Bob Dylan

Q Philosophy in Business?

There’s no success like failure and failure is no success at all.

Q Biggest tip for success?

Resilience.

Fine & Country

are pleased to introduce Built c.1904, a beautifully appointed extended family home offering 6 bedrooms and 3 receptions, sympathetically modernised, yet retaining many period features. The house is within a short walk of Barnes mainline train station and directly opposite The Roehampton Club, as well as highly, sought after local schools. Off road parking 2 cars. Glorious well stocked garden. £1,895,000 Freehold Stunning Coach House & Cottage located within a short walk of Putney High Street. Boasting a secluded South facing sun trap and off street parking behind gates offering total seclusion. Fabulous open plan kitchen, 4 / 5 bedrooms. Meticulous attention to detail and beautiful renovation. The property suitable for home office / annexe rental income.

Offers over £2,000,000 Freehold Located in a quiet cul de sac within minutes of Putney Heath a very spacious family home extending to c.3000 sq ft with a fantastic double height ceiling reception room / bedroom on the second floor, three further bedrooms, a stunning open plan kitchen leading to large reception room opening onto South facing garden, converted basement to gym and a garage. £1,895,000 Freehold A spectacular family home with off street parking for two cars, set over four floors with landscaped rear south facing garden. Retaining many period features and beautifully presented. Living room with double doors to the garden, separate dining room, kitchen / breakfast room, 5 bedrooms and two bathrooms with separate cloakroom and utility room. £1,999,999 Freehold.

Set well back from the road behind high security gates offering total privacy, a fine link detached five bedroom family home offering 3300 sq ft of living accommodation.

The house is located by a nature reserve and walk through to Coombe Hill Road and an internal viewing is highly recommended.

There are five double bedrooms, four bathrooms, four reception rooms and a double garage. The garden is lovely and South West facing. £2,000,000 Freehold

Fine & Country Putney

5 & 6 Crescent Stables Upper Richmond Road Putney London SW15 2TN

fineandcountry.com T: +44 (0)204 524 9345

Business Connexions | 35

Let’s Get Together The highest quality care starts with a connection Every member of our team gets to know your loved one as an individual when they move in, so we can support them to live a life they love.

We call it relationship-centred care.

If you’re looking for the highest quality care for your loved one, let’s get together and talk.

02080 530 231

hallmarkcarehomes.co.uk

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