The Masthead February 2022 by Benham Publishing Limited

masthead the

ISSUE 21

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR SOUTH EAST LONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SKILLS National Apprenticeship Week 2022 Apprenticeships are a fantastic route to a fulfilling career and a great way for employers to invest in and nurture new and existing talent

INTERNATIONAL Dubai congress puts London in the spotlight 12th World Chambers Congress in Dubai, brings together Chamber and business heads, as well as representatives from international organisations and governments

HEALTH & WELLBEING A healthy, productive workforce can have a positive impact on a company’s bottom line

DIEGO GOMES Founder and Director of Fast Shield Packaging, Business of the Year at the Best of Royal Greenwich Business Awards 2021

New year – New starter? New year – starter? New year starter? New year –– New New If you’re looking to expand your workforce or want tostarter? upskill existing employees, we’d If you’re looking toexpand expand your workforce or want want existing we’d Iflove you’re looking to your workforce or to upskill upskill existing employees, employees, we’d to talk to you about how our wide range of courses, apprenticeships and online If you’re looking to expand your workforce or want to upskill existing employees, we’d love to talk to you about how our wide range of courses, apprenticeships and online lovetraining to talk to you about how our wide rangeyour business. apprenticeships online programmes can help you grow Contact Nicolaand Tarry, love to talk to you about how our wide range of courses, apprenticeships and online trainingprogrammes programmes canhelp help you grow your business. business. Contact training grow your Contact Nicola NicolaTarry, Tarry, Head of the can World ofyou work at nicola.tarry@croydon.ac.uk training programmes can help you grow your business. Contact Nicola Tarry, Headof ofthe theWorld Worldof ofwork work at at nicola.tarry@croydon.ac.uk nicola.tarry@croydon.ac.uk Head Head of the World of work at nicola.tarry@croydon.ac.uk

For more information visit Formore more information visit For visit or email Forcroydon.ac.uk more information information visit croydon.ac.uk or email croydon.ac.uk or email apprenticeships@croydon.ac.uk croydon.ac.uk or email apprenticeships@croydon.ac.uk apprenticeships@croydon.ac.uk apprenticeships@croydon.ac.uk

Croydon College Croydon College Croydon College College CroydonRoad College College Road College Road Croydon, CR9 1DX College Road Croydon, CR9 1DX Croydon, Croydon, CR9 CR9 1DX 1DX

CONTENTS

WELCOME

ELCC has great plans for 2022. We are progressing with the automation of our on-line backoffice procedures. This is working well, but as we all know, these changes take longer than you think. We have had great feedback from members regarding the new Chamber Cover – free access to legal, tax and HR advice. All members are receiving this at renewal and the Chamber Cover library of over 700 documents is invaluable; members should utilise this great business tool. Through our affiliation to the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, members are eligible to attend many of their events, including the special interest groups. 2022 will see SELCC return to a hybrid of virtual and in person events. The first of the latter is the Executive Lunch with the Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, Tom Copley on 27 January. This will be covered in the next issue of Masthead. SELCC is supporting businesses becoming greener. In Greenwich, we are working with SELCC (South East London Community Energy) and there is a webinar on how business can profit from Greening their business on Tuesday, 15 February. We look forward to working with our other four boroughs to help green their business sectors. Helen McIntosh FCIPR President

Editorial and General Enquiries South East London Chamber of Commerce Unit TW/145, Trinity Wharf, Harrington Way Warspite Road London SE18 5NR Tel: 020 8317 3365 Email: office@selondonchamber.org www.selondonchamber.org @SELondonChamber @SELondonChamber South East London Chamber of Commerce

Chamber News

Big Interview

News

Forthcoming Events

Focus on Lewisham

Focus on Croydon

30-31

Past Events

Focus on Greenwich

32-34

Health and Wellbeing

12-13

Visit Greenwich

News

Your Bromley

36-37

Construction

Focus on Bromley

40-41

Finance

Focus on Bexley

44-45

Economy

18-22

Education and Skills

47-48

Health and Wellbeing

Technology

New Members

24-25

LCCI- Richard Burge

And Finally

Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published: January 2022 © Benham Publishing

Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: mark@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1912 Disclaimer The Masthead is published for South East London Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members.

All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at South East London Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in The Masthead are not necessarily those of South East London Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2022 Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility forthe veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

Chamber News

KEY FINDINGS from the Q4 Quarterly Economic Survey • Cautious forecasts for growth reflected businesses’ uncertainty around the implications of Omicron for the labour market:

Results from the Q4 survey show that London business leaders are less optimistic about the UK economy and their own business prospects than they were last quarter

ne in five London business leaders expect the economic prospects for their companies to worsen this year.

London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has published the results of their quarterly economic survey, the Capital 500, which seeks to gauge business performance and confidence levels in businesses of various sizes across the capital. The survey, which interviewed leaders between 28 October and 11 December 2021, highlights the lack of confidence felt in the capital which correlates with the emergence of the Omicron variant and subsequent concerns around Christmas trading. Nearly two-fifths (38%) of firms said they expected the UK’s economy to worsen in the coming 12 months, while a third (33%) felt that the economic prospects for London would worsen. London businesses were evidently less optimistic about domestic sales in Q4 than they were in Q3. Respondents were asked to assess the last three months compared with the third quarter of 2021 in terms of domestic sales, cashflow, business domestic orders and employment. While 26% of businesses reported an increase in domestic sales in Q3, this trend reversed in Q4 and a quarter

(25%) of respondents reported a decrease in domestic sales. This was true of micro and larger firms. The survey found that businesses’ cost pressures were intensifying. Firms were asked to indicate the extent to which costs of energy, fuel, raw materials (domestically and internationally), wages and borrowing had varied in the past three months and nearly two-thirds (64%) reported an increase in their fuel and energy costs, while nearly half (45%) said their domestic raw material costs had risen in Q4. Richard Burge, Chief Executive of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), said: “Our latest Capital 500 survey shows the severity of Omicron’s impact on London business and business leaders’ outlooks on the local and national economies. Against the period of growing optimism witnessed in the third quarter, the results of this survey are a stark reminder of the tumultuous conditions businesses are trading in. “While London businesses have proved their resilience and adaptability, we encourage the Government to recognise this and stand ready to provide additional support where necessary.”

• Less than one in five (17%) of firms expected the size of their workforce to increase over the coming months, falling from 20% in Q3. • However, the majority of firms (77%) expect the size of their workforce to remain the same. The proportion of businesses looking to recruit and invest in training increased marginally in Q4: • The number of larger businesses actively hiring increased from 55% in Q3 to 69% in Q4. • Firms in inner London were more actively recruiting than those in outer London (22% vs. 15% respectively), and there was no change to the number of microbusinesses looking to hire (13%). • Nearly one-fifth (17%) of London businesses reported an increase in investment in training in the last quarter. • There was no change to the percentage of firms that said they were operating at full capacity (43%). Overall, the expectations for the UK economy took a notable downturn: • Nearly two-fifths (38%) of firms said they expected the UK’s economy to worsen in the coming 12 months, up from 22% in the Q3 2021 Capital 500. • The proportion of businesses that expect the economy to improve was 30% in Q4, down from 44%. • In a notable reversal of the trend in Q3, respondents were more likely to predict worsening than improvement in the economic prospects for London and the UK

LOCAL EXPERTS SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES Commercial Property Commercial Law Company Law Commercial Disputes Debt Recovery Employment Law

Providing expert legal advice to businesses across Bromley and the South East. Tel: 020 8290 0333 www.judge-priestley.co.uk Offices in Bromley, Beckenham and Blackheath

News

New report reveals

“magnificence and inequalities of Croydon” A report from Croydon’s director of public health celebrates how Croydon’s community united to support each other throughout COVID-19 while highlighting how the pandemic has exacerbated inequalities in the borough.

n her first annual report since the COVID-19 outbreak, Rachel Flowers praises Croydon residents, communities, schools and businesses for their continued strength and determination, while making several recommendations for Croydon to bounce back as a fairer place. The challenges faced in Croydon include significant job losses during the pandemic that have led to many now relying on state-funded benefits to support themselves. A proportion of residents were at increased risk of infection due to not being able to socially distance in their place of employment, such as those in frontline jobs in care homes, hospitals and other key roles. The financial difficulties at this time also led to an increase in children receiving free school meals, with more than a quarter of primary and secondary school pupils now eligible. Some communities faced additional barriers during the pandemic. More than 3,000 people are visually or hearing impaired in the borough and elements of the lockdown exacerbated the challenges some already face accessing services and information. However, the report highlights how Croydon’s multi-agency partnerships engaged with a wide range of stakeholders to support people in the borough and protect them from the virus. Croydon Council distributed more than 2,500 devices, such as laptops and tablets, to help pupils continue their learning from home. They also provided financial support to 4,144 households with food vouchers, emergency amenities, help to move home and other support. Rachel Flowers said: “Croydon, you are and were magnificent. My report aims to document the challenge that the start of a global pandemic brought, as well as showcase how communities came together in difficult and fast-emerging circumstances.”

Upskill your workforce in 2022

Apprenticeships are an exciting option for employers. Hiring an apprentice is an effective and productive way to grow talent and develop a motivated, qualified and skilled workforce while adapting the training according to the business needs.

usinesses can employ apprentices at various levels, from people wanting to further their careers or change career direction to school leavers and university graduates to develop a skilled workforce with the latest practical training that meets industry requirements. As an employer, you can hire someone new or upskill an existing employee with funding from the Government to help pay for the apprenticeship training. Eligible employers in England could also apply for payment of £3,000 for apprentices with an extra £1,000 incentive for apprentices aged between 16 and 18 or under 25 with an Educational Health Care Plan. Lewisham College works closely with businesses of all sizes to enable employers to recruit

apprentices and support the training of their staff. As one of London’s top colleges, the college has extensive experience supporting Apprenticeships and Employers with a wide range of London businesses and a free end-to-end support service. The college works with our network of business partners to set up opportunities for work experience, placements, guest speakers, industry visits, tours, and workshops. In addition, the college provides professional development training courses tailored to the individual requirements of businesses and used to train new staff, upskill existing employees or develop senior managers. Lewisham College is launching a new electrician technician apprenticeship programme starting in the new year designed to equip local residents with the necessary practical training and skills that meet the requirements of working within the sector. To find out more about this new apprenticeship programme and learn how Lewisham College can support you to reduce the skills gap and boost your business productivity, visit www.lewisham.ac.uk/employers

Funding for creative projects set to boost footfall in Lewisham high streets A catalogue of exciting cultural events is coming to Lewisham’s town centres, thanks to the Creative Happenings Grant which is funding 19 creative projects up to £10,000.

icking off in December and running until the end of February, Create Without Borders and the Migration Museum are among the many local creative organisations to benefit from the funding, which aims to attract visitors to town centres across Lewisham. The grants scheme is being funded through the Creative Enterprise Zone (CEZ), a Mayor of London initiative which is focused on supporting local digital and creative sectors, both of which are key to Lewisham’s recovery from the economic impact of COVID-19. Creative Happenings supports local creatives including freelancers, who have been impacted by national and local COVID-19 restrictions, with

projects commissioned in the current New Cross and Deptford CEZ as well as in emerging creative clusters in other parts of the borough including Catford, Lewisham Central, Brockley and Forest Hill. Embedding art and creativity into places that the whole community can enjoy will be a key theme when Lewisham celebrates its year as London Borough of Culture in 2022. The selected projects will showcase a wide breadth of work from local creative talents while improving placemaking in the borough’s town centres. Councillor Kim Powell, cabinet member for business and community wealth-building, said: “Our creative sector has been particularly hard hit by the

pandemic, so I’m excited to see how the Creative Happenings grants will support those organisations that we know will be a big driver of economic growth here in Lewisham. As we begin to transition into recovery, I’m proud that we’re investing in our artists, makers and creatives with these grants. It’s especially pertinent as we look forward to our year as Borough of Culture in 2022, which is all about celebrating and supporting the incredible creativity we have within Lewisham. “What’s even better about this programme is it will also breathe new life into our town centres, making them more appealing places to be and attracting more visitors, which also benefits our independent retailers.”

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Auction Sales are Safe in our Hands

Upcoming Auctions 9th February

Bidding Live: Monday, 7th February Auction Ends: Wednesday, 9th February

23rd March

Inviting Entries We are continually inviting entries for our auctions which are scheduled throughout the year. We are only an email, call, or click away • auctions@cliveemson.co.uk • cliveemson.co.uk • 0345 8500333 If you would like to arrange a no obligation auction appraisal please do not hesitate to contact us or complete our online form at www.cliveemson.co.uk/selling/

Entries Close: 28th February Auction: Wednesday, 23rd March

Suitable Entries Include •

Projects Building plots, development sites and conversions.

•

Vacant Premises Houses, flats, bungalows and cottages for improvement, renovation restoration, refurbishment and/or repair (inc. fire damaged premises).

•

Investments Tenanted properties (both commercial and residential).

•

Unique Properties Martello towers, nuclear bunkers, car parking spaces, churches and more.

•

Land Farms and smallholdings, woodland, grazing and leisure land (including ponds, rivers and fishing lakes).

Local Knowledge - National Coverage

Join us on:

Focus on Lewisham

(Back L-R) IRIE! Dancers, Olympian Alex Yee, Beverley Glean, Wozzy Brewster, Justine Simons (Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries), Mayor of Lewisham Damien Egan, Brenda Emmanus, Olivia Marling, Rosanna Campbell, Mark Stevenson, Inua Ellams (Front) IRIE! Dancers Programme launch of We Are Lewisham, the Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2022, at Rivoli Ballroom in Crofton Park, London. Photo credit: David Parry/PA Wire

London Borough of Culture 2022 will help put Lewisham on the map Lewisham kicks off its year as the Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2022 on Friday 28 January with Day One, a fantastic borough-wide opening celebration that pays homage to local change makers, trailblazers, and social justice pioneers - while showcasing home-grown talents. 8

he festivities are set to continue over the next twelve months as the We Are Lewisham programme goes on to showcase all that is great about the borough – celebrating its rich diversity, providing a platform for the local young people and promoting the power of culture to create change.

Programme highlights include: •

A dance spectacular by Alleyne Dance and IRIE! Dance Theatre, with a cast of over 200 local performers celebrating the contribution of migration to the borough

•

Revolution Though Music, a celebration of Lewisham’s activist history and its rich contribution to music in Britain, kicks off in March with gigs curated by Dave Okumu

•

Breathe 2022, a striking new public artwork about air pollution by artist Dryden Goodwin and Invisible Dust that pays tribute to Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah

•

UK premiere of the award-winning climate change artwork Sun & Sea, Golden Lion winner at the Venice Biennale

•

Lewisham People’s Day is back, after a four year hiatus. South East London’s longest running free festival will feature hundreds of live performances across multiple stages

The We Are Lewisham programme will spotlight the creative and cultural assets and potential within the borough. It is a great opportunity to put Lewisham on the map, attracting increased visitors and footfall. Lewisham Council wants local businesses to embrace its London Borough of Culture programme and the opportunities for increased trade it may provide. As such, it is offering a package of financial and practical support - funded through the Additional Restrictions Grant - to ensure they are able to make the most of the fantastic opportunities the year presents.

These include: • A new business advisory support service, delivered in partnership with Goldsmiths, University of London to help Lewisham’s entrepreneurs identify ways to get involved in the programme. For example: 3 Developing new and distinct branded products and services to coincide over 2022 with the programme 3 Capitalise on the increased footfall from residents and visitors to Lewisham, with spend on their goods/services, especially during large events such as People’s Day and Mass Dance 3 Sharing premise space(s) for activities, exhibitions or showcases 3 Staff volunteering and getting involved in the programme, as makers and creators of creative and cultural activities 3 Sponsorship and fundraising • A new grant scheme for local businesses wishing to be commissioned through We Are Lewisham programme to host an event or activity • A support pack for local high street businesses containing branded materials such as posters and window decals, to help them get behind the programme and brighten up the borough To keep up to date on all the support Lewisham Council is offering its local, independent businesses during London Borough of Culture 2022 and beyond - please sign up to the bi-weekly newsletter lewisham.gov.uk/business ••• Introduced by the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan in 2017, the London Borough of Culture award is a competition that sees London’s 32 boroughs bid for more than £1m of funding to stage a programme of cultural events and initiatives. The award puts culture at the heart of local communities, where it belongs, illuminating the character and diversity of London’s boroughs and showing culture is for everyone.

For full details on We Are Lewisham, please visit

wearelewisham.gov.uk

EXPAND AND UPSKILL YOUR WORKFORCE IN 2022 Hiring an apprentice can be an effective way to inject talent, productivity and innovative ideas into your business. Lewisham College works closely with a range of employers to provide end-to-end apprenticeship support, from promoting the job vacancy to handling assessment and certification. The College is offering new apprenticeships and training in the following areas: » » » » »

Construction & Engineering Catering & Hospitality Health & Social Care Teaching Assistant Business Administration

» Digital Skills

Ask us how you could claim Government financial incentives to hire an Apprentice in 2022!

Plumbing and Heating The College has recently launched a new Plumbing and Heating NVQ Level 2 Diploma to equip aspiring plumbers and domestic heating engineers with the practical training and skills that meet the requirements of working within the industry. The programme includes: » Decommissioning and maintenance » Environmental technologies » Hot and cold water » Plus more Save £200 on course fees. Contact us today!

CONTACT US If you are looking to train your staff or hire an apprentice then contact Lewisham College today! lewisham.ac.uk/apprenticeships | apprenticeships@lewisham.ac.uk | 020 3757 3050

Focus on Croydon

Get FREE BIG Innovation support for your business Whatever the size of your start-up, SME or third sector organisation – innovation is relevant to you. Organisations based in South London can get a fully funded programme of support to help design an innovative approach within their business.

nnovation is key for a business to maintain a competitive edge, at its core innovation is about doing things differently from your competitors. It can be small changes such as evolving your internal processes or workflows, rethinking your business model, or tweaking your product range.

Whatever stage your business is at on its innovation journey, BIG South London can help. This free programme starts with an innovation health check with an experienced mentor focusing on the areas most likely to influence business growth, followed by workshops and matching with the right university partner to accelerate the development of your idea.

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME PHASE ONE: INNOVATION HEALTH CHECK

PHASE TWO: INNOVATION AND GROWTH WORKSHOPS

PHASE THREE: UNIVERSITY ENGAGEMENT

Whether its product development, evolving your service offering or pivoting your business model, this Innovation Health Check will put you on the path to growth and supply you with a tangible plan to keep you on track.

A series of workshops targeted at businesses at all stages of innovation and growth. Whether you’re in the early-stages or are ready to hit the ground running, we’ll have the workshops for you to start implementing strategies outlined in its Innovation Health Check.

In this final stage, we can support your business to engage with one of our six university partners.

In this phase, you will receive a structured one to one introductory session with an experienced mentor, focusing on the areas most likely to influence your organisational growth. Your mentor will help to develop a tailored support plan, pointing toward the right workshops for your stage of business growth and allowing you to make the most of the programme.

Topics will include: • Working with your local university • Finding and accessing finance and funding • Developing a new idea • Launching profitable products • How and when to scale-up • Intellectual Property Advice Sector specific workshops will also be available based upon needs identified at the Innovation Health Check.

The universities have a broad range of expertise to tap into to accelerate the development of your innovation/business eg clean growth, digital and tech, engineering and general business activity. Support can include: • Expertise matching to find the right university partner • Up to five hours free academic consultancy in specific field • Access to facilities at our university partners premises

To find out more, visit: https://big-knowledge.co.uk/big-innovation-support-programme/

New Year, new starter?

The new year is the perfect time to start afresh, and look ahead to 2022 with renewed vigour to tackle the challenges ahead and succeed over the next 12 months.

mployers have spent the past few weeks setting targets for the year, and there is no better time to take on new people, enhancing existing workforces and bringingin new ideas, thoughts and ways of working in the process. The Croydon College Group’s World of Work team is working with an existing group of dedicated employers to help shape tomorrow’s workforce today, and are ready to welcome new businesses to support their ambitions for 2022. New for this year are T Levels, with Croydon College and Coulsdon Sixth Form College actively looking for local employers in the Engineering and Manufacturing and Science sectors respectively to support them in giving the skills and workplace experience for the borough’s young people.

T Levels follow GCSEs and are equivalent to three A Levels. Starting in September, they focus on vocational skills to help students get into skilled employment, further study or apprenticeships. Students spend 80% of their course in the classroom, with an in-depth, meaningful, industry placement that lasts at least 45 days for the remainder of the course. Employers wishing to play a part in honing the skills of the next generation will get early sight of the new talent in their industries and giving them a head start in their career, can find out more by visiting www.croydon.ac.uk/t-levels/ and www.coulsdon.ac.uk/t-levels A number of Apprenticeship vacancies are open at Croydon College throughout the year, with programmes tied to jobs on offer. By employing an Apprentice,

employers can help someone earn while they learn the technical and functional knowledge to carry out their job, as well as real-world practical experience to set them up for life. Croydon College is one of the largest Apprenticeship providers and have the knowledge and expertise readily available to help you assist Croydon’s residents into quality and worthwhile employment, while also helping diversify your own workforce. Email apprenticeships@croydon.ac.uk to find out how you can give some of the capital’s best and brightest young minds a kickstart to their careers. And while there’s the chance to add to your workforce, it is also worth considering reinvigorating your current workforce and enhancing their skills through the Croydon College Group’s Online Distance

Learning Courses. Many of these courses are free and can be worked around staff availability. Available throughout the year, these courses lead to a nationally recognised qualification and our expert tutors will support you remotely, providing you with feedback to help you develop your knowledge and achieve your qualification. To find out more, visit www.croydon.ac.uk/ distance-learning These courses are driven and facilitated by the College’s World of Work team. If you’re interested in helping shape a course, placement or apprenticeship opportunity around your business, we’d love to hear from you. Email Nicola Tarry, Head of the World of Work – Nicola.tarry@croydon.ac.uk – to start your conversation today.

Greenwich One Card, so many advantages!

Focus on Greenwich

Sign your business up today

(GLL), helps Royal Greenwich businesses to get back on their feet and raise their brand awareness, as well as providing great offers for residents and visitors to the borough to enjoy. There are currently 120,000 Greenwich One Card holders across the borough – and more people joining the scheme all the time.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich’s new look Greenwich One Card relaunched in January 2022. The all-in-one card combines library and leisure centre membership while also offering a fantastic range of money-saving perks from local businesses, for anyone who lives, works or studies in Royal Greenwich. The scheme, which the Council manages in partnership with Greenwich Leisure Limited

Sign up for your business for free today and access a wide range of benefits, including free listing on the Council’s website and regular promotion across our communication channels. All you need to do is come up with an offer for Greenwich One Card holders. You could: • Offer a percentage discount e.g. 10% off on all sales or on a particular item • Offer a two-for-one on something you sell • Create a time limited offer to encourage people to visit your shop before or after an event

If you would like to register your business, simply complete the online submission form via the Council’s website: www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/GreenwichOneCard

Helping businesses GO GREEN The Royal Borough of Greenwich is committed to helping local businesses reduce their environmental footprint, as part of its Carbon Neutral Plan to respond to climate emergency. Working closely with South-East London Community Energy, the Council will be launching the Greenwich Greener Business Programme to support the local business community in reducing both their energy

costs and carbon emissions. What we’re offering for the launch: • A fully-funded energy and environmental audit • A free webinar for Royal Greenwichbased businesses on 15 February, from 3pm to 4.30pm, where you can learn how you can benefit through reducing your environmental impact

Sign-up to the webinar by registering to attend www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/GreenBusinessWebinar

❛❛The all-in-one card combines library and leisure centre membership while also offering a fantastic range of money-saving perks from local businesses, for anyone who lives, works or studies in

❜❜

Royal Greenwich.

What can the Council do for your business? In Royal Greenwich, professional advice is available on many aspects of running your business from tendering for contracts to recruitment and marketing. We also run an e-business support programme to help businesses reach their potential online which includes free workshops and seminars.

To keep up to date with our latest business news sign up to receive our newsletter directly in your inbox: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/ businessnewsletter

Find out about all the advice and support we can offer your business by visiting our website:

www.royalgreenwich.gov.uk/businesssupport

Visit Greenwich

New for 2022 at Royal Museums Greenwich Royal Museums Greenwich is home to the Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, Queen’s House and National Maritime Museum. 2022 is set to be an exciting year with the opening of a new major exhibition and a number of events taking place throughout the year, including a brand new experience at Cutty Sark. © @koismiah

An Exciting Year Ahead for Greenwich From the Platinum Jubilee and several major anniversaries to an outstanding line-up of festivals and new experiences, the Royal Borough is set for another exceptional year of events.

Here’s a look at what’s to come. 2022 is the year of celebrations in Greenwich. With the Queen marking 70 years of service with her Platinum Jubilee, the Royal Borough will be gearing up to join the festivities in style, while also celebrating some huge anniversaries of its own.

At the National Maritime Museum, from 1 April, is Canaletto’s Venice Revisited. This major exhibition will display the complete set of 24 Venetian views painted by Canaletto in the 1730s, in the height of his career. The works, from the worldfamous collection at Woburn Abbey, form the largest single commission the Italian artist ever received. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see the collection up close alongside drawings, prints, photographs, and other objects from Royal Museums Greenwich’s collections. Coming on 2 April, for the first time since arriving in Greenwich in 1954, visitors to Cutty Sark will be able to climb the famous masts and enjoy views of the Thames and London like never before with the Cutty Sark Rig Climb Experience. Step up from the Main Deck onto the ship’s ratlines and climb up the shrouds, just as the sailors did over a hundred years before. Thrillseekers will then traverse one of the ship’s lower yardarms before taking in the unique views from the platform, standing amidst the rigging of a true London icon.

This year marks the 10th anniversary since Greenwich was centre stage as a host borough of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Opening in the same year, both the Emirates Air Line and Up at The O2 will celebrate their 10th birthdays, while June marks 15 years since The O2 first opened its doors back in 2007. 2022 also marks 25 years since Maritime Greenwich was awarded World Heritage Site status, and after the stunning illuminations of 2017 it’s safe to say there will be some very special events to look forward to!

❛❛2022 marks 25 years since Maritime Greenwich

Visit Greenwich

was awarded World Heritage Site status, and after the stunning illuminations of 2017 it’s safe to say there will be some very special events to look forward to!

❜❜

The O2 is Back with a BOOM Having just opened in December, Boom: Battle Bar is the latest addition to the ever-growing Entertainment Avenue at The O2. The wild choice of games includes Bavarian Axe Throwing, Crazier Golf, Digital Darts, Shuffleboard, American Pool plus a menu of delicious street food, cocktails and craft beers.

Eventful Greenwich Following an extended period of closure, The Fan Museum will be reopening its doors to the public on 16 February. With updated displays across the ground floor featuring works by impressionist artist, Paul Gauguin, the museum will also be unveiling its new exhibition, The Allure of Lace.

The O2 looks set to have a fantastic programme of events this year with more than 70 scheduled shows in the Arena alone. The showstopping line-up for the year includes The BRIT Awards, Dave, Country to Country, Genesis, Stormzy, John Bishop, Blondie, Dua Lipa, Premier League Darts, Celine Dion, Alan Partridge, Queen + Adam Lambert, Billie Eilish, Diana Ross, Cirque du Soleil and the Laver Cup.

London’s leading festival of free outdoor theatre and performing arts, Greenwich+Docklands International Festival, returns from 26 August – 10 September for 16 days of incredible events. Taking place across the Borough from the beautiful historic setting of the Old Royal Naval College to Eltham’s bustling high-street and the dynamic twin Woolwich locations of General Gordon Square and Royal Arsenal Riverside. Annual spring favourites, the Vitality Big Half and the Virgin Money London Marathon, now take place in the Autumn, on Sunday 4 September and Sunday 2 October respectively. With cheering spectators lining the routes around Greenwich icons, the races are a highlight for locals and visitors alike.

The unique drinking and dining experience, London in the Sky, is also back from April to June. Choose from a sky-high breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, cocktails and afternoon tea - all served 100ft up with astonishing views of the river Thames, Canary Wharf and beyond.

A Mythical World Emerges in Woolwich After opening its doors in September 2021, Woolwich Works hits the ground running this year. Coming in late spring, The Burnt City by Punchdrunk is sure to continue its success. Enter an immersive world set in the neon backstreets of Troy as Greece teeters on the brink of victory. Audiences are invited to explore the colossal sensory playground at their own pace, experiencing scenes in a non-linear way as the story unfolds around them. In other exciting news for Woolwich, Crossrail remains on track to open the Elizabeth line in the first half of 2022. The final phase of the programme, Trial Operations, is now underway and is the final step before passenger services can commence. The new Woolwich Elizabeth line station will provide better and quicker travel between Woolwich and the rest of London, with trains to/from Canary Wharf in 7 minutes, Liverpool Street in 14 minutes and Bond Street in just 21 minutes.

Outside the iconic tent, Greenwich Peninsula’s popular SAMPLE is back on 2 April, showcasing the season’s best in food, fashion, design and homeware out on Peninsula Square. There will also be food from Design District Canteen, local produce, coffee, cocktails and some of the capital’s coolest DJs.

Now in its 8th year, Urban Village Fete returns to Greenwich Peninsula on 15 May with its eclectic array of market traders, crafting workshops, live DJ sets, dancing and more.

Keep up to date with unmissable events and experiences in and around the Royal Borough of Greenwich at visitgreenwich.org.uk and follow us on social media @visitgreenwich. If you have a visitor event, be sure to submit it to our website via visitgreenwich.org.uk/submit-event 13

NEW YEAR IN BROMLEY It’s a New Year and a New Beginning here in Bromley. Actually, for us, our new beginning started in 2021 when we celebrated ‘Unwrapping Christmas in Bromley’. We welcomed our brand new Christmas lights, including beautiful, instagrammable walk-throughs for the first time. We were also delighted to host the enchanting family-friendly Walking with The Snowmen™ Trail, featuring 12 incredible sculptures in a tribute to Raymond Briggs’ magical classic, The Snowman™. Now in 2022 we are getting ready to launch our brand new Destination Branding and website, continuing to put Bromley on the map. Frances Forrest, BID Manager, Your Bromley BID

Destination Branding

Website

For the past six months behind the scenes, a huge amount of time and effort has been spent creating a new brand for Your Bromley. A brand designed to capture the essence of our town and help make Bromley a destination of choice for those who live in and around the borough, work in the town or come to visit for leisure and recreation.

Funded by Bromley businesses, it could be tempting to assume our website would be tailored to them. However, for our businesses and town to continue to thrive, and consistently exceed our footfall numbers of 2019, we need visitors, local residents and staff to all feel welcome and want to come to Bromley, stay, enjoy themselves, feel safe and want to return again and again. So for this a destination website is key. It will still feature our popular businesses directly, news of events taking place, special offers and job opportunities, but it is easier to navigate and beautifully designed to showcase our new brand.

There have been many different developmental stages, with engagement with our businesses and our local residents at its heart, ensuring the end result represents Bromley to all. The project started with research to find out what both businesses and individuals love about the town. Our findings revealed that Bromley is loved for its green spaces, its excellent connections, its shopping and the theatre, with The Glades and The Churchill Theatre standing out as key attractions. From here initial design work was taken to workshops with businesses and members of the public for their discussion and input. The culmination of all of this work is a new brand that reflects all of this feedback. It’s green, friendly and welcoming just like our town and best of all filled with beautiful imagery of real people from the town.

Please keep in touch with Your Bromley by subscribing to regular e.shots via yourbromley.com. Follow Your Bromley BID on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @YourBromley

It will also feature a forum for sharing business and community initiatives. Somewhere you can find out about ways to volunteer and give within the community or ask for help with your own projects. And for businesses thinking of locating in town, commercial property will also be included on the directory, along with all the information prospective business owners might need to demonstrate that Bromley would make the ideal new home for them. The BID Members Area is tailored for our businesses, giving them the tools to be able to add their own job vacancies, events, offers and even refresh their directory pages themselves. It will also give them access to bespoke resources, such as free social media training courses, cyber-crime webinars and much more. The new website and brand will be launching in February 2022, sign-up here to find out about it yourbromley.com.

Fitness Gaming Launches at Mottingham Library

Focus on Bromley

There’s less ‘shush’ and more ‘whoosh’ going on

at Mottingham library as users get up and active as part of a new fitness gaming programme.

romley Council are trialling ‘exergaming’ in their library spaces, a fun interactive fitness technology supported by a grant from London Sport’s, Tackling Inequality Fund (TIF). The technology aims to improve health outcomes and tackle higher than average levels of obesity in the community in a fun and engaging way.

Fixed to the ceiling, the Exergaming console projects interactive games on to the floor or a table. The equipment

has been selected because of its ability to engage children in physical activity, however it can also be used by other community groups that work with senior citizens to support a more active lifestyle as well as supporting the prevention of illnesses such as dementia. It also encourages increased social interaction and confidence after lockdown stages. This service builds on Mottingham library’s reputation for innovation as they are also the first library in Bromley to be awarded Autism-friendly status. The fitness gaming programme will create an even better environment where children and adults with Autism can be active. As part of this programme, which is set to run until the end of March, Mottingham library will work with local schools to run free sessions for children aged 5-11. Other sessions will engage

elderly residents and parent and toddler sessions from February until the end of March 2022. The Library service in Bromley is delivered by Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) and at the same time as installing the interactive play equipment, Mottingham Library will become the first site in Bromley to host the ‘Borrow a Ball’ service, established by GLL with another social enterprise, Alive 6 / 9 and Kicking. They work to manufacture high quality footballs in Africa, creating new jobs, and then sell the balls in the UK. This scheme runs in neighbouring Greenwich libraries and has recently just been awarded a runner-up award in the national Libraries Connected Health and Wellbeing award for its unique role in encouraging young people to be more active and socially confident through physical activity.

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GLL are delighted to be working in partnership with London Sport, Exergame and the London Borough of Bromley to bring sports and games to library users through technology. We hope that this innovative project will excite and encourage Bromley residents to use their library and get active while having fun.

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Rebecca Gediking, Head of Libraries, Archives and Museums (Bromley) – GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited)

Subway restoration in Crystal Palace receives planning permission

he restoration works will see the repair of the Victorian subway, including the rebuilding of existing walls, construction of new parapet walls, and a roof structure. The design has been created by award winning conservation architects Thomas Ford & Partners, who took inspiration from the original structure, whilst ensuring the restored subway meets the needs of this important site in the modern day. Councillor Katy Boughey, Chairman of Bromley Council’s Plans SubCommittee No. 3 said, “We are pleased to unanimously approve this application for well-considered restoration works. The proposed design is attractive and in keeping with the history of the subway, making good use of the available resources to preserve this valued

Plans to restore the grade II* listed Crystal Palace subway were recently unanimously approved at a Bromley Council Planning sub-committee, which will allow works to commence later this year. structure. I look forward to seeing the restored subway in due course.” The proposed new roof will be visible from Crystal Palace Parade, with the subway exterior being made from glass and stainless steel, and the gable enclosed with Corten steel. It is envisaged that the following restoration works, the subway will be removed from the Heritage at Risk Register. Councillor Peter Morgan, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing at Bromley Council said, “I look forward to seeing works begin on this important restoration, with grateful thanks to our valued partners Historic England and The Friends of Crystal Palace Subway who have helped bring about this welcome news. The history of this important structure has been reflected in the impressive

design of the new subway roof, which will also be fit for purpose in the 21st Century. It is essential we carry out these works in a timely manner to preserve this cherished subway for years to come and ensure it does not deteriorate further, with this restoration also contributing to the regeneration of Crystal Palace Park.” The estimated £3.2m cost of restoring the subway follows successful grant allocations of £2.3m from the City of London Strategic Investment Pot and an additional £500k from Historic England. Contributions to the works are also coming from the Friends of Crystal Palace Subway.

The subway first opened in 1865 and is located to the edge of Crystal Palace Park under the Crystal palace Parade and is one of the last original Crystal Palace structures and is much loved by the community, with its own dedicated Friends’ group. The subway will be able to reopen following completion of the works, to be viewed by its local and international following. London Borough of Southwark continue to be involved in the restoration project. A planning application covering restoration works to small parts of the subway that lie within the borough of Southwark has also been submitted to the Council.

For more information visit www.Bromley.gov.uk/CrystalPalaceSubway and join the council’s mailing list to receive further updates.

Focus on Bexley

HIGH STREETS FOR ALL Challenge The High Streets for All partnership, including the London Borough of Bexley and Bexleyheath Business Improvement District has been awarded funding for town centre improvements in Bexleyheath as part of the Mayor of London’s ‘High Streets for All Challenge.’

he £160,000 funding will go towards several initiatives designed to increase the vibrancy and vitality of the town.

Cabinet Member for Growth, Cllr Cafer Munur said: “High street recovery is at the heart of this funding. This extra resource will support the partnership with local engagement, to test innovative solutions with young people, businesses, and the community. “Part of the project will look at finding and trialling local solutions for a better local economy at night, improving safety. We want to enhance the town’s existing offer and test how to improve the public realm so its accessible to everyone. I’m looking forward to seeing the projects take shape.” Now that the funding has been agreed, the proposals will be developed by the partnership which includes representatives of youth organisations, culture, and businesses and with the support of industry specialists.

exley Originals is a pop-up shop initiative, aiming to help a wide range of local business types to gain their first experience of trading on the high street, adding to their business skills. It also makes use of otherwise empty shopping units to provide unique shopping experiences and products for shoppers. The first pop-up shop to open in December 2021 was in the Broadway Shopping Centre in Bexleyheath. Inside 11 new traders work in one retail space selling unique products, including specialist chocolates, eco-friendly bath products, spice condiments, clothes, and fashion.

‘Bexley Originals’ arrive in Bexleyheath and Welling The second Bexley Originals Shop can be found at 70 Bellegrove Road in Welling. The pop-up shop has given five new traders the chance to showcase and sell their products in prime retail space on Welling High Street. Goods on sale include specialist body products, ethically sourced crystals, jewellery, home decorations and homewares. Both pop-up shops will remain open until the end of March 2022. Councillor Cafer Munur Bexley’s Cabinet Member for Growth, said: “We’ve launched this scheme to help support small and start-up businesses in Bexley. It builds on our ongoing ‘Shop Local’ campaign which aims to boost

sales for local independent businesses. If you want to buy some special and unique items, then Bexley Originals shops are the place to go.” With the support of Retail Revival, an experienced business support and high street regeneration specialist, 40 applicants were shortlisted, 24 interviewed and from these 11 were selected to trade in the Bexleyheath shop and five in the Welling shop. The Bexley Originals initiative has been developed by the London Borough of Bexley, as part of its post-COVID Economic Recovery Strategy. Bexley Originals is supported by the Government’s Additional Restrictions Grant scheme.

Winter help for Bexley residents in need

exley residents in need were able to get extra support over the winter thanks to over £1.5 million in funding to the Council from the government’s Household Support Fund. It helped to: • Provide around 7,859 children eligible for free school meals for February half term and the Easter holiday with almost £700,000 of vouchers for their families to use in supermarkets. Vouchers had already been provided for the October half term and Christmas holidays.

• Provide an extra £718,000 to support more than 14,000 households that qualify for the Council’s Council Tax Reduction Scheme with vouchers (£26 to £104, depending on number of people in household). • Give £100,000 in grants to local voluntary organisations to support residents. This will include £20,000 for the local foodbank and £20,000 to provide food and essential supplies to SOLACE to support victims of domestic abuse.

A decision on the allocation of a further £60,000 was planned for January. Councillor David Leaf, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Resources said: “I know that many families are feeling the pinch from higher costs of living. We have thought carefully about how to ensure the funding helps our most vulnerable families and giving support to those we know are already on low incomes will make a difference at this uncertain time.”

Croydon’s going places That’s why LSBU are here and committed to this area. Our new campus is the latest in a string of exciting developments in one of London’s most ambitious areas. Home to big businesses, start-ups and a uniquely South London buzz: we’re playing our part in its future. Our new home will be in a Grade II listed building, Electric House, in Croydon town centre. With its original purpose of empowering local people to explore new technology in mind, we aim to build on this mission by allowing our students to engage with the latest innovation in technology and build digital innovation. LSBU is here to meet the need for an exceptional civic university powering the future workforce, building sustainable and engaged communities and boosting the region’s standing on a national and global stage. We’re providing ambitious, businessminded Londoners with a brand new business hub, brimming with entrepreneurial spirit, where students, staff and our Croydon community alike gather to share knowledge and ideas. As well as Undergraduate programs in Business Management and Accounting and Finance, LSBU Croydon offers CPD and upskilling short courses, designed to help the local community get into careers and improve their job prospects.

Find out more www.lsbu.ac.uk/croydon

Education & Skills

Boost your business with HELP TO GROW at LSBU Croydon

London South Bank University (LSBU) aids the growth and recovery of SMEs in Croydon with its government subsidised Help to Grow programme. The impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic have been challenging for all businesses and led to sharp a drop in economic activity in the UK, with SMEs being hit the hardest and now requiring the most support in their recovery.

Education & Skills

❛❛The HELP TO GROW programme takes participants through the four key stages of Innovate, Market, Build and Grow, to create a realistic and valuable Growth Action Plan specifically for their business.

here are six million SMEs in the UK which account for over 99% of all businesses, 33% of employment and 21% of all turnover – so the effect on the UK economy will be felt for a long time unless they are prioritised in receiving support. Over recent years there has been increasing demand for fairer government funding and investment in south London, coming from the public, the council and members of parliament. LSBU is taking action in supporting business growth in south London and the Croydon area with this subsidised programme, designed and delivered around the needs of business owners. Participants of Help to Grow receive multi-faceted training to develop strategic skills to increase their business’ long-term productivity, resilience and capacity to innovate. Some of the key benefits to business leaders include peer support, one-to-one mentoring, a hybrid learning environment and access to an alumni network. Let’s explore what the programme entails.

ACCESSIBLE TRAINING The fact that Help to Grow is a 90% government funded programme means that specialised business growth training becomes accessible and affordable,

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especially in the wake of unprecedented disruption when SME debt has increased significantly.

EXPERT-LED Participants will learn directly from industry-leading facilitators, trainers and support leaders, who have been handpicked based on their knowledge and understanding of the challenges faced by SMEs. All have extensive experience in either leading small businesses to success or are experts in their particular business discipline, meaning business owners will find the support they need to achieve their individual business goals.

PEER SUPPORT Peer group sessions provide an invaluable opportunity for business owners to share ideas, challenges and successes in a confidential and supportive environment. Peer collaboration allows participants to gain insightful and objective viewpoints that help tackle problems from a different perspective and feed directly into plans for business development.

ONE-TO-ONE MENTORING Navigating an ever-changing economic climate is more challenging than ever, so receiving tailored advice to reach individual business goals can vastly impact success. Each participant receives 10 hours of dedicated support from an experienced

mentor to develop a business growth plan unique to their needs and ambition.

FLEXIBLE AND HYBRID Designed with business owners in mind, the programme is manageable alongside full-time work and fits around busy working schedules. The combination of virtual and face-to-face learning allows flexibility whilst retaining the same level of high-quality teaching. In times of uncertainty, business owners need to equip themselves with a robust business plan that mitigates risks, accounts for varying scenarios, and keeps operations agile and resilient against external influences. The Help to Grow programme takes participants through the four key stages of Innovate, Market, Build and Grow, to create a realistic and valuable Growth Action Plan specifically for their business. Current participant Liam Oliver has already seen the benefits of attending the course and says: “The whole course has been invaluable in changing my mindset towards the growth of the company. We move into this year with natural growth but the course has changed the conversation between myself and the other directors, enabling us to start planning strategically. The sessions with the mentor have been extremely useful in focusing on a strategic growth plan for the business.”

Ready to sign up? The next HELP TO GROW cohort launches on 7th February 2022 at LSBU’s Croydon campus. Invest in your business and secure your place today by visiting www.lsbuhtg.co.uk 19

Our University Centre offers a great range of affordable employment-focused courses. We blend academic and vocational learning so you will gain the skills employers want and the confidence you need to start or get ahead in your chosen career. Pathways include: » » » » » »

Business and Management Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science Childhood Studies Computing IT Construction and the Built Environment Engineering

» » » » » »

Health and Social Care Social Work Sport Supporting Teaching and Learning Teacher Training Quantity Surveying

w: LSEC.ac.uk t: 020 3954 4000 e: HE@LSEC.ac.uk 20

Education Education&&Skills Skills

LONDON SOUTH EAST UNIVERSITY CENTRE @ London South East Colleges OUR OFFER We offer over 30 Higher Education qualifications, at our campuses across Bromley, Bexley and Greenwich.

CASE STUDIES

Whether you are leaving school or wanting to boost your career, we offer full time and part time programmes to fit in with busy lifestyles and provide people with the opportunity to upskill, re-skill or make a return to education. Our competitively-priced courses are employmentfocused; offering a unique blend of vocational and academic teaching and learning. Subject areas include: Computing, Science, Construction and Engineering as well as qualifications in Education, Health and Social Care, Sport and Business. Each HE qualification is validated by one of our partners - University of Greenwich, Canterbury Christ Church University and Pearson. We regularly review our course portfolio to ensure that our offer meets employer need and demand boosting career opportunities for students and supporting the local economy.

WHY CHOOSE TO STUDY FOR A DEGREE AT COLLEGE? Our highly experienced staff focus on meeting the individual needs of each student to inspire, encourage and support them to achieve – catering for alternative learning styles with one-to-one mentoring. We offer small tutor groups, with personalised teaching that enables students to work closely with their tutors and the wider HE team. This approach enables us to tap into our student voice to ensure we can fully meet the needs and expectations of all our learners. Our tutors are all experts in their field. We work very closely with industry partners to ensure that the qualifications and curricula we offer directly meet the needs of employers – enabling us to directly support our students into exciting, fulfilling careers. Add to this our exceptional facilities and thriving student community and it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to study for their Higher Education qualifications at London South East Colleges.

INDUSTRY LINKS We collaborate with local, national and international businesses in the design and delivery of our courses; enabling us to equip students with the knowledge and connections they need to achieve their career ambitions. For example, our collaboration with Bromley Football Club helps put professional sport at the heart of our sports qualifications and our work with construction employers – including Wates, Optivo, L&Q and Skanska – is ensuring that students are being taught relevant skills, to meet the rapidly changing needs of an expanding industry.

Centre, and a final two years at the University of Greenwich, he finally walked away with a first class BSc honours degree in Biomedical Science. He says: “Enrolling for a Foundation Degree at the College’s University Centre was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Studying part-time did mean stretching out the course over five years rather than three but working full-time meant I had to do it this way. Believe me, it was no walk in the park either - it was extremely hard work with a lot expected of you.

Colin Warner (57) left his lucrative banking career a decade ago to concentrate on becoming a Biomedical Scientist working at the very heart of his community at the Princess Royal Hospital in Farnborough. Last July, after a four-year part-time foundation degree at London South East Colleges University

“The tutors were superb and certainly know their stuff. They were there for me every step of the way and I have them to thank for the excellent tuition and guidance from day one. For me, it’s onwards and upwards - it’s an exciting voyage of discovery and one that is, pardon the pun, infectious!”

Kelly Allen (30) left school early after losing direction and came to the College. A local youth worker inspired her to enrol on a Level 2 course in Construction and Built Environment and after completing this successfully, she progressed onto Level 3. Kelly went on to study for an HNC in Construction and Built Environment at the College’s University Centre. Following this, Kelly achieved a BSc Hons degree in building surveying and on completion, achieved her first job as a building surveyor at Faithorn Farrell Timms (FFT). In 2019, Kelly won the Building Surveying award at the RICS Matrics Young Surveyor of the Year Awards. Kelly says: “I initially enrolled on a Level 2 Foundation course that would allow me to make up for missing my GCSEs and immediately after this I made it onto the Construction and Built Environment Level 3 course. After two years I passed with a distinction and then decided to take it a step further with the Construction and Built Environment BTEC HNC. After achieving another distinction grade, and by now a mother to two children, I decided to study for my Building Surveying BSc Hons course at London South Bank University which I completed in

just two years (I qualified for direct entry to year 2 because of my LSEC HNC qualification). “I was then successful in landing a position of Building Surveyor at FFT. Today I am the winner of an amazing professional award, I have qualifications galore and the chance to gain even more. Soon I intend to become chartered by doing my RICS Accreditation of Professional Competence (APC) and then hope to reach the very top of my career.” “Gaining a qualification leads you to bigger and better things and you become more and more confident, trying new things, looking for new challenges and constantly learning. Without this, you will never fully appreciate just how many great opportunities there are out there. College opens doors for you.”

OUR STUDENT VOICE Whether its teaching, engineering, science, health and social care, business or construction our high-quality provision gives students the tools and contacts they need to achieve career success. In a recent student survey:

3 92% of students said the course was intellectually stimulating 3 93% of students said they were able to contact staff when they needed too 3 94% of students said they had the right support 2020/21 National Student Satisfaction Survey results

3 Overall Satisfaction – 81% (6% above the sector average)

Education & Skills

BUILD THE FUTURE CELEBRATE NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK 2022 WITH LONDON SOUTH EAST COLLEGES

pprenticeships are a fantastic route to a fulfilling career and a great way for employers to invest in and nurture new and existing talent. London South East Colleges trains over 1000 apprentices every year, working with employers throughout the region in sectors ranging from construction and engineering to digital marketing, hospitality, education and childcare and HR. We will be joining colleges across England to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2022 from 7-13 February 2022. The 15th annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships will showcase the positive impact apprenticeships can have on individuals, communities, local businesses and regional economies. We’ll be sharing inspiring apprenticeship stories across our social media channels and we have an exciting programme of free virtual events aimed at schools, students and parents.

Apprenticeships - Build The Future Wednesday 9 February 2022 - 4pm - 5.30pm Apprenticeships are a great way to kickstart your career, regardless of your age. Attend this virtual event to hear from our experts and discover the world of opportunities that an apprenticeship could open up for you.

www.lsec.ac.uk/events/3289-apprenticeships-build-your-future

Apprenticeships in Education Thursday 10 February 2022 - 4pm - 5pm This virtual event is aimed at educators in schools and colleges. It will highlight how apprenticeships can be a fantastic progression route to support school leavers into exciting and fulfilling careers.

www.lsec.ac.uk/events/3305-apprenticeships-find-out-more

If you would like to find out more about the apprenticeships we offer and the opportunities available, please visit

www.LSEC.ac.uk/apprenticeships or call us on 020 3954 4965

LP Networks’ expert guide:

How professional IT Support could make your business more profitable with Lee Pepper, Owner LP Networks

IT failures cause stress and cost your business time and money. Period. Ask any small business owner about IT, and they will shudder as they recall late nights in front of frozen screens, being taunted by cryptic error messages that lead to fruitless Google searches.

Professional IT Support. A no-brainer. We get that sometimes it is hard to relinquish control, but when it comes to outsourcing IT support, the numbers speak for themselves.

The unknowable number of wasted hours setting up staff email accounts. The failed software updates. The broken workstations preventing your team from being productive. The endless drudgery of running backups (you are running backups, aren’t you?), the forgotten passwords and of course, the issue of the moment – hybrid remote and office-based working, and the influx of BYOD devices.

According to Cisco, businesses can see a potential increase of 50% in business efficiency by outsourcing their IT. Meanwhile, Datto put the average cost of downtime due to cyber-attack at around £33.7k.

As a small business owner, you belong to a group that consists of some of the most hardworking and passionate people we know. You’re so dedicated to your business; it can be difficult to switch off or recognise when you’re sinking time into something better left to someone else. For most small business owners, your attention could be focussed on something more worthwhile than fixing computers, networking or cybersecurity, which, let’s face it, is something you know little about.

emergencies and getting them back up and running as quickly as possible. One size doesn’t fit all. Because we understand that all businesses are different, the IT support packages we offer are customisable, meaning we can also provide extended service desk hours where needed.

Very quickly, the question becomes, what could it cost my business to not use professional IT support services?

Having an IT expert at the end of the phone has a positive impact on all our clients. No matter the size of the business or the package they opt in to, our Service Desk comes as standard.

An IT support company that ticks all the boxes. How do we know what to look for in an MSP? We’ve been providing quality outsourced IT support to businesses just like yours for over 30 years, freeing countless owners just like you to concentrate on growing their businesses!

For our team, no question is a silly one, and no concern is ever considered pointless, meaning our clients can rest assured that they have a team supporting their IT needs and thinking of the next steps, so they don’t have to. Quite simply, our IT Service Desk lets our clients get on with what they’re good at.

As a Managed Service Provider, our Service Desk provides our clients with the expertise and knowledge of an IT expert at their fingertips. Open on weekdays from 8am to 6pm, our service desk team are available to guide our clients through any IT issues they may have, prioritising

If you run a business, no matter if it’s a one-person operation or a large company, and would like to have a chat about how our Service Desk team can help your business, we’d love to hear from you.

Discover how outsourced IT support could make your business safer, more efficient and more profitable. 0800 970 8980

enquiries@lpnetworks.com

Richard Burge LCCI

n convening the globe’s most prominent leaders and brightest minds, the congress aimed to spur change through dialogue and cooperation to create a more meaningful and prosperous future for individuals and businesses. More than 100 delegates from over 100 countries attended to connect with Chambers and business leaders, promote trade and investment opportunities, and gain insights into some of today’s most significant global issues.

Dubai congress puts London in the spotlight Recently Richard Burge was busy attending the 12th World Chambers Congress in Dubai, a highprofile, three-day event that brought together Chamber and business heads, as well as representatives from international organisations and governments. 24

On the face of it, the congress was the ideal forum for Richard to promote London as a marquee international destination – a key part of his role as CEO of London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). Through a new initiative, LCCI International, he aims to forge new connections with Chambers of Commerce and their members in overseas cities. Richards says: “We’ve already identified around 30 major cities across the world. We’d like to build relationships with the relevant Chamber in those cities and connect their members with members of London Chambers. “We have a process in place whereby we’ll agree memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with each Chamber and then embark on a three-year engagement plan with each of these cities. Ideally, we want 30 MOUs in place within the next 18 months, although that depends

Richard Burge LCCI

❛❛London was the founding city of C40 and has always been a vital member of the network. Sadiq’s appointment gives him a more apolitical platform for promoting London as an international destination, one that champions a green and sustainable recovery from the pandemic.

on certain political and economic factors outside of our control. “We’re looking to engage with cities that not only play a role within the economy in their own country, but also play a role in other countries’ economies. We’re looking for partners who have a global outlook and think outside the dynamics of their own locality.” Richard says that his job is made easier by the fact that London already holds a strong appeal to many individuals and businesses across the globe. This is evidenced, for example, by London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s recent appointment as the global chair of C40 cities. C40 cities is a global network of almost 100 megacities committed to addressing climate change. Collectively, the network represents more than 700 million people and covers a quarter of the global economy.

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“Despite the economic problems of recent years, London’s influence is still strong,” says Richard. “London was the founding city of C40 and has always been a vital member of the network. Sadiq’s appointment gives him a more apolitical platform for promoting London as an international destination, one that champions a green and sustainable recovery from the pandemic.” Although London is held in high regard by many, there are still several challenges to negotiate as the world gradually emerges from the pandemic. Richards says: “We’re already seeing the long-term impact of Brexit and it’s uncertain how this will play out. Trade barriers will need to be overcome and there will be a lot of future negotiations between Britain and other countries. We’re also suffering from a lack of skills in certain industries – a problem that

has been exacerbated by foreign workers leaving London and returning to their home countries.” Undoubtedly Chambers of Commerce have role to play in building international relationships in a post-COVID world. “The strength of our local Chambers comes from their membership,” says Richard. “It’s up to the London Chambers to promote the skills, strengths and abilities of their members to Chambers locally and in overseas countries. “It’s important to build relationships for the long run. Trade relationships seem to have become very transactional, with each party looking to get more out of the partnership than the others. This is not the right way to go about it. In my experience, longterm relationships work much more productively for everyone involved.” 25

The Big Interview

Diligent Diego drives growth at Fast Shield Packaging DIEGO GOMES says he knows how to make money but he gets just as much satisfaction from helping people less fortunate than himself. The founder and director of FAST SHIELD PACKAGING, he spends what little spare time he gets doing charitable work, supporting a variety of local charities along with his team of hardworking staff.

❛❛Essentially, we’ve grown out of a willingness to innovate and provide specialist foam solutions. Many of our customers have recommended us to other companies because they’ve been so satisfied

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with our work. 26

his ethos runs through the heart of the company, which specialises in expanded polystyrene and provides businesses, shops and the film industry with bespoke materials, flocking, props and sculptures. Fast Shield also makes and supplies lettering for parties, marketing events and functions such as weddings, communions and exhibitions.

He says: “Our main business has been expanded polystyrene for more than 23 years. Using our wealth of knowledge and experience, we’re able to fabricate innovative and creative solutions for a variety of customer requirements. Essentially, we’ve grown out of a willingness to innovate and provide specialist foam solutions. Many of our customers have recommended us to other companies because they’ve been so satisfied with our work.”

Diego established the company in 1998 and since then has built it into a slick, 6 figure turnover business that’s committed to providing the very best customer service.

“Our client base is long and varied but our vision is the same no matter who you are. Every client receives the same customer service and attention to detail. We aim to respond to every enquiry within

The Big Interview We can then easily store the compacted polystyrene on pallets to be recycled.” Born and brought up in Nairobi, Kenya, Diego was one of six siblings and came to England when he was 16 years old. “My parents made a decision to move here because at the time there weren’t many job opportunities in Kenya. I wanted to study accountancy and go to university but my parents couldn’t afford to send me there so I got a job in a restaurant instead.

❛❛We’re keen to do our bit for the environment. Recently we invested in a compacter which can reduce expanded polystyrene to one fortieth of the size. We can then easily store the compacted polystyrene on pallets

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to be recycled.

four hours. We work with clients and via a range of agencies who trust us time and time again to deliver within specific deadlines.” This attention to detail and unwavering focus on the customer has been recognised in the wider community. Fast Shield Packaging was named Business of the Year at the Best of Royal Greenwich Business Awards 2021 and won a sustainability award for good measure. “I was absolutely shocked to win as I didn’t think our application was that strong!” says Diego. “We’re keen to do our bit for the environment. Recently we invested in a compacter which can reduce expanded polystyrene to one fortieth of the size.

“I was always encouraged to save and invest so I bought a four-bed terraced house in Plumstead when I was 21. I knew I needed to graft hard to pay off the mortgage and renovate my house, but the restaurant job didn’t give me sufficient income so I switched jobs. I ended up working in a company that specialised in white goods packaging, such as polystyrene. I started off on the shop floor on night shift and studied for my accountancy qualification during the day – but it was too much. I was working 60-70 hours a week so I had to ditch the studying.” The move paid off. Diego worked his way up the ranks at the company, which was eventually acquired by US-owned Tuscarora, before becoming operations manager for a couple of sites in the UK. He then spent two years at Tuscarora’s operation in New Brighton in the US but the lure of family life saw him return to the UK. “I missed my kids growing up and wanted to spend more time with the family,” he says. “I decided to quit my well-paid job and established Fast Shield Packaging, determined to work hard but enjoy a good work-life balance. We targeted companies such as Royal Opera House and designed bespoke packaging for them, keeping production runs short and margins high.” “The biggest challenge we’ve faced, apart from the early years when we were getting the business off the ground, was the COVID-19 crisis. We approached it with a positive attitude, though. I sourced PPE before lockdown and provided it to organisations that needed it. I also invested in digital marketing and paidfor google adverts to ensure our brand remained visible to customers.

“This has helped us build our revenues back to around 80% of what they were before the pandemic started, which is a good result in the current trading environment. We’re confident of future growth because we’re able to offer customers sensible solutions at a viable price and within the shortest possible timeframe.”

The Inside Story: Diego Gomes •

Favourite food?

•

Favourite tipple?

•

Favourite holiday?

• • • • •

• •

Seafood is at the top of my list. I love various types of fruit, too. Spiced rum and coke. Portugal. The people, sun and food are fantastic.

Describe your family life? I’m blessed with a beautiful wife, Rita, and three grown-up children.

How do you spend your downtime? I don’t get much but in my spare time I do charitable work.

What are your key strengths as a manager? I’m able to motivate people by displaying an optimistic, positive attitude.

And your limitations? Digital marketing – I’ve never been great at this!

Best thing about doing business in the borough? This location provides us with excellent access to London and surrounding areas. It’s also a great place in which to socialise and work.

Famous person you’d most like to spend dinner with? I’m a Roman Catholic so it would be fantastic to meet Pope Francis.

Most interesting fact about yourself? I enjoy helping people less fortunate than myself.

Contact : 020 8855 2200 Email : sales@fastshield.com www.fastshield.com

Fast Shield Packaging Ltd Expanded Polystyrene mouldings, blocks and sheets. We fabricate specifically to suit your requirements and in addition to Expanded Polystyrene, we offer a range of different materials.

WINNERS of

Business of the Year and Greener Business Award at the Best of Royal Greenwich Awards 2021

Forthcoming Events

GREENWICH GREENER BUSINESS PROGRAMME Few businesses can be unaware of the consequences, opportunities and threats of the climate crisis for our society, and our economic environment. Business has a unique and vital role to play in providing for change, creating change and shaping an economy and society that can cope with multiple future challenges. In Greenwich there are already numerous examples of businesses springing up to meet that challenge already. If you, as a business leader, are concerned about the impacts of climate change on your business, and feel you need more detailed information on how to green your business, you are welcome to join a webinar designed for Greenwich businesses on Tuesday, 15 February, at 15.00:

PROFIT FROM GREENING YOUR BUSINESS Attendance at this webinar will give you a chance to book a FREE ECO-AUDIT for your business, funded by the Royal Borough of Greenwich, but limited in number. All local businesses are welcome, join and find out what the benefits are for you, and what you can do to be of benefit to the local community and the planet as a Responsible business able to rise to the challenge. This webinar will be led by Dr Hamid Tavassoli of South East London Community Energy, Greenwich Greener Business lead, and will feature a contribution from Helen McIntosh, President, South East London Chamber of Commerce.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/profit-from-greening-your-business-tickets-250278197827 29 29

Past Chamber Events

Making the right connections Each month the Chamber hosts a variety of events which offer members a superb opportunity to meet and chat to fellow business people. Here, we review a few of our past events.

South East London Chamber of Commerce Business Breakfast and AGM with Gareth Bacon MP

He covered the recent logistical challenges in the UK which have impacted London business perhaps most of all.

Friday 5 November 2021 While we were treated to an English breakfast in the sumptuous surroundings of The Clarendon Hotel, Gareth Bacon MP for Orpington, and the Conservative Ambassador for Small Businesses in Greater London, gave us an update on Government thinking and the help planned for business recovery. 30

Gareth has been in close contact with the Chamber since he spoke at a virtual breakfast in 2020. He has chaired virtual round-table discussions with small groups of local businesses. These have been instrumental in providing him with a picture of the practical experience of various business sectors during the pandemic and subsequent economic downturn.

Our Annual General Meeting is an opportunity for members to meet up and find out more about the Chamber. Our President Helen McIntosh and Raff Gallo Financial Director, both delivered addresses on the Chamber’s accomplishments for the year and its key aims and objectives. Board Members reviewed our year and laid out our action plan for the next 12 months, on how to deliver the best support and value to our members. Accounts were also presented for the year 2020 – 2021.

Past Chamber Events

SELCC Link ‘n Drink

in Lewisham at Everest Inn Wednesday 10 November 2021 Our firm belief is that the best way to do business, is with a personal connection. Our informal Link ‘n Drink event in Lewisham was back in person at a SELCC Link ‘n Drink favourite, the

Everest Inn set in the heart of Blackheath, Lewisham. At this event our members certainly wasted no time at all building connections and opportunities before tasting some of the finest of modern Nepalese & Indian Cuisine while enjoying the beautiful view out over Blackheath.

SELCC Christmas Lunch Thursday 9 December 2021 Our annual SELCC Christmas Event was hosted at the Clarendon Hotel. Members, Strategic Partners, and colleagues, both old and new, joined us to celebrate the end of an extraordinary year! It was great to meet up, network and celebrate in style, with two delicious courses, some lovely wines, and a raffle to support Peabody’s Christmas Fund. Some well-deserved festivities cheer all round!

31 31

Health and Wellbeing

Creativity counts in times of crisis

It has been widely acknowledged that creativity is one of the key ingredients for business success. It’s also a particularly useful attribute to possess when running a company in the worst health pandemic in living memory. 32

Health and Wellbeing

OVID-19 has forced all of us to re-evaluate the way we do things, particularly when it comes to working practices. It has called into question the viability of the physical office, with thousands of staff across London spending the last few months working from the confines of their own home.

In truth, remote and flexible working had become more common by the time COVID-19 hit UK shores, with technology allowing more people to work from home or on the move. The virus has merely reinforced the message that, in many cases, it’s possible for people to carry out their day jobs remotely. However, this is not necessarily a good thing; several reports have highlighted workers’ increased anxiety and isolation due to being away from the office environment. Other studies have reported an erosion in the divide between work and home life, with some workers feeling unable to switch off from work to enjoy time with their families.

❛❛The COVID-19 crisis has also been a major trigger for a rise in poor mental health in the workplace. According to a new study by the HSE, more than 820,000 people experienced work-related stress, anxiety or depression in the last year, with around 1.7 million workers in total suffering from a

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work-related illness.

The COVID-19 crisis has also been a major trigger for a rise in poor mental health in the workplace. According to a new study by the HSE, more than 820,000 people experienced work-related stress, anxiety or depression in the last year, with around 1.7 million workers in total suffering from a work-related illness. A total of 645,000 workers reported that their work-related illness was caused or made worse by the coronavirus pandemic; 70 per cent of these were cases of stress, depression or anxiety. In addition, 93,000 workers reported catching COVID-19 at work, with 52,000 of them working in the human health and social work sector. Another important consequence of COVID-19 has been its impact on the creativity of the workforce. Even before the pandemic happened, a survey of 1,000 UK employees by Paragon Customer Communications revealed that 58% of staff thought their performance was stifled as they didn’t have adequate access to business support services when working remotely. With more staff working from home due to COVID, that figure is likely to have risen further in the last couple of years. Creativity can help companies solve problems for their clients, stand out from the crowd and win new business. It’s therefore a vital ingredient for any successful business. Individuals can be creative on their own, but many studies have shown that a culture of creativity is best fostered in a shared environment, where bright minds can work together to tackle everyday issues. This doesn’t necessarily need to happen in a formal meeting; some of the best ideas come from that chance encounter with a work colleague over a cup of coffee in the common room. Andy Haldane, chief economist at the Bank of England, has studied the impact of COVID-19 on the way people work in the UK, and considers what this might mean for people’s creativity and wellbeing, as well as the health of the economy. His analysis considers a range of issues, including the effects of home-working on productivity and output, creativity and relationships, wellbeing and happiness.

The conclusions of the report are striking. It found that, in general, home-working has led to increased workplace happiness and a greater sense of workplace empowerment, although there has been no discernible rise in workplace productivity and output. However, the isolation of being away from the office appears to have resulted in a loss of creativity that tends to be gained from those chance, five-minute conversations or informal meets in the workplace.

❛❛COVID has re-shaped our working lives, our economic contributions and our wellbeing, certainly in the shortterm but probably in the longer term too. Whether this change is for the better is one of the key questions of our time, as workers, businesses,

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policymakers and citizens.

The home-working trend, which has been fast-tracked by COVID, therefore seems to be a double-edged sword, as Andy Haldane alludes to in the report: “COVID has re-shaped our working lives, our economic contributions and our well-being, certainly in the short-term but probably in the longer term too. Whether this change is for the better is one of the key questions of our time, as workers, businesses, policymakers and citizens. “The evidence so far on these issues cannot at this stage be more than illustrative. There is a balance to be struck between events which distract and events which fire the imagination. For me, the 0-5 model of home-working strikes this balance in the wrong place, as with hindsight did my pre-pandemic 5-0 model [of working full-time in the office].”

Health and Wellbing

❛❛Creativity can help companies solve problems for their clients, stand out from the crowd and win new business. It’s therefore a vital ingredient for any successful business.

Regardless of the working practices that companies and individuals choose to adopt, the key is to ensure that productivity and creativity levels among the workforce remain high. This can be achieved in a number of different ways, such as establishing a rigorous timetable for each working day, ensuring that staff take regular breaks from their PC screen, and encouraging them to take some form of daily exercise outside in the fresh air. A healthy, productive workforce can also have a positive impact on a company’s bottom line. For example, several firms have saved thousands of pounds by ditching their expensive town or city centre office and moving to a more cost-effective working model, which includes co-working and flexible renting of office space. The traditional 9-5 working model appears to be dead in the water. Since March 2020, companies have discovered that they don’t need to be located in large, expensive offices, where they are

saddled with a long-term lease and their staff may have a long daily commute. While home-working has benefited many people, others miss the camaraderie and interaction with colleagues on a personal and professional level. They crave for some level of interaction now and then. This is why more companies may be tempted to take up the option of flexible co-working space, which would allow people to meet on an ad-hoc basis for client meetings or to share ideas with colleagues.

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Sharing ideas can foster creativity, which can ultimately lead to greater operational efficiency and the development of new products and services. Many London companies have showcased their creative qualities in the pandemic, which has enabled them to survive and, in some cases, thrive. More of the same will be needed throughout 2022 and beyond as businesses seek to capitalise on a future economic recovery.

❛❛A healthy, productive workforce can also have a positive impact on a company’s bottom line. For example, several firms have saved thousands of pounds by ditching their expensive town or city centre office and moving to a more cost-effective working model, which includes co-working and flexible renting of office space.

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News

Lack of TfL funding could cost London £12 billion New City Hall analysis has painted a “dire picture” of the economic and social effects on the capital should Transport for London (TfL) be forced to move to a “managed decline” scenario if the government does not provide the emergency and long-term funding required to maintain the capital’s transport services. The most immediate effects would be from cuts to service levels.

ayor of London Sadiq Khan outlined how bus services would need to be reduced by 18% – meaning cutting more than 100 routes – with a 9% cut in tube services. This would be coupled with a fall in reliability due to the inability to modernise train fleets, some of which date back to the 1970s. The Mayor said this could result in half of Londoners who own a car using their vehicles more, causing gridlock, disruption and filthy air. Further losses would also come from severely constraining future capital investment in the road and transport network. The research estimates that over the next ten years: • Loss of wider economic benefits (e.g. from reduced productivity) could mean £4.5bn growth lost over the same period. • Adding together the above and including the cost of increased carbon emissions, the total economic impacts could be more than £12bn over the next decade. In present value terms, this exceeds the additional funding required by TfL by £5.2bn and means that every £1 the Treasury invests in TfL will return £1.75 in benefits. • This is a conservative estimate. It does not capture additional disbenefits in areas such as housing delivery and London’s competitiveness. Unless funding is restored, the disbenefits from reduced capital expenditure are expected to increase rapidly over a longer time horizon.

The mayor said further operational support from the government would be needed to ensure TfL can continue to play its vital role in the recovery from the pandemic. Sadiq Khan said: “This comprehensive analysis shows the truly dire economic and social impact that a managed decline scenario would have on our capital. From failing to progress major projects and undoing our hard work tackling carbon emissions, to halting the delivery of new homes and cutting transport services, there will be knock-on effects in nearly every area of the capital’s economy if the government fails to properly fund TfL – with London’s most disadvantaged groups affected the most. “I continue to urge the government to step up negotiations so we can save London’s transport network, and with it the economic recovery in the capital and wider country.” Andy Byford, London’s transport commissioner, said: “There is a clear relationship between London’s economy and the efficient and reliable transport service that supports it. There can be no UK recovery from the pandemic without a London recovery, and London’s recovery will rely upon its transport system.” London contributed £36.2bn a year more to the Treasury than the government spent in London in 2019/20, according to the mayor. That money goes to fund services, including public transport, in the rest of the country. London’s transport network is also the engine of the capital, with TfL investment and its supply chain currently supporting 43,000 jobs across the country, with 55p of every pound spent on London Underground by TfL going outside of London.

BEXLEY SECURES MORE SUPPORT to boost e-business

Bexley businesses can now benefit from a newly launched service delivered by Southeast Enterprise, providing free help to develop their online offer.

unded by Local London and the London Borough of Bexley, the programme consists of one-to-one

sessions with an experienced business adviser, as well as a series of webinars and workshops covering a range of topics. These include social media marketing, creating a digital marketing plan, e-commerce and cyber security. The programme will be delivered from the Engine House Bexley, at Veridion Way, Erith as well as out in the business community. The sessions will support businesses by improving their digital skills and building online communities for their marketing activities. Councillor Cafer Munur, cabinet member for growth, said: “This is a great scheme for Bexley businesses. So many businesses have been affected by the pandemic and have had to look at new ways of working. These free sessions will help local business owners develop new skills or improve old ones and reach more people in different ways.” Tony Goldstein, managing director of Southeast Enterprise, said: “This free programme has been a huge benefit to small businesses that have been affected by the pandemic. Adopting these new practices is a good way for businesses in Bexley to improve their resilience and recover faster.” For more information visit https://www.seenterprise.co.uk/ebusiness/

Construction

Omicron to heap more pressure on construction supply chains The Omicron variant of COVID-19 looks set to exacerbate construction material shortages and increase inflation.

hat’s the view of the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Product Availability Working Group, which said it expected the fast-spreading strain of COVID-19 to increase supply chain pressures early in 2022. These views were published in a joint statement from John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation and Peter Caplehorn, CEO of the Construction Products Association who co-chairs the CLC’s Product Availability Working Group.

❛❛We are currently seeing an improvement in the supply situation across all regions in the UK, which has taken some pressure off prices. However, this is largely due to a seasonal decline in

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activity. 36

They said: “We are currently seeing an improvement in the supply situation across all regions in the UK, which has taken some pressure off prices. However, this is largely due to a seasonal decline in activity. While much has been done to ameliorate the issues seen earlier in the year, there remain challenges in relation to UK production capacity for some products, and in relation to the operation of the logistics and shipping sectors. “We anticipate the return of pressure on supply chains to deliver products as construction activity remains strong next year, with longer lead times and further price increases anticipated. Furthermore, despite precautions being taken at merchants and manufacturers, the rapid increase in cases of Omicron is likely to impact production and operations into the New Year. “The uncertainty around delivery and price has a disproportionate impact on SME builders working mainly on domestic repair, maintenance and improvement projects, where clients want price certainty before the project begins. It is, therefore, essential to maintain open lines of communication throughout the supply chain. We encourage all sectors to continue to work closely and collaboratively to manage challenges and plan future work.” John Newcomb and Peter Caplehorn also analysed the current and future challenges facing the construction sector, which can be summarised as follows:

• Bricks and blocks remain in short supply for the reasons outlined in our last statement. Demand is expected to be strong well into 2022, so imports may be necessary to make up a shortfall in UK production until new production lines come on stream in 2023-24. • While there are few issues with cement stocks at the moment, merchants are being asked not to deplete stocks in their yards in preparation for the annual winter round of maintenance shut-downs. Manufacturers have committed to produce as much as they physically can, but supplies will typically decrease during this time. Also, as flagged in our previous statement, manufacturers have raised concerns that rising energy costs will likely lead to price inflation. • Demand for roof tiles remains high, with lead times averaging 24 weeks. • Supplies of many timber products have returned to more normal levels and prices have fallen from highs, particularly for structural timber. However, tongue & groove remains in short supply. Looking ahead, continuing congestion both here and at Scandinavian ports may lead to reduced supplies and higher prices in Q1 2022. • Pressures on global shipping, including delays and volatile prices, look set to continue well into 2022. In addition to ongoing disruption stemming from China’s sustained ‘zero’ policy with regard to COVID-19 outbreaks, performance issues at Felixstowe have led some major shipping lines to divert vessels headed there from Asia to other, smaller ports in the UK. • The logistics sector reports recent progress, with the government providing additional training opportunities and grants to get more HGV drivers on the roads. With driver wage increases and flexibility in working making the industry more attractive, we are hopeful that driver shortages will have less impact on our sector in 2022.

Construction

Council builds electric vehicle charging infrastructure for Croydon

Croydon Council is making the switch to greener travel easier by enabling the installation of 60 new electric vehicle charging points in the borough, with 20 more expected by February 2022.

he move is part of the council’s plans to boost sustainable travel in response to the climate crisis. The charging points are spread across 32 different sites across the borough. Specific locations and addresses can be found at https:// www.croydon.gov.uk/parking-streets-andtransport/travel/charging-points-electriccars-and-vans

In partnership with Liberty Charge, these points come as part of a wider scheme supported by the central government through the Innovate UK grant, which will see 600 points installed across London by the end of winter. The aim for Croydon is to have 400 new charging points by the spring of 2022. Interest in electric vehicle charge points has grown in Croydon in the past few years, with many residents contacting the council to

request points in their neighbourhoods to help make the switch to an electric or hybrid vehicle. The council itself has four fully electric and 24 hybrid vehicles in its service fleet and continues to explore the potential to expand the use of electric vehicles wherever possible. Currently, the council’s caretaking service uses a fully electric van to do vital tasks, such as removing unsafe, fly-tipped materials from council property. This scheme is a part of the council’s wider plans to tackle the climate crisis and build resilience by enabling green infrastructure projects in Croydon. New cycle routes, public transport improvements, and pedestrian-friendly street projects are proposed, along with plans to expand access to electric vehicles. The council said: “Making electric vehicles a more accessible option for Croydon residents

is a key part of our plan to lower emissions and reduce harmful air pollution. These charge points put us on track to meet the growing demand in the borough and help to support residents thinking of making the switch to greener travel alternatives.” Neil Isaacson, CEO of Liberty Charge, said: “Croydon is an example of a forward-thinking borough that is getting on the front foot when it comes to aiding the adoption of EVs, which is inevitable. We’re collectively against the clock on our sustainability targets and need to get cleaner air into cities. This means getting charge points in the ground and providing the infrastructure to support a growing number of EV drivers. This is exactly what local authorities up and down the country should be doing now.”

Kerslake Review to further improve GLA housing delivery The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has appointed Lord Bob Kerslake to lead a review to further improve and streamline housing development across the wider Greater London Authority (GLA) Group and deliver more affordable homes.

uring Sadiq Khan’s first term as mayor, more than 17,000 low-cost homes to rent and buy were started through his affordable homes programme in 2019-20. Following his re-election, the mayor says he remains committed to building on this progress by having more genuinely affordable homes built on land owned by the GLA.

The review will examine housing delivery across the GLA Group and make recommendations to enable the group to work together more effectively and benefit from collective

experience and expertise. It will provide a high-level view of housing delivery across the group to date, identifying the number of homes built and the different routes to delivery. The review will also inform the best way to approach piloting a “City Hall developer” to further expand the supply of much-needed lowcost homes for Londoners. Several different parts of the GLA Group are involved in housing development, to differing extents. Transport for London (TfL), London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), Old Oak Common and Park Royal Development Corporation has significant

development teams focused on housing delivery. Other parts of the group – the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) and London Fire Commission (LFC) – generally take a more indirect approach, mainly concerned with the disposal of surplus land which may then be used for new homes. Sadiq Khan said: “I’m doing all I can to tackle the housing crisis in the capital and am proud to have achieved record-breaking delivery of genuinely affordable homes during my first term as mayor, including working with boroughs to start more new council homes than in any year since 1983.

“I’m determined to build on this success to deliver more homes for Londoners. I can think of no-one more qualified than Lord Kerslake to lead this review into how the GLA Group can strengthen its focus on delivering more genuinely affordable homes. I’m grateful to him for agreeing to bring the benefit of his passion and expertise to this subject.” Lord Bob Kerslake said: “London urgently needs more genuinely affordable homes and I am delighted to be asked to lead this review into how the GLA’s own arrangements might be streamlined and strengthened.”

HAVE YOU GOT A GREAT INSIGHT? ARE YOU STRIVING TO INSPIRE? DO YOU WANT TO MAXIMISE YOUR IMPACT?

Are you our South London Start-up Superhero WE'RE LOOK ING TO F IN D T H E M O S T I N S P I R A T I O N AL BU SIN ES S OWNE R IN SO UT H L O N D O N . T H E W I N NER W I LL RECE IV E F RE E OF F I C E S P A C E FO R UP T O 4 P EOPLE AND BU S INE S S C ONSUL T A N C Y S U P P O R T , W O R T H £8 ,0 0 0 , F O R S I X M O N T H S . EMAIL C ROYDON@ S I N C . C O . UK FO R D E T A I L S .

Sussex Innovation

The upside of the doughnut effect in Croydon

The effects of the pandemic have been far-reaching and have indefinitely affected the way businesses in the capital operate. Commercial and business districts in central London have little to no housing and their local economies are entirely dependent on commuters arriving from the outer boroughs and suburbs five days a week. Daisy Wood, Croydon Centre Manager at Sussex Innovation

Following multiple work from home orders over the past two years, many of these employees are continuing with flexible working patterns and commuting into the city less. The money that would be spent by commuters on food, entertainment and retail, is now being spent closer to home. Known as the ‘doughnut effect’, this shifting relationship between the city centre and its outskirts can be traced all the way back to the 1960s, which saw the beginning of a migration of people seeking bigger, more affordable housing, moving to areas surrounding big cities. Moving away enabled people to avoid inner-city overcrowding but still benefit from being close to the city for work, and over time, businesses gradually followed. Today, we continue to see an economic surge in satellite hubs surrounding big cities, which has been accelerated by the pandemic. Croydon in particular has grown as a business and tech hub in recent years. Its footfall figures lie between those of central London and the smaller suburbs, but remained more resilient in the face of the pandemic. What’s more, this trend shows no sign of stopping. As workers get used to working locally - closer to schools, further from the noise and without a lengthy commute - more regionalised co-working spaces look poised to grow. I became Croydon Centre Manager for the Sussex Innovation business incubator network in May last year. Since then I’ve working with our community of ambitious start-ups and scale-ups and alongside local stakeholders and business groups, to form connections, share ideas and expertise, and build more resilient businesses.

It’s been an exciting and rewarding opportunity during a difficult couple of years for small businesses up and down the country, and as we head out of lockdown for what we hope will be the final time, we’re looking forward to all the good things that happen when growing businesses spend time together and are able to lean on each other for support and advice. That’s why we want to celebrate a South London Start-Up Superhero – an inspirational, impactful small business that’s heading into 2022 with big plans.

If that sounds like it could be you, or someone you know, get in touch – we’re offering a package of office space and expert innovation consultancy worth £8,000 to one deserving company. Drop us an email at croydon@sinc.co.uk for more details.

Finance

SURGING INFLATION

puts the squeeze on company finances Inflation hit a ten-year high in November on the back of soaring energy, transport and raw material costs. 40

he cost of living measured by the consumer prices index (CPI) surged by 5.1% in the 12 months to November, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) – its highest level since September 2011 and up from 4.2% the previous month. Higher fuel, energy, raw material and clothing costs were largely responsible for the steep rise. Energy bills in particular have spiralled in

Finance

❛❛It is concerning that inflation is outpacing wages and if this disparity continues to increase as we predict, real household incomes will be squeezed further, dampening consumer spending and

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weakening overall economic activity. Commenting on the inflation statistics, Suren Thiru, head of economics at the BCC, said: “The latest figures confirm that the surge in inflation continued unabated in November. “The increase largely reflected higher fuel prices and strong base effects which pushed up clothing and footwear prices in comparison with November 2020. Stronger growth in producer prices points to an acceleration of cost pressures in supply chains, indicating that inflation will drift higher over the coming months. “It is concerning that inflation is outpacing wages and if this disparity continues to increase as we predict, real household incomes recent months due to soaring global wholesale gas prices. Volatility in wholesale markets has led to the demise of several energy suppliers, with further rises in household gas and electricity bills likely to follow in the next 12-18 months. Increased demand for second-hand cars was also a factor in driving up inflation. In November, petrol prices jumped to record levels – 145.8p a litre – while the cost of used cars rose due to shortages of new vehicles.

will be squeezed further, dampening consumer spending and weakening overall economic activity.

“Inflationary pressures are expected to intensify in the near term as the rising cost of imported raw materials, higher energy prices and the reversal of the VAT reduction for hospitality and tourism drives inflation materially higher by the middle of 2022. “Omicron could accelerate the current surge in inflation if restrictions in the UK and overseas to combat the new variant trigger more supply chain disruption. “While interest rates will rise sooner rather than later, with the current inflationary spike mostly driven by global supply constraints and price pressures, higher rates will do little to curb further price rises. “Greater support is immediately needed for those businesses impacted by Plan B, including making additional grant funding available and reverting the VAT for hospitality and tourism back to its emergency rate of 5%.”

❛❛While interest rates will rise sooner rather than later, with the current inflationary spike mostly driven by global supply constraints and price pressures, higher rates will do little

❜❜

to curb further price rises.

Mo-Sys

AWARD-WINNING MO-SYS expands in the US Mo-Sys Engineering is one of Greenwich’s most innovative and successful companies. 42

he firm has built a strong reputation for designing and building unique, highly sophisticated camera technology products for top-end film and broadcast, such as camera tracking, broadcast robotics and virtual production hardware. Not only are these products rapidly transforming visual effects (VFX) and virtual production (VP) techniques that are vital to the modern-day filmmaking process, they’re attracting global interest and serving customers in more than 50 countries around the world.

Mo-Sys Now Mo-Sys is expanding internationally from its base in Greenwich. The company has opened a studio in Hollywood, Los Angeles – home of the Oscars and a famous symbol of the global film industry. Michael Geissler, CEO of Mo-Sys, explains: “Opening a studio in this part of the world was a logical step for us. The film industry is buzzing there. We have ten staff in the US studio so we’re creating jobs. “It’s a special purpose studio with a demo space for our products and a new academy, which will train people in the art of VP. When you’re marrying a virtual image with the real world, a lot can go wrong so training is required. “VP is a relatively new process that provides significant benefits to production companies. Whilst there’s much demand to use VP, there’s a shortage of skilled technicians who can ensure a VP shoot goes smoothly. We provide on-set rendering and tracking, plus a dedicated Mo-Sys VP technician at competitive rates. Our on-set VP service enables production companies to shoot whilst learning the techniques and processes of VP, until they’re comfortable doing it themselves. “We’ve also developed technology that helps to de-risk the production process. We can trial technical challenges before production firms go on set; this saves these companies the time-consuming hassle of trialling technical challenges on set. We’ve already done this for Strictly Come Dancing and various Netflix shows – now we want to bring this idea to Hollywood.” Mo-Sys’ innovative technology and expertise has been recognised in the form of a series of industry awards. Michael says: “It has been an exciting few months for Mo-Sys; we’re proud to have received six awards. At the Hollywood Professional Association

(HPA) Awards 2021 Gala evening, we were honoured to receive the Engineering Excellence Award for our NearTime rendering workflow, which was launched this year. NearTime resolves one of the major issues of LED in-camera visual effects (ICVFX) shooting: achieving real-time image quality while keeping frame rates in real-time. “Another product launched in 2021 was our VP Pro XR, the first purpose-built cinematic XR server solution on the market. We were beyond thrilled to receive a prestigious NAB Product of the Year Award for this, along with an award from Production Hub and IABM BaM Awards. One of its key features, Cinematic XR Focus, was specifically recognised in the Cine Gear 2021 Technical Awards for its innovative technology. “We also received recognition from the AV Awards in the Broadcast and Media Project of the Year category. Mo-Sys, Potion Pictures, BBC Studioworks and David Bishop were highly commended for augmented

reality in the Strictly ballroom. In addition, we were delighted that our StarTracker Studio was named Product of the Year at the Tech Leadership Awards 2021.” It’s clear that Mo-Sys is well positioned for further expansion. In 2021 the company doubled its growth for the second year in a row, which is a notable achievement with the country still in the jaws of a global pandemic. “Our growth has been self-funded,” says Michael. “Going forward, we want to remain at the forefront of innovation in filmmaking. More than a third of our staff are involved in research and development (R&D); we’re always trialling new concepts and technologies to make the filmmaking process smoother and more efficient. “My long-term goal is for Mo-Sys to become a technology leader in VP. We’ll also continue to work with universities to boost the skills base of the industry and to provide technology and advice to assist the growth of other start-ups and small businesses.”

❛❛We also received recognition from the AV Awards in the Broadcast and Media Project of the Year category. Mo-Sys, Potion Pictures, BBC Studioworks and David Bishop were highly commended for augmented reality in the Strictly ballroom. In addition, we were delighted that our StarTracker Studio was named Product of the Year at

❜❜

the Tech Leadership Awards 2021.

Economy

Firms report EU trading difficulties in new survey Almost one half of firms polled in a new survey said they faced difficulties trading with the EU under the post-Brexit trade agreement.

he survey of 981 businesses carried out by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has thrown sharp focus on the impact the UK-EU trade deal (TCA) is having on UK firms one year on from its implementation. The figures show rises in the proportion of firms reporting difficulties with the various changes to UK-EU trade compared to when the BCC last asked the same questions in January 2021.

Economy

❛❛While the data does suggest, one year into the implementation of the deal, that trade is becoming more difficult rather than smoother, we do believe there are solutions which can improve conditions

❜❜

for our import and export businesses.

The BCC has now launched its “TCA – One Year On” report, which explores the experiences of businesses with the new trade relationship over the past year, and ways in which it could be improved in the short, medium and long term. When asked how easy or difficult has it been for your business or supply chain to adapt to changes flowing from the UK-EU TCA across the following areas, the most recent responses were as follows: • Buying or selling goods: Very/Relatively Easy

15%

Very/Relatively Difficult

45%

Too Early to Say

N/A

32%

• Buying or selling services: Very/Relatively Easy

14%

Very/Relatively Difficult

23%

Too Early to Say

9%,

N/A

54%

• Moving people: Very/Relatively Easy

Very/Relatively Difficult

20%

Too Early to Say

N/A

64%

• Transferring data: Very/Relatively Easy

17%,

Very/Relatively Difficult

Too Early to Say

12%

N/A

62%

UK exporters were more likely than firms overall to report difficulties across these areas. For buying and selling goods, 60% faced difficulties; for buying and selling services, 30%; for moving people, 24%; and for transferring data, 11%. These figures showed increases in the proportion of firms reporting difficulties in each area compared to when the BCC last asked the same question in a survey in January 2021: • Buying or selling goods: Very/Relatively Easy Very/Relatively Difficult Too Early to Say N/A

10%, 30% 16% 45%

• Buying or selling services: Very/Relatively Easy Very/Relatively Difficult Too Early to Say N/A

10% 14% 19% 58%

• Moving people: Very/Relatively Easy Very/Relatively Difficult Too Early to Say N/A

8% 9% 18% 65%

• Transferring data – Question not asked in January survey

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the BCC, said: “These results, especially when compared to our data from January 2021, give us a strong indication of the experiences on the ground for businesses that are dealing with the changes to the UK-EU trading relationship. While the data does suggest, one year into the implementation of the deal, that trade is becoming more difficult rather than smoother, we do believe there are solutions which can improve conditions for our import and export businesses. “These data certainly do illustrate that the issues with the TCA are not teething problems but more structural defects that, whilst fixable, if not attended to will lead to long-term damage to our economy. “Businesses want political leaders on both sides to move on from the debates of the past and find ways to allow them to trade more freely. The government has ambitious goals for the UK export sector, which we share, and if these are to be met then we must improve the experience of firms trading with our nearest and largest trading partner.”

❛❛These results, especially when compared to our data from January 2021, give us a strong indication of the experiences on the ground for businesses that are dealing with the changes to the UK-EU trading relationship.

❜❜

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Poor mental health

Health and Wellbeing

triggers work-related illness Stress, depression and anxiety were the cause of half of all work-related illness in the last year.

hat’s the main conclusion from new research from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

According to the HSE, more than 820,000 people experienced work-related stress, anxiety or depression during the period, with around 1.7 million workers in total suffering from a work-related illness in 2020-21. The study said 645,000 workers reported that their work-related illness was caused or made worse by the coronavirus pandemic; 70 per cent of these were cases of stress, depression or anxiety. A total of 93,000 workers reported catching COVID-19 at work, with 52,000 of them working in the human health and social work sector. Aside from the strains caused by COVID-19, rising workloads, lack of support, violence, threats or bullying and changes at work were all cited as causes of poor mental health at work.

❛❛Whether people are

She said: “Whether people are working from home or back in the office, employers can proactively support staff by encouraging twoway conversations about health and wellbeing. They can also support their line managers with the skills to recognise the signs and have conversations with staff who are struggling. “Employees can also look after their own mental health by being open and honest with their line managers about their difficulties and taking steps to support their own wellbeing, including putting in work boundaries, making time for activities they enjoy and keeping active.” The research follows analysis by Glassdoor which found that employee burnout has doubled since lockdown ended, while a poll by Reassured found that more than a third of UK workers have felt more stressed since lockdown restrictions eased last year.

working from home or back in the office, employers can proactively support staff by encouraging two-way conversations about health and wellbeing. They can also support their line managers with the skills to recognise the signs and have conversations with

❜❜

staff who are struggling.

Sarah Albon, HSE’s chief executive, said: “The 12-month period in question coincides with the first national lockdown and the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic. There have been significant impacts on the labour market, which is reflected in our reporting. “The latest figures on work-related stress reinforce our previous concerns around the scale of this issue in workplaces.” Andy Bell, deputy chief executive of the Centre for Mental Health, said the findings were worrying but not surprising. He said: “The last two years have put people’s mental health under unprecedented pressure. Many people have experienced anxiety, trauma and loss as a result of the pandemic, and economic uncertainty is an added pressure for many more. “Employers can help to provide people with safe working conditions, in workplaces that are open about mental health and where help is at hand when it’s needed.” Emma Slaven, mental health and wellbeing senior business partner at Acas, said there were ways for employers and staff to support mental wellbeing at work.

47 47

Make employee wellbeing a priority While 92% of senior executives believe that a strong company culture would increase their business’ value, just 16% state that their culture is where it should be. According to the most recent Deloitte Report published in 2020- Poor Mental Health costs UK employers a staggering £42-45bn each year.

Jo-Ann Spronk Founder & CEO at The Happy Mind Tribe

Employee Wellbeing is more important than ever, it has been shown to have a significant impact on both employee engagement, organisation culture and financial performance.

No matter what your business does or how it operates, a culture that supports employee wellbeing remains a huge selling point. A positive workplace culture attracts talent, drives employee engagement, enhances performance and organisational commitment, improving job satisfaction, happiness, and wellbeing.

Book an MHFA course with us in 2022 and get a

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Investing in employee wellbeing strategies can see an ROI of £5 for every £1 spent (5:1). However, there is a large spread of potential returns from 0.4:1 up to nearly 11:1. Interventions with the highest returns tend to focus on preventative large scale initiatives, and on using technology or diagnostics to tailor support for those most in need. The Happy Mind Tribe is a purpose driven holistic employee wellbeing company. Through our expert-led wellbeing consultancy and training programmes, we inspire, educate, and empower organisations, partnering with them to make workplace wellbeing a strategic business priority. Our clients include both public and private sector organisations across a wide range of industries.

Creating bespoke training solutions to support your wellbeing strategy Our training, workshops and webinars are delivered by our Tribe of industry specialists, psychologists, and wellbeing experts, online or inhouse in a format to suit you. • MHFA Certified Mental Health First Aid Courses • Bespoke Mental Health and Wellbeing sessions • Leadership and Development Programmes

• Wellbeing Champions Support Program • • • •

Team Building Events Employee Engagement Surveys Lego Serious Play Belbin for Teams

Jo@thehappymindtribe.com

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The Happy Mind Tribe (@thehappymindtribe) 48

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New Members

Welcome to our new members As a member of our Chamber, you are joining a unique organisation with a strong campaigning voice for business to local and national government. Alpha Health & Social Care Professionals Tel: 07534 331731 Email: tunde_adeagbo@yahoo.co.uk Contact: Tunde Adeagbo

Her Centre Tel: 020 3260 7715 Email: stacy@hercentre.org Contact: Stacy Smith

Beadles Land Rover Jaguar Sidcup Tel: 07341 864 946 Email: Harman.Sanghera@beadles.co.uk Contact: Harman Sanghera

Hexitime Tel: 07342 042919 Email: john-lodge@hotmail.com Contact: John Lodge

Beckenham Place Mansion Tel: 020 7635 0000 Email: tim@beckenhamplace.org Contact: Tim Wilson

Highspring Group Ltd Tel: 07843 259166 Email: hello@highspring.co.uk Contact: Clive Wilson

Borna Foods Limited Tel: 020 3744 5567 Email: behnam@bornafoods.com Contact: Behnam Heydaripour

Jaybee Marketing Tel: 020 8432 3077 Email: joseph@jaybeemarketing.com Contact: Joseph Brown

Circle Collective Tel: 020 7249 8820 Email: matthew@circlecollective.org Contact: Matthew Lewendon

Maritime Radio Tel: 020 8316 5246 Email: carin@maritimeradio.com Contact: Carin Anne

Croydon Community Energy Ltd Tel: 07910 560173 Email: hello@croydoncommunityenergy.co.uk Contact: Connie Muir

Movable Feast London Ltd Tel: 07834 540593 Email: angeliquae@movablefeasts.co.uk Contact: Angelique Glata

Design JD Ltd Tel: 020 3137 5513 Email: jon@designjd.co.uk Contact: Jonathan Docksey F5 Films Tel: 07894 207718 Email: tara@f5films.tv Contact: Tara Trangmar

Purete Nature Tel: 07872 510764 Email: kevin.puretenature@gmail.com Contact: Kevin Sarkodie S & T Mobile Tel: 07566 877219 Email: stmobilecarwash@gmail.com Contact: Sheldon Lawrence

SV Academy Ltd Tel: 020 3031 8240 Email: sonia@streetvibes.org Contact: Sonia Ramanah The Lioness Within Coaching Tel: 07835 805114 Email: contact@stellamaher.com Contact: Stella Maher Therapy 4 Healing Tel: 020 8617 8820 Email: info@T4H.org.uk Contact: Devon Burke Tomorrows World Partnership Ltd Tel: 07958 102895 Email: gary@tw-p.co.uk Contact: Gary Burt Tribe Urban Ltd Tel: 07383 992144 Email: mbullion@tribeurbanentertainment.com Contact: Michael Bullion UNAJI & CO LTD Tel: 07984 883697 Email: info@unaji.co.uk Contact: Emmanuel Unaji West Croydon Barbers Tel: 07727 273331 Email: marinwan99@hotmail.co.uk Contact: Mariwan Ali

Findley’s Kitchen Limited Tel: 07468 303161 Email: findley46@gmail.com Contact: Ewan Findley

Members can access a range of services, networking events and support to help their business do better. Importantly, they can also access other members to find new suppliers, promote your business services, or join forces on new opportunities.

Greenwich Music School Tel: 020 8305 1286 Email: info@greenwichmusicschool.org.uk Contact: Ed Scolding

For more information telephone: 020 8317 3365 email: office@selondonchamber.org

Find out how to join and learn how others are benefiting from their membership.

❛❛As a member you’re well connected with access to our range of benefits and services, including our directory of local member businesses. ❜❜ 49

And finally...

...and finally

ichard Upton is CEO of U+I, a part of the Landsec Group. He is the driving force behind the company’s strategic direction and its vision to create long-lasting social and economic change through mixed-use regeneration. Richard is a patron of the arts, passionate about quality of place, architecture and heritage. He currently serves as a Historic England Commissioner.

• What was your first job and what was the pay packet? I was a milk boy for Unigate Dairies in Baring Road, Lee; working the round of Downham Estate at £5 per day. Three A-levels from Crown Woods School in Eltham took me to Reading University to study Estate Management. From there a first job with McInerney Homes, a house builder, for around £16,000 per annum with a car – a 1.6 litre Ford escort.

• What would you do with your last pound? Buy some bulbs and plant them for future happiness

Richard Upton CEO U+I beautiful, inclusive places with homes, jobs, opportunity, improved public realm and enhanced biodiversity. A system that takes years and inordinate cost to deliver great projects is a system that holds back social and economic growth. Building trust is key to this, rather than policy obstacles which causes delays. In an age of local authority austerity, funding planning resource in local authorities is now mission-critical.

• If you were Prime Minister, what would be your first decision? I would push to demand that half of government should be female, and representative of the population generally. Without that the Government has little hope of being representative. I would also increase the pay of MP’s to attract and retain the best talent.

• If you could do another job what would it be? An artist.

• What book are you currently reading?

• What is the biggest challenge facing your business? The planning system. We need to find a way of accelerating the productivity of underused brownfield land to deliver

Spitfire by John Nicholl. All about the lives of Spitfire pilots in the Second World War. Incredible.

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The Masthead February 2022

Articles inside

Health and Wellbeing

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