SUPPORTING BUSINESSES ON THEIR JOURNEY TO NET ZERO Spring 2023 Well
• ESG – A clarion call for business
• Making a positive impact without leaving a negative legacy
The Plaza has been an iconic presence within Liverpool for more than 50 years.
Today, the newly re-imagined space seamlessly marries these two eras together, elevating its exemplary status and the innovative business community that resides within.
At The Plaza, functional will be transformed into inspirational. The communal spaces have been specifically designed to harbour connections with like-minded individuals and encourage its thriving and ambitious community to work collectively.
Lifestyle spaces, including a cafe, bar, restaurant and fitness studio have been created to enhance your everyday experience and wellbeing. All workspaces on our brand new third floor also have a private balcony as well as a large communal space.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to grow from a single desk to an international household name. No matter what kind of workspace you’re looking for, you’ll find it within the walls of The Plaza - and whichever space you choose, you’re sure to be in good company.
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Published April 2023 © Benham Publishing
Media No. 1975
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Well Connected is mailed without charge to all Chamber members and distributed at all Chamber events. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at Liverpool Chamber. Views expressed in publication are not necessarily those of Liverpool Chamber. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission of the Editor. © 2023. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.
Business confidence improves but conditions remain largely unchanged. The BCC’s Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) for Q1 2023 – the UK’s largest independent survey of business sentiment and a leading indicator of UK GDP growth – shows that while business confidence has improved from a very weak base, most firms see no improvement to business conditions.
improvements across investment
Overall, 34% of respondents reported an increase to domestic sales, while 24% reported a decrease, largely unchanged from Q3 and Q4.
Retail and wholesale firms were the most likely to report a decrease in sales (38%) while firms in the construction sector firms were least likely (18%).
Overall, 25% of respondents reported an increase to plant/equipment investment in the past three months, while 56% reported no change, and 19% reported a decrease.
As measured as a percentage balance, the manufacturing sector stands at +14% (up from +5% in Q4) while the service sector stands at +1%.
The percentage of respondents expecting profitability to grow in the next 12 months (42% overall) has rebounded following steep declines in Q3 and Q4.
As measured as a percentage balance, both the manufacturing and service sectors move out of ‘negative territory’ and stand at +13% and +11%, respectively.
The survey of over 6,400 firms, employing more than 800,000 people, points to continued stagnation amid rising business costs and a slowing global economy. The balance of firms reporting improved cash flow – a key indicator of the health of businesses – remains very weak across both manufacturing and service sectors. Indicators for improvements across investment and business confidence also show continuing downward trends.
The percentage expecting their prices to rise (55%) remains at record highs, although is showing continued signs of easing.
As measured as a percentage balance, the manufacturing sector stands at +58%, while the services sector stands at +50%, both slightly down on the previous quarter.
“As a business we are trying to grow but this growth is throttled by the lack of a skilled workforce on a local and national level.”
Small manufacturer in Scotland
“Projects keep getting delayed due to economic uncertainty.”
Medium-sized construction firm in Kent
“Our energy cost have risen 350% in the past 6 months.”
Small hospitality firm in Hull
“As an advanced manufacturer, we have a huge reliance on energy, consuming more than 27 gigawatts of electricity. Our fixed pricing contract expires in March and the uplift in cost will be more than £5m so this will need to be passed through to our customers.”
Large manufacturer in Bristol
I don’t know about you but it feels like Winter has dragged on this year, perhaps as a result of the many challenges and obstacles we continue to face as businesses, as well as in our personal lives. Now that Spring is finally here however, there does seem to be much more of a feeling of optimism, down in no small part to the continued determination to succeed shown by local business leaders and the teams that support them. Putting people at the heart of everything we do is essential, not only to build successful businesses but also to create the communities which support them – one simply isn’t viable without the other.
In this edition of Well Connected therefore, we are focussing on all things ESG – or Environment, Social and Governance performance for the uninitiated! Our members never fail to astound me with the breadth of activities they undertake and their commitment to making a positive impact through ESG recognising that it is not just another tick box exercise and the businesses who understand that will be the ones who prosper in the long term.
If you aren’t sure where to begin, or what ESG even means, then we hope you will be inspired by the articles featured in the magazine, including our feature article from Lloyds Bank discussing the support they are providing to SMEs to move towards net zero.
Spring also heralds Liverpool’s hosting of Eurovision – a seminal moment in the modern history of our city and a genuine once in a lifetime event. It comes at a time of significant changes to the city’s political structures and leadership, further adding to the sense
of new beginnings and creating a new optimism for the city region and it’s long term future. With a global focus on the city it also provides an additional impetus for us to look outwards towards Europe and beyond, expanding our export markets and supporting local economic growth.
As the British Chambers’ latest Quarterly Economic Survey highlights, the mood around the economy remains relatively sombre. As a Chamber, we continue to adapt to ensure that our businesses are supported and enabled to achieve sustainability and growth. The environment within which businesses will operate remains a critical consideration and we look forward to working with our new political leadership to ensure economic growth is at the heart of local delivery.
The Chamber team is looking forward to an exciting year ahead, working with our member businesses on a mix of events, initiatives, projects and campaigns. It is during the more challenging times that we
can really make a difference by working collaboratively and we would encourage you to get engaged whether through attending events, utilising our range of media or getting involved in one of our Expert Panels.
Enjoy the read.
2023 has kicked off with a fantastic start for the Liverpool Chamber and our Members. It’s been brilliant to welcome back members to our extensive events programme as well as welcoming a range of both new and existing businesses into our region’s business community.
popular than ever, with visits to the Quirky Quarter, Clockwise Offices, Nova Scotia, The Denbigh Castle, and the Royal Institution being popular with up to 130 attendees.
can benefit in terms of jobs, skills, and contractual opportunities. We look forward to welcoming back the Houses of Parliament R&R Programme team later in the year to take these important discussions further.
Jordan Rhoda Membership and Business Growth Manager
I would like to warmly welcome Gardner Systems PLC, Lloyds Banking Group, and Liverpool Empire Theatre as Strategic Partners of the Liverpool Chamber and look forward to working with them throughout the year ahead.
The Chamber’s networking events – our Well Connected and Chamber Socials which are open to all members – have proved more
We have also welcomed back our executive level members to our Executive Reception series with a private lunch alongside our friends from the City of Liverpool College at the fantastic Academy Restaurant. Strategic Partners and Chamber Patrons were given a fascinating insight into the future development plans of the college. This series of events offers an opportunity for executive level members to forge valuable relationships at the top level and we cannot wait to share our plans for the quarter ahead.
In February the Liverpool Chamber were excited to host a roundtable with the Houses of Parliament R&R Programme, the biggest and most complex building restoration project ever undertaken in the UK. This roundtable at the stunning Museum of Liverpool saw some of the Liverpool City Region’s leaders in construction, heritage, conservation, skills and supply chain sectors explore our regional strengths and learn how Liverpool
The Chamber also welcomed the return of the School Business Network, in partnership with Liverpool City Council and SupplyWell, held at the world-class Spaces at The Spine. Entering its second year this project has developed fantastic links between businesses and schools, including the launch of the Legal Programme involving a collective of leading Liverpool law firms who have teamed up to widen access to the legal profession.
Throughout February the Chamber hosted our first series of #GrowMySME Marketing and Sales Workshops of the year, supporting over 30 growing businesses with insights from the world of marketing and sales. Taking place over four weeks, we were joined by experts from Bolland & Lowe, A&B Marketing, United Wolves Productions, and Sales Geek Liverpool, covering topics from brand and digital marketing to creating video content and increasing revenues.
Chamber members have exclusive access to services and savings provided by our trusted partners, designed to save you time and money. By highlighting our Partner Services, we streamline the process of accessing high quality solutions, facilitating business growth and development across the Liverpool City Region. From regular discussions with business owners and executives, we are aware that the search for a reliable service can be a tedious and, at times, frustrating process. Underlining the importance of why
we have partnered with industry experts to take the stress away. Considering the current rate of inflation and the squeeze on budgets, the value of the services will pay dividends in the future and we urge you to make the most out of your membership at the chamber.
James Parker Business Engagement Officer
We currently offer eleven services that members can take advantage of, including: Chamber Four Services, Morecrofts Legal Team; Coeus Business Insurance; Chamber Digital Team powered by Halcyon and Gardner Systems; Arriva Travel Club; Enterprise Car Club; Bruntwood Co-Working Spaces; Sustainable Energy First Free Energy Health Check, Moneycorp Foreign Exchange, AA Roadside Assistance, and Swoop Finance Finder.
Our partners offer a wide range of services, accounting for the various needs of the members we serve at the Chamber. For instance, the Swoop Finance Finder may be
most suitable to a local SME that only employs a handful in the city region helping them to source funding to support their growth. Whereas, a nation-wide organisation with employees scattered across the country may benefit most from using the Car Club as Enterprise Rent-A-Car offer members a payas-you-go rental scheme. Examples of other services available include business insurance provided by Coeus Insurance - Coeus provide a hassle-free, cost effective service to Chamber members. Similarly, if you are looking to save on your energy bills and consumption, Sustainable Energy First provide Chamber member a free energy health check – helping to save on your energy costs.
To access these services, follow this link and select ‘Member Savings’ and ‘Partner Services’: https://www.liverpoolchamber. org.uk/join-us/.
If you would like to discuss how membership with the Liverpool Chamber can support your organisation, or you would like to know how to make the most of our Partner Services, please contact Jordan Rhoda or James Parker via jordan.rhoda@liverpoolchamber.org.uk or james.parker@liverpoolchamber.org.uk.
Strategic Partners
Gardner Systems Plc
https://www.gardnersystem.co.uk
Liverpool Empire
https://atgtickets.com/venues/liverpoolempire/corporate
Lloyds Banking Group
https://www.lloydsbankinggroup.com/
ACM Caretaking FM
https://acmcaretakingfm.co.uk
Albert’s Schloss
https://www.albertsschloss.co.uk/ Ambitek Recruitment Ltd
https://www.ambitek.co.uk/
Arts Groupie
https://www.artsgroupie.org/
Big Creative Events UK Ltd
https://www.bigeventgroup.com
Bleed Kit Technology LTD
http://packmap.co.uk
Bond Turner Solicitors
https://www.bondturner.com
Brewery Bus Tours Liverpool
https://brewerybustoursliverpool.com/
Britannia Adelphi Hotel Ltd
https://www..britanniahotels.com/hotels/ the-adelphi-hotel-li
Collective Digital LTD
https://www.collectivedigital.uk/
Cube N Space LTD
https://cubenspace.com/home
Formby Executive Chauffeurs
https://www.formbyexecutivechauffeurs. co.uk
GIG-MATES Ltd
https://www.gigmate.uk
Glenville Walker and Partners
www.glenvillewalker.com
Green Bell Packaging Ltd
https://greenbellpackaging.com
Guba Logistics ltd
https://www.postandpackinguk.com/shops/ southport/
Impact Futures
https://impactfutures.co.uk/
IT Answers (Global) Ltd
https://www.itanswers.com
James Marquis Psychology Services
https://www.jamesmarquis.co.uk
Leon Britton Photography
https://leonbritton.com
Lewis and Foy Lettings
https://www.lewisfoylettings.co.uk
LPL Secure
https://www.lplsecure.com/
Mental Health and Life
https://www.mentalhealthandlife.org/
Modulo Studio Ltd
https://modulostudio.co
NMA Media
https://www.nmamedia.co.uk
Novotel Liverpool Paddington Village
https://www.novotelhotels.com
Peggymays Ltd
http://www.peggy-mays.com
Procure Partnership Frameworks
https://procurepartnerships.co.uk/
RDS Research and Development Specialists
https://randdspecialists.co.uk
Redefine Studio Ltd
https://redefinestudio.co.uk
Resman
https://www.resman.co.uk/
Staff 86
https://staff86.com
Stratton Tea Limited
https://strattontea.co.uk
Tempfence UK
https://www.tempfence.uk/
The Harrogate Group
https://www.harrogateltd.com
TRS Training Ltd
https://www.trstrainingltd.com/
Wedding Gown Cleaning Company
https://wwwweddinggowncleaningcompany. com
Westcoast Workwear
https://www.westcoastworkwear.co.uk/
Y Entertainment
https://www.yentertainmentltd.com/
Ziom Staffing Solutions Ltd
https://ziomstaffingsolutions.co.uk/aboutus/
Charity/Association Members
Health Equalities Group
https://foodactive.org.uk
Liverpool Sunflowers
https://www.liverpoolsunflowers.com
Young Persons Advisory Service
https://www.ypas.org.uk
Liverpool Law Society Members
Oriel Chambers
https://www.orielchambers.co.uk/
University of Law- Liverpool Campus
https://www.law.ac.uk/
The City Region’s full fibre network, LCR Connect, is now live in the city centre, with businesses connecting to this new digital highway.
productivity and allowing us to collaborate and innovate in real-timewhether that’s in the office, around the corner, or on the other side of the world.
LCR Connect fibre offers significant benefits to businesses due to its faster speeds – going from 100 Mbps all the way to 10 Gbps. The increased bandwidth boosts connection reliability, helping to maximise productivity.
a group of technology partners. You can access a range of business connectivity, IT, and cloud services through regional partners in the City Region or specialist partners with industry-specific solutions.
And, importantly, it belongs to the City Region. As the Combined Authority owns 50% of LCR Connect, 50% of the profits will be reinvested into the Liverpool City Region.
A joint venture between Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, ITS Technology Group, and NGE, the network is designed to support the modern business world across all market sectors, significantly improving connectivity for businesses and offering internet speeds from 100 Mbps to 10 Gbps.
LCR Connect is significantly improving connectivity and internet access for businesses, making the city region among the best-connected areas in the UK.
While the entire network is on track for completion later this year, with the aim of underpinning economic growth, innovation, inward investment, and job creation, Liverpool city centre is the latest area to go live, and many businesses are already accessing full fibre capability.
For some time, the UK’s telecoms infrastructure has been transforming as the country prepares to fully retire the copper networks that are now a century and a half old.
Delivering gigabit capable speeds, fibre networks are powering connectivity and applications that are upping
As the fibre cables feed directly into your premises, reliability is further enhanced compared with services that still rely on ageing copper-based connections to deliver the last leg.
With gigabit capable full fibre, you can benefit from improved customer service, increased productivity, and enhanced data security. Indeed, it’s hard to think of a business objective full fibre doesn’t support.
The improved service comes from faster symmetrical download and upload speeds, allowing you to make quicker purchases and payments and access live video, audio, and other services without latency or interruptions.
Increased productivity is another compelling benefit. Able to rapidly access and upload more data, your employees can complete tasks without delay, and you can make more informed decisions.
LCR Connect isn’t just another network. It is an open access wholesale network, which means it delivers choice via
From a business perspective and a general productivity point of view, you will have a reliable, robust connection that you can depend on. To connect your business, visit: www.lcrconnect.com
For some time, the UK’s telecoms infrastructure has been transforming as the country prepares to fully retire the copper networks that are now a century and a half old.
‘fund:AI’ will focus specifically on early-stage, high growth artificial intelligence (“AI”), machine learning and data science investment opportunities within the North of the UK.
‘fund:AI’ will focus specifically on early-stage, high growth artificial intelligence (“AI”), machine learning and data science investment opportunities within the North of the UK.
‘fund:AI’ will focus specifically on early-stage, high growth artificial intelligence (“AI”), machine learning and data science investment opportunities within the North of the UK
Northern data science Small and Medium Enterprises (“SMEs”) are underserved by venture capital, despite the North containing multiple centres of AI excellence and producing Data-led Unicorns With the UK artificial intelligence market estimated to increase significantly at a compound annual growth of 35 9%, the fund will present a significant opportunity for investors looking to capitalise on the untapped potential of the region
The fund:AI team has deep sector experience in data rich organisations, having invested, advised and founded some of the North’s most successful ‘unicorn’ and ‘futurecorn’ AI companies.
River Capital will look to invest in c 15 AI driven businesses over the next five years. Investments are expected to range from £500,000 to £2,000,000. fund:AI anticipates investing in two broad categories of AI SMEs. The first comprises businesses seeking capital to accelerate their growth or build out their AI platforms. The second includes companies with untapped data sets who wish to use AI to create data IP and to go on an AI, machine learning or data science journey
significant AI and Data investments in the North of the UK. We have run AI practices, delivered go to market strategies for some of the North’s largest AI businesses, have access to advisors from institutions including the University of Manchester and Sci Tech Daresbury and have a track record of investing in AI and Data Unicorns including companies such as Blue Prism ”
Northern data science Small and Medium Enterprises (“SMEs”) are underserved by venture capital, despite the North containing multiple centres of AI excellence and producing Data-led Unicorns. With the UK artificial intelligence market estimated to increase significantly at a compound annual growth of 35.9%, the fund will present a significant opportunity for investors looking to capitalise on the untapped potential of the region.
Northern data science Small and Medium Enterprises (“SMEs”) are underserved by venture capital, despite the North containing multiple centres of AI excellence and producing Data-led Unicorns With the UK artificial intelligence market estimated to increase significantly at a compound annual growth of 35.9%, the fund will present a significant opportunity for investors looking to capitalise on the untapped potential f th i
The fund:AI team has deep sector experience in data rich organisations, having invested, advised and founded some of the North’s most successful ‘unicorn’ and ‘futurecorn’ AI companies.
River Capital will look to invest in c 15 AI driven businesses over the next five years. Investments are expected to range from £500,000 to £2,000,000. fund:AI anticipates investing in two broad categories of AI SMEs. The first comprises businesses seeking capital to accelerate their growth or build out their AI platforms. The second includes companies with untapped data sets who wish to use AI to create data IP and to go on an AI, machine learning or data science journey.
Investment Director David Walters said:
“We intend to use that superpower both to add value to AI businesses and to deliver great returns to investors.”
River Capital will look to invest in c 15 AI driven businesses over the next five years. Investments are expected to range from £500,000 to £2,000,000. fund:AI anticipates investing in two broad categories of AI SMEs. The first comprises businesses seeking capital to accelerate their growth or build out their AI platforms. The second includes companies with untapped data sets who wish to use AI to create data IP and to go on an AI, machine learning or data science journey
“Our investment team provides unique experience combining people with operational leadership experience in the AI space as well as seasoned investors and founders who have been directly involved in some of the most
Investment Director David Walters said:
“We intend to use that superpower both to add value to AI businesses
some of the most significant AI and Data investments in the North of the UK. We have run AI practices, delivered go to market strategies for some of the North’s largest AI businesses, have access to advisors from institutions including the University of Manchester and Sci Tech Daresbury and have a track record of investing in AI and Data Unicorns including companies such as Blue Prism.”
River Capital Head of Venture, Marc d’Abbadie said:
significant AI and Data investments in the North of the UK. We have run AI practices, delivered go to market strategies for some of the North’s largest AI businesses, have access to advisors from institutions including the University of Manchester and Sci Tech Daresbury and have a track record of investing in AI and Data Unicorns including companies such as Blue Prism.”
River Capital Head of Venture, Marc d’Abbadie said:
“The AI, Machine Learning and Data Science industry presents fantastic investment opportunities. fund:AI is ideally positioned both to support and benefit from the profound impact on how business is done that the widespread adoption of AI, Machine Learning and Data Science is set to enable.”
River Capital Head of Venture, Marc d’Abbadie said:
“The AI, Machine Learning and Data Science industry presents fantastic investment opportunities. fund:AI is ideally positioned both to support
We are particularly grateful to our cornerstone investor MSIF for their support and confidence.”
“The AI, Machine Learning and Data Science industry presents fantastic investment opportunities. fund:AI is ideally positioned both to support and benefit from the
David Walters - Investment DirectorOur funds are regionally focused so if you're
We're here to help you realise your ambitions, whether you're starting, growing or acquiring a business.
Our funds are regionally focused so if you're based in the North West, let's see how we can do business
As one of the largest organisations in the UK, reducing its carbon footprint through a national ‘Greener NHS’ programme will significantly decrease the country’s overall carbon emissions. Furthermore, NHS Scotland’s ‘Fairer, Greener Scotland Programme’, Northern Ireland’s review of climate change, and Green Health Wales are all aspiring for the same thing – to achieve net zero.
Implementing these carbon reduction measures will inevitably create large cost savings and enable the NHS to invest more keenly in delivering its overriding purpose of ‘putting the patient at the heart of all [they] do’. However, this is far from simple to achieve, especially considering that the areas requiring improvement are far reaching, including both direct and indirect emissions across supply chains, construction, staff commuting, citizen travel and accessing health and care in the home (to name just a few)!
This strategy for a Greener NHS is laudable, and of course, necessary. But as business and management guru Henry Mintzberg states, “strategy is not the consequence of planning: it’s a starting point.” So, how does an organisation such as the NHS, made up of a wide range of organisations with differing roles and responsibilities, plan for a more sustainable future?
Without accurate measurements, it is impossible for health and care organisations to manage greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, or to assess the success of sustainability initiatives. As such, the first step for any Trust or Board is to gather the appropriate data sets and emission factors.
This can be a bit of a task as it often involves understanding what data exists, what data is needed and where the gaps are. Once achieved however, you can establish a roadmap to net zero for both your directly and indirectly controlled emissions.
Tackling these initial steps then enables your organisation to effectively plan the required actions and interventions to achieve net zero. The next critical step
is to create strong internal governance and outline a firm strategic approach to sustainability. This can be achieved using an ‘assess, plan, perform, sustain’ framework, which includes:
• Reviewing and making improvements to data sets
• Performing a gap analysis of the existing data management processes
• Undertaking a greenhouse gas discovery exercise
• Augmenting the presentation of emissions
• Creating a robust data management plan to monitor emissions.
Having gained a clearer understanding of your data, you now have visibility of the baseline carbon footprint, along with a summary of your key emission contributing areas. This will help you implement key carbon saving initiatives to drive, measure and report on your progress toward net zero.
Whilst high level, these clear steps will help your health and care organisation:
• Improve the governance of sustainability data
• Improve data quality
• Gain greater confidence in GHG gas assertions
• Implement processes around GHG reporting
• Provide a better understanding of scope 3 emissions
• Gain confidence in addressing the right areas.
Our Health and Care Advisory team have significant insight into today’s health and care system, having over 100 years of combined experience working in the public sector. We are passionate about helping you overcome the challenges you, your staff and citizens face. Using our expertise in service design, financial stability, workforce health, organisational change, cultural change, sustainability and more, we will help you do things differently, and transform the way you deliver health and care services.
Reacting to news of an agreement on the UK’s accession to the CPTPP, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, has said:
“The addition of the UK to this trading bloc takes it to 12 countries which account for 15% of global economic output. It will open up new opportunities for our businesses in both inward and external investment with the other 11 countries.
“The UK has bilateral trading terms negotiated with nine of the eleven current members, but no agreements had previously been reached with Malaysia and Brunei, so they will be of particular interest.
“There are not many multi-national trade agreements like this one, so it is an interesting new prospect. We see particular relevance for small and medium sized businesses in reduced costs
to import components from member countries to use in manufactured goods for export through the rules of origin in the agreement.
“There are also generous terms for data flows which underpin an increasing part of international trade. We will be scrutinising the deal in detail, but at first glance this looks to be good news for UK businesses to enter or upscale their trade in these markets, with increased confidence and more generous trading terms.
“We look forward to working with the UK Government and others to ensure firms get the best possible access to these markets.
Key measures to implement the Windsor Framework were adopted by the UK government and European Commission a few days ago in London. BCC comments are:
• Key Measures - The joint EU and UK decision to give formal effect to the Windsor Agreement is another important step in improving trading conditions between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
“For the BCC, the priority is now making sure the new customs and paperwork arrangements, plus the trusted trader schemes, work smoothly for businesses either side of the Irish Sea.
“We look forward to close engagement with HMRC over the coming months to make sure the on-the-ground reality of this deal produces tangible benefits for firms.”
• The Trade (Australia and New Zealand) Act received Royal Assent, putting entry into force of the UK’s trade deals with Australia and New Zealand on course for late spring.
• HM Treasury has launched a consultation until the end of June on measures to address carbon leakage on imports of goods – these will affect traders and are a response to similar measures being implemented from October in the EU.
• The BCC is also engaging with the Cabinet Office over forthcoming announcements on the GB border, including processes for importing goods. The publication of the Target Operating Model is expected very soon which could introduce changes as early as next year.
Liverpool Chamber offers a number of courses accredited by the BCC, those who pass any six courses will achieve a nationally recognised “Foundation Award in International Trade”. This is a UK wide recognised qualification.
This competence led model and the associated accreditation process assures employers and employees of the quality and integrity of the courses – it puts the knowledge and power to export effectively in the hands of every SME, employees also benefit by achieving a
nationally recognised transferable skill set. We can also organise bespoke courses, or consultancy sessions to discuss your international trade concerns at short notice. Not every company has the same training needs and we work with partners to help you to answer basic queries to more complex issues.
Are you implementing specific Customs facilities? Or applying for specific regimes & status: Authorised Economic Operator (AEO), Inward Processing (IP), Customs Warehousing (CW)? We can help!
The ‘core courses” cover the following:
Understanding Exporting, Incoterms, Export Documentation, Methods Of Payment, Documentary Letters Of Credit, Import Procedures, Preference Rules Of Origin, Customs Procedures and Documentation, Agents And Distributors, Inward And Outward Processing, Understanding Commodity Codes
“
This competence led model and the associated accreditation process assures employers and employees of the quality and integrity of the courses”
Time and costs required for each stage depend on each company, and its particular requirements. Contact
export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk for further information
Liverpool John Lennon Airport is delighted to announce that Aer Lingus will be returning to the Airport and commencing flights to Dublin later this month.
Flights will be operated by Emerald Airlines, the exclusive operator of Aer Lingus Regional services, commencing on Thursday 27th April, with 11 departures per week including a double daily service on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays using their 72 seat ATR72-600 aircraft, and will see a return for Aer Lingus who last operated from Liverpool in 2016.
In addition to serving Dublin, passengers will have the ability to seamlessly connect
onto Aer Lingus flights to North America via Dublin airport with onward flights available to destinations including New York JFK, Washington, Chicago, Boston and Philadelphia with transfer times on outbound and return journeys averaging 2 hours.
Dublin Airport is one of only a few airports outside North America that offers a US Preclearance facility that allows US bound passengers to undertake all US immigration and customs inspections at Dublin Airport prior to departure, meaning that passengers arriving in the US are treated as domestic arrivals, allowing
them to avoid immigration queues upon arrival and pick up their bags and go.
This new route will also help to attract more international visitors to the Liverpool City Region, with the potential to grow the numbers of visitors from the US.
Our Individual Placement Support (IPS) employment service works with local people and businesses to meaningful paid employment
■ We work in partnership with local businesses
■ We link people to the right job match for them
■ We secure paid employment
■ We provide ongoing support for client and employer
Working in par tnership with us can assist your business as well as local communities in Liverpool, Warrington, Halton, Cheshire, and Wirral
Over 300 job seekers have accessed our services since April 2022
Take a look at our recent job outcomes, success stories, more: www.liferooms.org/suppor t /IPS
90% of people with a severe and enduring mental illness want to work, but only 8% are in paid employment
of work we’ve produced over the last two decades, and the calibre of clients we’ve worked with.”
“A flexible and creative approach to our work has always shaped the way we do things – it’s not just a result of COVID,” says co-founder Joe Bolland, as design agency Bolland & Lowe celebrates its 20th birthday. “We’ve changed direction, we’ve diversified and embraced new ways of working – and now we’re celebrating 20 years of working with a great range of clients – not only in the city region but throughout the UK. It’s our love for the city and the amazing people and organisations that we work with that resonates with us,” adds co-founder John Lowe.
Joe and John first worked together for an agency in Liverpool, but in March 2003 decided to branch out and open their own design agency, recognising that they complimented each other’s strengths. They were early advocates of a hybrid approach to work starting the business on Wirral. A move to Liverpool’s Rope Walks where they were working with clients like Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, National Museums Liverpool, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse & Beatles Story. A final move to the Cotton Exchange in 2018 was their last before they embraced a fully flexible mode of work.
“Our approach has always been flexible,” says Joe. “From our earliest days, we always embraced a close-knit core team and worked with other professionals to scale up when larger projects came in. That way, it meant we could always have the right person with specific skills working on each project, and it gave us the luxury of working with clients who really resonated.” “Liverpool’s such a collaborative city,” adds John: “that approach has really borne fruit in the quality
Bolland & Lowe’s approach involves a simple process of creating creative solutions to client briefs: listen, think, create and deliver. It’s something that demonstrates a “natural sense of curiosity and empathy in our work,” says John. “Our approach sees us build strong, mutually supportive, collaborative relationships. We don’t have a house style – we create a look that is bespoke, and developed for each project, which helps us work with a range of clients, from Clatterbridge Cancer Centre to the LFC Foundation; Liverpool Football Club, Bruntwood, Sir Robert McAlpine and The Knowledge Quarter, Liverpool City Region Growth Company and Morecrofts Solicitors.”
That work ranges from branding and design to motion graphics and web. People and place are central to their approach. “We’re not afraid to apply new ideas and methods to the way we work, creating original, unusual and unexpected solutions for our clients,” says Joe. It’s an approach that has seen them work across a range of sectors from health and wellbeing to arts, culture and leisure; the public sector, professional services, education, and property.
Paul Cherpeau Liverpool Chamber, CEO
“Congratulations to Bolland & Lowe for their 20 years in business. Liverpool Chamber is a huge advocate for John and his team has worked with them for the last five years on numerous projects including the redesign of our company brand, the development and maintenance of our website and the creation of exciting content across multiple channels including video. B&L has provided us with consistently great service, giving us real insight and intelligence into the creative process and delivering us great outcomes for our design briefs. Co-creation has been an integral part of the client service, which feels more like a partnership than a transaction. The results speak for themselves and it is thanks to B&L that our 173-year-old business looks and sounds fit for the 21st century. bollandlowe.co.uk
Coeus Insurance Management has chosen Everton in the Community as its Charity of the Year Partner.
One of its employees, Sarah Buckley will fly the Everton in the Community flag this summer and aim to reach the tallest mountain on the African continent in a bid to not only fundraise for Everton in the Community, but to also put the spotlight on the charity’s vital services.
And as a mark of their allegiance towards the Blues’ charity, a member of the Coeus team will climb to the highest summit of Kilimanjaro in a bid to raise funds for EitC’s life-saving provision.
During a year which sees Everton in the Community celebrate its 35th anniversary, 2023 also marks Coeus Insurance Management’s ten-year anniversary, and its latest link up with EitC will see both organisations work towards a mutual goal in supporting more people at the heart of the city, whilst aligning its corporate values and highlighting the charity’s lifechanging delivery.
The partnership will bring a particular focus to attaining more participant engagement to the charity’s programmes following the postponement of face-to-face delivery during the pandemic.
“I’ve chosen Everton in the Community because I’m really passionate about the services and opportunities it provides to L4 and its community” said Sarah. “I can’t wait to represent both organisations at one of the highest peaks in the world.”
Coeus Insurance Management are a proactive practitioner-based insurance broker, claims management adviser and risk management adviser who is partnering with EitC to support the local community. The partnership will provide the charity with a significant platform to expand its reach and offer its life-changing, life-saving delivery to more residents across Merseyside.
The partnership will aim to engage, educate and support thousands across the city and help to improve lives across the region.
“The Directors and Team at Coeus Insurance Management are truly delighted to be partnering with Everton in the Community” said Stewart Jordan, Director of Coeus Insurance Management.
“The ground-breaking work and scope of programmes delivered by EitC have always been close to our hearts and as 2023 is our milestone 10th year in business, we couldn’t think of a more fitting way to mark this.
We have consistently supported the work of local charities and are a company that likes to give back, particularly in these more difficult times, we really do see the importance of supporting this amazing initiative.
“As well as supporting Sarah as she prepares for her epic challenge, The Coeus team already have several events planned this year. Several members of staff members are getting set to Zip Slide from the rooftop of Goodison Park, whilst a Charity Golf Day event is also being planned for June.
Dan Rogers, Corporate Partnership Executive at Everton in the Community added: “We have a great opportunity to engage with Coeus and their networks to raise awareness of our life-enhancing work which is available within the local community.
“Everton in the Community continues to break down barriers and stigmas surrounding poor physical and mental health and strives to improve people lives.”
With its roots in the language of finance and investment, it’s a common misconception that ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), is only of real concern for large, global businesses. However, with SMEs accounting for 99.9%* of the UK business population, the collective impact that small and mid-sized organisations can have on driving positive environmental and social change is huge.
Iona Thomson, Client Director, Executive Education at University of Liverpool Management School speaks to Greg Macoy, Co-Founder of Matchstick Creative and an alumni member of the University’s Help To Grow: Management programme.
Matchstick Creative is a Certified B Corp creative marketing agency based in Liverpool. We like to think of ourselves as good people doing good stuff for good reasons.
I have always been socially driven and prior to setting up Matchstick Creative with Ruth [Hartnoll], I felt like the only way I could do ‘good’ in a professional creative capacity was to do pro bono work for charities and worthy causes.
Matchstick Creative was founded on the determined belief that you can have a successful business and have purpose at the heart of what you’re doing.
What does ‘purpose-driven’ mean to Matchstick Creative?
It’s about using our professional creative skills to deliver commercial gain and social impact. Our clients are organisations with strong social purpose and values. Clients such as The Women’s Organisation, Liverpool Growth Platform, and Greens for Good.
Has being purpose-driven delivered any unexpected advantages?
Yes, recruitment! While the rest of the country has seemed to struggle with recruitment post-pandemic, we have had the opposite experience.
Due to our work culture and core values, we attract people who are looking for an employer that shares their values. It’s quite rare for us to get people who are just looking for a job, it’s usually from people who want to be part of something different, something that means something to them. The pandemic really did make people reassess what they wanted.
Does being purpose-driven cause any challenges for your business?
Like all other businesses, we are dealing
with the triple whammy impact of Brexit, the pandemic, and the cost of living crisis. Balancing the financial side of running a robust and stable business with being a fair and responsible employer is not without its difficulties.
Closing thoughts?
‘Purpose-driven’ is a broad term and it will be different for all businesses depending on the situation and sector. As a Certified B Corp, the five pillars we benchmark ourselves against are Workers, Governance, Environment, Community, and Customers.
Profit with purpose is a heady combination and a real force for good. These two things are not mutually exclusive and to see them as such is short-sighted.
*Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/ statistics/business-populationestimates-2022
Boost your leadership skills and your business performance with Help To Grow: Management course. This 90% governmentfunded programme is open to all SME leaders who are based in the UK, have a minimum of 5 employees, and have been operating for 1+ years.
Enrolling now for Autumn 2023 at University of Liverpool
www.liverpool.ac.uk/helptogrow
The backlash against ESG in some investor circles should act as a clarion call for business to embrace environmental responsibility, social justice, and sound governance into our day-to-day operations.
Googling “ESG” in March 2023 brings up opinion pieces about the “false promises” or “meaningless buzzwords” associated with some forms of environmental, social, and governance-based investment. Visible responsibility through reporting, critics suggest, often gets ahead of actual, impactful actions.
At Torus, we see ESG differently. Admittedly, reporting raises challenges and perceptions differ across sectors about what the E, S and G mean. But the fundamental imperative to show how we are supporting sustainable futures for people, communities and business resonates with our own core purpose – and with the essence of good business.
Torus is a social purpose organisation, driven by a mission of ‘growing stronger
communities. We own 40,000 homes in Liverpool and beyond, aim to build 1,000 new homes every year and – through our charitable foundation – invest commercial profits into initiatives that improve life chances.
We published our first ESG Report in September 2022. Whilst our ESG priorities may not fully chime with those in other sectors, hopefully these three key learnings are universal:
1. Consistency: we adopted the Sustainability Reporting Standard for Social Housing (SRS) to ensure we are reporting in a transparent and comparable way. The SRS was in its second year, so we began with a set of recognised measures.
2. Data: although we have a richness of data, we needed information for each indicator to be meaningful and robust. Reporting needed to capture outcomes, not just outputs. In some areas, new insight mechanisms were needed.
3. Benefits: reporting has not only helped us highlight to partners, customers, and staff how we truly deliver against allimportant ESG issues; it has also identified areas for improvement, particularly against environmental measures.
At its heart, ESG puts the spotlight on the long-term impacts of what we do, as well as on immediate and near-term profitability. Done well, it reveals what we truly value.
Find our ESG Report here: www.torus.co.uk
Torus is a social purpose organisation, driven by a mission of ‘growing stronger communities. We own 40,000 homes in Liverpool and beyond, aim to build 1,000 new homes every year and – through our charitable foundation – invest commercial profits into initiatives that improve life chances.
A report by the OECD* found that globally, only 9% of plastic waste is recycled whilst 22% is mismanaged. Increasing awareness about the detrimental impact of plastic waste is helping to drive the development of more sustainable packaging solutions.
Work is currently underway on a three year project thanks to a £975,000 Research Award from the Natural Environment Research Council, which is bringing together experts from multi-disciplinary areas at the University of Liverpool, the University of Manchester, Unilever and Bright Green Plastics.
The project, the Smart Sustainable Plastic Packaging study, is being led by researchers at the University of Liverpool’s Department of Chemistry who are looking at how changes in chemistry control the properties of plastic packaging. This will develop understanding of the relationship between the chemistry and properties of recycled plastics, what effect the use of additives in recycled plastics have on packaging performance, and will inform processes to help prevent recycling degradation.
A report by the OECD* found that globally, only 9% of plastic waste is recycled whilst 22% is mismanaged. Increasing awareness about the detrimental impact of plastic waste is helping to drive the development of more sustainable packaging solutions.
* Source: OECD Global Plastics Outlook Database, 2019
Phase two of the project brings in Management School researchers who will then use these findings to thoroughly test out different scenarios. A profiling framework will be created to collect data and analyse how the use of different configurations of recycled plastic perform. The framework will allow researchers to map results against financial, social and environmental scenarios, depending on changes in demand and supply, to fully understand the economic case for using additives.
It is clear that we can no longer continue to produce new plastic and that as businesses and consumers we need to put existing plastic back into the economy. By optimising the suitability of plastics to be reused or repurposed for packaging, and demonstrating how recycled plastic can be best accessed, shared and utilised by manufacturers, we can tackle plastic waste and manage resources much more effectively.
As a provider of online distance learning for Business studies at BTEC Level 4 and 5 (equivalent of 1st and 2nd year University), UniCourse meets its students at a crucial time in their lives. Students are either on the cusp of entering the working world for the first time or are pursuing that next step in their career. A big milestone in their life.
As much as a university course might prepare you technically for a career in a subject of your choosing, it is often that when a student graduates, they may feel overwhelmed by not only the competition on the labour market, but also by the process involved in gaining meaningful employment.
Whether it is knowing where to look for employment, how to prepare CV writing and interviewing, knowing where best they can apply their skillset based on
understanding job specifications, and networking for the right contacts in industry. They could write a course based on this alone.
We acknowledge these issues, as many of our staff members have lived through them, and for us it started with a discussion which led to a partnership.
Recognising that we had a duty of care to our students once they had graduated with us, we partnered with CMI (the chartered management institute) who, not only support our students during their learner journey with an array of management and leadership learning resources, but afterwards grant our alumni foundation chartered management status including the postnominals ‘fCMgr.
CMI’s vast networking platform enables graduates to not only keep their finger on
the pulse with the latest hot topics in their field of management, but also puts them in touch with some of the leading thinkers in their respective field. Together with our careers hub available to all alumni, where students can seek advice and guidance on the interview and cv writing process.
In the current economic climate, where good, honest hard working people are trying to make the best of rising costs, and financial uncertainty, we feel it important to send our students out in to the world equipped with the necessary tools to hit the ground running in the business world.
businesses that are creating worldbeating green-technologies, investing in low-carbon infrastructure, or helping to make our energy supply lower-carbon. It’s also why we’re helping the region’s housebuilders and housing associations to build more sustainably, and households across the North West to retrofit their homes to lower their energy needs and reduce our reliance on carbon.
One of the great benefits of my job is being able to meet and hear from businesses across the region and it’s clear that while many see the opportunities that Net Zero presents, SMEs face a degree of uncertainty and challenges to meet their sustainability goals.
We chatted to Liz Delahaye, North West Regional Development Director at Lloyds Bank about her role, and why Lloyds Bank is supporting SMEs on their journey to Net Zero.
What
I’ve recently taken on the role of Regional Development Director for the North West at Lloyds Bank. This is a relatively new role to ensure we deliver our core purpose – to Help Britain Prosper – in ways that have most impact in this region. So I get to bring together different parts of the bank with the people and organisations that we need to partner with to create positive change. That includes some of the region’s business leaders, combined and local authorities, housing groups, academics, cultural institutions and others to look at new ideas and ways to use finance to stimulate investment and economic growth, while creating thriving communities where people want to live, work and stay.
Achieving Net Zero by decarbonising our industries and households is critical to securing a more sustainable future for everyone. At Lloyds Bank, we recognise that we have a really important part to play to help deliver this transition. We’ve set some ambitious targets to support the change, targeting to be Net Zero for the activities we finance by 2050 or sooner, with our own operations being Net Zero by 2030.
But Net Zero also presents huge growth opportunities for the nation and this region. That’s why we’re backing local
So Net Zero has a lot of benefits – from helping lower people’s energy bills and tackling air pollution, through to creating new jobs, industries and economic growth for the region.
In my experience, many small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) have a really clear purpose which often includes a desire to have a positive impact on their communities and the planet. For some this is driven by employees themselves, who are often more engaged and productive when they believe in the enviromental responsibility of their business.
Many SMEs are also responding to the demands of their markets as consumers and businesses increasingly seek more sustainable purchasing choices themselves or new markets open to deliver products or services in a more sustainable way. Of course, given that one of the biggest challenges SMEs are experiencing at the moment is rising costs, it’s perhaps unsurprising that many are making their businesses more sustainable to reduce their energy bills or the amount of raw materials they use.
Whatever the motive, it’s clear there are many reasons why it makes good commercial sense for businesses of all sizes to become more sustainable.
In our recent Net Zero Monitor, which polled businesses across the country on this issue, small business leaders told us they face challenges ranging from small day-today issues such as encouraging staff to recycle while at work, to more complex decisions which need to be made around their operations. Many talked about the high costs of making their business carbon neutral and finding it difficult to know how to reduce emissions outside of their own operations. Having confidence that the expenditure will have a measurable impact and struggling to justify expenditure with a low return on investment also featured.
Despite these challenges, SMEs are determined to reach the Net Zero milestone. According to our research, across the UK currently 69% are already at Net Zero or have a plan in place to reach it. In the North West, this is even higher at 73%. This is fantastic progress, but there’s still more work to be done.
The external environment has a big impact on how businesses prioritise their sustainability efforts. SMEs are experiencing pressure from many directions including inflation and the wider economic outlook.
However, sustainability-led decision making and action to reduce a business’ carbon footprint can often ease the burden of other everyday challenges. For instance, becoming more energy efficient and switching to renewable energy sources can insulate a business from the effect of rising fuel prices. Also, consumers and businesses
Achieving Net Zero by decarbonising our industries and households is critical to securing a more sustainable future for everyone.
are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on a business’s approach to sustainability - opening up opportunities to reach new customers and stand out from competitors.
What do you say to an SME business that’s not where they want to be on their Net Zero journey?
Firstly, you’re not alone. There’s a growing impetus when it comes to accelerating the Net Zero journey for SMEs. 90% of SMEs in the North West say that sustainability considerations are important to them - and for 82%, sustainability considerations have become more important in the last year. The growing awareness around sustainability issues is driving the topic up the priority list for SMEs.
Secondly, look for quick wins. For example, what actions can you take now such as switching energy provider or increased recycling? Then start to think about what longer term goals could work for your business such as shifting product design and exploring the sustainability of your supply chain?
Not every initiative will prove to be a success but taking quick actions are key when you begin to plan your Net Zero journey –and you can find lots of useful tools and guidance to help you along the way on the Lloyds Bank website.
As you look to do more, the next step is to combine these actions into a longer-term strategy and to plan and dedicate time and energy to meet these goals. A quarter of the respondents to our Net Zero Monitor say sustainability decision-making is now a core part of their day-to-day role, and just under
half say they are one of several individuals in the business evaluating sustainability. This growing confidence, action and decision-making increasingly means that sustainability measures are incorporated into core business planning and activity on an ongoing basis.
Thankfully, there is lots of help available for SMEs – but we also know from our research that only half of small business leaders have actually used some of the resources available.
along the path to Net Zero are part of collaborative eco-systems with other companies.
As the number of SMEs reaching Net Zero increases, we see more and more businesses inspiring change in others. It is crucial to learn from the experiences of this group of businesses – who we are calling the ‘Heroes of Net Zero’. Their successes provide inspiration and practical problem solving for those following them along the path. Having been through the behaviour change needed to reach Net Zero themselves, they are now advocating for it and are proving themselves to be powerful change agents.
We’re trying to make it as easy as possible for the businesses we partner with to reach Net Zero, so we have a dedicated ‘Sustainability hub’ on the Lloyds Bank Business website. It has lots of information and resources to help businesses reduce their overall costs and energy usage with new Clean Growth Financing opportunities and green tools.
I also know how important it is for businesses to support one another and I’ve been really inspired by some of the examples of our customers joining forces to help each other reduce their carbon footprint. The journey to Net Zero can’t happen unless businesses come together and create greater change collectively across their sector, region or supply chain. Creating these networks means that specific problems can be shared, explored and lessons can be learnt around how to overcome challenges - we know that many SMEs who are further
I’m therefore delighted to announce that Lloyds Bank is partnering with 2030hub to create a new ‘Sustainable Business Accelerator’ programme to encourage and nurture a growing movement of local small and medium-sized businesses ‘Net Zero Heroes’ from across the Liverpool City Region.
Each selected business will receive - at no cost - three months of fully funded training, mentoring and on-site guidance that will result in a comprehensive carbon footprint management plan. Lloyds Bank will provide guidance and expertise with access to specialised financial services and resources. Applications are now open to businesses from across all sectors which will result in 10 businesses being selected to join the cohort programme. You can find out more about this on the 2030hub website.
You can read more about the findings from our Net Zero Monitor and information on making your business more sustainable at the Lloyds Bank Sustainability Hub.
Forshaw Group, based in Liverpool for almost 75 years, works closely with insurance companies to repair properties damaged by fire and floods.
With the support of Lloyds Bank, Forshaw’s invested in five new electric vehicles (EVs) –making up 20% of its total fleet – as it focuses on introducing more sustainable practices alongside its continuing organic expansion.
Maintaining a hybrid model in the short-term, using a blend of traditional vehicles for longer journeys, and electric for shorter, local trips, it will gradually transition its full fleet to EVs. It
is also set to install a series of solar panels to generate the power needed to charge the vehicles in-house.
Liam Hanlon, Managing Director of Forshaw Group, said: “Championing sustainability is becoming more and more important for every business in the UK, as the government pushes to reach its net zero targets. We are no exception, and this initiative is a key step in our drive to slash our emissions. The team at Lloyds has been incredibly supportive, helping us make investments that will support business growth over the long term while contributing to our own ESG commitments.”
Despite these challenges, SMEs are determined to reach the Net Zero milestone.
abbreviation for environmental, social and governance; a way of judging a company by things other than its financial performance, for example its policies relating to the environment and how happy its employees are.
[Cambridge Dictionary definition]
We know from our members that one of the current hot topics for business is ESG – what does it mean, what impact will it have on my business, where can I find out more? With so many definitions and so much information available it can be hard to know where to start.
As part of our campaign to demystify some of the issues which local businesses are grappling with, we asked members of our ESG Expert Panel what the term means to them and their organisation.
If you would like to join the discussions around ESG and would be interested in joining our Expert Panel please contact policy@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
“Looking back through our history, Medicash has always been a company with charitable values at its heart. We were established way back in 1871 to finance local hospitals through charitable donations, and it’s this foundation of community and charity that still guides us today. ‘Doing good business’ doesn’t mean just making sales and money – it’s ensuring that our company is a promoter of positive change in our society, and that we are laying the groundwork for future generations.
From our investments, to partnerships with conservation charities in the Amazon, to simply raising awareness of our everyday eco footprint in the office, we try to incorporate ESG principles into each decision we make, whether big or small. When you embed and engrain these principles into the heart of your organisation it becomes a habit, and every process and activity within the business itself can become a positive moment that everyone can feel proud of.”
“Since the Brundtland Commission (“Our Common Future”), in 1987, the world of sustainability has been focused on the so-called ‘triple bottom-line’. This has usually meant businesses looking at their people, planetary and profitability relationships. The language of ESG provides a different lens through which to examine a business’ sustainability, considering the way it accounts for its environmental, social and governance operations. But, this can become a matter of only reporting on past performance, where ‘governance’ becomes code for ‘financial management’.
In recent years, the most forward-looking and sustainable businesses have been considering what their purpose is, in terms of the other 3 P’s. When Purpose is added into the mix businesses have an opportunity to look at the full spectrum of their sustainability activities and operations, in a cycle from People, through Purpose and Planetary to Profitability dimensions. At Liverpool Hope Business School we have developed a consultancy offering, based on our unique Business Sustainability Cycle, which we deliver to local businesses to assist them in developing their overall sustainability. You can contact myself for more information bradley@hope.ac.uk.”
“Resolve Energy recognises that businesses are in a challenging position: securing sustainable energy at an affordable price. For businesses to prosper, the cost of energy and environmental sustainability is a head-on challenge.
It is through the principles of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that Resolve Energy has based its ESG strategy: to be responsible in its operation to clients and staff, as well as supporting sustainability on a local, national and international level.
Sustainability and the ever-increasing pressure on our climate have ensured Resolve Energy are committed to meeting these challenges. Our sustainability objectives and key results are:
1. To become net zero in our own business operations, including supplying only clean energy sources by 2025
2. Support and educate our clients in their journey to becoming net zero by 2050
3. Empower and support our staff and be a responsible employer
4. To advocate global citizenship by supporting our local community organisations and charities, and to support biodiversity projects on a local, regional, national and international level
I am personally proud of the work we have done to develop a full Net Zero service to help any business achieve their ESG and carbon neutral goals.”
“Our world faces a number of global challenges: climate change, inequality, balancing economic needs with societal needs. Stakeholders are now increasingly demanding that organisations should be a force of good. As it becomes the norm to consider an organisation’s commitment to ESG for investment and securing contracts, the importance of understanding, and actioning our commitments is paramount.
For Hive-Projects, operating predominantly within the construction industry, our sector is under tremendous pressure to act quickly and adopt sustainable approaches to how the industry operate. Key areas of focus are sustainability, durability, resilience, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation.
I find it useful to break ESG down into its three pillars: Environmental, Social & Governance. Whilst there are clear overlaps I tend to have all things land, air and water sit within the Environmental pillar. For me, all things related to people; skills, resources, health and wellbeing sit within the Social and finally, Governance which provides a framework for corporate behaviours and monitoring sustainability performance.
We are committed to working with our partners to develop and implement a realistic and measurable ESG policy for the programmes of work we deliver, adapting our approach to the needs of each project. Underpinning it all though, is our desire as an organisation to make a positive impact to our communities via our actions.”
New CGI images and an animation have been released, showcasing HEMISPHERE by Sciontec, the new £56m, innovation-led, 119,612 sq ft development on Paddington Village, in the heart of the Knowledge Quarter Liverpool (KQ Liverpool) Innovation District.
HEMISPHERE will be the first new-build development for Sciontec, and will form part of Liverpool City Council’s 10 postpandemic pledges to stimulate economic growth.
Colin Sinclair, chief executive of Sciontec and KQ Liverpool, said:
“We’re proud to be working with Liverpool City Council, with the support of the City Region, to deliver a holistic approach to creating Paddington Village as an inclusive destination for health, life sciences, tech and digital innovation. Nothing encapsulates that vision more than HEMISPHERE.”
HEMISPHERE will be set across eight floors, smart-tech enabled, providing prime Grade A office space, and will be one of the UK’s first new builds with operational Net-Zero, Platinum WELL, BREEAM Excellent, EPC Rated A, WiredScore certified and NABERS 5.5*.
Situated next door to The Spine – one of the world’s healthiest buildings –
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, added:
“Developments like this are befitting of a modern, forward-looking city region like ours. Sciontec’s plans for HEMISPHERE encapsulate much of my vision for the region: harnessing the expertise of our world-class universities in the heart of the Knowledge Quarter, attracting nationwide
jobs and housing it all in one of the cleanest, greenest buildings in our region –the first to be operationally net zero.”
HEMISPHERE’s striking architecture has been carefully masterminded by AHR Architects, with the name representing the two sides of the human brain.
Rob Hopkins, director and head of sustainability at AHR, said:
“HEMISPHERE will be the first new build office development in the Liverpool City Region, designed to be operational net zero carbon, achieving 55kwh/m2 per year, embodying 30% less carbon than a typical office building, 30% less energy consumption, 40% less glazing and 20% more natural ventilation.”
Sciontec is aiming to break ground at the end of 2023, with a completion date in late 2025.
For more information about Sciontec, visit https://sciontec.co.uk
I recently had the opportunity to test drive the RX450h+ and the awesome RX500h performance hybrid followed by an authentic Japanese dining experience as guests of Lexus Liverpool.
I was particularly impressed by the safety aspects that had been designed into the driving experience. The expert designers at Lexus had clearly set some design principles for this amazing vehicle. Comfort, Economy, Quality to name a few but also Safety. As I attempted to open my driver’s door, I received a warning message to alert me that there was a cyclist in my blind spot. Collision avoided.
Imagine for a moment if the design team at Lexus had simply decided to place a safety guide in the glove box or provided me with a safety expert to sit with me in the back seat, without designing in the safety features. It would be easier for sure, but would it have done the job?
We pay so much attention to designing our cars, our homes even our clothes yet do we pay the same amount of attention when
designing our businesses and organisations. Do we assume that placing an ESG guide on our website or have someone accountable for ESG is enough?
Should our approach to Environmental, Social and Governance impact be included as one our Design Principles if we are to achieve the impact?
Designing, whether it be our cars our homes our our businesses is all about making intelligent and intentional choices in the moment, based on prevention-based thinking rather than responding to the collision.
Thank you Lexus Liverpool
Gardner Systems is a leading IT firm based in Liverpool. For 38 years, it has helped customers solve IT challenges and use technology cost-effectively, efficiently and securely. As a company of long standing, it is used to change, and this January saw two big shifts.
Firstly, it welcomed new CEO Wayne Miller to its team. Wayne is an experienced IT executive and is excited by the opportunity joining Gardner brings. “The chance to come and work with Frank Coward (Company Chairman) and such as well-established and respected team very rarely comes along. It was just too good to turn down”, he added. Alongside the arrival of Wayne, is the companies move from its long time Wavertree base into its new office in the heart of Liverpool’s commercial district. Wayne added “Talking with Frank, it was clear we wanted to find better ways to serve our customers, so when we got the chance to relocate to the heart of Liverpool, we jumped at it”.
While there has been change the company’s values remain the same. “Our job continues
to be to deliver services to address the most pressing IT challenges our customers face” added Miller.
Gardner continues to help its customers with a range of services, recent examples include.
• Cloud optimisation: A free cloud optimization service has helped its customers better understand cloud usage and save 30-50% on their cloud spend.
• Cost-effective licencing: A new Microsoft licencing deal has allowed it to help customers more effectively buy their Microsoft licencing.
• Security services: Cyber security continues to be a priority. Gardner’s helps its customers with security reviews, penetration testing, and in gaining accreditations like Cyber
Essentials in the most cost-effective way.
• Managed Security: The cyberthreat is daunting for businesses with many lacking resources to address it. A new managed security service is allowing it to take that challenge on for its customers.
While some things have changed, Gardner’s continues to deliver the same leading IT service that is has for 38 years. Wayne, Frank and the team are focussed on continuing to do so for many years to come.
When you think of your company’s social impact, what do you think of? Health is a major factor within ESG reporting but is often only considered in terms of illness and injury, rather than as part of our everyday wellbeing. It’s also a current concern for many – reports of people paying privately for treatment have soared by 40% as a result of increased NHS waiting times, while new research by local health cash plan provider Medicash shows that over 80% of HR professionals have noted mental health absences increasing over the past two years.
In light of both the current economic climate and recent public health crises, employee wellbeing is increasingly becoming a new metric for companies’ social impact reporting. Workplaces are seeing a dramatic shift from wellbeing as an occasional ‘nice-to-have’ to an integral part of their workplace culture, with a focus on proactive, employer-led promotion. In fact, Medicash’s survey – consisting of over 2,000 employees and 500 HR professionals across the UK –shows that almost half of UK employees now believe that health & wellbeing is their employer’s direct responsibility.
Despite this, Medicash’s research shows a clear rift between employee expectation and employer provision when it comes to their wellbeing. Despite more than a third of HR professionals seeing increased demand for health benefits from their staff, only 21% of employees reported receiving employerpaid health benefits – with 27% reporting that there were no health benefits offered by their employer at all.
“Health benefits like cash plans are an incredibly valuable and cost-effective way for businesses to genuinely care for their employees,” explains Medicash Sales & Marketing Director, Paul Gambon. “By financially supporting your workforce outside of salary, you’re demonstrating a clear dedication to their wellbeing both in and out of work, and making a positive impact that’s valued by both customers and employees.”
Medicash’s findings show clear potential for employee wellbeing to not just make a positive impact on the wider UK workforce, but to boost companies’ ESG reporting capabilities from the get-go.
You can find more information on Medicash’s survey, “The Employee Benefits Rift” at www.medicash.org/theemployee-benefits-rift
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Even the best designed buildings don’t stay the same forever, changing requirements require interiors to be repurposed from time-to-time, which poses a problem for a busy retail environment, museum, or transport hub such as a rail station or airport. How do you screen off the areas being worked on?
The traditional way of creating internal hoarding, to separate busy working areas from the public, is with a combination of wood and plasterboard. Whilst this can make an effective barrier, it takes skill and effort to install and, at the end of the project, these materials frequently end up in landfill.
Liverpool based fencing and site hoarding specialists Blok ‘N’ Mesh looked at this problem and developed a reusable and, at its end-of-life, fully recyclable, internal hoarding system called Reuse-A-Wall™.
Commercial Manager for Reuse-A-Wall, Gary Chapman, explains “Reuse-A-Wall is a product that replaces temporary stud walls during a refurbishment project with a system that is zero trip on
the customer side, hygienic, an excellent surface for point-of-sale advertising, and, as the name implies, fully reusable.”
Reuse-A-Wall consists of lightweight, fire retardant UPVC wall panels which are clamped together and designed to be assembled by contactors themselves. Single and double doors form part of the system and ensure secure access in and out of the working area.
Gary again “reuse is better than recycling and the system is returned to us at the end of the project to be used again. When products are no longer suitable for hire, we recycle them ourselves in our own facility for remanufacture into accessory products.”
The success of Reuse-A-Wall is apparent by the large number of major retailers among its customers. Supermarkets especially, including Sainsbury’s, Asda, Tesco, Co-Op and Lidl, are drawn to the
impact resistant nature of the system to avoid collision damage from shop trolleys as well as appreciating a system that is easily cleaned and food safe.
Transport hubs such as London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports and numerous railway stations including Euston and Birmingham New Street have also had work areas safely screened by Reuse-A-Wall.
For further information, go to www.reuseawall.com
Reuse is better than recycling and the system is returned to us at the end of the project to be used again.
For CGI, as a global business and IT services firm, ESG means being accountable and operating as a responsible and ethical company on behalf of our three stakeholders—clients, consultants, and shareholders. More than ever, ESG initiatives are part of this stakeholder dialogue. For us, this means employing our expertise in collaboration with our clients, educational institutions and local charities to improve the economic, social and environmental well-being of our shared communities.
economical partners. ESG dialogue is vital to building clear and effective engagement that fosters collaboration. Integral to this is continuous feedback from stakeholders that then integrates into the decisions we make demonstrating how feedback influences our strategic direction.
responsibility as a global company to engage in business practices that are ethical and in compliance with the letter and spirit of all applicable laws and regulations.
Being engaged as an ethical and responsible company means we understand the scope of our broad ecosystem which includes many collaborators such as suppliers, local community organisations and industry
So how do we know what it is we want to achieve to meet our ESG goals? Our ESG strategy is clear, Environmental – we aim to accelerate the transition to net zero as a company. Social – we champion digital inclusion for all citizens, taking actions locally to improve access to technology and business education and mentoring to help everyone be successful in a digital society. Governance – we lead with trust and transparency. We recognise and embrace our
At CGI, we strongly believe in conducting our business practices responsibly, and ethically and being accountable to the environment, society and governance while ensuring that everyone can positively benefit from the empowering and innovative impacts that our technology solutions deliver - through our commitment to ESG.
Liverpool-based software development consultancy, Mashbo, is calling for professionals in the social housing sector to help it collaboratively develop a new platform that will increase transparency and drive standards up in the sector.
Tenat is an automated and fully integrated system that keeps vital property documentation and information all in one place, making it easier for social landlords to check, ensure compliance and to provide transparency to social housing tenants.
Its aim is to level out the sector by allowing tenants to have simple, stress-free access and clear visibility of their own financial responsibilities, alongside the governance and maintenance responsibilities that their social landlord has to them.
Social housing, lower cost rented housing stock provided by landlords - often local authorities and housing associations – who are registered with the Regulator of Social Housing, is supposed to be the UK’s accessible and affordable solution.
However, recent cases have shown that this is not the case and that growing numbers of those living in social housing are not living in homes that meet expected standards of living, nor are they receiving the service they should from the landlords who are responsible for their properties.
Such examples include the case of Awaab
Ishak, who died in 2020 as a direct result of black mould in the flat he lived in in Rochdale, an issue that had been raised repeatedly by the child’s family with the housing association that owned the property.
As well as maintenance and safety deficiencies, other challenges faced by social housing tenants include poor communication and inadequate procedures, unfair allocation of rented accommodation, unreasonable demand for rent payments and vague, nonspecific, or unclear rental agreements, which leave tenants exposed to additional costs or at risk of exploitation by unscrupulous landlords.
Mashbo MD, Gavin Sherratt said: “Recent cases have starkly highlighted that the social housing sector needs urgent levelling out. As well as better legislation to protect tenants, improvement in how people’s homes are managed to ensure greater compliance and accountability is desperately needed. We believe that automation is the key to levelling out in this sector.”
Through liaison with professionals in the sector, Mashbo has identified an appetite from within the industry for change. While negligence and exploitation play an obvious part in some cases, the housing sector has also faced budget cuts, the impact of the pandemic and staffing issues, with property professionals overworked and overwhelmed by day-to-day administrative tasks, causing tenants who need help sometimes to slip through the net.
Tenat’s transparent and fully auditable system tracks and records the history of each property and all connected communications, providing
full transparency and safety for all users and leaving underhand and unscrupulous landlords with nowhere to hide. Mashbo is also working towards the creation of a property audit hub that allows the management of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) requirements, recording and reporting on all these elements of a landlord’s portfolio.
Gavin added: “There are many professionals in the social housing sector that are actively calling for change and the help to implement it. They are committed to their ESG responsibilities and want a fairer system for all.
“These are the people we want to work collaboratively with to develop Tenat. Our business strives to build things people use and the input of sector experts is vital to this. By working together, we can ensure that Tenat resolves the most pertinent challenges they are facing.
“As a platform that is still in development, we want to build this project with the knowledge and understanding of current frustrations, challenges and risks being faced by both tenants and professionals in the sector, so we can help to drive the long-term digital transformation of the sector that will improve transparency, accountability and ultimately improve – and potentially even save - lives.”
If you are a landlord, agent involved in social housing, a social housing tenant, or an investor interested in our mission please contact us via hello@tenat.io.
Find out more at tenat.io
Colin Reader, founder and managing director of MSP Global
As businesses continue to seek new ways to reduce their environmental impact, they are increasingly turning to digital event technology to support their goals and drive growth through innovation.
Virtual and hybrid events, live streaming or mobile studios all provide low-carbon options for organisations to update their wider teams, communicate with existing customers and attract new connections without the environmental impact of traditional events.
Why ask hundreds of employees from across the country to converge on a single location when you can deliver the same impressive, professional update from your headquarters and they can save the time, environmental impact and cost of travel? Plus, it takes less resource to arrange and you can do it with greater regularity, while also including a wider and more equitable range of team members.
At MSP Studios, we regularly work with clients to do just this. For example, we helped Matalan host an all-employee event for more
than 13,500 people from around the world that was live streamed with a full recording option for those who weren’t able to join live for any reason. It was hugely successful and left their teams feeling energised and more engaged.
Part of this work involved providing a mobile studio set, which is another great way to deliver a professional virtual event. They can be built on location, typically at a company’s head office, and by adding staging, printed graphics, LED video wall, furniture or a SAT truck for a secure uncontended connection, businesses can ensure their event is broadcast with less than a second’s delay.
Similarly, there is growing demand for broadcast and production units for location shoots that can be used at any
time or location to create a bespoke studio experience. We are working with numerous clients in the build-up to Eurovision as businesses seek new and innovative ways to reach their audiences around an exciting global event.
Another benefit of virtual and hybrid events is the opportunity to collaborate with partner organisations, both domestically and globally, without the capacity or logistics restrictions of traditional events.
With ever-increasing awareness of our shared responsibility to tackle climate change, the appetite for digital solutions to physical challenges is likely to grow even stronger.
As you are already aware, during the last few years there has been a massive shift in the employment market with a huge rise in resignations and career changes. As remote work grows in popularity and geography no longer factors into hiring, it has become increasingly difficult for employers to recruit and retain staff. Additionally, many industries are facing a talent shortage, skills gap and quickly need to address their carbon footprint.
Most importantly, a hybrid, bespoke and interactive virtual platform be used throughout the onboarding process alongside or in replace of existing training aides to allow you to train your staff more effectively. Through the use of innovative 3D training platforms and video technology, new recruits can build their understanding of your business from any device, at any time.
• Increased productivity across your workforce
• Reduced training costs
• Easy integration into your current induction process
• A positive boost in recruitment and retention of staff
• Reduce carbon footprint
• Improved workplace safety
Employers are now reevaluating the best practices to help attract the right employees into their industry and are looking for creative ways in order to stand out in the recruitment process.
Through the use of innovative, virtual platforms, employers can build interest, increase awareness, attract new hires and train staff. Videos can be used on your job page to highlight your company culture, presented at job fairs, and shared across your social media platforms.
This tool is perfect In industries such as manufacturing, engineering, construction and maritime. Custom virtual training solutions can be used to prepare new hires for their environment and provide a higher confidence in performing duties safely and truly set the standard across your organisation.
Implementing engaging and immersive training solutions has many other benefits, including:
It is now more important than ever for organisations to provide an effective learning experience from the start. A well designed and immersive virtual induction programme creates an engaging and enjoyable experience for new employees and reflects positively on your business.
If you are interested in learning more about how virtual training tools can help your organisation, get in touch: georgiaflynn@hi-impact.co.uk. Or find out more at www.hi-impact.media
• How might the landscape for ESG change in the next 12 months?
Despite the myriad of challenges that businesses are currently facing due to continued geopolitical and economic uncertainty, ESG is set to remain in the spotlight and continue to be a key focus for businesses across many industries. Importantly, we are starting to see a shift in the attitude towards ESG. It is not always being seen as more red tape for businesses to contend with, with organisations now embracing the long-term value and sustainability they can derive from sound ESG strategies and goals.
We are also expecting regulations to continue to be implemented across more of the economy.
Climate reporting aligned to Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) is now mandatory for large businesses and we expect this to filter down to smaller businesses along with the ongoing development of the UK’s version of SFDR (EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation) – SDR (Sustainability Disclosure Requirements). Consultation on this regulation closed earlier this year and we’re expecting to see final guidance on the SDR in the summer.
In terms of topics, I don’t think there will be a material shift, I believe climate change and human rights will remain the two most important factors.
Kathy leads RSM’s ESG team across the North West, working with businesses to identify and set their ESG and sustainability goals. Kathy also works closely with RSM’s private equity team to develop the firm’s ESG offering for private equity clients, including ESG reporting, stakeholder engagement and ESG due diligence.
With increased legal and regulatory requirements impacting many businesses, there is now a huge focus on data, and transparency of reporting. As Greenwashing claims become more prominent, so too does the need to have clear evidence to support progress against ESG objectives. Different industries are also experiencing different types of regulation and scrutiny. We’ve seen this particularly in retail where products are being labelled as ‘sustainable’
or ‘made with recycled fabric’ only to find out that a very small portion of the garment is made with recycled materials. As a result, some of these terms are becoming regulated.
Carbon emissions and net zero are topics that we speak to clients about at length. There are a large number of stakeholders that influence a business to act on ESG, and this is usually the first area these stakeholders ask about. These stakeholders are typically investors, customers and employees who want to know that they’re working for a business that is having a positive impact on society, rather than just delivering profits.
Human rights are also a growing topic of conversation and feature increasingly on client priority lists. This covers everything from modern slavery in supply chains to employee wellbeing and diversity and inclusion.
For businesses just starting out on their ESG journey, the first step is to understand what the material ESG issues are for your business. These could be defined by the size of your business, or what industry you operate in, as well as the complexity of your supply chain and stakeholder pressures. There are tools such as the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) materiality finder that can assist with this.
Once you know what your material issues are you can then start to collect and understand data that will inform your overall ESG strategy and targets.
In the world of ESG, you’re not expected to have the answers on day one. However, you need to show progress and be transparent about both the current status and your future plans, as your stakeholders will hold you accountable.
successes achieved and led to the school being recognised with a national award for its work.
Establishing a positive wellbeing culture requires completing a number of steps. Identifying the needs of all individuals was the first task. Engaging everyone in conversations and questionnaires allowed us to identify and triage levels of need. Resources were then allocated quickly and appropriately. Gathering feedback became a vital part of our everyday practice as individual’s circumstances changed. We upskilled so we could identify markers for people in need and established teams of wellbeing champions and mental health first aiders across the school. An area on the school’s website was given to resources and links and we used social media to keep our community informed. Ongoing workshops helped develop resilience for all
Joe Mangan is a former school leader who has worked as a Headteacher for over 10 years, most recently for Maricourt Catholic High School. Joe now helps Schools across the North West realise the potential of a flexible workforce, as a Senior Business Development Manager for SupplyWell. Today he shares his insights on wellbeing culture in schools… Since the pandemic, organisations have responded to support people who are struggling to re-establish the calm and repair the disconnect and lack of routine that lockdown forced upon us all. As the former headteacher of a large secondary school, Maricourt Catholic High School, I saw the impact the isolation and restrictions had on students, families and colleagues. Our determination to help our community ‘reset’ to a normal way of life encouraged us to be creative in what we did internally and to engage with external agencies to provide the additional layers of support where needed. Having an outstanding senior leader, Danielle Lawler, coordinating the work across the school was key. Her relentless determination to continue the open and honest discussions around mental health and wellbeing and provide the appropriate support where needed remains key to the
As a company, we don’t currently have an ESG strategy. There, I’ve said it! And I know we aren’t alone (be honest!) because I’ve asked a few people and they aren’t sure either! Over the years, there must have been loads of new slogans, abbreviations and techniques that companies have faced, that at first, must have bamboozled and raised anxiety levels but which is now considered the norm. So, my question is, where do you start?
Research seemed to be my starting point. Any good search engine will tell you the 3 factors; environmental, social, governance. It will also tell you lots of different frameworks you can use to begin to map out an ESG strategy, but it is important to review a few and decide what suits your business best. Once I was armed with some more information, my panic calmed as I began to see we have already begun to think about some aspects of ESG – we just haven’t put them in a framework.
My next stop…Training. I’ve registered for a course…no better way to learn. I could sit and google all day, but time is precious, and I need to capitalise on every second. Plus, further training often leads to a plethora of new ideas and a chance to learn from others experience– positives and negatives!
Then we need to review; what are we already doing and what are our easy wins (small, low effort changes). What are our ESG goals; where do we want to be, how are we going to get there, and how will we know when we have arrived (what are our KPIs and who is going to report on our progress). And of course, reviewing business performance never ends…nor should it! Every ESG strategy should be regularly reviewed and updated –as there will always be new ways to address your ESG as a business.
So as for us…watch this space, I’ll report back in the next well-connected.
Last year, The Social Desk purchased Liverpool Dinner Club. It has been a fantastic space for networking, dining, and building relationships across the city and we have had some incredible feedback.
and wellbeing events were calendared in throughout the year.
Now I am working as a Senior Business Development Manager for SupplyWell, it was important to me that I joined a company that shared the same commitment to their colleagues and am delighted to say our philosophies are very much aligned. The improvements were significant at Maricourt Catholic High School. The work continues, as it does across many organisations up and down the country. For it to have the impact you desire, it must become part of your culture and be led by people who are passionate about making the difference within your organisation.
If you would like to discuss how your school could be benefitting from a flexible workforce, contact me directly by emailing Joe@supplywell.co.uk
A massive Thank You from myself and Lee to everyone who has been so far.
For our next event, on Thursday 11th May, we are going bigger than ever before and taking over the entire Gino D’Acampos 360 Sky Bar on Old Hall Street, to host an “Evening of Eurovision” in association with the Liverpool Chamber. We have sold half our tickets, so don’t miss out and get yours now. There will be food, drink and live entertainment all evening, but of course our core value of the chance to network and build some solid relationships will always be the focus of our events. And its not just the size of the event we are changing. Liverpool is a very special city, its vibrant, dynamic, passionate and holds its own charisma – it’s a big community and all these things are why it was chosen to host Eurovision. So, in that spirit, we have decided to donate all profits from the event to two charities: Strawberry field and AUGB. These two charities not only have a great connection with Eurovision, but they also have some incredible plans together on how to support many of those affected by the War in Ukraine.
There are very few reasons not to come, tickets can be purchased from www.liverpooldinnerclub.com we would love to see you there!
In early March, DfT announced a contract extension for the West Coast Partnership (WCP) until 15 October 2023. WCP comprises Avanti West Coast, which runs intercity services on the West Coast Main Line, and West Coast Partnership Development, which is the HS2 shadow operator - designing new high-speed services, as well as reshaping existing Avanti West Coast intercity services.
At the same time, FirstGroup appointed Andy Mellors as the new Managing Director at Avanti West Coast. Andy has previously held senior roles at Great Western Railway, South Western Railway and most recently as Managing Director of FirstGroup’s nonfranchised rail businesses, including helping to launch Lumo.
Being visible on the West Coast is an immediate priority for Andy. He has toured depots and stations across the network, meeting colleagues and customers to hear their views, and also met online with stakeholders across the route to update on the progress made in recent months, ongoing challenges, as well as what Avanti
West Coast is doing to give customers the best possible service.
Following his appointment, Andy said: “My priority, and my passion, is to give our customers the best possible experience, and I am sorry for the inconvenience and frustration they have suffered in previous months. I am determined to deliver the services that customers expect and deserve. My whole focus, and that of my team, will be on doing that.”
Looking forward to the future, Andy outlined three priorities. “First to make sure our recovery at Avanti West Coast continues in line with our plan. This means continuing to deliver a frequent and reliable train service. Second, to improve
relations with staff – our people are passionate about delivering a great service to customers and I want to enable and empower them to do that. Finally, I want to help grow rail and deliver a better railway, recognising post-Covid changes to travel patterns, and providing value for money for taxpayers.
“Our refurbished Pendolino trains and new Hitachi fleet will offer customers more comfortable, modern, and greener journeys – all things they tell us they want. At Avanti West Coast we’re also excited to play our part in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, working with partners across the Liverpool City Region for what we know will be a spectacular event for Liverpool and the UK.”
My priority, and my passion, is to give our customers the best possible experience, and I am sorry for the inconvenience and frustration they have suffered in previous months. I am determined to deliver the services that customers expect and deserve. My whole focus, and that of my team, will be on doing that.
Philip Richards, Head of ESG at Sustainable Energy First, explains why environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards are powerful drivers of growth.
Investors demand insights on how companies are affecting the environment and how environmental issues could potentially affect their investment. Regulations are sharpening-up to meet these demands, Task Force on ClimateRelated Disclosures (TCFD), now mandatory for large UK businesses will require the measurement and reporting of climaterelated impacts, including, transitions to net zero.
There are risks and penalties associated with misleading or false claims, in the EU, penalties of up to 4% of global turnover could be issued for “greenwashing.”. Good quality and assurance of ESG returns is key, misrepresentation could lead to significant financial and reputational damage.
ESG is no longer just a search word, it is a critical aspect of a business’s operation. With increasing concerns about climate change, social inequality, and corporate responsibility, companies are recognising the need to prioritise ESG in their decision-making process.
Consumers, socially conscious and seeking brands that share values. Certain businesses/ establishments stipulate suppliers align with requirements to maintain service contracts. In 2023, the NHS will require contracts over £5m to have a Carbon Reduction Plan, and by 2027, all suppliers must report net zero targets publicly.
Investing in ESG has multiple benefits, including access to new markets, boosted
employee productivity, and better access to finance or contract bids. Strong ESG propositions help businesses develop talent for future recruitment, building connections in local communities.
Information is in abundance and overwhelming at times. Businesses must take a strategic approach to ESG, focusing on areas that are most relevant to their operations and stakeholders, measure and report on progress to ensure that ESG efforts are delivering results.
ESG is now a vital tool for success in a future that demands navigation through constant change. Companies that invest in ESG will not only benefit financially but also build strong relationships with their stakeholders and contribute to a more sustainable future.
At Sustainable Energy First, we help organisations not just with compliance issues but with how to develop – and demonstrate – a positive impact on the world. If you would like to discuss developing an ESG approach within your business, get in touch on partnerships@sefirst.com or 01253 789816.
“ESG is now a vital tool for success in a future that demands navigation through constant change.”
Partnership with Liverpool University Hospitals Charity set to raise over £10,000 to support both end of life and dementia care services at LUHFT. And there is still time to support them by signing up to take part in their upcoming Golf Day, Bring £1 To Work Day or becoming a Charity Partner!
It’s been an exciting year for Liverpool University Hospitals Charity, working together closely with Director of Nursing Fiona Murphy, MBE, raising funds to help transform end of life care at LUHFT. As well as establishing new connections and relationships through their Charity Patronship with Liverpool Chamber, Liverpool University Hospitals Charity have raised over £6,000 at various Chamber events throughout the year; A significant amount of this total was raised at our Innovation Awards in November, at our recent Charity Pub Quiz and from donations at our Chamber Day at the Liverpool International Tennis Tournament last June. With our Chamber Day at The Races fast approaching, the Charity are hopeful that donations will reach the £10,000 mark, allowing them to invest £4,000 into Dementia Care.
Aimee Clare, Fundraising Development Manager at LUHFT Charity said:
“Donations received this year from Chamber members to help and support our most vulnerable patients and their families at the most difficult time has been incredible. The SWAN model being implemented by Fiona and her team will vastly improve the experience for the patient and their loved ones at an extremely difficult time. It’s just brilliant and heart-warming to know that the money raised this year through our partnership with Liverpool Chamber has contributed towards beautiful memory boxes for our patients and their bereaved families.”
With Liverpool Chamber Day at The Races fast approaching, LUHFT Charity are looking forward to raising more money to improve and enhance dementia care and support for patients and their families across LUHFT. “We are really excited to see how many charity bets are placed and how much they raise at the end of the day…Thank you so much in advice to those attending who choose to support us on the day. Liverpool University Hospitals Charity couldn’t dream of improving care and support for our patients without support like this”
Looking to the future, Liverpool University Hospitals Charity is looking forward to developing opportunities to improve treatment and care for LUHFT patients, their families and incredible staff who care for them with new and existing members and connections. Whilst LUHFT Charity would love to see Liverpool Chamber Members and friends take part in their upcoming events, it’s LUHFT Charity’s hope to work collaboratively In partnership with local companies and individuals to raise funds to improve services and care in a way that aligns with individual objectives, values, and interests.
Aimee said: “A charity partnership is a brilliant way to engage your colleagues in fun activities and events, working together and encouraging each other to raise vital funds that could save, support, or improve the lives of others. We want to ensure that your organisational or personal objectives are taken into consideration when investing time and energy into our charity. We recognise and appreciate the significance of your support and we will be there every step of the way to provide the encouragement and support that you need”
Charity Golf Day – Formby Golf Club
Friday 14th July
Formby Hall Golf Club is one of the worlds finest Link Courses. Running through the mature sand dunes and pinewoods of Formby, the course will challenge you at every shot. Our popular annual golf day includes breakfast, 18 hole Championship Golf Competition and a three course dinner.
Bring £1 To Work Day in collaboration with The Guide Liverpool
Thursday 24th September
Calling all businesses, large and small. All you need to do is register your place of work, spread the word, and ask all colleagues to each bring in at least £1 and on Thursday 24th September, we will come to collect your pounds!
Skydive
Saturday 10th June
3 places remaining – Are you brave enough to jump out of a plane for charity?
75 for 75 Liverpool-ChesterLiverpool bike ride
Sunday 2nd July
In celebration of the NHS 75th Birthday we’re recruiting 75 cyclists to take part in the iconic Liverpool Chester Liverpool bike ride. From 2 to 100 mile routes this event is open to all ages and abilities. Fundraise £75 to qualify for a free place.
To learn more about these events or to find out how you can support Liverpool University Hospitals Charity, email aimee.clare@liverpoolft.nhs.uk
Join colleagues, members and friends at our Chamber events for fantastic networking opportunities and an insight into what’s happening in the Liverpool City Region…
Informal networking and coffee morning, usually on the first Friday of every month.
Our monthly Chamber Socials are evening events to network across hospitality, legal, charity, and professional sectors. Showcasing venues throughout the Liverpool City Centre.
Quarterly sessions focused on building relationships and providing insights with Schools, Charities, and PropertyConstruction sectors.
Invitation to annual major events such as Aintree Races, Liverpool International Tennis Tournament and our Annual Awards, all at a discounted rate.
3 yearly sessions partnered with the Liverpool City Council with businesses and schools looking to work with one another.
Held throughout the year covering a range of topics from within the international arena, including the International Trade Club.
Workshops designed to provide new businesses with knowledge, connections, and insights to help their business grow.
Join today and get access to a range of events including networking coffee mornings, chamber socials, business briefings and much more.
If you would like to get involved please contact Jordan.rhoda@liverpoolchamber.org.uk or James.parker@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Chamber staff are here to provide dedicated support for business members of the Chamber. The directory below provides a list of contacts for members should they need to contact us.
Everton first team stars James Tarkowski and Dwight McNeil visited a local secondary school to witness how Everton in the Community has lifted the aspirations and literacy levels of young people.
The Blues duo visited Calderstones School in Allerton to see the charity’s PL Inspires programme in action and meet Year 10 pupils who have been taking part in its popular literacy and creative writing class.
The Club’s official charity has been delivering the PL Inspires programme at Calderstones since 2018 and introduced a literacy and creative writing course at the start of the 22/23 academic year after it became known that literacy levels had dropped because of the pandemic.
Since the ten-week course was introduced to the school, reading ages amongst pupils have increased by an average of nine months, whilst a recent Ofstead report rated the school as ‘good’, a significant improvement on its previous rating of ‘requires improvement’ and key staff within the school have contributed this increase in part to Everton in the Community’s work.
Following the recent success of the initiative, PL Inspires programme manager, Carly Wheeler said:
“In our five years at Calderstones High School, we’ve noticed that the trends and themes have changed with the needs of the students, from behaviour interventions to more recently a dip in reading ages.
“It’s been great to see kids feel inspired by literacy as a result of the course, and having the players visit the students is going to help them buy into the programme even more now they’ve got such fantastic role models enforcing that message.”
Assistant Headteacher, Luke O’Hanlon added:
“The work Everton in the Community has done in raising the children’s self-esteem has been fantastic. The reading ages post-
COVID was a big concern for us – there was a big gap – to have Everton support us with that has been brilliant.
“They’ve given us incredible support. Academically, to see the tangible impact Everton have made, secondly, our students idolise footballers in a way that they don’t necessarily idolise me, so to have other people come in and show them they value education and how they think it’s important is really impactful.”
During their time at the school, Tarkowski and McNeil joined the pupils in a series of icebreakers including a name association game based on books and movies before taking part in a creative short story exercise where they worked in small groups to devise a story including three random items before reading it back to the class.
Funded by the Premier League, PL Inspires is an education programme that looks to raise aspirations, attainment and attendance. Everton in the Community works in targeted schools across Merseyside, supporting young people who are marginalised or at risk of not reaching their potential.
The Toffees pair were visiting Everton in the Community’s PL Inspires programme as part of the Premier League’s PL Supports campaign which is running from 31 March until 9 April to highlight the impact that the League’s investment has had on communities and wider football. The Premier League supports football at every level across the country, investing in communities and facilities to positively impact the lives of millions of people.
Defender, Tarkowski said:
“It’s been a bit of a throwback for me as I’ve not been to a school for a while so it’s been a bit of a learning curve for me too!
“Our careers won’t last forever so right now people look at us as local heroes, that feels really nice so it’s a great pleasure whilst it lasts.”
Everton in the Community’s delivery across South Liverpool is made possible thanks to funding received from the Steve Morgan Foundation to deliver early intervention programmes aimed at tackling the barriers facing young people in attaining a good education and subsequent employment.
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