Well
Connected Winter 2022
Official Magazine for Liverpool Chamber
Using innovation as a fuel for growth Christine Vaudrey, Director of Strategy and Communications at Torus, tells us how innovation and partnerships can fuel socio-economic recovery.
Feature Interview Liverpool FC chief executive Billy Hogan discusses the importance of inclusion and how the club is innovating to reach fans around the world.
Liverpool Chamber
Connect Support Thrive.
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CONTENTS
Find Inside 4-5 Economy 7
Message from CEO
8-9
Chamber Membership
13 Infrastructure 15-17
International Trade
19 Exporting 20-21 Health and Wellbeing
7
22
24
Movers and Shakers
24-25 Skills and Employability 26-27 Feature Interview 28-30 Cover Feature
28
32
Patron News
36
Members News
38 Regeneration 40
Patron News
41 Digital 42-43 Transport 44
Responsible Business
45 Events 46-47 Chamber Events 48 Charity
26
49
Staff Directory
50
5 minutes with...
43
38 Enquiries Liverpool Chamber Suite G08 – G10, Cotton Exchange Building, Bixteth Street, Liverpool, L3 9LQ t: 0151 227 1234 e: membership@liverpoolchamber.org.uk w: www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk Publisher Benham Publishing Limited, Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ t: 0151 236 4141 e: admin@benhampublishing.com w: www.benhampublishing.com
Liverpool Chamber
50
Published January 2022 © Benham Publishing Media No. 1905 Editorial Content Manager Emily Hardy Emily.Hardy@liverpoolchamber.org.uk Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 e: karen@benhampublishing.com Advertising Sales Catherine McCarthy e: catherine@benhampublishing.com Studio Peter Wilkinson e: peter@benhampublishing.com
@LpoolChamber
@LiverpoolChamber
Disclaimer Well Connected is mailed without charge to all Chamber members and distributed at all Chamber events. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editorat 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. © 2022. 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.
Liverpool Chamber
3
BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
LOOKING AHEAD
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. Firms facing pressures to raise prices due to the following factors:
0%
0% +25%
-25%
Manufacturing Sector
+25%
-25%
Service Sector
72% -50%
+50%
+35%
Prices
-75%
+75%
-50%
+50%
+29%
-75%
59% 46%
+75%
33%
28% 29%
28% 19%
+100%
-100%
...of manufacturers expect their prices to increase, unchanged from Q3 2019
+100%
-100%
...of service firms expect their prices to increase, up from +28% in Q3 2019
+25%
Raw materials Financial costs
Other overheads
Balance of firms increasing investment in training
0%
0% -25%
Pay settlements
40% +25%
-25%
Investment
30% -50%
+50%
+11%
-75%
+75%
-50%
+50%
10%
+11%
-75%
20%
+75%
0% -10%
+100%
-100%
...of manufacturers increased investment in training in Q4 2019, up from +8% in Q3 2019
+100%
-100%
...of service firms increased investment in training in Q4 2019, down from +13% in Q3 2019
+25%
QES % 2015 2017 2019 Service Sector QES
Balance of firms reporting improved cash flow
0%
0% -25%
-20%
-30% Balance 2007 2009 2011 2013 Manufacturing Sector QES
30% +25%
-25%
20%
Cash Flow
-50%
+50%
+1%
-75%
+75%
-50%
+50%
+75%
-10% -20%
+100%
-100%
...of manufacturers reported improved cash flow in Q4 2019, up from -7% in Q3 2019
+100%
-100%
...of service firms reported improved cash flow in Q4 2019, down from +5% in Q3 2019
+25%
-50%
QES % -40% Balance 2007 2009 2011 2013 Manufacturing Sector QES
+50%
+75%
-50%
-75%
80%
+25%
-25%
+27%
-75%
-30%
0%
0% -25%
Confidence
0%
+2%
-75%
10%
+50%
+32%
+75%
2015 2017 2019 Service Sector QES
UK GDP growth and QES balance of firms confident 2.0% their turnover will increase
60%
1.5%
40%
1.0%
20%
0.5%
0%
0.0%
-20%
-0.5% -1.0%
-40% -100%
+100%
...of manufacturers are confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, up from +25% in Q3 2019
-100%
+100%
...of service firms are confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, up from +30% in Q3 2019
-60% QES % Balance -80% 2007 2009 GDP Growth
GDP % Growth (ONS) 2011
2013
2015
Service Sector QES
2017
2019
-1.5% -2.0%
Manufacturing QES
4 www.britishchambers.org.uk | @britishchambers
ECONOMY
BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
LOOKING AHEAD
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.
+25%
-25%
Firms facing pressures to raise prices due to the following factors:
0%
0%
Manufacturing Sector
+25%
-25%
Service Sector
72% -50%
+50%
+35%
Prices
-75%
+75%
-50%
+50%
+29%
-75%
59% 46%
+75%
33%
28% 29%
28% 19%
+100%
-100%
...of manufacturers expect their prices to increase, unchanged from Q3 2019
+100%
-100%
...of service firms expect their prices to increase, up from +28% in Q3 2019
+25%
Raw materials Financial costs
Other overheads
Balance of firms increasing investment in training
0%
0% -25%
Pay settlements
40% +25%
-25%
Investment
30% -50%
+50%
+11%
-75%
+75%
-50%
+50%
10%
+11%
-75%
20%
+75%
0% -10%
+100%
-100%
...of manufacturers increased investment in training in Q4 2019, up from +8% in Q3 2019
+100%
-100%
...of service firms increased investment in training in Q4 2019, down from +13% in Q3 2019
+25%
QES % 2015 2017 2019 Service Sector QES
Balance of firms reporting improved cash flow
0%
0% -25%
-20%
-30% Balance 2007 2009 2011 2013 Manufacturing Sector QES
30% +25%
-25%
20%
Cash Flow
-50%
+50%
+1%
-75%
+75%
-50%
+50%
+75%
-10% -20%
+100%
-100%
...of manufacturers reported improved cash flow in Q4 2019, up from -7% in Q3 2019
+100%
-100%
...of service firms reported improved cash flow in Q4 2019, down from +5% in Q3 2019
+25%
-50%
QES % -40% Balance 2007 2009 2011 2013 Manufacturing Sector QES
+50%
+75%
-50%
-75%
80%
+25%
-25%
+27%
-75%
-30%
0%
0% -25%
Confidence
0%
+2%
-75%
10%
+50%
+32%
+75%
2015 2017 2019 Service Sector QES
UK GDP growth and QES balance of firms confident 2.0% their turnover will increase
60%
1.5%
40%
1.0%
20%
0.5%
0%
0.0%
-20%
-0.5%
-40% -100%
+100%
...of manufacturers are confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, up from +25% in Q3 2019
-100%
+100%
...of service firms are confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, up from +30% in Q3 2019
-1.0%
-60% QES % Balance -80% 2007 2009 GDP Growth
GDP % Growth (ONS) 2011
2013
2015
Service Sector QES
2017
2019
-1.5% -2.0%
Manufacturing QES
5 www.britishchambers.org.uk | @britishchambers
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laboratory@alexstewartagriculture.com www.foodtestlab.co.uk T: 0151 525 1488 Food Test Lab, 21 Sefton Business Park, Olympic Way, Aintree, Liverpool, Merseyside, L30 1RD, England
A message from our Chief Executive, Paul Cherpeau Welcome to the first edition of our Well Connected magazine in 2022, a year which we enter with a sense of optimism, tinged with some uncertainty in the wake of the Omicron variant and the ongoing challenges around economic recovery. The results of the latest Quarterly Economic Survey highlight that UK businesses have an incredible ability to bounce back through innovation and resilience, with the hospitality and retail sectors showing the greatest signs of improvement. Whilst it is encouraging to see that the hardest hit industries were able to make significant steps towards recovery in Q4 of last year, the latest restrictions have hit those sectors hard once again and the Government needs to continue to provide support to ensure they have the space to not only recover but also to thrive. You can view the full results of the QES on pages 4&5. In November, our Innovation in Business Awards really captured the level of resilience and excellence of our City Region’s business community, highlighting so many great examples from both businesses and individuals. It has been a great honour for the Chamber to be a part of those efforts to endure, prosper, rebuild and grow. In this edition we take a closer look at how our members have used innovation to face challenges head on. We celebrate the ingenuity of businesses who have turned around negative situations in a way that has allowed them to re-emerge in a much stronger position, utilising opportunities created by Covid to re-evaluate their own processes and implement positive
changes such as flexible working, improved health related benefits and more. Innovation will continue to be a crucial element of business survival and growth in the midst of a climate of high vacancy rates, a mismatch of skills, the shifting sands of the global trading environment and the ambitions for net zero and climate change, all of which will have a real and consequential impact on businesses. To help businesses to navigate their way around these challenges, we want to provide a more creative, dynamic and interactive relationship with our members in 2022 with the introduction of our Expert Panels and Specialist Networks, with the focus firmly on creating the best environment for our businesses to succeed. Each month we will focus on a specific policy theme which in February will be Skills and Employability and we will be launching our School-Business Network, bringing together education and business to create connections and, collaboratively, to positively influence the career opportunities for our young people. Our flagship events will also be making a return as we host our Silver Birch Garden Party at the Randox Grand National on Thursday the 7th of April. It is the largest business gathering over the 3 days of
racing and after a two year break, we hope to see many of you there. You can view our full events calendar on page 46&47. Taking inspiration from our Award winners, we will continue to innovate and adapt in 2022 to provide the best possible support and services for our members. We have an exciting journey ahead and we look forward to working with you. Paul Cherpeau, Chief Executive Liverpool Chamber
CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP
Welcome
Welcome to our new Patrons and Strategic Partners From Tom Woolley, Business Growth and Membership Manager We would also like to extend a Happy New Year and a warm welcome to all of our new members. Since our last edition we have been joined by 21 new members, including Tuesday Media, Risk Support Services, Expect Limited, and The Pentone Family from our Business Growth Programme. •
Risk Support Services Ltd
•
Tuesday Media`
•
CE Change Ltd
• 2030Hub
We are delighted to
welcome four new Patrons and four new Strategic Partners to Liverpool Chamber this quarter. Working closely with these members allows us to ensure that the companies have representation at our most prominent events, engage with us on policy activity and are featured in all of our communications channels. They also help to shape the Chamber’s voice with industry specialism and thought leadership, and so we are thrilled to announce such high profile organisations as Blok ‘N’ Mesh, City of Liverpool College, Danone Group and Torus Group as patrons of Liverpool Chamber for 2022. We would also like to welcome 2 buy 2, Athertons, The Jockey Club and Sovini Group as new Strategic Partners. If you would like to discuss how Strategic Partnership or Patronage to Liverpool Chamber can support your business, please contact Tom Woolley via tom.woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk.
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•
Expect Limited
•
Liverpool Press Club Ltd
•
ATSPACE Ltd
•
KGH Customs Services
•
Field and Lawn
•
Finer Engineering Limited
• Medi-English •
Turtle Media & Marketing Ltd
•
The Pentone Family
•
The Liverpool Chocolate Company Ltd
•
Glenville Walker and Partners
•
Bermans LLP
•
Action Coach Liverpool
• Halcyon •
All Saints Multi-Academy Trust
•
Oremus UK Limited
•
Powder Systems Ltd
We are absolutely delighted to have you on board, and we look forward to working with you throughout 2022. If you are interested in joining Liverpool Chamber, contact Jordan on Jordan.Rhoda@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk to find out how we can support you in 2022.
An insight into the Liverpool Chamber Innovation in Business Awards As the economy has slowly reopened, it has been a true privilege to connect with members face-to-face at a range of our events. Having worked closely with so many Liverpool Chamber members during this most testing of years, it was fantastic to celebrate their achievements at our annual Innovation in Business Awards. When we first sat down to plan the awards the country was still deep in lockdown, and great uncertainty surrounded every aspect of the event: the only certainty was that we would need to serve a substantial meal with any alcohol! The exceptional effort that my team put in to produce events in not one but three venues over the course of the evening really should be applauded; as should the teams at INNSiDE By Melia, DWNTWN and Alibi, many of whom were working together for the first time.
CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP
so please contact me via Tom.Woolley@ liverpoolchamber.org.uk to maximise the sponsorship opportunities on offer.” Our membership executive Jordan Rhoda was on hand to provide a unique view from the Green Room: Entering Dwntwn’s unique underground lounge to piano music, seeing a network of brilliant businesses, and being able to celebrate our successes together after an exceptionally extraordinary year is undoubtedly my highlight of 2021.
I would like to pass on my huge thanks to the amazing Ngunan Adamu for hosting our awards ceremony, Gemma Cutting for her unflappable hosting of our off site “Green Room screening”, and to the incredible MSP Global for making such an ambitious event run without a hitch. Massive congratulations to all of our winners on the night (who are featured on p.45 of this publication) and a big thank you for everybody who contributed to our charity collection in support of the wonderful Clatterbridge Cancer Charity. Finally, special thanks must go to our range of sponsors, without whom this event would not have been possible. Headline sponsors MSP Global were joined by Gino D’Acampo Hotels and Leisure, Bruntwood Works, LCR Connect, Enterprise Holdings, Brunswick International, LJMU Clean Growth, Alibi and INNSiDE By Melia, so a huge thank you to all of our supporters on the night. We are determined to make next year’s awards even bigger and better, and they will return on Thursday 17 November 2022,
Liverpool Chamber
Every time the awards cut to the Green Room you could feel the anticipation building, and Gemma and the brilliant team at MSP Global really managed to bring our excitement to the room in the Melia. I can’t think of many more fitting ways to celebrate 2021 than through the lens of a live video call, though I’m so glad we did! #GrowMySME Business Growth Programme: Throughout 2021 Liverpool Chamber have been running a Business Growth Programme for new and growing SMEs in Merseyside. The programme, which is fully funded by the European Regional Development Fund, starts with a review of your business from a member of the Liverpool Chamber team, revealing areas of opportunity and those in need of development. Our team will then identify members of the Liverpool Chamber network who could be valuable connections, and broker introductions to them. The programme also includes access to a range of quarterly workshops delivered by business experts. In November/December 2021, we ran a series of Business Growth Bootcamp webinars, including: •
#GrowMyWorkforce with Morecrofts Solicitors, Risk Support Services, and LJMU Graduate Futures.
•
#GrowMyProfile with The Social Desk, Kenyons, and Tuesday Media
•
#GrowMyIncome with LCR Finance Hub
•
#GrowResponsibly with Be Ethical Traning and The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity
Recordings are available for each of our past bootcamps, and we will be running our next series of workshops throughout 2022.
Here’s what our delegates have to say Laura Evans, Managing Director of Glass Ceilings: “I would recommend the Business Growth Programme to anyone looking to grow their business in the Liverpool City Region. An hour each day was filled with really interesting and useful talks, covering everything I needed to start taking my small business to the next level. It was also helpful to hear from other founders and owners who had grown their own businesses by following the advice given on the programme, especially in a challenging climate where networking opportunities are reduced. Thanks to Jordan for pulling together such an engaging and helpful programme.” Kevin Byrne, Business Development Manager: “I really enjoyed the Business Growth Program seminars and the advice given by some very interesting industry professionals. I look forward to hopefully building these new relationships further during 2022 and to implementing the advice and tips offered.” If you are interested in joining the Business Growth Programme get in touch with Jordan.Rhoda@liverpoolchamber.org.uk to check your eligibility and find out more.
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INFRASTRUCTURE
ArchiPhonic calls for collaboration to combat planning delays Last summer a RIBA Future Trends report highlighted that nearly 80 percent of architecture practices that responded to its survey reported projects being delayed by hold-ups in the processing of planning applications. Almost six months on the sector is continuing to see the same issues, with practices like Liverpool-based ArchiPhonic Architectural Design seeing their business affected by delays and backlogs that came about, in part, due to the impact of the pandemic. ArchiPhonic’s newlypromoted Practice Manager, Grace Costello, said: “The amount of time it is taking to get planning applications validated is still growing. In tandem with that issue, we have also seen a reduction in communication from planning officers, who themselves are overworked and overstretched due to the logjam of applications.”
With 26 projects currently held up in the planning process and presenting a challenge for cashflow, ArchiPhonic, like many of its peers, is keen to find effective ways to work with local planning departments.
“This might be practical changes in the way we work, or it could be calling on national and local governments to ensure that planning departments are fully resourced so they can deal with the delays and backlogs.
Grace said: “Since the start of the pandemic, with many planning officers working from home and call centres being put in place, it has become virtually impossible to call and speak directly to officers for updates and to resolve issues.
“There are projects happening and there is also so much opportunity right now - for architecture firms, developers and the economy in the city region and beyond as a whole. We’re more than willing to work with colleagues in planning departments and our wider industry to make sure those opportunities are maximised and the local businesses can survive and thrive as we start the new year.”
“We know that the pandemic has had a huge impact on planning departments and we see the knock-on effects of this on a daily basis. What we’d really like to do is start an open dialogue between architecture firms and planning officers to find out what action we can take to make their jobs easier. What can we do to help them reduce the backlog?
If you wish to explore collaborative working to combat planning delays, please contact Grace Costello on info@archiphonic.co.uk archiphonic.co.uk
Sean Keyes reflects on the latest news that 14 brownfield sites in the Liverpool City Region will be used to build circa 3,000 new homes Having built over £1bn pounds worth of construction value on homes in Merseyside throughout the last 35 years, Sutcliffe’s work has seen them cover the width and breadth of the Liverpool City Region and beyond. With the green agenda and the recent COP26 conference making the whole sector rethink further how it works, Metro Mayor Steve Rotherham’s latest push to provide almost 3,000 new homes on 14 brownfield sites has been incredibly well received by our team. As part of a £36m plan to tackle the housing crisis, this fund will support eight private sector and six local authority home-building schemes, with Sutcliffe already playing a prominent role in a number of these projects. With space for circa 42,000 new homes on these aforementioned brownfield sites, Sean Keyes believes that the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s latest push to provide housing is one that will hold the economy and the construction sector in good stead for many years to come, as he said.
Liverpool Chamber
“The spread of projects across Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens, Wirral, Halton and Knowsley is just what the region needs and with close links to Halton Court, the Johnson’s Building with Sovini, Prescot Shopping Centre and St Helens Town Centre, our work will continue as we strive to provide cleaner and better living conditions for all.
for decades to come and with this seen as another step in the right direction towards a more sustainable future, we look forward to playing our own small part in this green revolution as conscious and forwardthinking civil and structural engineers.”
“This news is a win-win for everyone involved in the Liverpool City Region, with over 40,000 new homes set to be built, brownfield sites cleaned up and wealth created across the areas both in terms of new business, new jobs and more opportunities for local people. “This again proves that the local authorities are committed to constructing sustainable areas that can be maintained and used
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INTERNATIONAL TRADE
Don’t let Brexit hold you back from business! Despite the challenges created by leaving the EU as well as the Covid-19 pandemic, Liverpool Chamber has been working with organisations of all sizes and sectors across the region. Liverpool Chamber’s International Trade Manager, Elena Enciso has spoken with member businesses who have been working to navigate new trade barriers and adapt their businesses to achieve national and global success. products under their brands Insette & Studio. They also produce aerosols for some prestigious label brands too. Debbie Dwyer, Director of Insette told us since 2020 the manufacturers have faced several challenges due to ever-changing legislation. “We import and export to over 20 countries worldwide. Since Brexit and the Pandemic in 2020 we have faced more and more challenges. Additional customs clearing and legislation changes have kept us on our toes! Insette, the global manufacturers have also had to adapt to haulage issues leading to production delays and cost increases. Debbie told us “With the current situation with haulage issues here in the UK, we can face serious delays in receiving goods. Goods can get held up at port due to port operations or no haulage availability, this then causes extra costs. Late deliveries also then have an effect on our production capacity. We are facing more and more cost increases, it really has been unprecedented.
Insette L.E.C (L’POOL) LTD, have been manufacturing aerosols for over 45 years. Based in Wavertree, they produce around 25 million aerosols a year and manufacture Haircare, Bodycare and Household
As more changes to customs declarations, border controls, rules of origin, commodity codes and more take effect in January 2022, trading businesses must stay on top of new legislation to avoid unwanted delays. Director of Insette, Debbie Dwyer explains the upcoming changes in legislation will provide challenges, and suggests ways of keeping up with these changes. “With more changes due January 2022, it’s an ever-evolving situation and looks like the next 12 months will continue to challenge us. We try to keep up to date with the changes by being connected with our local Chamber of Commerce and HMRC updates / webinars.”
“With Imports and Exports an important part of the economy, the port / haulage situation really could do with looking into at a parliamentary level as the situation does not seem to be improving at all.
Liverpool Chamber are proud to support businesses and are here to provide trade support services, from export documentation and international trade training to guidance and funding. To view a full range of our international support services, including the free Brexit Hub Resource visit https:/ /www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk/whatwe-do/international-trade/
Liverpool Chamber
15
INTERNATIONAL TRADE
Liverpool Chamber member Brunswick International, headquartered in Hunts Cross, will embark on a huge expansion in 2022 with new offices in New Jersey and Shanghai The long-established business, which has been headquartered in Liverpool for more than 30 years, is set to open new offices in America and China next year as well as in London. The company originally started in Brunswick Dock before moving to Kirkdale 20 years ago. Last year, they opened a new £2million headquarters in Hunts Cross.
Brunswick International co-founder Steve Crane said: “Everyone at Brunswick International is extremely excited for what will be a huge 2022. Over the last 30 years the company has embarked on a solid trajectory of growth which has sped up significantly during the last couple of years. “The opening of further offices in America and China as well as our new office in London will be game changing for the
business. It will position us as a world leader in logistics and that is our ambition. Increased work from the United States and China mean this is essential for our growth. “There has never been a better time to be involved in the logistics business. The solid foundations we have built at Brunswick will future-proof our facilities and allow us to thrive as technology in the industry advances and we globalise further.”
Brunswick International has reported significant growth in their business since Brexit with their customs department increasing in trade by a whopping 500%. This is largely due to companies needing assistance with the new documentation requirements to move goods throughout the world as a result of Britain leaving the Customs Union. The firm is also reporting increased operations within the American and Chinese markets which will see the opening offices there. The first international office will open in US state New Jersey in the first half of 2022 and this will be followed by a premises in Shanghai towards the end of the year.
Hexsor Scientific Steps Out with New Markets 2 Support Hexsor Scientific works with organisations all over the world developing solutions for the analysis of water and air (and other liquids and gases) that have real impacts for businesses and communities, and that respond to some of the most serious challenges faced by global society. Only, over the past 18 months most of our ‘global’ activities have been undertaken remotely, from the relative comfort of our Liverpool-based office. More recently, as the UK’s own restrictions on international
travel have been relaxed, and other countries have begun to open their borders again, we have been able, quite literally, to step back out into the world. With support from the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce (LCC) and the New Markets 2 programme (NM2), we have travelled to engage in person with major water sector stakeholders across India and Greece and showcased Hexsor’s smart analytical solutions – something which would have proved extremely difficult during the pandemic.
Now, with an increased travel budget courtesy of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce and the New Markets 2 programme, we are planning further trips during 2022 to develop our projects in India and Greece, others associated with our ongoing water quality project in South Africa, and others still connected with new opportunities in Australia. After more than a year of doing business online, both our staff and our clients have a new found appreciation for doing business face-to-face and, thanks to Liverpool Chamber and the New Markets 2 programme, our capacity to build and maintain relationships with international clients old and new is better than ever.
To find out more about the New Markets 2 programme please visit https:/ /www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk/what-we-do/business-support/new-markets-2/ or contact Ian.Bulmer@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
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INTERNATIONAL TRADE
International Traders: The Clock ticks down If you’re a trader, a number of things have changed from 1 January 2022. This information will help you get ready. Customs declarations You will no longer be able to delay making import customs declarations under the Staged Customs Controls rules that have applied during 2021. Most customers will have to make declarations and pay relevant tariffs at the point of import. Some businesses already have a ‘Simplified Declarations’ authorisation from HMRC that allows their goods to be released directly to a specified customs procedure without having to provide a full customs declaration at the point of release. If you want to use Simplified Declarations, you’ll need authorisation to do so. It can take up to 60 calendar days to complete the checks needed for this and you will also need to have a Duty Deferment Account in place. Border controls Ports and other border locations will be required to control goods moving Great Britain and the EU. This means that unless your goods have a valid declaration and have received customs clearance, they will not be able to be released into circulation, and in most cases will not be able to leave the port. From 1 January 2022, your goods may be directed to an Inland Border Facility for documentary or physical checks if these checks cannot be done at the border. Rules of origin – for imports and exports The UK’s deal with the EU, called the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), means that the goods you import or export may benefit from a reduced rate of Customs Duty (tariff preference). To use this, you need proof that the goods you:
Liverpool Chamber
•
import from the EU originate there
•
export to the EU originate in the UK
By ‘originate’ we mean where goods (or the materials, parts or ingredients used to make them) have been produced or manufactured. It is not where the goods have been shipped or bought from. Your goods will need to meet the product specific rules of origin requirements set out in the TCA. UK and EU importers can claim tariff preference if they have one of the following proofs of origin: •
a statement on origin – this must be made out by the exporter to confirm that the product originates in the UK or EU
•
the importer’s knowledge – this option allows the importer to claim tariff preference based on their own knowledge of where the goods they’re importing originate from
If you export goods to the EU and you provide the EU importer with a statement on origin, you may also need to have a supplier declaration in place. These are needed to confirm the origin of the goods you’re exporting when the manufacture alone is not enough to meet the product specific rules of origin. Throughout 2021, you have been allowed to export goods to the EU using tariff preference and get supplier declarations afterwards, to give you more time. But from 1 January 2022 you must have supplier declarations (where required) at the time you export your goods. If you cannot provide a supplier declaration to confirm the UK origin of goods you exported to the EU between 1 January and 31 December 2021, you must let your customer know. If you’re subject to a request for verification by EU customs authorities and you can’t provide this supporting evidence, your EU customer will be liable to pay the full (nonpreferential) rate of Customs Duty and we may also charge you a penalty.
Postponed VAT Accounting If you’re a VAT-registered importer, you can continue to use Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA) on all customs declarations that require you to account for import VAT, including supplementary declarations, except when HMRC have told you otherwise. PVA has already provided significant cash flow benefits for thousands of our customers, and we expect that most businesses will choose to use it. Commodity codes Commodity codes are used worldwide to classify goods that are imported and exported. They are standardised up to 6-digits and reviewed by the World Customs Organisation every 5 years. Following the end of the latest review, the UK codes will be changing on 1 January 2022. Read Government guidance on finding commodity codes for imports into or exports out of the UK which includes information on using the ‘Trade Tariff Tool’ to look up the correct commodity codes. You can also check the Government Trade Tariff news page. Further changes from 1 July 2022 Further changes will be introduced from July 2022, which we’ll let you know more about nearer the time. These will include: •
Requirements for full safety and security declarations for all imports
• New requirements for Export Health Certificates • Requirements for Phytosanitary Certificates •
Physical checks on sanitary and phytosanitary goods at Border Control Posts
For full details please refer to https:/ /www. gov.uk/government/news/less-than-amonth-until-full-customs-controls-areintroduced
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EXPORTING
Innovative Delivery and The Boomerang Experience Boomerang carnets® UK has been developing convenient and affordable options for carnet distribution since 2015 so that businesses can receive ATA Carnets quickly and efficiently. We’ve initiated those options with a network of Boomerang Carnet Distribution Centers across Great Britain. Fueling economic recovery is one of our prime passions as an ATA Carnet service provider and it is our priority that customers have carnets in-hand easier, quicker, and more affordably as we recover and rebuild from the pandemic. free into any of the 87+ carnet countries and territories for up to one year. At the end of the year, all the items listed on the carnet return to the country of origin, thus the term boomerang freight. Companies often use ATA Carnets to initiate expansion into international markets.
The ATA Carnet is an internationally accepted customs document used for boomerang freight®. By presenting an ATA Carnet to foreign customs, your temporarily exported merchandise or equipment passes import-duty and is tax
Exporters have faced logistics challenges as we recover from both the pandemic and Brexit, and Distribution Centers have been a lifesaver to those with last minute travel plan and moving parts. Our Distribution Centers are supported by our unique customer service experience. Trustpilot reviews consistently commend us on being knowledgeable, responsive, and personable: “You will be able to get someone on the phone right away. There is no automated system to go through first.” We offer customers the irreplaceable human touch from Carnet Specialists available 24/7/365.
Boomerang carnets® UK, through its partnership the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce, can provide affordable sameday and overnight carnet delivery service in Bristol, Liverpool, London, at Heathrow, Gatwick, and the Eurotunnel. As is typical, carnets can also be shipped by overnight courier to anywhere in the UK. We know that servicing an ATA Carnet client means customers rely on us for specialist service and support, not only during the application process but, throughout the lifecycle of the ATA Carnet. We advocate for all of our customers to grow and expand into new markets for a more prosperous future.
UK Export Academy lands in Liverpool The UK Export Academy, from the Department for International Trade (DIT), gives small and micro-businesses the know-how to sell to customers around the world with confidence. It’s applicable to a wide range of businesses – you could be selling children’s clothes to Spain online, or providing PR services to a new client in the US. Whether you want to start exporting, or you’re aiming to enter new markets, we’ll help you overcome many of the common challenges that small businesses can face. The programme is designed for owners and senior managers of businesses looking to grow internationally and located in the UK. Due to the pandemic, the UK Export Academy will temporarily be delivered online or as a hybrid programme of events, this will be advised prior to the various sessions.
Liverpool Chamber
We are pleased to work in Liverpool with our colleagues from the Department of International Trade on the 8th February at our address in the Cotton Exchange Building, Bixteth St for a full day session. You will leave the course with a completed export action plan to take your business to international customers. Planned programme comprehends: •
Ten one-hour core sessions: Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 13:00-14:00h
•
In-person, full-day sessions in Liverpool – February 8th @ 09:00-16:30h
Contact export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk for further information and to book your place
Chris McFarlane Baxter, International Trade Advisor at DIT and Elena Enciso, International Trade Manager at Liverpool Chamber
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
How innovations in proton beam therapy is changing the face of cancer care in Britain By Professor Karol Sikora
benefits of proton therapy whilst making the whole experience easier for patients. Recently, demand for proton therapy – a specialised form of radiotherapy – has surged, with the UK now a key provider of this advanced treatment. In contrast to conventional radiotherapy, proton therapy delivers beams of protons which are more targeted, reducing damage to peripheral tissue and organs. Capacity to treat patients with proton therapy in the UK has gone from zero to thousands within three years, with the Rutherford Cancer Centres, which has a centre in Liverpool, now the biggest provider in the country. We got to that point through innovation.
Every day, we innovate. In medicine, we are always looking to improve our capacity to treat, and ultimately cure. When it comes to treating cancer, approximately 50 per cent of patients will undergo radiotherapy during their illness. The method in which they receive this, however, constantly changes.
The UK has been leading the international community in how we deliver proton therapy too. The Rutherford has introduced a technique called hypofractionation – the process of delivering higher doses of radiation per fraction, and using fewer daily fractions – to vastly reduce the duration of treatment for patients, according to new clinical evidence. As a result, we gain the
The technique itself is not new. Hypofractionation is commonly used for conventional radiotherapy. By combining this method with proton therapy, in some prostate cancers we have been able to cut down a treatment plan which would traditionally have consisted of 37 sessions over seven and a half weeks to just seven sessions over two and a half weeks. In a breakthrough in the treatment of some breast cancers too, using hypofractionation we can potentially cut the standard treatment plan of 25 fractions over five weeks to just five fractions over a week. Currently, we are the only centre in the world to use that regime for protons. Proton therapy has radically changed how we treat cancer, and by increasing our capacity and developing new delivery methods, we are able to push and position the UK as a leader in the innovation in cancer care. Find our more at www.therutherford.com
Are you worried about the long-term effects of COVID-19 on your body? The virus causing COVID-19 is known to affect different parts of the body and recovery time is unique to everyone. Many people do feel better in a few days or weeks but for some, symptoms can last longer. When we talk about ‘Long Covid’, we refer to the condition where people still experience symptoms of the virus within weeks or even months after their isolation period. Symptoms can be anything from profound fatigue, breathlessness and chest, joint and muscle pain to serious issues involving deficits in cardiac, kidney and liver function. Two years in to the pandemic, we are still learning new things about the virus including the long-term effects on a person’s health. Details of Long Covid and its effects on health are still emerging, though research suggests 1 in 5 people who test positive for COVID-19 have symptoms for 5 weeks or longer. For around 1 in 10 people, they last 12 weeks or longer and those with mild symptoms at first have been known to have extended health problems. What we do know about Long Covid is that it is complex, individual, unpredictable, and non-linear. To minimise the long-term impact, a health check is essential to devise
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a structured and personalised management plan. A Randox Health Long Covid Health Assessment can detect antibodies protecting you from COVID-19 as well as monitoring how well you have recovered post-infection. This is done via a simple blood sample collected by a trained professional at our Randox Health Clinic on Tithebarn Street, Liverpool. We can’t change the fact you have had COVID-19, but this assessment will keep you well informed of vital areas such as heart health, kidney health and tissue damage as well as gaining a deeper understanding of your overall health.
To book a Randox Health Long Covid Health Assessment, contact the Liverpool team today on 0800 2545 130 or email liverpool.reception@randoxhealth.com for more information.
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Innovating health: how Medicash and Health@Work are helping workplaces get wellbeing-ready for 2022 The new year is a time when we start to consider fresh starts – for businesses as much as individuals. During a period when many workforces are feeling the burden of pandemic burnout, employee wellbeing has never been a higher priority, with 68% of private sector and 83% of public sector leaders ranking wellbeing high on their agenda (CIPD, Health and wellbeing survey 2021). Investing in health and wellbeing is consistently the most reliable way for businesses to refresh and revitalise their workplace, with opportunities for training and benefits like health plans regularly being mentioned among the most popular workplace perks. With the job market more competitive than ever and highly qualified candidates seeking out the best places to work, wellbeing is looking to be another key area of development for workplaces in 2022. In response to increased demand and rapidly changing workplaces, providers like Liverpool-based Medicash have been busy modernising the health benefits market. Technological innovation has been at the heart of Medicash in recent years, with a focus on increasing the diversity and accessibility of their offering. While policyholders still find claiming cashback on their treatments like dental treatment, eye tests, physiotherapy, and even reiki to be a top benefit in relieving both financial and health-related stress, practice closures and cancellations have made claiming these treatments trickier in recent years. As such, Medicash have been turning their celebrated claims app, My Medicash, into a healthcare hub for their policyholders. Having processed over 1.1 million claims via
Liverpool Chamber
the app since 2014, Medicash have been able to develop it into a free, easy-to-use portal from which to access their variety of virtual and digital tools and services. These range from the ever-popular Virtual GP service to an app that detects the earliest signs of skin cancer, as well as an at-home physiotherapy tool that allows quick access to clinically-led recovery, and an encyclopaedic collection of home workouts, yoga exercises, and mindfulness guides for everyday wellbeing in the mProve YOURSELF app. “By investing in and developing new technology to support our policyholders’ health, we’re aiming to make everyday healthcare as quick and easy to access as possible,” says Paul Gambon, Medicash’s director of sales and marketing. “Providing our customers with the very latest in healthcare innovation means that we can continue to support their wellbeing throughout the pandemic and beyond, as well as offering increased value for our corporate clients.” In addition, Medicash’s sister company Health@Work have been investing in new training courses such as Mental Health First Aider training, allowing employees to best support their colleagues in need. The wellbeing training providers have also found that using technology has made it easier
than ever for organisations to develop their wellbeing awareness. “By offering training courses from stress management to wellbeing strategies either face-to-face or via webinar, our training sessions are both accessible and manageable for companies who are investing in their employees’ health awareness,” says Health@ Work’s director of operations Marj Murphy. “With the New Year being a stressful time for so many of us, knowing that our workplaces are able to provide support through training, employee assistance programmes, and great wellbeing strategies can be a fantastic means of relieving that stress for employees.” Murphy also points to Health@Work’s nationally recognised accreditation, the Workplace Wellbeing Charter, as a way that businesses across the UK have been revitalising their wellbeing strategies. “Organisations that have been accredited with the Charter have reported an overall healthier workforce, with a deeper understanding of the benefits of wellbeing and a much-improved response to everyday workplace concerns like stress, exercise, and healthy eating,” she says. “It’s always a pleasure to be able to recognise the hard work of companies who take those extra steps for their employees’ wellbeing, and it shows just how much a great wellbeing strategy can impact an organisation’s ability to both attract and retain talent.” To find out more about Medicash and Health@Work, you can find them online on www.medicash.tv and www.healthatworkcentre.org.uk.
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS
Morecrofts scooped two wins at this year’s Liverpool Legal Awards The ceremony saw talent from across the legal profession in the Liverpool City Region come together for Liverpool Law Society’s Annual Dinner. Family law solicitor Eleanor Slater took home the Rising Star Award. Judges commented on how impressed colleagues are with her hard work and professionalism. Although only recently qualified, she deals with some complex and sensitive family law cases and received a number of glowing testimonials from satisfied clients. The judges all agreed she was a worthy winner.
Eleanor said: “It was such an honour to be selected by Morecrofts to be entered, and then to be shortlisted was such a surprise in itself. “To actually win the award was amazing. It meant a lot to be recognised in such a tough category and to know that the small part I play in the family system is making a difference to people’s lives.” Managing partner Alison Lobb also received a special recognition award for her role in the local professional community and was described as a driving force behind initiatives to support and strengthen the regional economy though networking, collaboration and fellowship. Alison said: “I am immensely proud to have received this award, and very grateful to Liverpool Law Society. It is wonderful to be appreciated for my determination to serve the legal community in the business world and my aspiration to support and motivate the next generation of legal talent as much as possible.
saying: “We are extremely fortunate to have some of the best talent the legal profession has to offer and as a society we strive to encourage and promote the Liverpool City Region as a centre of legal excellence.” More than 300 members of the legal profession, sponsors and guests attended the event at the Rum Warehouse in Liverpool, raising more than £3,000 for the Owen McVeigh Foundation.
Morecrofts Managing Partner Alison Lobb with Law Society President Julie O’Hare Rising Star Eleanor Slater.
“Nobody does these things for reward, in my case it is because I am passionate about both issues, but to be recognised for it means I must be doing something right!” The President of the Society, Julie O’Hare, congratulated all those who had taken part,
West Yorkshire railway worker recognised in Queen’s New Year Honours The railway worker, known as Rich, regularly gives up his time to provide life-saving support for Samaritans, and has been a strong advocate in raising awareness about suicide prevention on the railway.
A Huddersfield-based Learning and Development Manager has been recognised in the Queen’s 2022 New Year’s Honours list. Richard Holliday, who works for TransPennine Express (TPE), has been given the British Empire Medal for services to mental health in West Yorkshire.
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He is passionate about creating opportunities for young people and helps lead TPE’s annual apprenticeship programme, where individuals are also given the opportunity to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh scheme. Outside of work, between 2013 and 2018, he volunteered with Kirklees Council as an Appropriate Adult supporting 10–17-year-olds in police custody. Rich played an important role in supporting his colleagues through the Covid-19 pandemic, introducing ‘Zoom elevenses’ calls that anyone could dial into. He champions mental health awareness in the workplace and is open about his own experience in this area when providing support to others.
Reflecting on his achievement, the 47-year-old said: “I’m completely overwhelmed. “I didn’t realise I’d been nominated but am thrilled – what an incredible honour. “Samaritans do such important work and I am proud to do what I can for them. Giving back to others is so important and I’m so happy that my contribution has been recognised in this way.” Matthew Golton, Managing Director for TransPennine Express said: “I am so proud to see Rich recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list. “His passion and energy are infectious, and he uses this in the best possible way, by supporting and inspiring others.”
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Liverpool Chamber
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SKILLS AND EMPLOYABILITY
Employers urged to use their kickstarters or lose them, as Government scheme deadline looms The chief executive of Liverpool City Region-based I Am Moore (IAM) has called on employers who are signed up to the Government’s Kickstart Scheme to use their kickstarters or lose them, before the March 2022 deadline. Headed up by Lynn Lock, I Am Moore is a social impact mission set up to upskill and support young professionals from their initial meetings in Jobcentres until the end of a paid six month role, and then into long-term employment. So far, I Am Moore has placed over 180 young people into work - 29 in the
last month alone - but there are employers signed up to the mission still yet to take the full opportunity the scheme presents. Chief executive, I Am Moore, Lynn Lock, said: “There are a number of kickstart gateways like I Am Moore that have employers signed up but still yet to employ a kickstarter. This may be because they’ve not met a candidate suitable for a particular role or they’ve simply not had the time to go through the process. “I want to remind those looking to employ young people about the amazing opportunities and benefits to their business the Kickstart Scheme can bring. You can train someone for a certain skill, which you are also paid to do, and their salary is reimbursed. And if you have a need for a specific skill, don’t be afraid to diversify your
search and train them for what is needed in your business. The options are endless and very flexible, and as a gateway we will hold your hand throughout the whole process. But I do urge them to act now before the March 31 deadline.” Working with employers from a range of sectors including hospitality, education and construction, I Am Moore’s pledge to get young adults aged 16-24 from across the Liverpool City Region and beyond into paid employment continues, with the aim of placing 500 candidates before the March deadline. For more information about I Am Moore and the job vacancies available, visit https:/ /www.iammoore.org/, or contact Lynn Lock on lynn@jaynemooremedia.com
Preparing for Hybrid Futures During the pandemic over 100m people across Europe began to work from home, many of them doing so for the first time. Both organisations and their employees were forced to adapt to the ‘great working from home experiment’, and many of them found that remote work was not only possible but better than expected. Although there were challenges along the way (especially the often reported ‘Zoom Fatigue’), it quickly became apparent that remote work was highly desired by employees, with around two thirds saying they would like the option for flexible working in future. When we think of this in relation to our students here at LJMU, remote working at scale was not common before the pandemic, and its introduction does present a range of questions for organisations and HE Institutions to address. What should policies and procedures say? How should hybrid and remote workers be managed? How often should employees attend the office? What are the health and safety implications of working from home? This all becomes relevant for our graduates’ futures.
Many businesses have responded to this demand with the introduction of hybrid working arrangements, where employees spend time in the office with colleagues as well as time working from home.
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Early career professionals without experience of building working relationships or managing office life can also find remote work difficult to navigate. Not everyone can or wants to work from home; some find that working from home is good for their wellbeing and work life balance, whereas others feel isolated or unable to switch
off when their work equipment is in their personal space. However, as hybrid work can lead to significant benefits for organisations, we need to consider how we address this to support the hybrid futures of our graduates. At LJMU, we are preparing our students for the hybrid workforce through our curriculum and by working with employers to deliver hybrid internships, yearlong placements, and live projects. This activity is ongoing with students engaging in hybrid internships with employers across the Liverpool City Region. We can also support SME’s as they navigate their way through hybrid working via the Liverpool Business School’s Business Clinic. Want to know more or get involved. Get in touch employerengagement@ljmu.ac.uk
SKILLS AND EMPLOYABILITY
University of Liverpool School of Management delivers government-backed management programme “Help to Grow” to support local SME business leaders. The School of Management at the University of Liverpool is delighted to be supporting this government initiative. It is a collaboration between the Treasury, BEIS, the Small Business Charter and the Chartered Association of Business Schools.
Iona Thomson, Client Director at SoM spoke with Liverpool Chamber’s Business Growth and Membership Manager Tom Woolley, who is currently taking part in the programme. How are you finding the Help to Grow Management Course? I have found the content covered so far to be of a very high quality and incredibly helpful in my role at Liverpool Chamber. The course has provided targeted, essential information while covering each topic so far, and has given me practical tools which I am already using in my day to day role. The peer group discussions have been excellent too; the opportunity to discuss issues and ideas with a network of fellow professionals is a really valuable aspect of this course.
Are there any key insights or takeaways so far that you have found useful for your role as Business Growth & Partnerships Manager at the Liverpool Chamber? The key take-away for me has been the opportunity to look at the business from the outside and to take time to plan how we will grow in the short, medium and long term. This time, coupled with guidance from top academics and an expert mentor, has made the Help to Grow programme incredibly useful for Liverpool Chamber and I, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it as an excellent opportunity to anybody within the business community.
I have already met with my mentor twice, and we are working on a growth plan to develop a key aspect of the business. The opportunity to step back from my “day job” and critically evaluate the ways in which I could develop key income streams has been a particular highlight of the course.
The programme aims to enhance UK productivity and give support to businesses post the pandemic. UK productivity has levelled out since 2008, which has pulled down the UK economic performance: this formal programme of taught skills is to support businesses to make a difference: to grow and develop their capabilities.
How is the programme delivering value to you aside from the learning content?
The course is shaped to deliver practical, applied management education to leaders and managers of small and medium-sized businesses. Each School brings their own capability to the shared curriculum. Professor Robert Blackburn, Director of the Brett Centre for Entrepreneurship noted that the Liverpool City Region has a thriving SME community which significantly contributes to regional prosperity, jobs and growth. The Help to Grow Programme is one of a range of school activities which contribute to local entrepreneurial ecosystems.
The main benefit that I have found from enrolling on this course has been the focussed time to step back and view Liverpool Chamber from the outside, evaluating opportunities and considering the best strategy to take the business forward. I have also found it very useful to develop a network of trusted fellow professionals, and I’m sure with the new skills I am learning on the course that I’ll be able to convince some of them to be future members of Liverpool Chamber too! How is learning with other regional SME’s contributing to your role? It is incredibly enlightening to see that no matter what sector a business operates in, we all face very similar challenges. This is particularly true in response to the
Liverpool Chamber
COVID-19 pandemic, and so this part of the course has been particularly relevant in the current climate.
For more information go to: https:/ /www.liverpool.ac.uk/management/ for-business/help-to-grow/ Contact Iona on i.l.thomson@liverpool.ac.uk
FEATURE INTERVIEW
In conversation with… Billy Hogan, chief executive, Liverpool FC Liverpool FC chief executive Billy Hogan discusses 16-hour commutes, the importance of inclusion and how the club is innovating to reach fans around the world. been able to overcome some of those challenges? Yes, absolutely. The pandemic was not ideal timing but, when I consider what so many people in the world have experienced, our challenges pale in comparison. From our perspective, it was acutely disappointing. We were on our way to winning the Premier League when lockdown happened. When we were able to restart safely, it was behind closed doors and we missed the opportunity to celebrate the title properly with our supporters. It was difficult for players and staff to lose that positive energy around them, but thankfully we were able to keep the connection with our supporters and the wider community. It’s been wonderful to welcome the supporters back to Anfield and to see full stadia again in sport, so long may that continue. What long-term impacts do you think that the pandemic has had / will continue to have on the world of football? The pandemic has had a profound effect on everyone involved in sports or live events.
You passed the one-year anniversary of your appointment as CEO in September. Do you feel you’ve now settled into your new role at the club? I’m enjoying the role enormously. It’s always been a huge honour and privilege for me to have a senior position at this football club, which plays such a major role in its local communities and enjoys the support of a global fanbase.
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Having been here for several years already, I’ve worked closely with senior people across LFC such as Michael Edwards, Julian Ward and Jurgen Klopp and those strong relationships have helped me as I’ve stepped into the role of CEO.
We wanted to pull together as a club from the outset, protecting as many people and jobs as possible and supporting our communities at home and overseas. We focussed on issues such as food poverty, social isolation - programmes that we were already heavily involved in and we stepped up this involvement during the pandemic.
Taking over as CEO in the midst of a global pandemic must have brought its own very unique challenges for both yourself and the club. How have you
A hybrid approach to home working will certainly be carried forward into the future. Having previously been sceptical myself about its effectiveness, technology
FEATURE INTERVIEW advancements and the endeavours of our team have shown how productive it can be. It also supports wellbeing, as commuting cuts into family time and achieving a work-life balance. When I travel for essential work engagements, I realise how lucky I am to be able to see the world and meet people in person again. Human interaction is so important and, once they feel safe to do so, I think people will begin to plan travel and adventures with renewed passion. The experience economy will continue to thrive and that will be crucial for a city like Liverpool. Please tell us a little about your own career path and how those experiences have helped to prepare you for the role of CEO. Having attended school in the US, I began my career in sales and marketing roles and joined FSG in 2004, working for an agency within the organisation called Fenway Sports Management. In 2010, as Managing Director of FSM I was working with organisations such as the Boston Red Sox, Major League Baseball and Nascar, and I was part of the team that worked on the acquisition of Liverpool FC. The date we acquired the club was October 15 2010, I remember it vividly and it was such an exciting time for everyone involved. I initially worked alongside the club’s commercial team and in Summer 2012 I began a full-time role as Chief Commercial Officer. For two years, I commuted from Boston to Liverpool, taking a 16-hour journey every two weeks, back and forth to see my young family back home. Timing in life is everything. When we began preparations to redevelop the Main Stand in 2014, we decided to open a commercial office in London and I relocated my family so that I could oversee the project. How are you enjoying life in the UK? We absolutely love it. It’s been a great adventure for my family and I – we came here with three children and we now have four, so that keeps me pretty busy when I’m not working.
London is a great hub for doing business overseas. My American friends don’t always agree, but I think nowhere beats the UK, as GMT means you can speak to Asia in the morning and North America in the afternoon. I travel up to Liverpool once a week by train and spend a lot of time in the city, checking in with the teams. I really enjoy running along the river, though the wind can be brutal depending on the run. I’ve loved Liverpool ever since I arrived, as has my family. The energy, the pride, the history that’s here – we’re quite partial to a pan of Scouse! The club has put its weight behind different equality and diversity issues since you took the helm. How important is it that football use its voice in this way? This issue is vitally important for LFC and it aligns directly with our values. People should be treated fairly, no matter what, but that’s not always been the case across a wide range of industries. As a global club with a diverse group of followers, we have a unique opportunity to talk about what diversity and inclusion really means. It’s important we send that message. Our Red Together initiative brings together all the strands of our activity to promote diversity and equality. We were the first club to adopt the advanced EDI standard and the FA’s diversity code. Social media can create a toxic atmosphere and we’ve had lots of players targeted across the men’s and women’s teams. We are all just people, doing the best job we can, and it’s important we stand up for victims of abuse or discrimination and try to improve their lives.
With a truly global fanbase, how do you manage to connect with supporters around the world? Digital connectivity has become more important than ever and the pandemic has undoubtedly pushed that development trajectory even further. Through social media, we now connect with more than 110m followers worldwide and we’ve also developed content through our own club platforms such as Match Centre, which provides a more interactive way for fans to engage. LFC has hundreds of official supporters clubs globally and they are a crucial line of communication and engagement for us. I’m also delighted to have worked closely with representatives of the Spirit of Shankly supporters trust to create the new Supporters Board. This new board aims to deliver meaningful engagement with fans on wider strategic issues that matter to supporters at board and executive level. Looking to the future, please tell us about the latest developments plans for the Anfield Road Stand and the benefits that will bring to the club. Anfield is the spiritual, philosophical and literal home of Liverpool FC – it has its own soul and an aura that is difficult to put into words. When the decision was made to stay here, we adopted a two-phase approach – firstly develop the Main Stand and then work on Anfield Road. Working with Buckingham Group as the main contractor, we will add 7,000 seats to the Anfield Road stand, taking the total capacity of Anfield to 61,000. We broke ground in September and we are hopeful of completion in Summer 2023. In addition to the improved facilities for supporters, it will create new local jobs and improve tourism in the city for years to come.
Football itself has a wider opportunity and the players deserve real credit for recognising the voice they have and using it for good. Jordan Henderson has spoken out regularly, among others, and shown himself to be not only a leader of the club but also of football and sport in general.
“As a global club with a diverse group of followers, we have a unique opportunity to talk about what diversity and inclusion really means. It’s important we send that message.” Liverpool Chamber
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Paul Cherpeau, Chief Executive of Liverpool Chamber, and Christine Vaudrey, Director of Strategy and Communications at Torus, discuss how innovation and partnerships can fuel socio-economic recovery and positively impact upon people and place. 28
in the heart of local communities, working side-by-side with residents, cross-sector public and private partners. This drive to create more resilient, connected and aspirational neighbourhoods is enshrined in Torus’ mission: ‘growing stronger communities’. Paul: Can you tell us more about your operating model? Christine: Torus is simultaneously a landlord, property developer, commercial contractor and social entrepreneur. In addition to the landlord function: • Paul: Welcome, Christine. As the pandemic continues to impact our communities and businesses can you start by sharing your headline views on where we are now? Christine: Absolutely. The sense of renewed purpose and inspiration that traditionally comes with New Year seems more important than ever in these first days of 2022.
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With COVID-19 continuing to impact people, communities and businesses across Liverpool, maintaining business continuity and high-quality customer services rightly remains top of our list of collective priorities.
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Yet it is important to remember just how far we have come since the UK’s first lockdown almost two years ago, and how embracing innovation and new partnerships has unlocked new pathways to sustainable growth. Strategic innovation projects have a critical part to play to support economic recovery and drive the lasting placebased impacts our city needs. Paul: How would you describe Torus? Christine: Torus is a growth and regeneration group with a social purpose. We work in partnership with Liverpool City Region, Cheshire and Warrington and the wider North West to improve lives and support thriving, vibrant communities. High-quality affordable housing is the bedrock of our offer to communities, and has been in Liverpool since 2008. Our portfolio of around 40,000 homes gives people and families a place they can call home, somewhere they feel safe and somewhere they can afford. Torus also has a wider transformational role, centred around people and place-based change. Housing providers occupy a unique, and prime, position as anchor institutions
Liverpool Chamber
Torus Developments, a Homes England Strategic Partner and one of the biggest developers of affordable homes in the North West, is targeting 5,600 new home completions within the next five years, both for rent and affordable home ownership. HMS, an over £80m turnover per year construction company and contractor, undertakes new-build, repair and property maintenance works for Torus and a spectrum of external clients. And profits generated by both Torus Developments and HMS are reinvested into Torus Foundation, funding community projects that build social capital and strive to create better connected, independent and sustainable neighbourhoods.
It’s a ‘virtuous circle’ with income generated through commercial activity directly supporting community wealth building. This means we can make a bigger difference to enrich lives and regenerate neighbourhoods.
Paul: You mention making a bigger difference. Can you give us a sense of scale? Christine: Yes, as a large and diversified organisation with a £200m annual turnover and 1,400 people, scale is a Torus strength! In terms of social impacts, in 2020-21 Torus Foundation helped 422 people into work, 761 to complete skills training and 34 into an apprenticeship, work placement or volunteering opportunity. In a year when our communities were hard hit by Covid-19 we stepped up funding to support people through the crisis, with a total of £12m allocated over two years to address hardship caused by the pandemic. Elsewhere, growth is driven through investment in existing and new housing. We invest more than £100m each year to improve existing stock and develop new affordable homes. This investment directly supports local and regional supply chains, from architects to contractors and building materials suppliers. Paul: How important are partnerships in delivering these impacts? Christine: Torus cannot – and does not – work in isolation. We’re committed to working with communities, local and devolved authorities, and strategic partners, both from within and beyond our sector. Collaboration makes sure our activities respond to changing demand, and nurture the big ideas needed to drive community wealth-building and social and economic recovery.
COVER FEATURE
Paul: That leads us nicely into the innovation environment, but first how would you describe your role at Torus? Christine: As Director of Strategy and Communications, I work to deliver the mandate set by our Chief Executive Steve Coffey, Board and Executive Management Team to unlock the strategic growth and regeneration opportunities that we need to achieve our corporate goals. Innovation projects and cross-sector partnerships are crucial parts of this work, and are developed collaboratively with leaders across the business. My team comprises strategy and policy, insight analysis, PR, public affairs and communications. There’s always a lot to do! Paul: So how important is innovation to Torus? Christine: Change is constant and managing change effectively is an absolute priority for us all. Providing consistently excellent customer service comes first, of course. Our fundamental commitment is to maintaining the service levels that customers expect. We need to retain sight of wider changes and challenges as well as COVID-19, from environmental sustainability and netzero agenda to the ongoing shortage of affordable homes, building safety and tenant empowerment. We cannot hit the ‘pause’ button on such priorities – even during a pandemic.
Technology Centre (MTC) and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority to pioneer new construction technologies and methodologies that could transform the local housing and infrastructure sectors
Now, more than ever, strategic innovations are essential. Paul: Given the nature of the group, environmental sustainability must surely be a big challenge.
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Christine: Yes, it’s a challenge, but also an opportunity for new approaches to drive transformational impacts for our communities. Torus’ Environmental Sustainability Strategy, approved late last year, sets out the ambition for Torus to be a net-zero organisation by 2040. We’re committed to that target, as well as meeting EPC C across all homes by 2030. In addition to ongoing improvements to homes, we’re actively working on new solutions to lower carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty. This includes: •
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Collaborating with private and public partners, including the Manufacturing
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A commitment that at least 25% of new homes will be built using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), with the first schemes completed and more in the pipeline Trialling new technologies, including underfloor insulation project, using Q-Bots – robots that spray insulation under floors, with minimal disruption compared to traditional methods
Like every business, we’re embarking on a long journey towards net-zero. Innovation in construction, including developing the next generation of construction skills, will be vital in the months and years to come. Paul: How about innovative project delivery models?
Christine: Melwood springs to mind as a great example. Since taking ownership of the site in 2019, we have developed ambitious plans for a landmark mixed-use housing scheme, delivering affordable, sustainable, multigenerational living. Community engagement has really helped to shape the project, which will provide much-needed housing for older people and those with additional care needs and put sustainability at the forefront. And, taking an innovative approach to partnership working – in this case, the Fowler-Carragher Academy – we can save and repurpose the iconic training facilities building. Delivering things differently through crosssector partnerships is helping to shape a positive future at Melwood. It’s a symbol of how non-traditional collaborations can benefit communities and the city alike.
PATRON NEWS
To be, or not to be Contended, that is the question When internet connectivity is the cornerstone of your business, your contended status really will make the difference. Contention ratio is the number of users sharing the same bandwidth. As a business user, you have probably noticed the effect of increased bandwidth use due to homeworking, the post school surge when the gamers, YouTubers and box-set bingers get home, and a general trend for more on-line activity. Hybrid working is now the new normal. This takes its toll on the shared broadband cabinet. With more webinars, video calls and logging on to remote networks taking place from the home office, is your internet connection being pushed to the limits by its contention ratio? Throw in the governments’ latest work from home advice, and the fight for the
broadband pie is about to get messy. How messy will depend on your ISP. Some will contend their connection at the exchange with 50 connections, and some with over 200. This means a 100mg internet connection could be offering as little as 0.5mg at peak times. But what, I hear you cry, is an uncontended internet connection? Put simply, it’s your internet connection with peace of mind. Uncontented gives nothing less than a 100% availability SLA, and scorching speeds up to 10Gbps. Because it’s a dedicated line, you don’t share with anyone else. That means guaranteed bandwidth, 24/7, unlimited data usage, and no restrictions. With your own uncontended internet connection, you
will always have access to your critical data, voice, video and applications. No down time or freezing, no interrupted calls or slower response times, and therefore, no lost opportunities. To learn more regarding uncontended internet access and what is available in your area, speak to one of our BT Local Business experts on 01704 898210.
Face for Business create Pulse brand to support the Medical / Aesthetic sector Having answered nearly 3 million business calls the team at
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Pulse’s extended opening hours enable clinicians to get on with their daily work uninterrupted, and even enable some valuable time off
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Diary booking management
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Deposits and full payments taken
trained PAs is removing the worry of missed calls and importantly helping practitioners keep diaries busy and revenues coming in.”
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Clients who have a website can also request “live chat” services giving callers the option of making an enquiry via the web
“We’ve seen an increase in the number of clinics working with us over the last 12 months and whilst juggling tasks will be a familiar challenge for many practitioners, one task that can’t be compromised is leaving a client mid-appointment to answer the phone. Creating Pulse specifically for this sector, with its sometimes-unique challenges enables us to provide the tailored service that the sector needs.”
If you run a clinic or aesthetic practice, please contact Pulse by Face for Business through our website ffb.co.uk/pulse to understand more about how the service can benefit your business.
Face for Business are petty proficient when it comes to call handling. And in the last year the team have been developing a new brand to reach out to medical professionals and clinics. Having researched the sector, they could see that many clinics were run by one or two practitioners, who could be with patients when incoming calls came in. Missed phone calls are never good, especially when you are selling services in the medical or aesthetic marketplace with high ticket prices ranging from £’00’s - £’000’s. The team at Face for Business now work with most major clinic / aesthetic CRM providers; meaning they can book appointments, take payments and help folks with general questions rather than calls going unanswered or to the dreaded voicemail. Susan Holme from Face for Business explains: - “Covid 19 devastated many aesthetic and private medical practices and remains a concern. Our Pulse brand with specially
Clients who work with Pulse enjoy multiple benefits, including: •
Calls answered by specially trained call handlers who become part of their business, and even get to know their clients
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Four Qualities to Look for in Fittings for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Paul Stevens, Field Engineer, Swagelok Manchester
In an effort to achieve global net zero targets, industry and the world are looking to Hydrogen as a viable option for the achievement of cleaner and efficient energy solutions. One of the most formidable challenges in the development of safe, reliable, and leak-tight hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and infrastructure is the nature of hydrogen itself. Swagelok’s innovative FK fitting meets these challenges. Hydrogen is a small-molecule gas. It can easily escape through the tiniest of crevices and diffuse into the materials designed to contain them. In the transportation marketplace, hydrogen must also be stored at pressures in excess of 700 bar to achieve the necessary energy density on a vehicle. And at refuelling stations, rapid thermal and pressure changes can
also impact system integrity as hydrogen leaves storage tanks and decompresses. These circumstances highlight the importance of uncompromising performance in fittings that join critical parts of high-pressure hydrogen fuel systems. In this article, we will take a close look at a few specific fitting design characteristics
that make for ideal performance in hydrogen technology:
are some of the most important performance criteria for a fitting.
Seal Tightness
A robust tube fitting design for hydrogen containment involves two lines of contact across longer sealing surfaces—one along the tube, and another along the fitting. These contact surfaces should be angled slightly, providing the optimized stress level to maintain an
Given hydrogen’s tendency to slip through the tiniest of openings, gas seal tightness and leak resistance
uncompromising seal. Certain styles of two-ferrule tube fittings can deliver this kind of seal integrity.
Grip Strength The fitting’s grip strength on the tube is another key performance attribute that ensures the fitting can withstand the high pressures required for hydrogen refuelling as well as the significant vibration that can occur in a moving vehicle. A colleted mechanical grip using two ferrules is an ideal design for a hydrogen fitting to create a robust grip. A hardened front ferrule can enable the fitting to physically bite into the tubing, creating a very high-pressure rating. Meanwhile, a unique back ferrule design allows for a slight amount of movement in the fitting (called “spring back”) while maintaining grip and force. This type of design creates robust vibration resistance, ideal for both on-vehicle operation and use on refuelling infrastructure, where compressors and dynamic conditions can create significant vibration.
Simple Installation Proper fitting design is critical for reliable in-use performance. It can also lead to significant installation and assembly efficiencies for hydrogen fuel cell vehicle OEMs and hydrogen infrastructure developers.
Some available mechanical grip fittings are designed with preassembled cartridges. This enables installers to use common tools and requires minimal training to achieve rapid, error-proof assembly. Vehicle manufacturing is all about speed, and ease of installation will be critical as hydrogen infrastructure scales up. The right fitting technology can accelerate both.
Material Integrity Corrosion control is important in any application where tube fittings are expected to provide reliable performance. In hydrogen transportation applications, both vehicles and refuelling pumps are regularly exposed to adverse weather conditions, making it especially important that materials of construction can resist problematic corrosion throughout a system’s lifetime. Higher concentrations of chromium and nickel in fluid system components can help defend against common corrosion and hydrogen embrittlement by retaining greater ductility in critical components. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) requires a minimum of 10% nickel in 316 stainless steel. However, it has been shown that higher-quality 316 stainless steel with 12% minimum nickel is better suited for the unique challenges of hydrogen.
Meeting the Needs of Hydrogen Systems While there are a variety of compression tube fittings and other styles that may be applicable to hydrogen fuel systems, very few are designed to satisfy the many unique performance demands hydrogen applications require. Swagelok’s FK series fittings are the exception. With a patented design, EC-79 & EIHP certifications, and pressure ratings of up to 1551 bar, the FK series was engineered specifically for use in hydrogen applications. The long-term viability of hydrogen transportation will depend on safe, reliable, and durable hydrogen vehicles and infrastructure. Selecting and specifying the right components for critical systems can help achieve these goals.
Interested in learning more? Contact Swagelok Manchester today to discuss how we can help. E: info@swagelokmanchester.co.uk
T: 01925 822 662
MEMBERS NEWS
CGI partners with Agent Academy to find future talent for emerging jobs in the North West of England We’re proud to work with social enterprise Agent Academy to help support creation of 700 new jobs. Following our recent announcement to support the UK’s levelling up agenda by creating up to 700 new jobs across the UK, particularly in the North, CGI has joined forces with Agent Academy - an awardwinning social enterprise based in the North West of England that provides industrydesigned training for people to secure emerging jobs – in order to deliver new opportunities for young people who are underrepresented in the sector. Our new partnership has opened up a pathway into careers within CGI for young people, who previously felt ‘locked out’ of industry and comes in response to growing industry demand for a skilled workforce, especially in emerging new digital roles, at a time when demand for tech professionals in the UK has increased by 10% in the first six months of 2021, according to new research. This new approach gives CGI the chance to discover future talent, by opening opportunities to young people who wouldn’t otherwise know that these careers exist.
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Earlier this year, with Agent Academy, we set a brief for 20 programme participants to work on, for the duration of a 12-week programme. The brief challenged a group of young people to come up with digital innovations ideas to improve the lives of other young people in the North West. To help solve their brief, the learners gathered insight and expert advice from the senior leaders they met. Their findings have been presented at an event attended by regional and industry leaders. CGI has also committed to recruit new hires from Agent Academy following the completion of the programme. Paul Buxton, Senior Vice President Consulting Services at CGI, said: “At CGI, encouraging the next generation of tech talent is hugely important to us and this is demonstrated by our range of apprenticeship and graduate opportunities. We’ve also been looking at how we can attract a talented, diverse workforce who may be struggling to secure the opportunities they deserve. Therefore, we are proud to be partnering with valuesled social enterprises like Agent Academy to deliver on this. We are committed to offering meaningful employment opportunities and are excited to see the unique perspectives of the group and the ideas that they develop whilst with us.”
Zoe Wallace, Director at Agent Academy, said: “Many opportunities are hidden to the young people we work with; they may have not had exposure or access to the plethora of careers that exist. We know that there are plenty of bright, talented young people, who employers across the region would love to meet. Our role at Agent Academy is to develop this talent and connect them with their future employers, simultaneously supporting businesses to find a new, diverse workforce they wouldn’t otherwise have access to. We create an environment that challenges young people to learn quickly; introducing them to industry leaders and giving them new skills, all of which lead to meaningful, long lasting, employment. Our partnership with CGI demonstrates that there is a need for a bespoke approach to recruiting local talent and we are so happy with the successful outcomes that we’ve already seen from this programme.” For more information, visit www.cgi.com/uk or www.agentacademy.org.uk
REGENERATION
Liverpool Without Walls Innovation can come in many guises. At Liverpool BID Company, as the first lockdown eased there was a need for more creative thinking to support business, particularly hospitality, as Covid restrictions remained in place. Liverpool Without Walls, developed alongside Liverpool City Council, began as a pilot project to enable bars and restaurants to continue to operate, supporting the local economy and was the first of its kind in the country. The programme launched in June 2020 as hospitality venues began to reopen post lockdown. With social distancing and household mixing measures remaining in place, venues raised concerns about their ability to make ends meet. Indoor covers and seating, with distancing rules applied, vastly reduced how many customers and guests that could be welcomed each day. Liverpool Without Walls began as a pilot project on Bold Street and Castle Street, in consultation with venues, allowing them to extend their capacity into the public realm. Ensuring the roads were safely closed to traffic allowed tables and seating to be extended onto pavements, ensuring
The parklets used on Bold Street were especially architecturally designed for the public realm, bringing a natural feel into the city street which was drawn from an earlier consultation and feasibility study carried out with businesses on the street and led by the BID. In total, the innovation ensured support was given to over 100 businesses in the city
centre and over 700 across the city, with an additional sales of £8.9m going to the local economy. Restaurants, cafes and bars were able to cater for over 2,700 covers, with an additional 1,600 seats being created. For many smaller venues, often independents, extending into the outside area allowed them to have more covers than they had before the pandemic. By bringing partners together, listening to the needs and concerns of businesses and responding to the unique challenge of a pandemic, creative thinking was able to support the economy and enable the city to continue to operate amidst uncertainty.
Demystifying full fibre connectivity
network connection. For local networks used by specific organisations — such as company offices, school campuses and hospitals — Ethernet is used for its high speed, security and reliability.
FibreOne is an asymmetric low bandwidth service offering a choice of speeds.
From businesses to gamers, diverse end users rely on the benefits of Ethernet connectivity, which include reliability and security.
LCR Connect is a full-fibre, ultrafast, gigabit-capable network spanning the Liverpool City Region – it’s a gateway to access next-generation future-proofed and cloud-enabled technologies.
FibreLight, is also known as businessgrade Internet Connectivity
Our technology enables us to build a private network, supporting the secure transport of data between customer locations or data centres. We can build networks that support point to point, point to multi-point and any to any connections.
A cost-effective, high-quality, gigabit capable service it is a symmetrical service that offers bandwidths up to 500 Mbps. It can flex bandwidth as your business requirements change.
These active links – sometimes referred to as Ethernet Access Circuits – are fully managed by LCR Connect and offer bandwidths similar to DIA at 100Mbps, 1Gbps, or 10Gbps.
For organisations using Cloud Services for applications such as Microsoft 365/Teams or dedicated business applications such as Oracle, network quality is key. It delivers a higher level of service quality than other broadband offerings making it ideal for applications such as Cloud, and SD-WAN.
We support businesses that are moving from classic networking solutions to cloudaware networking and those requiring large amounts of bandwidth between key sites.
You’re a business in Liverpool City Region and you’re hearing all about LCR Connect, you may even see us installing fibre. But have you ever wondered what it actually is, what it does and how it can help your organisation? Here’s a quick overview to the type of connectivity you can access via LCR Connect for your business. FibreBright is Direct Internet Access, also known as Ethernet. It’s an assured full fibre service, which differs from conventional broadband services that offer a shared capacity. Ethernet is used to connect devices in a network and is still a popular form of
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pedestrians and access could be maintained on the highway. A successful collaboration across council departments and the BID to ensure the safe use of outdoor space meaning venues have been able to continue to serve customers, who may have felt more comfortable dining outdoors.
FibreOne is our small business broadband FibreOne is a full fibre connectivity option aimed at businesses with smaller bandwidth requirements, whether it’s because they’re a smaller business, a smaller site, have smaller budgets or operate smaller teams.
Leased Lines are a dedicated connection
To learn more or talk to one of our specialists, email hello@lcrconnect.com
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LIVERPOOL.AC.UK/MANAGEMENT/ FOR-BUSINESS/HELP-TO-GROW/
For every br�ght �dea everywhere Business & IP Centre Liverpool, in partnership with the British Library, is inspiring a thriving community of new and existing business owners. We offer a wide range of high-value services which are free of charge. Visit us in Liverpool Central Library where you can access powerful databases with the latest market and company information, discover our events programme and get expert advice on starting or growing your business. Get in touch to find out more about how our team can support you or your clients. +44 (0)15 1233 5835 libraries.enquiries@liverpool.gov.uk
Marcela Livingston Founder of SacPot
Liverpool Chamber
BIPC Liverpool, Liverpool Central Library, William Brown Street, Liverpool L3 8EW
liverpool.gov.uk/bipc BIPCLiverpool
BIPC Liverpool City Region
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PATRON NEWS
HGV Driver Shortage: on the road to recovery Elaine Bowker Principal and CEO at The City of Liverpool College
The relationship between education and industry is more vital than ever, with so many opportunities for us to bridge skills gaps, innovate and alter our curriculum and offering, to reflect the needs of our economy. It has been widely reported in recent months that the HGV driver shortage is at crisis point – affecting our supply chains and in turn, our daily lives, creating scarcities in supplies of everything from fuel to food. With the shortage now estimated at 100,000, the knock-on effect is tangible. According to the Road Haulage Association, it was Brexit – which prompted thousands of EU lorry drivers to leave the UK – and a lack of driver training and tests during the pandemic that had led to the “desperate shortage”. In response to this and to help tackle the skills shortage, the Department for Education has introduced HGV driver Skills Bootcamps across the country as part of the Government’s Lifetime Skills Guarantee, supporting up to 11,000 people into careers in the logistics sector.
At The City of Liverpool College, we will be delivering these free Skills Bootcamps in HGV driving in partnership with Northwest Education and Training Ltd (NWEAT), as part of our efforts towards upskilling and re-skilling people in the Liverpool City Region and supporting our local economy. According to reports, the shortage of qualified HGV drivers in the UK has seen salaries increase to attract new drivers, with typical wages now between £35,000 and £50,000. So, now is the perfect time to consider a career in logistics. Skills Bootcamps in HGV driving are free, flexible, intensive courses designed to train drivers to be road ready and gain their licence, offering people the chance to launch well-paid careers in the logistics sector. Those that successfully complete the HGV courses are guaranteed a job interview with an employer, and the first drivers are expected to be on the road from March 2022. The Skills Bootcamps are part of The City of Liverpool College’s work towards addressing the needs of employers and
the wider economy, delivering targeted interventions to meet demands to fill vacancies and drive productivity. Working in partnership with Northwest Education and Training Ltd, we will provide high quality training to give people the knowledge and skills to pass industry tests. Through the course, which will run for up to 16 weeks, participants will also acquire the appropriate licences to work as an HGV driver, or for qualified HGV drivers to acquire specialist HGV qualifications. It’s a privilege to be able to deliver this training in a sector that needs support, especially with the shortages this vital industry is currently facing. It is incredibly important to us that we play our role in getting people the skills they need to be ready for the world of work, so it’s fantastic that we’re able to provide this opportunity. These Bootcamps will support our economy to address the skills gap, raising aspirations and supporting social mobility, as well as helping to reduce the impact of this shortage on the wider economy.
If you would like to find out more about the HGV Skills Bootcamps, contact workforceskills@liv-coll.ac.uk.
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DIGITAL
RRS Sir David Attenborough Live Event and Guided Tour Video North West Creative Company, Hi-impact L&D, joined the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) in Greenwich, as the RRS Sir David Attenborough sailed in from Harwich to make its final stop ahead of its first mission to the Antarctic. The occasion was celebrated with a 3 day Ice Worlds Festival, focusing on the Royal Maritime Museum and the Cutty Sark as venues, with inspiring talks and exhibitions available to the general public. Liverpool Chamber member, hi-impact, was selected to be the company to share this auspicious occasion and very private vessel to the world through livestreaming and virtual tour technology. Hi-impact has built an interactive virtual tour of the ship, which was launched at the festival. Simon Sloan, Innovation Manager at hi-impact explained: “We were lucky enough to create some early virtual tours of a few areas of the ship whilst it was at Cammell Laird in
Secondly, during the festival hi-impact filmed and streamed key events, managing these into looping content that was displayed on the internet as well as on huge video walls on the quayside for the public. This content featured videos from the build of the vessel, interviews with Sir David Attenborough and other notable people, and advertisements for the new virtual SDA resource mentioned above. The footage of this special event is now available on the hi-impact L&D website and on their social media platforms. The link to the site is https:/ / hi-impact-ld.co.uk/sda/. If you have any questions about these media services or any other that hi-impact offer, email dionnethomas@hi-impact.co.uk.
Birkenhead during the build process. Those tours received a lot of interest and the British Antarctic Survey soon began speaking with us about how to capture the vessel as a whole. A full tour wasn’t ever going to be possible with this technology and the ship’s layout, so we proposed a bespoke interactive platform based on a cross-section model of the ship with hotspots linking to 360 images, educational information and new virtual tours captured more recently.”
Work less, live more The pandemic has had a huge impact on how we do business. Two years down the line from the first lockdown, we have finally emerged from the rubble of the ‘old ways’ into something new - and effective. Necessity forced us to innovate, to accelerate and take brave, bold steps that we wouldn’t even have considered a couple of years ago. While it’s been frequently terrifying, now the dust has settled we can see that many of those bold moves have paid off. In the middle of a pandemic, our bold move was to let 18 clients go, take our streamlined workforce completely remote and implement a four-day week. We know it looked like madness to many, with little new work coming in and the ‘great resignation’ seeing staff leaving companies in their droves. But we looked at the work we were doing, reviewed what made money and - importantly - what made our staff excited. We’re software development consultants, so leading projects, scoping and building
Liverpool Chamber
products is where our hearts, brains and skills are at. Yet we still had some web design on the go, taking our time, energy and sapping enthusiasm. They were great clients but after 10 years, we’d evolved. It was time to pass them on to other excellent city region tech businesses, who we knew would do an amazing job.
notice because the team was delivering with even greater efficiency than before. All these changes have improved our performance and mental wellbeing. A threeday weekend has provided the space in our brains to solve problems more effectively. We deliver the same outputs in less time, because we are well rested and more focused. We work less, live more and our business is thriving because of it. mashbo.com
With our focus clear, we turned our attention to our staff, implementing regular virtual meetings and socials to keep us connected and supported. We saw existing consultancy projects extend and more new ones come in. We got excited, we innovated and we won more work. Our four-day working week, while a huge change, wasn’t something we formally announced. In fact, our clients didn’t even
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TRANSPORT
Lufthansa connects Liverpool globally Liverpool will soon enjoy easy global reach: Lufthansa Airlines announced that it will open up a new connection between Liverpool and Frankfurt (Germany). Starting 4th May 2022 the traditional German carrier will offer nonstop flights for the first time from Liverpool John Lennon Airport to its main hub in Frankfurt. There, all Lufthansa and Star Alliance carriers operate under one roof within one single terminal. Transferring passengers from Liverpool can soon easily connect through Frankfurt to over 150 destinations in Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa and the Americas. To be able to connect Liverpool globally via Frankfurt will bring huge benefits to the business sector across our region both now and into the future and of course will now enable the world to easily connect into Liverpool to visit our brilliant city and the surrounding areas. Lufthansa is such an iconic, five star airline. The links that their global network and that of their Star Alliance partner airlines brings are second to none and in partnership with key stakeholders across the region, we are looking forward to working with Lufthansa in preparation for the commencement of this important new route in May 2022.”
This will be the first time in its 66 years’ history in Britain that Lufthansa as one of Europe’s leading airlines will take off at Liverpool with its Airbus A320 (168 seats) or its Bombardier CRJ900 (90 seats). With a flight time of just one hour and 40 minutes, passengers from Liverpool will reach Frankfurt, Europe’s financial centre in the middle of Germany and close to the famous Rheingau wineries. Members of Miles & More can earn and spend their miles also on these new flights. “Lufthansa will be the first global network airline in Liverpool with easy reach to destinations on 4 continents”, says Heinrich Lange, Senior Director Sales Northern Europe Lufthansa Group Airlines.
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“As a premium carrier we will be the only airline at John Lennon Airport to offer seats in Business Class and all the amenities of a full service approach. This new route is also good news for incoming business; Liverpool is among the five most visited cities in the UK, known as the city of music, football and trade and will benefit tremendously from this new international route.” John Irving, CEO Liverpool John Lennon Airport commented, “It has been a long held desire of both the Airport and the City Region as a whole to reconnect Liverpool with the world and we are therefore absolutely delighted to be welcoming Lufthansa to Liverpool John Lennon Airport.
Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region said, “Our area is an international destination of choice renowned for our unique blend of sport, culture, music and heritage. Today’s announcement is fantastic news that will give us much better connections to Europe and beyond, whether for tourism or business. “Only last month, I met with Andreas Michaelis, the German Ambassador to discuss how we can strengthen the links between our region and Germany. From our twinned towns and cities, cultural ties stretching from The Beatles to Jürgen Klopp and centuries of trading relationships, we have strong foundations to build on. “We’re looking forward to welcoming Lufthansa for the first time later this year – along with the many, many visitors they’ll be taking to and from our region. I’m sure that once people have visited us, they’ll be back time and time again.”
TRANSPORT Chris Brown, Director of Marketing Liverpool added, “This new route is fantastic news for international tourists and Liverpool City Region’s ambitions to connect to global markets from one of Europe’s major hubs.
The attraction of such a famous and reputable carrier such as Lufthansa is a testament to the existing quality and further potential in the Liverpool City Region economy and we look forward to a successful partnership in the years ahead.”
It means more European and international travellers can enjoy our exciting 2022 events programme and world-famous visitor experience.
Liverpool is 11th destination of Lufthansa Group in the UK
Liverpool has enduring cultural and sporting connections with Germany. From The Beatles second home in Hamburg to Jürgen Klopp’s love affair with the city, we are delighted to welcome another German icon to Liverpool later this year”. Paul Cherpeau, CEO of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce commented, “Liverpool Chamber and it’s members will be delighted by the news of Lufthansa’s decision to add LJLA to its global network. Liverpool’s status as a global city is reflected positively in this announcement which will provide a boost to our connectivity to additional markets for business and leisure activities, enhancing our ability to expand our export and inward investment opportunities whilst catalysing the rebuilding and growth of our Airport.
Liverpool Chamber
Liverpool will be Lufthansa Group’s 11th destination in Great Britain. Next summer, Europe’s leading airline Group is planning up to more than 700 weekly connections to Great Britain as one of its top European markets for its leisure and business travellers.
Fly CO2 neutral today Travellers can make a personal contribution to climate protection and make their flight CO2 neutral. In addition to the option of offsetting the flight via high-quality climate projects such as “Compensaid”, passengers can already fly with sustainable aviation fuel today. The airlines of the Lufthansa Group have integrated the options into the booking
process. Frequent flyers can find them in the Miles & More app. Further information is available at https:/ /compensaid.com. Customers from Liverpool should continue to check the travel restrictions and entry regulations for both Germany and the country of their final destination separately. Most updated travel regulations are displayed on the airline’s website lufthansa.com
The new connection at a glance (all times are local): Lufthansa, starting 04 May 2022 Every Wednesday (Airbus A320) and Sunday (Bombardier CRJ900): LH968 Frankfurt 07:25 Liverpool 08:05 LH969 Liverpool 08:50 Frankfurt 11:30 Every Monday and Friday (Airbus A320): LH968 Frankfurt 16:05 Liverpool 16:45 LH969 Liverpool 17:30 Frankfurt 19:10
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RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS
It’s time to review your business travel policies Many things have changed throughout the pandemic and possibly the biggest change is to working patterns. Permanent home-working or hybrid seem to be here to stay, which generates major changes to business travel. Companies must think innovatively about how their people travel and if the mobility policies they had pre-pandemic are going to work in a post-pandemic world. Employees are commuting less, and business journeys may now involve more use of personal cars. We know from research and experience that many privately owned cars are older, more polluting models which will fall foul of the growing number of low emission zones being created around the country. This will be of concern to companies for a number of reasons:
staff-use of older cars may conflict with corporate targets and ambitions. These issues are leading many corporates to take a closer look at their approach to business travel policies, and to set controls in place that ensure employee choices actively contribute to safer travel and a greener environment.
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Allowing employees to use their own cars and reclaim mileage allowances, known as “grey fleet,” is costly, at a time when businesses are working hard to recover.
Enterprise Car Club is a key part of the travel policy of many businesses. Employees have access to modern, low emission vehicles and employers can choose how to structure the service to meet their needs. The vehicles can be based at a company’s premises for exclusive use, a dedicated service, or employees can access Enterprise’s nationwide car club fleet. In Liverpool, we have a number of vehicles around the city and work closely with the council who use this service.
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Businesses are increasingly being pressed to reduce CO2 emissions and
Booking and access to vehicles via an app makes the process simple and convenient
Making a social impact in crisis…and beyond
of society’s most vulnerable as they battled anxiety, isolation and financial crisis. So far, Blue Family has reached more than 31,500 families and individuals, offering much-needed help in the way of food parcels and access to mental health support, as well as handing out laptops and other educational resources across the region.
By Lesley Beattie, director of development at Everton in the Community.
This vital work, which we have since pledged to pursue for as long as is needed post pandemic, would not have been possible without robust relationships with our corporate partners.
The pandemic has caused a lot of disruption to organisations during the last two years and continues to have an impact as restrictions change and the virus remains very much part of our lives.
We are continuing to work shoulder to shoulder on this journey with our corporate partners, building a future with those who played an integral role in initiatives like Blue Family.
As a result of many businesses tightening their purse strings and pulling back on CSR activities, the charity sector has suffered majorly during the last 18 months.
Making an impact, for us, is why we exist – we see the need and we act. It is with the help of our corporate partners that allow us to succeed in this mission.
Within days of the first lockdown being announced back in March 2020, Everton in the Community had launched its Blue Family initiative, designed to support some
To create long-lasting partnerships we need to align perfectly with those businesses, focusing on our core values: ambition, determination, authenticity and family.
and means businesses only pay when a vehicle is needed. We know that business travel will be vital to driving our recovery, while at the same time transport and travel will be under the spotlight as the government presses ahead with its decarbonisation policy. The good news is that innovation is ensuring the number of sustainable, low and zeroemission travel options are increasing. To find out more about the Enterprise Car Club please contact Kate Jones on kate.l.jones@ehi.com
When approached by would-be partners, our first step is to ensure that they are a good fit for us. It is 100 per cent a two-way street – that way, our stakeholders know how we intend to do business and can work better alongside us to maximise a project’s outcomes. Similarly, discussions on the benefits to our partners will be mapped out clearly from the outset – a win-win scenario. We cannot forget that the desire to help is there. By listening and responding to the needs of both the people and businesses in our communities, we can address the issues head-on and whilst we are still living with the coronavirus emergency there is most definitely emerging opportunities for greater corporate-charity resilience.
EVENTS
Innovation among Liverpool city region firms was celebrated at the Liverpool Chamber Innovation in Business Awards held at the Innside by Melia Hotel Medical diagnostics firm BioGrad and technical event support specialist MSP Global were among the big winners at the Liverpool Chamber Innovation in Business Awards.
and hosted by presenter and podcast producer Gemma Cutting, allowing guests to share the awards experience live and support the nominated businesses.
The awards, which celebrate the spirit of innovation that has driven many local businesses in their recovery from the pandemic, were presented at the new Innside by Melia Hotel on Old Hall Street.
charity Chasing The Stigma was named Responsible Business of the Year. The winners of each award will now be put forward as Liverpool Chamber’s nominees for the national Chamber Business Awards.
Paul Cherpeau, chief executive of Liverpool Chamber, said: “It was fantastic to bring so many successful businesses together again this year to celebrate their achievements during a period of unprecedented challenge.
The evening’s host was BBC Radio Merseyside presenter and founder of the iWoman Academy, Ngunan Adamu.
In each category, a special award was also given to an innovator that has overcome the challenges of the pandemic.
BioGrad collected the award for Business of the Year with more than 30 employees and MSP Global was awarded the title for businesses with fewer than 30 employees. Engineering firm Sutcliffe received the Chairman’s award.
Winners included Redwigwam (Skills), Rise Construction Framework (Responsible Business) and the Royal College of Physicians (Environmental).
Wild Thang scooped the International award, while Amber Ellis from PINS Social Club was named Young Person of the Year. The Skills award was won by Everton in the Community, while Everton FC chief executive Professor Denise BarrettBaxendale won the Local Hero award. Booker Flowers & Gifts won the Environmental award and mental health
Also among the winners of special innovation awards were Alfie Kearns of I Am Moore (Young Person), Gencoa (International), Mike Moran MBE (Local Hero) CNC Robotics (Business of the Year with fewer than 30 employees) and Marine Specialised Technology (Business of the Year with more than 30 employees). A separate ‘Green Room’ experience was also held at Dwntwn on Harrington Street, where the awards event was live streamed
“Many organisations are, of course, still facing up to the adversity caused the pandemic, but there has been a genuine sense of optimism around the awards and that was reflected throughout the evening. “Innovation has been at the heart of the pandemic response for so many businesses in the Liverpool city region, so it was only fitting that we should award separate prizes to highlight their talent, agility and resilience. “The hybrid model of a traditional event combined with remote streaming not only allowed us to maximise the safety and choice of our guests, but also to socialise and enjoy the event with many more businesses. Clatterbridge Cancer Charity is one of the chamber’s official charity partners and fundraising activities were held on their behalf during the evening.
SAVE THE DATE! The Innovation in Business Awards will return on Thursday 17 November 2022 and we are determined to make next year’s awards even bigger and better. Contact Tom.Woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk to maximise the sponsorship opportunities on offer.
Liverpool Chamber
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CHAMBER EVENTS
Exclusive Hospitality
at The Randox Grand National Festival 2022 Thursday 7 April
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CHAMBER EVENTS
A look back at 2021… The beginning of 2021 presented challenges within the event industry due to ongoing restrictions preventing the hosting of physical events. Liverpool Chamber, along with many other businesses within the Liverpool City Region, took an innovative approach to ensure our extensive events programme continued throughout the most difficult of times.
A hybrid approach enabled companies and individuals to network and gain insight from some fantastic, quality speakers across different sectors; engaging in Well Connected networking events, a virtual Aintree, strategy events and more. We would like to congratulate everyone for their ongoing adaptation and hope we as the Chamber, sufficiently supported all our members through these testing times. Liverpool Chamber’s substantial events programme empowers us to create new relationships with business and prioritise ever prevalent issues impacting you – our members, to ensure we can support and implement strategies for best practice. We couldn’t have been more delighted when restrictions eased, allowing us to get back in the room whilst taking a new, exciting approach. The Innovation in Business Awards ceremony displayed how the pandemic has pushed us to innovate and accelerate, with the event taking place across two venues; the eccentric new INNSiDE By
Melia and DWNTWN cocktail bar. Both parties then celebrated together at the official afterparty at Alibi, just next door to DWNTWN on Harrington Street. Similarly, our monthly panel events had an innovative studio makeover courtesy of MSP Global, enabling us to continue to connect our members with leading experts in a wide range of fields. Networking will always be forefront of what we do as we believe connecting businesses who can share expertise and experiences with one another will forever be invaluable. Our Well Connected networking events are becoming more and more popular amongst members with the last event of the year seeing more than 60 attendees!
Looking ahead to 2022…
We are optimistic that our 2022 events programme will go ahead safely, and as planned. The safety of our members and event attendees will always be of paramount importance to us, and we will consistently review new guidance ahead of our events. That’s why our large-scale events are all fully refundable should we need to cancel due to Covid-19, so you can book risk-free!
We are proud to offer networking opportunities to give our members the chance to connect and present to businesses across the Liverpool City Region. Our events include: Monthly Well Connected: The first Friday of every month Strategic Events: Monthly strategy events discussing key topics from Skills to Net Zero International Trade: Ongoing meetings, briefings and training through our international arm to prepare business for new trading arrangements with Europe and the wider world. Policy: We also host various policy-driven events, to discuss the challenges members and businesses are facing and provide a platform for collaborative action. This includes our quarterly economic survey business briefings. Our first major event will be hosted on the 7th of April, our annual Day at the Races on Randox Grand National Thursday. We can’t wait to enjoy this event back in person! Join us with your team, friends or clients and enjoy exclusive views of the home straight via our private balcony along with an exclusive hospitality package inclusive of; •
Premier course admission
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A three course lunch
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Complimentary bar (beers, wine, spirits, soft drinks)
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Traditional afternoon tea
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Complimentary race card
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Private tote betting
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Complimentary car parking
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Private tables of up to 10 or 12 guests
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1 car pass per booking of 4
Secure your Aintree 2022 tickets now by filling out the enquiry form at liverpoolchamber.org.uk/events or email tom.woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk For more information on any of our events, contact laura.edwards@liverpoolchamber.org.uk Liverpool Chamber
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CHARITY
Enhance your social impact with a dedicated charity partner The pandemic has certainly caused a disturbance to businesses during 2020 and 2021, and charities have suffered tremendously as a consequence. However, with life slowly returning to normal as restrictions ease, there has never been a better time to consider adopting a charitable partner. Liverpool Chamber are passionate about creating pathways for third sector organisations to engage with businesses across a range of sectors, and, as we start 2022 with renewed optimism, now is the time to explore the benefits that a corporate partnership could bring to your business, the charity, and wider community.
It is really important to select a charity partner who aligns with your company’s vision, mission and values, and so for an initial chat regarding how you could best engage with the third sector, please email Tom.Woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk or Jordan.Rhoda@liverpoolchamber.org.uk.
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Liverpool Press Club
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Liverpool YMCA
We will also soon be launching a series of charity focused events, so please keep an eye out for further announcements via our newsletters and social media channels.
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Local Solutions
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Mary’s Meals
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Moving on With Life and Learning
Our charities:
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National Museums Liverpool
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Natural Breaks Ltd
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North West Cancer Research (NWCR)
Age Concern Liverpool and Sefton
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Alder Hey Children’s Charity
We know that there are many Chamber members that have strong CSR initiatives in place and would love to support local charities, and we are always on hand to provide education on ways to enhance this social impact and receive a return on investment.
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Be One Percent
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Blackburne House
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Billions of pounds may be given to charity every year – but a constant stream of new causes are emerging that are in desperate need of public support. Although many are small organisations that struggle to attract publicity and funding, their work can be life-changing for people in local communities. Not only does fundraising help an important cause, it also brings an organisation together, and gives staff a perfect excuse to try something new or perhaps step out of their comfort zones.
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• Liverpool Parish Church (Our Lady & St Nicholas) •
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Our own partner charities, Clatterbridge Cancer Charity and Everton in the Community, are truly wonderful organisations, and we would well recommend a conversation with them, or any one of our incredible charity partners (listed below) to start a remarkable journey.
Leadership Through Sport and Business
• Nugent •
Relate Cheshire and Merseyside
British Music Experience
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Resume Foundation - Aintree Hub
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Career Connect
• Riverside
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Chasing The Stigma
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Ronald McDonald House
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City Hearts
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Salvation Army
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Claire House
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Sefton Women’s and Children’s Aid
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Clatterbridge Cancer Charity
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South Liverpool Homes
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Cradle Charity
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Team Oasis
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Crisis Skylight
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The Brain Charity
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Daisy Inclusive UK
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Directory of Social Change
• The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
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Emmaus Merseyside
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The Whitechapel Centre
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Everton in the Community
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The Womens Organisation
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Expect Limited
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The Yellow House
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Freshfields Animal Rescue
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When You Wish Upon A Star
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Imagine Independence
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Wirral Hospice St John’s
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Woodlands Hospice
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Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice
• Institute of Fundraising NorthWest (IOFNW) • LCVS
STAFF DIRECTORY
Staff Directory
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.
Connect Support Thrive.
Paul Cherpeau Chief Executive
Jon Cranston Director of Finance & Operations
Tom Woolley Business Growth & Membership Manager
Elena Enciso International Trade Manager
Julie Sankey International Trade Executive
Ian Bulmer Programmes & Policy Manager
Sarah Woolley Export Documentation Specialist
Helen Gibbons Accounts Manager
Michelle Cameron Senior Policy & Communications Advisor
Melissa Healy Office Manager
Laura Edwards Events Manager
Nathan Taylor Administration Assistant
paul.cherpeau@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
julie.sankey@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Heather Whitaker Export Documentation Specialist
heather.whitaker@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Jordan Rhoda Membership Executive
jordan.rhoda@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Emily Hardy Marketing and Communications Officer emily.hardy@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Liverpool Chamber
jon.cranston@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
ian.bulmer@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Lisa Noon Export Documentation Specialist lisa.noon@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Conor Williams Executive Officer
conor.williams@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Jess Miller Marketing and Events Assistant
tom.woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
sarah.woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
michelle.cameron@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
laura.edwards@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
elena.enciso@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
helen.gibbons@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
melissa.healy@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
nathan.taylor@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
Tel: 0151 227 1234 Email: membership@liverpoolchamber.org.uk export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk | @LpoolChamber
jessica.miller@liverpoolchamber.org.uk
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What is on top of your to-do list? Social justice is on the top of my mind. We have been developing and consulting on an organisational wide equality, diversity and inclusion strategy, have been involved in the LCR Poverty and Life Chances Standing Action Group and chairing the 800 Group consortium of Liverpool charities. There are many people, organisations and companies working across Liverpool to help in any way that they can. What is the best advice you have been given in your career? ‘Know your [financial] numbers’. Charities may have a different governance structure than private companies but the imperative to have a long term sustainable organisation exists for us all. If you weren’t doing your current job what would be your ideal role? I love my work, helping people and communities. I think I would have always ended up trying to help in some way. I often say that when it is my time to account for the actions in my life, that I would like to look back on my intentions, and be comfortable in that I contributed positively. Who is your role model? (Business or personal) Journalist Marie Colvin who died by bombardment whilst raising awareness of what was happening to the Syrian people. At the time of her death, the war in Syria was not yet in the wider public discourse, particularly in North America. What I admire about her was her courage to challenge injustice. Why choose the Liverpool City Region to work?
What does a typical working day look like, and has this changed since the onset of Covid? A typical day starts quite early by reviewing online news updates on my phone. I then check in with work through an app that we use across our charity that updates me on incidents, emerging risks and progress on planned initiatives. Since our charity employs approx. 500 local heroes in the education, health and social care and business support sectors, being able to be
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agile to adjust to the changing guidance has been vital and an important focus to keep both our beneficiaries, volunteers and our staff, as safe as possible. Since Covid, and more recently with the onset of Omicron, we have a daily challenge to contain risks associated with staff absences and seasonal illnesses. Our team of leaders are excellent and work with their teams to safely contain each area of our work with safe staffing levels.
As an immigrant to England, who landed by chance in Liverpool, I have found it such a thriving and energetic city. The restaurants, the culture, the music, the laughter, the opportunity – it’s all here.
All The Shapes Tile & Co in collaboration with Holloways of Ludlow Official showroom opening Monday 28th March 2022
With a specially curated range of tiles, lighting & furniture from some of the worlds best brands. A new concept for the Liverpool area Unit 18 Gibraltar Row King Edward Rise Liverpool L3 7HJ James Lambert All the Shapes Tile & Co 0151 3180569 info@atstiles.com www.atstiles.com
Buy Better. Buy Once. Cherish Forever.
Nicola Batey Holloways of Ludlow 07904457796 nicola@hollowaysofludlow.com www.hollowaysofludlow.com
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