Business Matters Magazine Spring 22

Business

Matters SPRING 2022 EDITION

HELPING RENFREWSHIRE GROW & PROSPER

Book Now for Business Matters in Renfrewshire 2022

FREE TO ATTEND

Thursday 19th May 10am-4pm, The Lagoon – Paisley “6 seminars & 50+ exhibitors”

Sponsored by

Exhibitors...

Open to all members & non-members, SMEs & staff, start-ups, students & pupils #b2bpaisley SEMINAR 1 10:15am-11am: Paisley Is

SEMINAR 2 11.15am-12pm: Connect and Grow with Renfrewshire Chamber.

SEMINAR 3 12.15pm-1pm: Embrace the Space - a mini masterclass on effective social media for business.

SEMINAR 4 1.15pm-2pm: Join the Invest in Renfrewshire & Business Development teams.

SEMINAR 5 2.15pm-3pm: How to win business using LinkedIn.

SEMINAR 6 3.15pm-4pm: 5 Ways to generate more profit & develop a growth mindset.

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Register your free place www.renfrewshirechamber.com INSIDE: B2B Event, NMIS update, new Directors & Quarterly Economic Survey PLUS: Updates & news from Chamber, Council & Members

Business Matters Spring 2022

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Recruiting Foster Carers in Renfrewshire

“Fostering has helped me become a better person and enjoy life more.”

Martin, Foster Carer at Kibble

Begin a rewarding role as a foster carer with Kibble. Right now, children and young people in Renfrewshire and surrounding areas need safe, loving homes with supportive adults. We have a range of opportunities to suit you, from full-time foster care to short breaks and shared living. We are also actively recruiting foster carers to support siblings.

As a foster carer with Kibble, you will receive full training and qualifications, generous fees and allowances, and round the clock support.

Contact us today and help give children and young people a chance at life.

Search foster with kibble | 0800 008 6812 www.kibble.org/fostering |

@KibbleCharity |

KibbleGroup

Kibble Education and Care Centre: Scottish Charity No SC026917 Registered in Scotland No 158220 Fostering Service CS2004082220

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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President’s Welcome Dear Members, Welcome to the Spring issue of Business Matters Magazine. On behalf of our members, I’m delighted to welcome three new directors recently co-opted to the Chamber board. They are Natalie O’Hare (Managing Consultant – Scotland, Beyond HR), Donald Boyd (Head of Growth - North Region for Azets UK) and Alan Calderwood (Strategic Development Director with Morrison Construction). Their skills and expertise complement our strong board and demonstrates the depth of business talent we have within our membership. I look forward to working with them as we help our members connect and grow.

As our business community continues to recover there are many challenges to consider. Inflation, the cost of doing business and price rises we know are at the front of many minds. Members are concentrating on business survival and the latest Quarterly Economic Survey with Scottish Chambers shows real pressure on the cost of doing business.

Adding to the pre-existing challenges linked to persistent labour market shortages, international supply chain disruption, soaring energy prices and an increasing tax burden, Scotland’s economy is entering into a period of increased uncertainty. With inflation reaching a 30-yearhigh, the return to economic growth seen following the removal of Covid-19 restrictions is now stalling with firms facing hard choices around investment, recruitment, and price rises. Business needs the Scottish and UK Government to act now and reconsider the additional pressure of rising and new taxes just as our economic recovery is faltering.

The terrible situation in Ukraine has added to the uncertainty and concern with continued disruption to international trade before we begin to consider the humanitarian crisis.

In the last months your board of directors, along with our executive team have undertaken a review of the Chamber’s strategy and business plan to map out the direction for the coming years. With cost pressures in mind, we have refreshed our membership offer to ensure it presents real value for money in a tangible way. The new choice-based structure will give flexibility to ensure your membership can help support your own business goals.

I wish to extend an invitation to join us for the launch of the new strategy at our Business Matters in Renfrewshire B2B event on Thursday 19th May at the Lagoon, Paisley.

This prestigious free event, returning for its 10th edition, is the largest of its type in Renfrewshire and is sponsored

by Paisley.Is, the ambitious destination brand for Paisley & Renfrewshire. The event is open to all businesses, schools and students to attend. We have six informative seminars to book offering expert advice and networking opportunities for your business. You can now register online via the Chamber website.

New measures to revitalise town centres and regenerate local economies have recently been published. In response to last year’s review of the Town Centre Action Plan, a joint

report by the Scottish Government and COSLA outlines actions to better embed a ‘Town Centre First’ approach to meet the needs of communities and tackle climate change.

Finally, may I highlight two initiatives that are seeking your support.

PACE Youth Theatre is developing Scotland’s first dedicated theatre for children and young people and is offering local businesses the chance to become part of the creation of this unique hub for creative learning, performance and community activity right in the heart of Paisley town centre. The space will be completely transformative for young people, for our community and for the regeneration of Paisley. Companies can become a founding sponsor and help the realisation of this vision.

Find out more on page 27.

Could you support the Young Persons Guarantee? DYW West are seeking employers in Renfrewshire to pledge their support to the Young Person’s Guarantee (YPG). If you are already involved in or are interested in any of 5 “asks” listed on page 34 then you are supporting the YPG (and could get to use the YPG logo in your own channels and be listed on the national YPG website).

On behalf of the Chamber board and team, I wish you all a happy Easter.

Liz Connolly, President Renfrewshire Chamber

Business Matters Spring 2022

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A Warm Welcome from our Chief Executive Dear Members & readers, welcome to the Spring issue of Business Matters Magazine. I’m delighted to see the return of our annual B2B event “Business Matters in Renfrewshire” which is now open for registration.

We are pleased to deliver the 10th Edition of this event following a pause for two years.

Taking place on Thursday 19th of May at the Lagoon and sponsored by Paisley Is the day represents an opportunity to network with 50 + companies in one go, a great use of your time.

There are six free seminars from Paisley Is, Invest in Renfrewshire, social media workshops on LinkedIn with fatBuzz and “Embrace the Space” with NSDesign.

ActionCOACH will give you 5 ways to increase profits and the Chamber will launch our new strategy, branding, and innovative choice-based membership packages.

I encourage you to book your free

place now via www.renfrewshirechamber. com and please share with your colleagues and friends, we hope to see you on the day.

Our networking lunch series returns on Thurs 26th May at the Glynhill Hotel.

Our speaker is Stephen Leckie, recently elected President of Scottish Chambers of Commerce. Stephen is also chair of the Scottish Tourism Alliance and CEO of the Crieff Hydro Hotel Group. He is a well-respected advocate for the Tourism & Hospitality industry, and we look forward to extending a warm welcome.

Our TRANSFORM series continues with the latest edition of Mental Health and Wellbeing with Brian Costello from Headstrong starting towards the end of April.

Finally, I extend a warm welcome to our newly appointed Directors Natalie O’Hare, Alan Calderwood and Donald Boyd. You can read more about them on page 20 and we look forward to their

support, energy & contribution with the Chamber’s mission to help you connect & grow.

Have a great Spring and best regards

Bob Grant Chief Exec

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce Bute Court, St Andrews Drive, Glasgow Airport, PA3 2SW t: 0141 847 5450 / f: 0141 847 5499 e: info@renfrewshirechamber.com / w: www.renfrewshirechamber.com Next issue of Business Matters is Summer 2022 Deadline for editorial and adverts is 6th June 2022 Themes are B2B / education and training & development / business support & finance / tourism & leisure

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Business Matters Spring 2022 “ I’d like to update

Advertising & Editorial: Contact Jill Carrino t: 07702 909474 / e: jcarrino@renfrewshirechamber.com

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my professional qualifications ”

Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce would like to acknowledge the support of our Premier Partners:

West College Scotland offers a range of professional training and development courses to help you update your skills.

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Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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When it comes to corporate events...

Ingliston Country Club has got you covered, all in one spectacular location When most people think of Ingliston Country Club & Hotel, they think of the first-class facilities, idyllic countryside setting and awardwinning restaurant, Palomino’s.

But did you know we also offer five unique event spaces? All individually styled, designed and equipped with the latest technology to suit your business needs – from team building days, any size of meeting, conferences and business lunches. The warm, welcoming feel also makes Ingliston perfectly suited for solo business travellers.

Located just ten minutes west of Glasgow Airport and twenty-five minutes from Glasgow City Centre, Ingliston can cater for meetings, conferences and seminars, networking events, day delegates, team building, training, away days, private dining and family fun days.

Our experienced, friendly and professional team are always happy to help, and discuss any requirements you may have.

Our competitive Day Delegate Package, led by a dedicated Events Co-ordinator, includes internet access, conference stationery, flip-chart, LCD projector, and plenty of liquid refreshments to make for a comfortable and productive session.

Split over two floors, the gorgeous Salerno Suite, with more than a nod to the world of Art Deco design, is ideal for your networking event. Guests can enjoy a relaxed drinks reception within the bar area before heading up the spiral staircase for a more formal layout.

There’s extensive indoor and outdoor areas for team building events within the world-class equestrian centre, which means if they so desire, staff can take

advantage of riding lessons, pony rides and stable tours. Having access to such a large outdoor space means staff can enjoy activities such as archery, laser tag and volley ball to name a few!

For large scale events, the newly refurbished indoor Arabian Marquee is the perfect space where they can accommodate your AV requirements, and with a capacity of over 500 there’s lots of space for you to get creative.

To compliment this, our bedrooms and lodges sleep up to 130 people – coupled with competitive residential packages and free onsite parking, this makes Ingliston the ideal location and superior choice within the central belt.

For more information, please contact our Events Team on 01505 864 333, option 3 or email events@ingliston.com

Business Matters Spring 2022

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Join Kibble, The Leadi Charity That Continu Kibble Education and Care Centre is a specialist child and youth care charity that supports young people with experience of trauma. We provide care, education and therapeutic support to open opportunities and create positive futures. For over 160 years Kibble has cared for young people. Although we have evolved since inception our priority remains to support young people who need our help the most.

Our aim is to give young people a chance at life.

To maintain the highest standard of care, all services are integrated and shaped around the needs of each young person following a trauma-informed approach. This includes residential care, primary and secondary education, young workforce development and training, intensive fostering, secure care, community housing, and therapeutic support and interventions.

As a steadfast, resilient charity with an ambitious nature, Kibble’s intention is to grow further and help provide a safe, stable environment that is both nurturing and therapeutic for as many young people as possible.

Our dedicated staff team exceeds 650 employees, and together, we ensure over 150 young people in our care receive consistent love and support 365 days a year, 24/7.

Meet the Staff Team Our workforce is diverse as Kibble requires a range of roles to operate and deliver the highest standard of care, education and opportunity.

The professions span from care to education as well as those specialising in psychology. Positions in human resources, ICT, management positions and more are essential. The job roles across the organisation all have a commitment to maintain round-theclock operations. By joining Kibble, individuals become part of a team who collectively help bring brighter experiences to young people.

The genuine friendships between colleagues, staff and young people are the most important aspect. The closeknit bonds instil a sense of belonging across Kibble as we strive to be the best version of ourselves for those around us, with young peoples’ smiles and progress providing motivation to look towards the future and fulfil potential.

Kibble’s Dedication to Employees It is recognised that the long-term success of Kibble is underpinned by each individual staff member. For their genuine compassion, enthusiasm and commitment to meet the needs of young people and the organisation, Kibble provide health and wellbeing services, staff benefits and the support to learn and develop. Each employee has access to a free gym membership, physiotherapy, a health cashback scheme and other benefits. The ethos is to embed a culture of professional confidence, ensuring staff are equipped with knowledge and skills reflective of the evolving needs of young people, and have the tenacity, at all levels, to actively share their views on service improvements and ideas to develop our organisation and potentially impact the wider care sector.

Staff Develop as Kibble Evolves An inspiring learning and development culture has been cultivated and employees are offered opportunities to gain further qualifications, lead research projects and progress professionally.

Investment into development is a priority with staff undertaking PHDs and master’s

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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ding Children’s ues to Evolve

level qualifications. As Kibble evolves, staff must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to best support young people in our care. One of our key values is ambition, we want to be the best we can be and have the ability to help young people in the most effective way.

Kibble has developed a new role of Senior-Practitioner providing experienced Child and Youth Care Workers with the opportunity to further progress their career. There is great emphasis on the ongoing recruitment of new candidates and talent, whilst nurturing existing employees and creating development opportunities to promote staff retention.

As a result, Kibble has built a workforce that is supported, motivated, empowered and ever-growing.

Proactive Recruitment Kibble recognise staff as their most important resource. Our key focus is to recruit individuals who possess kindness, compassion and life experience. Kibble places as much importance on staff having the drive to make difference as they do on qualifications and experience.

Through the implementation of a Staffin-Training programme, Kibble provide full training and mentoring to those wishing to become a Child and Youth Care Worker. By the end of the 12-month

course, candidates gain an HNC in Social Services and are guaranteed an interview Lola Devine, Child and Youth Care Worker shared: “Through Kibble’s Staffin-Training programme, I became a fully qualified Child and Youth Care worker gaining a HNC in Social Care. The investment in my progress continued and four years later I am now studying for a master’s degree, funded by Kibble.”

for innovative collaboration and new methods to address local deprivation and exclusion through youth employment, community engagement initiatives and activities.

Development of Young Workforce

Work for Kibble

Kibble has introduced an innovative approach to learning and development for pupils with a young workforce development model that focuses on helping young people achieve academic and vocational qualifications to gain employment in a role they enjoy.

Consequently, empowering young people with the knowledge, accolades and employability skills to find and sustain employment and contribute to the local economy.

As part of our young workforce expansion, Kibble own a share of St Mirren football club. Through the partnership training, education and employment opportunities have been created for young people in line with the current job market. The unique balance of a fan-owned club with a charity allows

Working for Kibble is rewarding as each member of staff directly makes a difference to the lives of young people.

The range of services and expertise Kibble possesses has only been made possible through an incredible, skilful and knowledgeable workforce. All employees have the same ambition: to innovate, learn and help as many young people as possible and Kibble’s continued progress reflects that shared drive and common goal. The staff are the backbone of Kibble, and we are insearch of likeminded and enthusiastic individuals to join us in our mission.

Check regularly for vacancies: www.jobtrain.co.uk/kibble/ Visit our website: www.kibble.org recruitment@kibble.org | @KibbleCharity | KibbleGroup

Kibble Education and Care Centre: Scottish Charity No SC026917 Registered in Scotland No 158220

Business Matters Spring 2022

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Graham + Sibbald Chartered Surveyors Graham + Sibbald Chartered Surveyors and Property Consultants have been helping people across Scotland to sell their homes for their true value for more than sixty years. We value more than just property – we value your trust, your memories and your future.

Offering a wide range of residential property services from mortgage valuations to detailed building surveys and energy performance certificates, we can provide you with a full property service suited to your specific needs.

We’re proud of the fact that our home reports are accepted by major lenders, giving you peace of mind that you and your home are in safe hands. So when selling your home, make sure the home report is prepared by Graham + Sibbald.

Visit our website for more information or call 0141 889 3251 and quote ‘HOME’ to request a free, no obligation quote from our residential team. www.g-s.co.uk

Statkraft UK Statkraft is at the heart of the UK’s energy transition.

Since 2006, Statkraft has gone from strength to strength in the UK, building experience across wind, solar, hydro, storage, grid stability, EV charging, and a thriving markets business.

We’ve invested £1.4 billion in the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure and facilitated over 4 GW of new-build renewable energy generation through Power Purchase Agreements. If our Greener Grid Park project in Renfrewshire (a highly innovative grid stability project) gets approval it will bring significant investment to the local community, with opportunities for local suppliers and businesses throughout the construction phase. We have a track record of promoting these opportunities locally and through our local suppliers register.

We employ over 280 staff in England, Scotland and Wales and play a key role in helping the global business achieve its goal of 8 GW of developed wind and solar power by 2025.

Contact Details: Kate Brown Email - kate.brown@statkraft.com Mobile +447501453204

Mabbett & Associates Ltd Glasgow-headquartered Mabbett & Associates Ltd (Mabbett) has taken another step in their strategic growth journey with the acquisition of the assets of Nevis Environmental Ltd (Nevis Environmental).

The acquisition of the independent ecology, environmental management, and planning services consultancy – which has offices in Inverness and Carlisle – will bolster Mabbett’s technical team (including enhancing technical services in: natural capital and land management, climate change and carbon, peatland services, ecology and environmental surveys, planning and development, construction environmental and operational monitoring and asset service) and skillsets and provision of environmental management support for infrastructure projects. Mabbett will enjoy enhanced geographic coverage following the deal with the addition of new Inverness and Carlisle offices.

Speaking about the investment, Mabbett Managing Director, Derek J. McNab, said: “Mabbett has respected the strength of the Nevis Environmental technical team over recent years through their strong

profile and long-established reputation for delivering quality ecology and planning consultancy services. Their team values and attributes make them a great fit for Mabbett and we look forward to integrating and working together to our mutual benefit in the years ahead.”

Kathryn Fraser, Director, Ecology & Environment Group, commented: “Joining the Mabbett family is a great opportunity to expand our technical service offering and enhance our geographical coverage. I look forward to continuing to work with my team,

enhancing the personal and first-class service offering we are renowned for and embracing the new opportunities the deal with Mabbett will bring.”

The acquisition of the assets of Nevis Environmental by Mabbett is the second major investment by the leading consulting firm in Q1, 2022, following the recent acquisition of GH Johnston Building Consultants (GHJ). A further major acquisition announcement is expected in early Spring with the group expansion coming on the back of a year of double-digit growth.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Flexible Workforce Development Fund

Last year, West College Scotland delivered courses to its Flexible Workforce Development Fund clients in…

 Office365  Management  Digital literacy  Cyber Security  Customer Service  British Sign Language  Intent based leadership  Project Management  Welding & Electrical  Health and Safety  Mindfulness  Social Media  Resilience  Coaching

With our ability to educate & train across such a wide variety of topics, there’s more than one reason why it’s called ‘flexible’.

Like us on Facebook

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Follow us on twitter

0800 052 9612

w www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk/fwdf/

Business Matters Spring 2022

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Pupils Have Opportunity to Win a Place at World-Leading Innovation School School pupils across Scotland have been challenged to design a pair of shoes capable of collecting litter to win a free place on one of the world’s leading education programs.

PEAK Scientific have organized the competition in a bid to level-up Scotland’s workforce of the future. They are funding 30 free places to NuVu X’s summer school in Glasgow from July 16-23. Entrants who come up with the best concepts for litter-picking shoes – decided by a panel of experts – will be invited to join the summer school. Any pupil at a state school in Scotland over the age of 13 can apply.

The intensive summer school will be hosted at the UK’s first innovation school – a purpose built £2.5m building which is part of Kelvinside Academy in Glasgow’s West End. The theme of the summer school will be green wearable tech, and pupils will be guided by NuVu X’s team of innovators – made up of Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Harvard grads – as they design products that will make the world a better place.

Using innovative approaches, materials, and technologies, students will learn how to make wearable technology that measures and improves the environment’s health.

Boston-based NuVu was founded by a trio of MIT graduates with a mission to transform education around the world.

Since launching in 2014, NuVu has brought its innovative model to schools around the world, swapping traditional classrooms and passive learning for openended, hands-on studios.

NuVu X’s co-founder and chief creative officer, Saba Ghole, said: “At NuVu X, pupils discover a new way of learning. We combine design technology and social issues to give students the opportunity to explore their creative side. We are excited that PEAK Scientific has opened the door to what could be a life changing experience for 30 talented young people.

“The real motivation for NuVu X is to infuse education with creative learning and problem solving and thinking critically about the world

PEAK Scientific CEO, Jonathan Golby

around us. Our mission is to empower the next generation of young designers, entrepreneurs, makers and inventors who will impact their communities and world through their work and ideas.

“Traditional education doesn’t nurture pupils’ creativity and capacity for innovation.”

As it continues its expansion, NuVu X is currently in talks to bring its progressive learning model which combines studio-based learning with traditional coursework to schools UK-wide.

PEAK Scientific CEO, Jonathan Golby,

believes NuVu X’s model is the ‘missing piece in Scotland’s education system’.

He said: “All young people deserve to experience this new way of learning.

This is one small step towards trying to make every child in Scotland be better prepared to take on the jobs of the future.

“Not all students learn in the same way. And while the traditional curriculum based learning works for many, other students prosper in an environment where it’s less about exams and more about using hands-on skills and working together with others to complete a project.

“NuVu X gives pupils the license to develop their own answers and solutions, using their own initiative and intelligence to drive the process and solve open-ended problems.

“We believe adopting NuVu X’s education model could be a differentiator for Scotland’s workforce of the future. The changemakers, entrepreneurs, and innovators of the future need a different solution to what’s been offered in the past.”

Pupils aged 13+ at state schools across Scotland can register their interest in the competition at https://nuvux.nuvustudio. com/across-the-uk.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Zaptec Zaptec

At Zaptec - we’re on a journey to enable better personal mobility for the masses. Born on the rugged west coast of Norway, where horizons stretch far, it’s clear to us that travel and exploration are a natural part of what makes us human. We’re passionate about finding and enabling better ways to travel. We combine the latest tech with human-centred design to offer highly intuitive and efficient EV chargers ‘Zaptec Go & Pro’ and EV charging systems that ensure easier access to personal electric transport.

By offering leading edge, green-tech charging solutions, we aid the electrification of the transport sector while giving people the freedom and potential to travel into a more sustainable future.

Whether you’re planning a quick trip to the shops or aiming further into the distance, we are passionate about being the power behind your journey. Within just a few years, we’ve built our domestic market leading position by supplying superior charging installations for homes, work places and commercial parking. As Norwegian EV pioneers, our goals are aimed at bringing the best charging technology from the coast of Norway right here to the UK. Name: Gillian Sheridan, Phone: 07949 126 721, Email: gillian@zaptec.com

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Business Matters Spring 2022

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Commsworld secures 15-year contract to transform North Lanarkshire Council’s digital infrastructure

Commsworld, the leading UKwide provider of networking and connectivity solutions, has been awarded a contract which could see £150m spent over 15 years to transform North Lanarkshire’s digital infrastructure and connectivity.

The Edinburgh-headquartered company will accelerate the roll-out of gigabitcapable fire broadband across the entire local authority area, creating a free public WiFi network in town centres and significantly boosting the internet connectivity to schools.

It is the fifth major local authority contract won by Commsworld, having delivered massively enhanced infrastructure to Glasgow, Edinburgh, Renfrewshire and the Scottish Borders, adding to its growing reputation as primary provider of choice in the public sector.

The 15-year framework agreement for Digital Connectivity Services with North Lanarkshire will ensure improved access to high-quality, reliable fire connections, which will make a transformative difference to investment opportunities for businesses in the area as well as tackling

digital exclusion among its citizens.

It will achieve this by futureproofing North Lanarkshire’s digital backbone, enhancing the coverage and reach of gigabit-capable networks to businesses, private and council-owned social housing and residential households that are not currently served by existing networks. This will bring enormous benefits including increased access to employment opportunities, improve health and social wellbeing and economic growth.

The agreement will see the creation of a free public WiFi network connecting all town centres, council and public buildings, sport and leisure facilities, culture venues, libraries, country parks, sheltered housing, schools and homelessness accommodation, enabling everyone to gain internet access of up to 1GB, helping to reduce the digital divide across North Lanarkshire.

In a phased programme of work, the council’s 155 schools will also enjoy a significant uplift in internet connectivity with a minimum 1GB connection for primary schools – 20 times the current capacity – and secondary schools

increasing to 5GB, boosting digital learning through faster upload speeds.

Finally, as well as bringing an additional digital fibre provider to the area to increase competition, plans could be developed to offer vastly reduced rates for gigabit-capable fibre broadband to council tenants, residents and businesses.

John Trower, chairman of Commsworld, said: “Commsworld is looking forward to working with North Lanarkshire Council to bring rapid and thorough transformation to their digital infrastructure. This transformation will provide opportunities to regenerate every one of its town centres, schools and council buildings.

“Commsworld has a track record of delivering massively enhanced infrastructure to local authorities in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Renfrewshire and the Scottish Borders. We have been able to provide a step change in connectivity and resiliency in all these areas, changes that have delivered considerable benefits to everyone living, learning and working there. We look forward to being able to do the same in North Lanarkshire.”

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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NMIS HQ UPDATE:

CONSTRUCTION REACHES FINAL STAGES Construction at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland Group’s (NMIS) headquarters in Renfrewshire’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS) is nearing completion, with the interior now rapidly taking shape.

Designed as an open space that will inspire knowledge and creativity sharing, the 30,502m2 building will house the NMIS Digital Factory, Manufacturing Skills Academy and publicly accessible collaboration hub.

Construction began in late 2020, with the roof and 1,500 tonnes of structural steel in place by August. Autumn saw installation of the glulam frame, made from wood from sustainable Austrian forests along with glazing of the 384m2 window to the world, which will provide a glimpse into the world of advanced manufacturing for passers-by.

In recent weeks the interior of the building has come to life. Electrical and water supplies have been completed within the Digital Factory and ceilings have been installed in the Manufacturing Skills Academy. Fit out of the café, boardroom, clean room, and events space, including acoustics timber panels and ceiling tiles kicks off later this month.

A large solar photovoltaic array has also been installed on the building’s purple roof, including 1612 solar panels and battery storage, with the full system designed to power the building’s electrical systems and allow EV and E-bike charging.

Combined with a ready supply of low carbon heating thanks to connection to Scotland’s first ever fifth-generation low carbon heating network serving AMIDS, the new NMIS HQ will be the University of Strathclyde’s first operationally carbon neutral building.

On track for a BREEAM ‘outstanding’ award for sustainability – the highest accolade for sustainability in UK construction, the building features innovative technologies and materials that have been or can be remanufactured and reused. Any additional materials were carefully selected to ensure minimal environmental impact.

Handover of the building from Morrison Construction to the NMIS Engineering Services team remains on schedule for the summer when it will begin filling the bright space with cutting-edge digital advanced manufacturing technology.

Speaking about recent developments, Sarah Jardine, Chief Operating Officer, the National

Manufacturing Institute Scotland, said: “Located between Glasgow Airport and the new Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre our facility is now clearly distinctive on the region’s skyline and is testament to the commitment of NMIS, our funders and partners in re-establishing Scotland as an industrial powerhouse and manufacturing nation.

“Looking at this magnificent building, there can be no doubt that we are serious about helping the manufacturing community and our future workforce to thrive while attracting inward investment from global companies that want to innovate and enhance their competition within high value manufacturing.”

NMIS is a group of industry-led manufacturing and engineering research and development facilities operated by the University of Strathclyde and supported by the Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Funding Council and Renfrewshire Council. It is part of the UK’s High Value Manufacturing Catapult.

Sarah Jardine, Chief Operating Officer, the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland

Business Matters Spring 2022

14

Budget adds more incentives to encourage growth

By Donald Boyd, Partner and SME expert at Azets, the largest regional accountancy and business advisory firm to SMEs in the UK For Scotland’s businesses, the Budget, whilst on the face of it didn’t provide much for businesses, has left the current crop of attractive tax saving opportunities and investment incentives untouched.

Fortunately the big ones – corporation tax, VAT, investment allowances, dividends, super allowances – remain untouched or have been subject to minor tweaking. As such it is broadly ‘Business Tax as Usual’.

Businesses need taxes to be clear and consistent and for once this Budget has more or less kept the goalposts in the same position, with a nod to further tweaks in the Autumn.

We now have a period of relative certainty in which businesses can take advantage of the range of incentives to help (1) improve efficiency (2) reduce costs (3) increase profits (4) drive growth and (5) help on the journey to net zero.

Listed below is a ready reckoner of the current crop of tax saving opportunities still available to Scotland’s vital community of SMEs and entrepreneurs. I urge SMEs and entrepreneurs to take full advantage.

1. 130% Super Capital Allowances. This generous scheme has proven very popular, and whilst there may be a change in the future allowance, is still currently available. Businesses have until April 2023 to significantly reduce their tax burden by investing.

2. Recovery Loan Scheme – loans of up to £2m of which 70% is underwritten by the Government. It is available to businesses that have been affected by Covid restrictions and whose turnover is less than £45m. This remains in place until the end of June 2022.

3. R&D Tax credits. Whilst there

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

is an overdue clamp down on unscrupulous ‘providers’ coming in the future, this is and remains a massive tax break with a hard cash refund. There are many business owners who are eligible but who have not yet claimed this relief.

Patent Box. For those businesses who have been granted a UK or EU Patent.

This relief reduces profits to as low as 10% and with the corporation tax increase to 25% kicking in from April 2023, companies need to act now to take advantage of the patent box regime.

Business Asset Disposal Relief (formerly known as Entrepreneurs’ Relief). There has been a lot of chatter about the increase in capital taxes which have not come to fruition. This allowance allows certain businesses to dispose of shares, sell, retire or pass the company down to a future generation at a personal capital gains tax rate of 10%.

Employee Ownership Trusts. This has been increasingly popular with over 100 Scottish companies having taken advantage of this legislation.

The bottom line is the 0% tax on sale of a business to your staff remains in place.

The employment allowance has increased to £5,000 for many small businesses which will benefit over 500,000 SME businesses. There are many business owners that have not yet claimed this relief. It should be noted that you have to apply to receive this allowance.

Business rates reductions remain in place for SMEs, although we will have to confirm the position with Holyrood.

9. Zero VAT for energy saving materials.

This is a benefit for businesses selling in this sector as it improves the value proposition for the end user, for example, the installation of solar panels or heat pump systems.

10. Structures and Buildings Allowances.

This allows businesses to deduct 3% of the cost of construction and renovation of non-residential structures and buildings.

11. 100% allowance remains for zero emission cars. This is still highly attractive for businesses to put the company car back on the agenda.

The ability to write off the cost of an electrical vehicle against profits, coupled with generous benefit-in-kind legislation has and will continue to be attractive for businesses.

For more information on how these tax saving opportunities could help your business, contact Donald.boyd@azets. co.uk

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

15

Gourock Housing Development Site Acquired By Globe Homes

Gourock Housing Development Site Acquired

• •

Plans to deliver 22 three-bedroom semi-detached hom Homes to be constructed by City Gate Construction (Sc

• Plans to deliver 22 three-bedroom semi-detached homes 12 April 2022 • Homes to be constructed by City Gate Construction (Scotland) Ltd (CGC)

A prominent development site in upper Gourock has been p to build 22 new homes for Inverclyde.

The land, which is bounded by Tower Drive, Jacobs Drive, and Mc the home of the McPherson Centre, which was demolished in Dec

The 1.75-acre site already has local authority approval to crea detached houses, following its approval by Inverclyde Council in S

Globe Homes completed the acquisition last month and is current and five-bedroom luxury homes at Houston Grove in Renfrewshir

City Gate Construction (Scotland) Ltd (CGC) has been appointed a site, in conjunction with Rebecchi Architectural who is working warrant submission this month.

The proposed development has seen a high level of interest from the new build homes in a market where demand is outstripping s

The proposed development is expected to get underway in the A homes ready for occupancy in Spring 2023.

Marco Rebecchi, a Director at Bowman Rebecchi and Rebecch A prominent development site in upper Gourock has been purchased by Globe Homes to build 22 new homes for Inverclyde.

The land, which is bounded by Tower Drive, Jacobs Drive, and McPherson Drive, was formerly the home of the McPherson Centre, which was demolished in December 2021.

The 1.75-acre site already has local authority approval to create 22 threebedroom semi-detached houses, following its approval by Inverclyde Council in September 2021.

Globe Homes completed the acquisition last month and is currently developing 24 three, four, and fivebedroom luxury homes at Houston Grove

“Bowman Rebecchi was “Bowman delightedRebecchi to support Globe Homes with this was delighted in Renfrewshire, PA6. to support Globe Homes with this City Gate Construction (Scotland) Ltd of interest in the site. acquisition after a high level of interest (CGC) has been appointed as the main in the site. contractor for the site, in conjunction “This is an development, we development, look forward to working a “This is an and exciting and with Rebecchi Architectural whoexciting is we look forward to working alongside working towards lodging a building Construction to deliver these highly sought homes in Gourock.

Globe and City Gate Construction to warrant submission this month. deliver these highly sought homes in The proposed development has seen a “Bowman Rebecchi seen a lot of demand from potential purch Gourock. high level of interest from the public, all has “Bowman keen to secure thebe newa build homes in very popular development.” Rebecchi has seen a lot of demand from potential purchasers, a market where demand is outstripping and we expect this to be a very popular supply currently. development.”

The proposed development is expected Further details, including pricing of the to get underway in the Autumn of 2022, development and how to reserve plots, with the first homes ready for occupancy are set to be released in the coming in Spring 2023. weeks. For more information, please Marco Rebecchi, a Director at Bowman contact sales@bowreb.com.

Rebecchi and Rebecchi Architectural said:

Business Matters Spring 2022

16

SCOTTISH ECONOMY FALTERING AS BUSINESSES REPORT RECORD HIGH CONCERNS OVER INFLATION AND RISING COSTS Increasing pressure is mounting on Scottish businesses as the cost-ofdoing-business crisis hits the bottom line, according to the latest findings from a leading Scottish business survey from the Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC).

Firms have reported record levels of concern over inflation and rising cost pressures as the economy restructures following the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, creating complex challenges for Scottish businesses.

Adding to the pre-existing obstacles facing businesses, linked to persistent labour market shortages, international supply chain disruption, soaring energy prices and an increasing tax burden, Scotland’s economy is entering into a period of increased uncertainty.

Businesses are starting to feel the impact of reduced spending as consumers tighten their belts and disposable income drops, hitting many firms cashflow and profits, particularly in the tourism and retail sectors where recovery remains lethargic.

With inflation reaching a 30-year-high, the rapid return to economic growth seen following the removal of Covid-19 restrictions is now plateauing with firms being forced to make tough decisions around investment, recruitment, and price rises.

The situation in Ukraine is also deepening business concern with many continuing to seek advice, information and support to make decisions, adapt to rapidly changing circumstances and navigate the challenging times ahead with further international trade disruption likely.

KEY FINDINGS: • Record Concern Over Inflation: With UK inflation reaching 5.5% earlier this year, the negative impact on businesses is becoming increasingly clear with all sectors of the economy reporting record high levels of concern. The financial and business services sector (FBS) reported a 15% increase and the tourism sector a 14%

increase from Q4 2021 respectively.

• Cashflow Crunch and Profits Plummet: Businesses continue to report significant cashflow and profit challenges, with high inflation a key driving factor. The construction, retail and tourism sectors all reported decreases in both cashflow and profits, highlighting the impact of rising cost pressures, leaving businesses at increased risk from economic shocks.

• Growing Cost Pressures: Across all sectors, business cost pressures have increased. Raw material prices, rising energy costs, increased tax burdens and other overheads are leading pressures. Energy price rises and the ongoing global supply chain disruption are cited to be the primary contributing factors to these increases.

• Consumer Price Rise: In response to rising cost pressures, a record 7 in 10 firms have indicated that they intend to raise the prices that they charge for their goods and services. This is likely to deepen inflationary challenges and further increase the cost-of-living.

• Retail and Tourism Remain Vulnerable: Despite the continued easing of COVID-19 restrictions over the first quarter of 2022, firms in these sectors have still reported concerning figures for both sales and investment.

Retail footfall remains considerably below pre-pandemic levels due to changes in office work patterns and the removal of international travel restrictions have cooled the staycation market.

Stephen Leckie, President of the Scottish Chambers of Commerce said: “Despite a period of relatively strong growth, the latest Scottish Chambers of Commerce business survey reveals that growth is now levelling off as the complexity of the challenges facing Scotland’s businesses start to take hold.

“Firms are becoming increasingly anxious about rising inflation, energy prices and cost pressures. For too many businesses, the focus is still simply on survival.

QUARTERLY ECONOMIC INDICATOR

QUICK GUIDE RESULTS: Q1 2022

70% 70% of businesses expect to raise their prices over the next three months.

RECORD HIGH INFLATIONARY PRESSURES REPORTED BY:

70%

80%

7 in 10 financial + business 8 in 10 firms in services & retail firms tourism sector

90% 9 in 10 construction & manufacturing businesses

Cost pressures hit five-year Record High for Construction, Manufacturing and Tourism as raw material, overhead costs & energy prices increased

CASHFLOW & PROFITS

RETAIL, TOURISM & CONSTRUCTION REPORT FALL IN CASHFLOW & PROFITS

JOBS & LABOUR MARKET The majority of sectors continue to report significant recruitment difficulties making economic recovery difficult for many businesses

Visit ScottishChambers.org.uk to download full report

“Businesses who have weathered the pandemic over the past two years are now seeing problems pile up, one on top of another, as they struggle with longstanding challenges linked to recruitment, planning and managing change and are now being hammered by surging energy prices, inflation and falling consumer spending.”

“That is why the Scottish and UK Government’s need to urgently rethink the impact of new and increased taxes on business if the economy is to be given the headroom it needs to survive this crisis and grow.”

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

17

Chamber Golf Challenge 2022 Jun 10, 8:00 am - 3:30 pm £300 per 4 ball including golf, breakfast, lunch and goody bag per player – playing this year at Renfrew Golf Club, Renfrew PA4 9EG on Friday 10th June.

• • • •

• • • •

8am breakfast –Hot Rolls 9.00 am tee off – Shotgun start 2pm lunch / raffle 3/3.30pm depart Prizes for: Best team Best individual score Nearest the Pin Longest Drive Raffle this year will be raising funds for Chamber charity of the year St Vincents Hospice. To book please contact Bob Grant email bgrant@renfrewshirechamber.com or call 07702 909476 / 0141 847 5452

If you are are sending humanitarian aid to Ukraine, we can help with the customs process in the UK. ChamberCustoms will be offering FREE one off-export declarations for goods leaving the UK for humanitarian reasons.

What we will do: • Create an export declaration • Create a GMR for the truck going out • Create a GMR for the empty truck returning back to UK • Provide guidance on the steps to follow

• • • • • •

T1 Transit from GB to destination country ENS in France SI Brexit in France Physical transportation of goods Closure of Transit movement in destination country Import entry (may not be required as currently PL authorities are waiving it)

What we will not do: • Transit documentation • Import declaration in the receiving country(please note that this is currently being waived by PL)

For each truck, we will need: • A packing list • Number of packages • Gross weight • Truck/trailer number • Route

Guidance for what the customer will still need to do: • EAD export declaration using single commodity code (provided by ChamberCustoms free of charge) • GMR in GB (ChamberCustoms can provide free of charge)

Contact ChamberCustoms’ central team now for support: https://chambercustoms.co.uk/ukraine Please read this official guidance from HMRC regarding humanitarian aid to Ukrainian refugees.

Business Matters Spring 2022

18

BOOK NOW FOR B2B 2022 Business Matters in Renfrewshire returns on Thursday 19th May. Taking place at the Lagoon, Paisley 10am4pm the area’s largest free business event is sponsored by Paisley.is

SEMINAR 1 10:15am-11am: Paisley.is – the team behind Paisley’s destination brand showcase the latest developments encouraging people to visit, live and invest in the area, including the exciting Future Paisley programme of cultural regeneration; AMIDS, Scotland’s new home of manufacturing innovation; and ongoing visitor, lifestyle and investor marketing campaigns.

Exhibitors...

SEMINAR 2 11.15am-12pm: Connect and Grow with Renfrewshire Chamber Join President Liz Connolly and CEO Bob Grant as the Chamber launches a new strategy to help grow your business in Renfrewshire.

SEMINAR 3 12.15pm-1pm: Embrace the Space - a mini masterclass on effective social media for business. Join Gary Ennis from NSDesign as he delivers a fun, fast and furious masterclass on how to get the most from social media for your business. Gary will be sharing ‘Top Ten Tips’ from the recent best selling book - “Embrace the Space” SEMINAR 4 1.15pm-2pm: Join the Invest in Renfrewshire & Business Development teams as they highlight the support available for your business.

R

SEMINAR 5 2.15pm-3pm: How to win business using LinkedIn Why LinkedIn is an essential tool for business owners and employees. With Gordon White from fatBuzz SEMINAR 6 3.15pm-4pm: 5 Ways to generate more profit and develop a growth mindset. Veteran ActionCOACH business coach Andy Goldberg will run through the 5 Ways to increase profits in any business, 12 strategies to get started generating more profit immediately and how to develop the growth mindset every business owner needs to achieve sustainable growth.

The day is free to attend and open to all businesses, schools, pupils & students.

There is a charge to exhibit – please contact the Chamber (£150 + vat members, £250 + vat non-members)

To book your free place to attend please go to www.renfrewshirechamber.com Twitter hashtag is #b2bpaisley

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

19

New Members chamber

On behalf of the Board of Directors and the Chamber staff, we would like to welcome onboard the following new members.

Renfrewshire Tree Surgeons Tree Surgery Company Daniel Mullally 07852880025 contact@renfrewshiretreesurgeons. com

Indigo Unified Communications IT & Connectivity Ross MacKay / Jim Low 0141 442 0202 jim.low@indigounifiedcomms.co.uk

Switchease Independent Utility Broker Shaun Jamieson 07498712939 shaun@switchease.co.uk

Zaptec

Graham & Sibbald

Statkraft UK Ltd

Chartered Surveyors & Property Consultants Martin Douglas 0141 889 3251 martin.douglas@g-s.co.uk

Green energy supplier Kate Brown 07501453204 kate.brown@statkraft.com

Electric Vehicle Charging Manufacturer and Installer Gillian Sheridan 07949 126 721 Email: gillian@zaptec.com

Squared Insurance Brokers Ltd

Secure Business Advisors Limited

Insurance Broker Donna Robertson 07540450586 donna@squaredbrokers.com

Secure Business Advisors Phil Eldridge 07967 132017 phil.eldridge@securebusinessadvisors. co.uk

Rowcot Ltd t/a John McKay Jewellers Jewellers Lesley Elder 0141 889 4904 lesley@johnmckayjewellers.com

Bonnie & Bold Wallpaper Suppliers Rebecca Lochead 0141 840 4905 becky@bonnieandbold.co.uk

Olden Goldies Home health care service in Paisley, Scotland Barbara Davey 07765 418542 hello@oldengoldies.co.uk

Ardgowan Distillery Company Limited Distillery for Whisky & Gin Nicola Campbell 07471033026 nicola.campbell@ardgowandistillery. com

Spex Appeal Scotland Mobile Optical Business Alan Leitch 07590021111 spexappealscotland.co.uk

Kieran Chambers Photography Photography Kieran Chambers 07836702774 kcphotographics@me.com

Wellwood Communication Ltd Business Telecom, Telephone Systems, Landline & Broadband Drew Westwood 0333 5777 300 drew@wellwoodcomunications.com

Business Matters Spring 2022

20

New Chamber Directors Announced Three new directors of the chamber have been co-opted to join the current board Natalie O’Hare, Beyond HR With 15 years of HR experience (10 of which in HR consultancy) Natalie started her career off in the retail sector after graduating with an honours degree in Business Information Management and Human Resource Management. She then worked her way up from HR advisor to Head of HR for a well known Motor Retail Company in Scotland supporting the CEO and Senior Leadership team in their people making decisions. Now supporting clients and leading the team in Scotland to support startups, SME’s and larger organisations Natalie enjoys giving commercial HR advice and helping business owners make good people management decisions. Natalie is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD), a qualified Workplace

Mediator registered with the Scotland Mediation Network, and a committee member of Scottish Women in Business and enjoys the Partnerships she has with other external bodies across Scotland.

Natalie has joined the board in order to help the Chamber support employers and business owners throughout Renfrewshire, make good connections and provide a good channel of communication between the Chamber and SME’s (and beyond). Natalie is keen to hear challenges facing businesses in the area, share best practise and help the chamber meet their member needs.

In her spare time Natalie likes to eat rather than do the cooking and jump on her bike for a spin class.

Alan Calderwood, Morrison Construction Alan is the Strategic Development Director for Morrison Construction, responsible for future business opportunities. As a respected professional, with over 30 years experience in both public and private sectors, he continues to work extensively procuring and delivering a myriad of development projects across Scotland.

Passionate about building construction, he contributes and leads industry forums / working groups promoting contemporary initiatives such as Passivhaus and Zero carbon. In his role as a

Construction / STEM ambassador he continues to work with clients and education bodies to maximise the potential of people wishing to enter the industry.

He began his career as a trainee civil engineer and believes his journey so far in the construction industry has been truly remarkable and rewarding, proudly playing a part in shaping the careers of future generations of young people by transforming Scotland’s estate providing innovative and inspiring facilities.

Donald Boyd, Azets Donald, a Partner and Head of Growth at Azets, the largest regional accountancy and business advisor to SMEs across the UK, has over 30 years’ experience advising SMEs as a Chartered Accountant. He is based in the Renfrew office of Azets which is the largest office in the UK, employing over 250 people in Renfrewshire.

He is also a director and investor in a local craft spirits business.

Donald is an expert advisor to SMEs and supports business owners in achieving their growth ambitions. He is a regular commentator on the issues currently facing businesses and he has experience looking after a wide portfolio of clients, providing not just accounting and tax

advisory services but also commercial advice to help their businesses grow. He has considerable experience of corporate governance as a nonexecutive director and chair of audit in both public and not for profit Sectors.

Donald is a native of Renfrewshire and has lived in the town of Paisley all his life. He is passionate about the local area and the potential that Renfrewshire to develop local businesses that benefit the local economy, jobs and wider community.

Apart from spending his leisure time with his family Donald is self confessed golf nut and is a regular attendee at both St Mirren football club and the local Glasgow Clan ice hockey team.

Liz Connolly chamber President said. “On behalf of the board I welcome Natalie, Alan and Donald. The skills and expertise of our new directors compliments the strong board and demonstrates the strength and depth of business talent we have withing our membership. I look forward to working with them as we help our members connect and grow.”

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

21

British Chambers of Commerce Global Annual Conference 2022 Thursday 30 June, QEII Centre, London

Events Up and Coming

See our events section on our website: www.renfrewshirechamber.com • 0141 847 5450 events@renfrewshirechamber.com TRANSFORM: Mental Health & Wellbeing with Brian Costello from Headstrong Session 1) Wednesday 20 April 12pm – 1.15pm Session 2) Wednesday 27th April 12pm – 1.15pm Session 3) Wednesday 4 May 12pm – 1.15pm

ChamberCustoms webinar – Rules of Origin and Tariff-Free Trade Apr 20, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) flagship Global Annual Conference is one of the main events in the business calendar, with the 2022 Conference taking place on Thursday 30 June at the QEII Centre, London.

After a turbulent few years, the BCC Global Annual Conference will be an opportunity for business leaders from the UK and around the world to come together and look to a more sustainable and responsible future.

Through thought-provoking discussions, talks and peer-to-peer sessions, delegates will be able to explore and debate how we can individually and collectively rise to the challenges ahead, with a particular focus on: People

Planet

Progress

Developing talent now and for the future

Boosting a green global economy

Seizing new opportunities

The Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer will be speaking at the BCC Global Annual Conference 2022, along with a host of other exciting speakers yet to be announced.

Further details will be available over the coming weeks. Stay tuned to the BCC website and BCC Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook so you don’t miss any updates.

Away from the sessions there also will be networking time for delegates to greet existing contacts and meet new ones; and BCC will also be showcasing their dynamic network of Chambers and strategic partners.

How much are tickets?

• • • •

Chamber Member (direct) = £167.00 plus VAT Chamber Group (via Chamber member) = £140.00 plus VAT Membership Organisations = £200.00 plus VAT Non-members = £279.00 plus VAT

How do I register?

• Tickets go on sale on Monday 11 April via the BCC website.

• Group bookings can be made via your local Accredited Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber Chat – Staying Safe & Secure Online May 12, 10:00 am - 10:45 am With Scott Tees, of Decode Cyber Solutions.

B2B 2022 The Lagoon, Paisley Thurs 19th May 10am-4pm Exhibitors £150+vat Members £250+vat non-Members

Networking Lunch and EGM with Stephen Leckie, President Scottish Chambers of Commerce Thurs 26th May,12pm-2pm Glynhill Hotel. Members £30+ vat, non-Members £40 + vat.

Chamber Golf Challenge 2022 Friday 10th June. Renfrew GC. 8am-3pm Shotgun start £300 per fourball includes breakfast & lunch

ROCCO Awards 2022 Friday 18th November at the Normandy with Host Fred MacAuley

BUSINESS AWARDS 2022

facebook.com/renfrewshirechamberofcommerce Follow the chamber:

twitter.com/renfrewshirecoc

Business Matters Spring 2022

22

Braehead is more than just a shopping and leisure destination It’s at the heart of the Renfrewshire community both economically and socially, doing all it can to aid charities and good causes, making life a little bit easier for people who need some extra help.

Most weekends you’ll encounter enthusiastic volunteers in the malls – cash-filled buckets in hand – from a myriad of charities and community groups raising much-needed money for their particular causes.

What Braehead gives fundraisers is access to the tens of thousands of visitors to the centre in a comfortable and safe environment to carry out their collections. Last year more than £31,000 was raised at Braehead for various charities and groups.

One of the most recent collections at Braehead was for the British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal which, thanks to the generosity of customers and staff, raised over £7,000.

The team at Braehead also go the extra mile to make sure EVERYONE has access to the centre and can enjoy the shops, cafes and restaurants. If someone needs a little bit more assistance, then the staff at Braehead will give them just that.

Last year, a national charity awarded Braehead the accolade of being Scotland’s first dementia friendly shopping centre.

The staff were trained by Alzheimer Scotland to become Dementia Friends, so they can make life easier and more comfortable for people living with dementia when they visit the centre. Staff also have the Alzheimer Scotland Purple Alert app on their phones and linked to Braehead’s control room, as a vital tool in finding someone with dementia who is lost. Coloured mats have been introduced at the entrances, as black mats can appear as a hole in the ground to someone with dementia. A traditional tap has also been fitted into each of the public toilets, replacing one of the modern ones, as they’re more recognisable for people with Alzheimer’s.

The centre’s First Responders have also been recognised for the role they played during the Covid 19 pandemic.

The seven-strong team from Braehead’s security staff have been specially trained by the Scottish Ambulance Service to deal with certain kinds of medical emergencies until paramedics arrive. They have been presented with special commemorative coins for their expertise, dedication and care to visitors to

Braehead – particularly during the difficulties faced due to coronavirus in the past two years.

Staff have also been trained by the charity I Am Me, to help make sure disabled and vulnerable people can feel safe when they visit the centre. Visibility Scotland also trained staff to act as personal shopping guides to people with a visual impairment, so they can get around the shops without having to rely on family or friends. Three members of the team are also trained to British Sign Language level 1, to help them communicate with customers from the deaf community.

As well as giving fundraisers access to the many customers who come to the centre, Braehead offers space in the mall throughout the year, for charities to raise awareness of their good work and also take donations.

Braehead’s centre director, Peter Beagley said: “We know we play a huge part in the communities we serve and that’s something we will continually strive to do.

“We’re proud of the role Braehead plays both in the economic good of Renfrewshire, with the many thousand of jobs the centre supports and also the role we play in the social well-being of the people of Renfrewshire.”

To find out more about Braehead’s community activities, log on to www.braehead.co.uk/our-community or email braehead. information@savillspm.co.uk.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

The companion+ service for people in their golden years who would like to enjoy life more At Olden Goldies we help change the lives of elderly people & their families by giving our clients something to look forward to and bringing happiness into their lives. With recent lockdowns life has been very difficult and left many of our Olden Goldies feeling lonely & isolated.

There are still many challenges in our current times, but we are here to help Olden Goldies with daily tasks such as shopping, light housework, accompanied appointments or that all important trip ‘oot & aboot’ for lunch or coffee to the coast, the garden centre or anywhere of their choice. Our companions go the extra mile to make sure that our Olden Goldies are safe and happy doing the things that they love and enjoy.

For a tailored service to suit your individual needs contact Barbara on 07765 418542 www.oldengoldies.co.uk

23

Squared Insurance Brokers Limited We are passionate about the insurance industry, our employees and our clients.

In our opinion your relationship with your broker shouldn’t just be about receiving an email when your policy is up for renewal or sitting on hold when you need to make a claim.

We want to be in your business, and know your business, so that when anything changes, we’re there to simplify, and guide you through the insurance.

We like to think out of the box when it comes to placing your insurance so that you get the best out of the premium you pay.

We remove the jargon and aim to make the whole process easy and straightforward.

We work with all business types and policies. As an independent broker we are not restricted where we place cover so we can make sure the insurer we place you with is right for you.

Donna Robertson donna@squaredbrokers.com 0141 737 7770 / 07540 450586

Good things start here We’re proud to support our local communities.

122555 - BH Business Matters magazine ad 130x180mm v1 GF.indd 1

22/03/2022 16:05

Business Matters Spring 2022

24

Deciding which social media platforms are right for your business In 2022, businesses have plenty of options in terms of social media. We’ve come a long way since the days when MySpace was king – and now it’s hard to keep up with the available platforms.

Rather than attempting to be present on every platform, businesses should consider which ones are right for them.

To help you reach your intended audience and maintain your brand image, we’re discussing the top 5 social media platforms and which ones might suit your business.

1. Facebook Facebook enables businesses to reach large, diverse audiences – in fact, it was 2021’s most-used social media platform after YouTube. The platform has existed for 18 years (which makes us feel pretty old!), this means its audience tends to be slightly more mature than many other social media platforms. However, there’s still a range of demographics among its 2.9 billion monthly active users.

Businesses can create all sorts of content for Facebook, too. From photos and videos to livestreams and live audio rooms, there are plenty of options. It’s a highly versatile platform for all types of businesses – formal and lighthearted alike.

2. Twitter Twitter’s defining character limit (that’s 280 characters per Tweet, including spaces) is a major factor shaping the sorts of posts you can create. It’s obviously not suited to long-form text but it’s ideal for brief posts linking to external content.

This might include industry news or your business’ latest blog, for instance.

The platform is the place for concise, snappy posts and the average scrolling session on Twitter lasts just 3:39 minutes.

It’s also worth mentioning that Twitter is the original home of the hashtag. This makes it a good option for enabling new customers to discover your business.

3. Instagram Visual content is paramount on Instagram.

Unlike other social media platforms, you’ll

need plenty of photos or short videos to have a successful business Instagram account. Naturally, businesses with a creative side, such as restaurants, artists or fashion brands, will be very at home on this platform, but we’ve seen great results on here from B2B organisations too.

There are even more possibilities for businesses using Instagram Reels, which are short, TikTok-esque clips. Taking advantage of this video format can result in some dynamic, on-trend posts. You can even splice clips together, use effects and filters, or add music – so it’s ideal for showing off your business’ creativity!

Be aware that Instagram has a younger user base than its competitors. So, before setting up an account, ask yourself: is your audience likely to be using this platform?

4. LinkedIn LinkedIn is a unique platform in that it’s entirely professional- and businessoriented. Unlike the B2C-focussed Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook, LinkedIn is perfect for B2B companies. This means that posts on this site tend to be quite professional and formal.

Posts that go down well on LinkedIn might discuss industry news, statistics, or blog posts. If you’re looking to engage with professionals, this platform is certainly the place to be!

5. TikTok TikTok is a relative newcomer within the world of social media, with the platform focusing on video content exclusively. It’s become synonymous with Gen Z, so it’s worth considering if your business has a younger target audience.

However, to make a splash on TikTok, you’ll need to present light-hearted content and be open to experimenting.

If that approach sounds compatible with your brand, it’s worth having a presence on the platform — as long as you can produce visually-engaging content!

To learn how businesses can succeed on TikTok, check out our recent blog on the subject.

For more tips on social media marketing, get in touch with our experts today, or take a look at our Embrace the Space book for more social media advice for small businesses.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

25

9 JUNE NEXT MASTERCLASS

EMBRACE THE SPACE –

1 DAY SOCIAL MEDIA FOR BUSINESS Online Live Webinar 9th June 2022 : 10.00am – 3.30pm (with 30min break) £50 per person (+ VAT) Online Live Webinar delivered via Zoom

Register now www.nsdesign.co.uk/events/

Business Matters Spring 2022

26

Route announcements support Airport’s continuing recovery

Glasgow Airport welcomed a number of route announcements as it continues its post pandemic recovery.

The school holiday Spring break saw the airport welcome more passengers than at any time in the last two years.

While the significant passenger increase brought challenges in terms of ensuring sufficient staffing levels at a time when Covid-related absence is impacting most businesses, it was a welcome site to see the airport busy once again.

I the lead up to the school holidays the airport celebrated a number of route announcements. Most notably, airline partner Jet2.com and Jet2Holidays announced a major expansion at Glasgow for Summer 2023.

Responding to strong demand, the carrier will base a seventh aircraft at Glasgow with the fleet serving 28 leisure destinations across the Mediterranean and Canary Islands, including a brandnew route to Girona, Costa Brava.

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays is also significantly expanding its existing programmes to sunshine favourites such as the Canary Islands, Balearic

Islands, Mainland Spain, Greece, Malta and Turkey for Summer 23 too - with more frequent flying giving holidaymakers and independent travel agents even more choice and flexibility.

The programme includes up to 22 weekly flights to the Canary Islands, 23 weekly flights to the Balearic Islands, 11 weekly flights to six Greek destinations and 20 weekly flights to Turkey during peak times.

Christopher Tibbett, Head of Airline Relations and Marketing at Glasgow Airport, said: “This additional aircraft is fantastic news for our passengers. With additional frequencies on 11 routes and a new route to Girona, starting in May, our passengers have even more choice to get some much-needed sun.

“We look forward to carrying on the great partnership we have with Jet2.com and Jet2holidays at Glasgow Airport and serving Scottish holidaymakers.”

Glasgow also welcomed Corendon Airlines to the airport for the first time.

The Turkish leisure carrier’s inaugural flight touched down in Glasgow on

Monday 4 April to kick-off its Summer 2022 operations. Corendon will operate flights to Antalya and Dalaman in the Turkish Riviera.

Paul Riches, Corendon Airlines UK Commercial Representative, commented: “We are very excited to launch our very first flight from Glasgow Airport. In Summer 2022, we will offer a total of four flights per week from Glasgow to Antalya and Dalaman.

We are also planning to increase our Glasgow flights to many other popular UK holiday destinations, in the following seasons.”

On Friday 1 April the airport also welcomed the second of two new airlines to operate services to Paris Orly, which was also a new destination for Glasgow.

Transavia, part of the AirFrance-KLM Group, will operate two flights per week to the French capital.

Towards the end of last year European carrier Vuelling commenced services to Paris Orly and is also operating two flights per week.

To find out more visit: www.glasgowairport.com

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

Exchange Theatre

by PACE PACE Youth Theatre is developing Scotland’s first dedicated theatre for children and young people and is offering local businesses the chance to become part of the creation of this unique hub for creative learning, performance and community activity right in the heart of Paisley town centre. The space will be completely transformative for young people, for our community and for the regeneration of Paisley.

Exchange will establish Renfrewshire as a visitor destination for children and young people’s theatre, boosting the local economy by increasing visitors to Renfrewshire by over 80,000.

Become a Founding Sponsor by pledging £10,000 or a Founding Supporter by pledging £2,000, and enjoy a range of sponsor benefits. Or secure a block on our Million Pound Wall from just £50.

Find out how you can be part of creating this fantastic legacy for Paisley: 0345 130 5218 exchange@pacetheatre.co.uk www.exchangetheatre.org

It’s been a while since we’ve had a chance to get away, a chance to see our loved ones in real life, a chance to do business face-to-face.

Well, it’s time to get ready.

It's time to pack for an adventure far from home, to make up for lost time, and feel excited for what lies ahead.

It’s time to prepare for take-off.

Let's fly.

glasgowairport.com/letsfly

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Secure Business Advisors

Secure Business Advisors is based in the Glasgow area, and we work throughout Scotland. Our purpose is to provide professional and high-impact expert help to businesses in all sectors focusing on both start-up and established, SME businesses.

We work with our clients to deliver significant improvement and growth. We train and coach Business Owners and senior leaders and as mentors, within the Renfrewshire Chamber Business Mentoring programme, we provide strong developmental support.

Our objective is to uncover the underlying problems affecting business performance and results and implement tailor-made solutions; embedding the required changes in actions and mindset that leads to a highly productive and innovative business focused on adding value to its customers.

We work directly with businesses on; • Strategy and Business Planning • Business Innovation • Business Growth • Customer Service Excellence • Business Improvement • Operations, Purchasing and Supply chain We are delighted to become members of the Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce.

Contact details are: Secure Business Advisors Limited, Phil Eldridge E: phil.eldridge@securebusinessesadvisors.co.uk M: 07967 132017 • W: www.securebusinessadvisors.co.uk

Customs brokerage you can trust, from your local Chamber of Commerce

ChamberCustoms delivers a customs declaration service for UK importers and exporters: • A high level of compliance and assurance for customers • Confidence on tariff and data entry to remove fiscal risk; backed by the technical expertise of the market leader in this sector • A wealth of international trade experience and expertise from across the trusted Chamber of Commerce network UK.

For more information contact Laura Connor lconnor@renfrewshirechamber.com or Bob Grant bgrant@renfrewshirechamber.com

www.chambercustoms.co.uk

Spex Appeal We are Lynn & Alan, we started Spex Appeal in 2012 when we realised that lots of our friends & family were unhappy with High St optician prices. Our focus is to ensure every customer receives a pair of glasses that they are 100% happy with, while saving up to 60% on High St prices.

We are a family run mobile optical business based in Paisley & we bring our collection of world leading brands such as Ray-Ban, Persol, Prada, Tiffany & Co, Michael Kors & Oakley sunglasses & glasses, mid price range – Vermari & Ashton Riley & our budget range – Visage & Matrix - ALL at discounted prices - to your home. We also offer the option to book a private appointment in our newly opened showroom in Paisley.

We have a number of very happy customers across Renfrewshire, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, East & West Dunbartonshire, Inverclyde & as far afield as London, Berlin & Los Angeles !!

Talk to us about your next pair of glasses, we’d love to help.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Renfrewshire Council Updates: Start-Up Street Budding entrepreneurs and business owners in Renfrewshire considering their first commercial premise could find the answer in Start-Up Street with new centres being developed across the region.

The Renfrewshire Council initiative is currently offering new and growing businesses low-cost, high-quality workspace and wraparound support.

It is already proving a great success in Paisley where 30 small businesses are benefiting from the first-class facilities in the town’s George Street and now, two more Start-Up Street centres are being built in near-neighbours Johnstone and Renfrew.

Subsidised premise costs cover workspace, wifi and utility bills with access to meeting space, with lease costs incrementally increased until the business owner is ready to move to an alternative Renfrewshire commercial space.

The Paisley and Renfrew centres include an enterprise manager on site to provide support and guidance, while all centres

have access to free Business Gateway advice, mentoring, workshops and masterclasses as part of the package.

The initiative offers further specialist support through a partnership between Renfrewshire Council and youth

enterprise charity, Launch It. Launch It manage Start-Up Street Paisley day-to-day while also delivering a programme helping young people overcome barriers and develop their business and entrepreneurial skills.

their first commercial space, but were put off by high costs and a lack of knowhow. Start-Up Street provides the answer and with each centre being based in a town centre, it provides an important boost to the local economy too.”

“Start-Up Street Paisley has been a tremendous success and it’s hugely encouraging so many local entrepreneurs have taken up the offer and been able to grow their business with the support on offer. With new Start-Up Street centres in Johnstone

and Renfrew coming on-stream very soon, we are creating the conditions for entrepreneurship to thrive in our area and we’ll all see benefits in our local economy.”

Johnstone and Renfrew The Start-Up Street centres in Johnstone and Renfrew are progressing well and actively seeking their first batch of businesses each.

In Renfrew, significant refurbishment and upgrade works are transforming vacant retail units on the town’s Dunlop Crescent. External improvements to shop fronts and enabling works inside are now complete, with internal fit-out starting next month.

In Johnstone, Start-Up Street facilities will focus on supporting health and wellbeing businesses and form part of the new Station Seven premises run by Active Communities, with businesses able to work with community groups and people using its facilities.

Start-Up Street is one a series of initiatives supporting businesses and entrepreneurs in Renfrewshire. Another highlight, the popular business incubator programme InCube, supports a thriving community of creative entrepreneurs and a retail academy from a Paisley towncentre shop unit.

Alasdair Morrison, Head of Economy & Regeneration for Renfrewshire Council, said: “The initial idea came from a survey of local businesses which showed many Renfrewshire business owners wanted to take the next step and open

Want to know more?

Visit Start-Up Street, call 0141 530 2406 or email renfrewshire@bgateway.com to find out more about the opportunities at Start-Up Street.

You can also read more online at www. renfrewshire.gov.uk/Start-Up-Street

Business Matters Spring 2022

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

New Director of Finance and Resources appointed at Renfrewshire Council Alastair MacArthur has been appointed as the Director of Finance and Resources at Renfrewshire Council.

The Council’s former Head of Finance has been Acting Director since November 2021 and leads the Finance and Resources Department, which includes Finance and Business Services; People and Organisational Development; Legal and Democratic Services; Digital, Transformation and Customer Services; Property Services and Internal Audit.

Alastair, originally from the Isle of Lewis, joined Renfrewshire Council in 2007 as Senior Finance Manager and has been Head of Finance since 2015.

Prior to joining the Council, Alastair held a variety of finance roles in the NHS across Strathclyde, Lothian and the Highlands.

Alan Russell, Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted that Alastair MacArthur has been appointed as the council’s new Director of Finance and Resources and will take up the post with immediate effect. Alastair has been with the Council for almost 15 years and brings a wealth of financial management experience to the post.

“Having spent the last seven years as Head of Finance, Alastair is perfectly placed to help us continue with our recovery and ambitious capital investment plans as we look to make Renfrewshire a better place to live, work and learn.”

Alastair MacArthur, Director of Finance and Resources, said: “I am really pleased to take up this role and continue to work with the great team across Finance and Resources. I look forward to working with the corporate management team to support delivery and achievement of the Council’s ambitions as we recover and grow from the impact of the pandemic.”

Renfrewshire Business Training Support Grant The Renfrewshire Business Training Support Grant can provide up to £2,000 towards a broad range of employer/employee training that’s required as part of a specific business development project.

The grant is available to small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in Renfrewshire that are involved in manufacturing or business-to-business services.

It’s specifically designed for small to medium-sized employers who want to

improve the skills of their existing staff.

It is free to apply. Renfrewshire Council will make a financial contribution to your training costs.

Eligible training should be delivered by an appropriate external training provider.

Legislation compliance training and training considered to be routine are not eligible.

To apply, you should have a clear idea of how the training will benefit your business and be able to identify exactly what the problem or opportunity is that

has led you to apply for training. You should also be able to show how you expect the training to affect business performance.

It only takes around 15 minutes to complete the application process. Once your application is received, a member of the council’s Business Development team will be in touch to discuss your application.

For full details and to apply, visit www. investinrenfrewshire.com today!

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Renfrewshire schools leading the way to world of work A new role in Renfrewshire secondary schools is supporting young people to achieve their ambitions.

Each mainstream and ASN secondary school in Renfrewshire now has a Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) School Co-ordinator.

The DYW School Co-ordinator roles are delivered through a partnership with the DYW West and since being established last year, the co-ordinators have helped 450 pupils complete work experience and career opportunities in just a three-month period.

They have also networked with more than 400 local employers, all achieved against the backdrop of the pandemic.

These posts also support pupils in Renfrewshire to benefit from the Young Person’s Guarantee, the Scottish Government commitment ensuring everyone 16-24 in Scotland has the opportunity of an apprenticeship; fair

employment including work experience, training, studies and volunteering.

Eileen Wilkie, DYW School Co-ordinator at Johnstone High School, said: “It is very satisfying to have the opportunity to help the young people move forward to the next stage in their career path. It’s great to see the students gain confidence and achieve a positive outcome when they leave school, whether that’s a college place, an apprenticeship or employment.”

Alongside college courses, university studies and apprenticeships, many Johnstone High pupils have also benefited from the long-established construction pathway programme developed with local businesses.

The 30-week programme prepares pupils for construction careers through employer events, site visits and mock job interviews, earning a National 4 qualification and completing industry

qualifications needed to work on site.

Amanda Carlin, the school’s Project Leader for Employability, adds: “I am a great believer in the benefit of Apprenticeships, and have had the opportunity to see many of the young people I work with move into Modern Apprenticeships and carve a career in a pathway they thought they could not enter.”

The support through DYW adds to careers advice and guidance in schools from Skills Development Scotland, together ensuring a strong link between education and industry and preparing young people for the world of work.

Renfrewshire has the lowest level of residents with no qualifications across the entire Glasgow City Region and, last year, more than 250 young people started in paid placements, traineeships and Modern Apprenticeships with the Council and local businesses.

Invest in…

Creative Industries

Business & ICT

Childcare, Social Care and Health Care

Construction, Manufacturing, Security and Logistics

Customer Service

Jobs | Training | Skills | Recruitment

Business Matters Spring 2022

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Renfrewshire Council Updates:

Sweet success for Grant’s lockdown business

“If I hadn’t gone for it and started SweetPunkz then I’d always have been asking myself what-if?”

Grant Fraser has always had a sweet tooth and, more importantly, an eye for business and when the second lockdown came round last December, the 28-year-old Business Management graduate used it as an opportunity to roll up his sleeves and delve into the world of confectionery.

A self-confessed ‘chocolate fiend’, it has been a match made in heaven, online sweet store, SweetPunkz, proving to be a resounding success in the space of just a few months.

Home for his burgeoning business is Start-Up Street Paisley, with Grant grateful for the opportunity and support the enterprise centre and its advisors have supplied.

Grant said: “I’d never taken that leap into a business premise before, but at Start-Up Street, it’s a readymade package in a great environment, meaning you don’t need to fixate on the bills, it’s a security blanket that lets you focus all your attention on growing your business.

“When you go self-employed it can be lonely and you can start to feel lost, so it’s great to be here, alongside other business owners and I’ve had great support from James [Edmonds Grant’s Council Business Gateway adviser], he’s been my go-to guy since the start and has helped me at every turn.

“I’ve been blown away by just how quickly things have taken off, it’s been a whirlwind. I’ve managed to build up a fantastic product range and my focus is always on growing the business further.”

Grant’s business now boasts a pick and mix range of over 85 options, including sweets to meet many dietary requirements, importing stock from as far afield as the USA, Dubai and Australia.

There’s Friday night deliveries across Renfrewshire, his customers enticed by his quirky videos on social media, including the Super Sour Challenge, which went viral on TikTok and raised a fantastic sum for Scottish mental health charity SAMH in the process.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

www.paisley.is

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Could you be our next Climate Hero?

DYW West are seeking employers from across the region to support “Climate Heroes” an initiative developed as part of My Climate Path, the education legacy programme building on COP26, to showcase the careers & opportunities involved in the green economy. If your role includes any of the following then you could be an ideal Climate Hero: Sustainability | Environment | Reducing energy & waste costs | carbon reduction | Net Zero etc.

To be a climate hero the organisation / person(s) needs to: • Be in a green related role • Support the Young Person’s Guarantee • Engage with a school class once a term (near your home or work) • Offer at least 1 work experience for a min 5 days Several organisations from across the region are already getting involved including: NMIS, West College Scotland, NHS GGC & Renewable Parts. Your organisation does not need to directly work in the green sector but could for example have a person responsible for the areas mentioned above. For more info please visit https://myclimatepath. scot/climate-heroes/ or email info@dywwest.co.uk

Can your organisation

support the

DYW West are seeking employers in Renfrewshire to pledge their support to the Young Person’s Guarantee (YPG). If you are already involved in or are interested in any of the following 5 “asks”, you are supporting the YPG (and could get to use the YPG logo in your comms channels and be listed on the national YPG website).

The 5 asks are:

1. Prepare young people for the world of work (e.g. support a school, offer work experience, mentoring) 2. Help young people to achieve their potential (e.g. support those looking for work, CV prep, work experience) 3. Invest in a skilled workforce (e.g. offer apprenticeships – modern or graduate) 4. Create jobs, volunteering and training opportunities (e.g. Kickstart, volunteering, paid work experience / interns) 5. Create an inclusive and fair workplace (e.g. living wage, disability confident etc.)

Employers don’t need to support all 5. If you are interested please email info@dywwest.co.uk and we can help you complete the form and support you on your journey to achieving the relevant asks (such as direct support from DYW or signpost / refer to partner organisations). Almost 500 employers across Scotland have so far pledged their support.

Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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Helping Renfrewshire Grow & Prosper

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