connected issue 82

INSPIRING SUCCESS

ISSUE 82

The official magazine for Chamber members

MASTERPLAN Take a look at the St Neots Masterplan for Growth which will transform and better serve the community and business needs of the town

PLUS. . . ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE CHAMBER NETWORK

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this issue

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11

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CONTENTS

Chief Executive’s highlights

24 24-25

Out & About

6-7

Connect

27

Fenland Chamber news

8-9

Transform

29

Huntingdonshire area news

10-11

Export

12-13

Inform

14

Protect

15

Ask the Expert

16-17

New members

18-19

Charity

21

Ely & East Cambs area news

22-23

Cambridge & South Cambs area news

30-31

Peterborough area news

33

Stamford area news

34-35

St Neots Masterplan

39

Signpost 2 Grow

41

Marketing Insight

43

Cambridge B2B

45-47

Events

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welcome from the

EDITOR

Welcome....

ISSUE 82 INSPIRING SUCCESS

Chamber members The official magazine for

MASTERPLAN which will transform Masterplan for Growth Take a look at the St Neots ity and business needs of the town and better serve the commun R NETWORK NEWS FROM THE CHAMBE PLUS. . . ALL THE LATEST

Chief Executive John Bridge OBE DL

The festive season is fast approaching and in this edition we feature our annual events taking place across the county. Turn to pages 45-47 to see details of our Christmas Lunch events and Festive Drinks.

This month our guest article provides details of the St Neots Masterplan and the changes that are taking place in this market town. We thank Hayley Williams from Keystone for undertaking this interview with Katie Williams from St Neots Town Council.

We also recap on our Cambridge B2B exhibition that took place at Cambridge Regional College and look forward to sharing the highlights from Peterborough B2B with you next month.

SADIE PARR

connected Editor

Editor Sadie Parr Published by

Print xlpress Design Jill Rowbotham Advertising Caroline Baker caroline.baker@trinitymirror.com Membership team Bren Coleman 01223 209811 Cambridge Enterprise House, Vision Park, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9ZR. Tel 01223 237414 Email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk Visit cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk @CambsChamber Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

• DIARY DATES • NOV 2019

21

Informal Networking Evening, Cambridge

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce @CambsChamber

Views expressed in connected are not necessarily these of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. The editor reserves the right to make amendments without notification.

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6

Christmas Lunch, Cambridge

20 20 21

Amazing Benefits of Chamber Membership, Peterborough

27

Informal Networking Evening, Chatteris

9

Informal Networking Evening, Ely

Informal Networking Evening, Peterborough

DEC 2019

Amazing Benefits of Chamber Membership, Cambridge

2

Informal Networking Evening, St Neots

10 11

Business Women’s Christmas Lunch, Peterborough

Christmas Drinks, Stamford

view from the

BRIDGE

We were very pleased to welcome Patrick Campbell, Deputy Agent for the Bank of England as we returned to The George Hotel in Stamford for our annual event providing us with an economic update. It was a great opportunity to have an expert’s view on the current economic challenges and opportunities. The evening also gave an opportunity for Patrick to answer key questions from those attending.

As well as Patrick we would also like to thank Buckles Solicitors and Handelsbanken who were returning sponsors for this event.

I was delighted to have the opportunity to support the Cambridge China Forum recently and speak at two of their panel sessions covering the Cambridge Cluster and China Opportunities as well as International Trade and IP Protection.

Cambridge is performing at the very top of the fastest growing economies in the UK, as well as being one of the most significant innovation clusters where many worldleading high-tech enterprises were cultivated, and more cutting-edge technologies are emerging. Meanwhile, as the second largest economy, China has become a major global player in technologies as a market with considerable opportunities. China’s broad market can bring those opportunities to our tech enterprises.

It was a pleasure to meet Paco Hevia, Managing Director of Amey, and Jon Stenning, Associate Director at Cambridge Econometrics, when we held a Meet the Buyer event with Amey at the offices of South Cambs District Council.

Paco introduced the extensive nature of Amey, who will be celebrating their 100th anniversary in 2021, as well as the work they do in supporting local supply chains. He mentioned the current opportunities and future aspirations of the business while Jon went on to explain the economic impacts of waste infrastructure.

Over 70 attendees on the day took the opportunity to meet with Amey and South Cambs District Council to discuss current procurement opportunities.

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We provide Chamber members with many opportunities to widen their network of business contacts – building connections, creating opportunities and maximising the benefits of being part of Cambridgeshire’s most vibrant business network.

New face of events at the Chamber We are delighted to welcome Hannah Shaw as our Events Co-ordinator.

On her first few weeks with us, Hannah commented: “I am thrilled to have started as the Event Co-ordinator at Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce!

I am a recent Psychology and Sociology graduate from Aston University. As part of my degree I completed a placement year within McDonald’s Corporate Relations team, where I learnt not only how to make the perfect Big Mac, but also worked on global campaigns and within their press office.

“My first month in the Chamber has been filled with learning, venue visits, attending events and, of course,

networking. It’s been great to have met so many of you already and I look forward to meeting many more in the coming months. I hope that I can bring some fresh ideas to the Chamber, so watch out for events upcoming in 2020!”

Sadie Parr, Communications Coordinator, said: “We’re delighted to have Hannah join the team. She is full of new ideas to enhance our events programme and we look forward to developing our calendar for 2020.”

If you have an event suggestion, or an event you would like us to be part of, please contact Hannah on 01223 209803 or email h.shaw@cambscci.co.uk

HEALTH & SAFETY BASICS ONLINE TRAINING Health & safety Basics is a free resource which has been designed to

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help people within businesses to get more comfortable with health and safety.

Whether your members are new to health and safety, or already have systems in place, this free online resource on Health & Safety Basics will either give them a framework to work towards, or maybe validate the direction they are already moving in, or perhaps guide them to re-set their path.

We start by explaining why this is something that should be among their other business priorities, and guide them towards the Three Pillars of Health & Safety. We discuss Health & Safety Training and answer those common questions like what subjects should I cover and how often do I need to do training? We also answer those awkward questions that no-one wants to ask: What is a Risk Assessment? or What is a Health & Safety Policy?

We explain why Health & Safety Culture at Work is a crucial factor, and make sure that they’re aware of key Health & Safety legislation. We close by pointing you in the right direction with our Top 3 Health & Safety Tips for Work.

Find out more by visiting http://bit.ly/HSbasics

network and

KEEP CONNECTED Showcase your business through an advert in connected.

The official publication for the Chamber, brought to you by Cambridge News, puts you in touch with people you want to do business with.

In addition to placing an advert, you can also include leaflets in this publication which is read by over 2,500 local business people each month.

RATES

INSPIRING SUCCESS ISSUE 81 ISSUE 80 SS TO SUCCEED INSPIRING BUSINE

The official magazine for Chamber members rs ne for Chamber membe The official magazi

INSPIRING BUSINESS TO SUCCEED

case the support, ip portal to show gh the Chamber ite and membersh New branding, webs training programme available throu services, events and

To place an advert, please contact Carlie Lewis at carlie.lewis@reachplc.com

CONNECT

CYBER CRIME

Could you be a victim of We look at the action youonline fraud or a cyber security breach? can take to protect your business PLUS. . . ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE CHAMB ER NETWORK

ORK THE CHAMBER NETW LATEST NEWS FROM PLUS. . . ALL THE

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Digital Transformation CityFibre’s digital transformation of Peterborough took top billing at the Chambers’ Construction Network in September.

More than 50 members from the construction industry heard how full fibre is futureproofing the city with the Fibreto-the-Premises network build putting Peterborough at the forefront of UK connectivity.

CityFibre, which sponsored the event, is investing £50million in the FTTP

rollout that will reach nearly every home and business in Peterborough and Cambridge, enabling Gigabit-speed internet connectivity.

City Manager Rebecca Stephens opened with an overview of the project as well as to highlight build locations, both areas of completion and upcoming works, while Construction Manager Scott Checkland focussed on the construction process and specific methods of build and equipment, including the lessons learned during the year.

Scott also talked about reinstatement methods and the company’s considerations around environmental impact and sustainability, which was reflected in the audience’s comments following the presentation.

Services are already live in many parts of Peterborough including Dogsthorpe, Parnwell, Paston, New England, and Orton Southgate, and work is progressing in Hampton Vale, Werrington and Fletton. Cambridge’s build is continuing to move outwards from Chesterton, Arbury and Kings Hedges with hand over to Vodafone for the first wave of live services by the end of the year.

Once live, residential customers are

able to connect to the network using Vodafone’s competitively priced Gigafast Broadband service. For anyone wishing to register their interest you can do so here www.vodafone.co.uk/gigafast/ register.

To find out more about CityFibre’s Gigabit City vision for Peterborough and Cambridge visit: www.cityfibre. com/gigabit-cities. connected 7

As a Chamber member you have the power to influence key decision makers and play a leading role in tackling the issues that are preventing your business from reaching its potential, while an experienced team of lobbyists represents your interests in Whitehall.

Monthly Economic Review Each month the British Chambers of Commerce provide a Monthly Economic Review. This briefing provides an easy-touse commentary on the key domestic and international economic indicators for UK businesses.

The information is available to members on the Chamber website. If you would like to be added to our Virtual Policy Group and receive this information once it is available, please email your details to s.parr@cambscci.co.uk.

UK AND INTERNATIONAL CHAMBERS MET IN LONDON Mid-October the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) held a worldwide meeting with the UK Accredited Chamber Network.

The three day event included an event to bring the UK and Global network together. Delegates heard that as a result of the Council of British Chambers in Europe (COBCOE) combining with the BCC the Global Business Network has grown to 55 British Chambers worldwide.

Discussions focused on how the Global Network could promote two-way trade, develop its sustainability and the communications required to promote it to both businesses and other stakeholders.

The following day was the National Assembly and AGM and the three days concluded with the International Trade Summit. Details of this event are on page 10.

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the power to

TRANSFORM

BCC comments on the Queen’s Speech Commenting on the Queen’s Speech opening a new session of Parliament, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Our message to government is simple: put the economy at the forefront of your agenda. These are unnerving times for businesses facing Brexit uncertainty, global headwinds and a UK economy in stasis. The government’s economic plan must be grounded in reality, taking into account the conditions facing firms and the need to minimise further disruption.

“Amidst the ongoing political turbulence, businesses can’t afford for government to lose sight of its responsibility to create conditions that support growth and boost investment - much of which doesn’t require new primary legislation.

That means action to lower the upfront costs hitting firms, boosting investment in infrastructure and skills, and providing considerable investment incentives to companies.

“We’re at a critical juncture in the Brexit process, but the voice of business has been constant and unwavering since the referendum: a messy and disorderly Brexit must be avoided. To avert an overnight change in trading conditions and damaging economic consequences, all sides need to do everything in their power to find a way forward in the coming days.”

ON IMMIGRATION: “Business is looking for government to commit to a clear and consistent future immigration system that is based on economic need. Firms that rely on overseas workers to plug local shortages need clear detail on the rules for continuing to access these skills in the future. At a time of critical recruitment difficulties, companies need to be able to hire workers from aboard all levels and functions without masses of red tape, high costs or long delays.”

ON TRADE: “UK businesses need a properly-funded trade strategy that gives firms the support and confidence they need to sell their goods and services around the world.

Prioritising continuity of trade for UK businesses and minimising the potential for any disruption in the turbulent times that may lie ahead should be the goal of this government. Alongside that, we need more ground-level trade promotion and guidance to take advantage of the opportunities that new trade agreements may present.

“Businesses are also still waiting for the government to legislate for a long-term Trade Remedies Authority to protect UK businesses and interests against dumping and unfair practises.”

ON INFRASTRUCTURE: “For the UK to prosper post-Brexit, we have to get the basics right, including a fully integrated and modern infrastructure network. The proposed National Infrastructure Strategy must engage closely with business communities to set out feasible measures for improving the road and rail network and boosting the reliability of broadband connectivity in all parts of the country.

“The message from government and ministers should be full-throated support of the major infrastructure projects that our businesses need and that send a strong message to global partners that the UK remains a great place to invest.

There can be no further dithering on the delivery of all phases of HS2 and a third runway at Heathrow.”

ON DEVOLUTION: “Business communities will welcome the commitment to a Devolution White Paper. Any proposals must have a clear purpose, a strong role for business, and a defined replacement for EU funding. Business will support greater devolution of spending decisions when it’s clear that money intended to boost local growth is actually spent on local growth.”

ON THE ENVIRONMENT: “The government’s ambition to position the UK as a global leader on the issue of climate change is laudable. For many firms the path to achieving this could bring growth across a range of sectors, technologies and markets. Together with business communities, the government should build a plan for how we will work across the four nations to reach net-zero by 2050, while also maintaining security of energy supply and stable prices.”

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We’re your gateway to international trade, providing a unique combination of expert knowledge, essential documentation and the business connections needed to capitalise on new market opportunities overseas and succeed in a global marketplace.

Bcc International Trade Summit As members of the Chamber Network gathered in London for the BCC International Trade Summit, our Prime Minister and his counterparts met in Brussels to continue negotiations over the UKs departure from the European Union.

Karen Cash and Liz Lane, Export Officers at the Chamber, attended the summit looking to come away with some clarity amidst the uncertainty.

The summit was designed so delegates would leave with the knowledge, insight, inspiration and confidence to harness opportunities for trade and realise international aspirations.

The day consisted of panel discussions, workshops, case studies and exhibitions and speakers included CEOs, Managing Directors, High Commissioners and trade policy experts.

Liz commented on her highlight from the day: “The most inspiring talk for me was Ben Greensmith and his story of Toney Chocolonely, an unusual chocolate bar. He was very engaging and I came away with an insight into where chocolate comes from and what lengths and hours the workers endure in order to produce the cocoa needed to create the perfect

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slab of chocolate.

“Ben created awareness on how we can make chocolate 100 per cent slave free.”

Tony’s Chocolonely is a Dutch confectionery company focused on producing and selling chocolate closely following fair trade practices. They are strongly against slavery and child labour by partnering with trade companies in Ghana and the Ivory Coast so they can buy cocoa beans directly from the farmers, providing them a fair price for their product and help stop exploitation.

Ben Greensmith, Lord Chocolonely III, is the UK Country Manager for Tony’s Chocolonely and provided the Business Keynote speech.

Karen said: “Along with some informative panel discussions and keynote speakers on trading internationally, we were able to attend workshops to understand how to adapt to the changing dynamics of international trade, the changing nature of global supply chains and how to save money and manage currency risk in an uncertain economic environment.

“It was a long day packed full of useful information on the current challenges.”

Liz Lane

“Trade is at the heart of what Chambers of Commerce do – locally, nationally and globally.”

Adam Marshall, Director General, British Chambers of Commerce

Go

EXPORT

Providing overseas HR support

ACCREDITED TRAINING IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE The Chamber runs a rolling programme of training courses that culminate in the nationally-recognised Foundation Award in International Trade.

The courses provide the knowledge to assist with your international trade activities and you will receive detailed notes to take away to build up a toolkit of reference information.

Customs Special Procedures: Focusing on IP and OP Tuesday 19 November, 9.15am5.00pm Learn how to complete the application forms for customs special procedures, including the CCG1 Customs Comprehensive Guarantee Form and questionnaire, as well as calculating your potential debt guarantee amounts.

Rules of Origin: Preference and Non-preference Tuesday 10 December. 9.15am5.00pm Let us explain the complex subject of Origin, which is essential to understand, as the country in which a product is made can affect the import duty that is applicable. We will examine the non-preferential rules for determining the country of origin of goods, in accordance with the provisions of primary rules and residual rules.

Cost per course: £300.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £450.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

Venue: Cambridgeshire FA or Holiday Inn Cambridge, Bridge Road, Impington, Cambridge, CB24 9PH Full course outlines can be found at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Effective September 2019 Compandben International, based in Cambridge and UK, has provided an experienced German consultant to deliver HR support for Germany to the Munich office of a UK based public relations firm.

Our client’s German MD and staff found her easy to talk to and her wide experience was exactly what they were looking for. She already has another client in the same area of Munich which helps too. The cost to the client is just €115 per hour. We made a similar proposal to the same client for HR support in France but that is still under review.

ACHIEVERS OF THE FOUNDATION AWARD IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE John Bridge OBE DL was delighted to present Shannon Connew, Shipping Clerk at International Flavours and Fragrances, with her certificate for completing our International Trade training courses and achieving the Foundation Award in International Trade.

We are pleased to announce that Kerry McGann, Export Officer at the Chamber, has also achieved this award.

HMRC Helpline HMRC have launched an EU Exit Import and Export Trader Helpline for traders and hauliers importing from / exporting to the EU after 31 October.

The helpline number is 0300 3301 331. Lines will be open from 8.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday.

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Chamber membership provides access to key information, expert advice and legal protection, enabling you to stay informed, legally compliant and free to focus on what you do best – building your business.

Tips on creating business videos from Shooting Image Ltd 1. Make sure it’s good! If you want people to devote their valuable time watching it then respect that, in return, you need to come across really well. It needs to be visually interesting and have clear sound. Typically, you’ve got a few seconds (some statistics claim less than seven) to convince potential viewers that they might want to watch the rest. People have short attention spans and will swipe/click away - in an instant!

2. Think very hard about your message. Make sure it’s succinct and well structured. Not sure what to say? What’s different about your business? Aim it at your ideal customers.

Don’t necessarily leave the best bit to last, start with it. Get their interest and then you’ve got a chance of receptive, continued viewing!

3. Less is more - except with quality! You’ll be amazed how many people phone me saying they want a five or 10-minute video. I usually recommend 60-90 seconds. Got a lot to say?

Consider creating a number of short videos instead - they can be filmed and edited at the same time and then ‘drip fed’ onto social media. And of course, they should all be styled and branded consistently.

4. Consider captions. A lot of web video (some statistics claim >70%) is watched with the sound OFF! Editing captions onto the video (or if pushed, using something like Facebook or YouTube’s caption generators) allows your message to still get through.

5. Just do it!

The growth of business video on the web continues for good reason. Well produced video really works - and it can be cost effective too.

Beware costly tax implications for director loans Specialist accountants at Mapus-Smith & Lemmon say company directors might be unaware of the potential tax on director loans, which can be as high as 32.5 per cent. As such, they say it is crucial to keep records of all cash and non-cash transactions and to have some understanding of the related tax implications.

Helen Peak, chartered certified accountant at the Wisbech office, says: “Obviously we are here to help our clients comply with all rules and statutory provisions and to alleviate tax wherever possible, but directors of limited companies can be taken aback when we tell them about the potential for a 32.5 per cent tax bill on loan accounts if they are not managed in a timely fashion.”

A loan account records transactions between a company and its directors. These can be cash withdrawals and other money not used wholly for business purposes. If the loan account remains overdrawn from the company’s financial year-end to the time when corporation tax is due, then the company will pay 32.5 per cent tax on the outstanding amount. Once it is cleared, HMRC will refund the tax but only nine months and one day after the end of the tax year in which the loan is repaid.

“This scenario could play havoc with cash flow,” says Helen Peak. “The most efficient way to avoid this is to regularly review management accounts and ensure cash borrowings are not too onerous from the outset. It is important to remember until a dividend is voted or salary drawn, the money legally belongs to the company not the directors. Directors should always make sure that there is enough profit in the company to enable a dividend to be paid out to directors. However, every case is different and should be considered on an individual basis.”

How do you successfully manage workplace stress?

In this seven-part series, Vikki of Skylark is running through her Top Tips to Successfully Manage Workplace Stress, continuing with: TOP TIP 4: PROMOTE MENTAL FITNESS As an employment lawyer in private practice it was not lost on me that we demand so much from our mind, yet our workplace cultures rarely value efforts to maintain or nourish our mental fitness.

But is it really ‘soft and fluffy’? In light of October’s World Mental Health day focusing on suicide, the statistics are grim reading.

A suicide every 40 seconds somewhere in the world illustrates that preventable mental health issues cost our global economy, cost 12 connected

our businesses and cost lives. Literally. So I’d • Catch negative say not. thoughts and A 2017 study by Deloitte, quantified that reframe them when employers embed within its culture to positives mental fitness a return of more than eight ones (“I’m times their investment can result. Bringing rubbish at financial fitness for the business as well as fit cooking” to employees!

“I love giving things a go”) More and more workplaces have Mental • Swap out Health Ambassadors or First Aiders, which negative is great. But we don’t have to wait for our words in your workplaces or carry out grand gestures. Little language tweaks we make ourselves often bring the (‘can’t, try. want’ for ‘can, will, have’) greatest change. So today start a new habit and: How many negative words will you catch • Trade five minutes a day for sitting quietly today?

learn and

INFORM

Five tips to maximise your blog’s impact Are your blog posts not getting the pickup you expected? Try these tips to help them perform better.

Structure: Giving your blog posts a clear structure will keep readers engaged and help them find what they are looking for quickly. Search engines will also review what you regard as important, and this will help your search engine optimisation (SEO).

Titles and headings: Think catchy and succinct, using keywords and phrases people are searching for. Use bolder text for standout and, importantly, get someone to accurately code them as H1/H2 so search engines know these are key.

Metadata: Adding page titles and meta descriptions is like free online advertising space. Explain why someone should choose your blog over another, encouraging click-throughs and improving engagement.

Hyperlinks: Linking to reputable websites that cement what you are saying will show that you are a reliable source of information. Also link to relevant pages on your website, encouraging visitors to stay.

Calls to action: Offer simple links to previous and next articles, or image links to related content. Other calls to action include: social share buttons; newsletter sign-up; ‘Contact me’.

Give a few of these tricks of the trade a try in your next blog post and start seeing a difference.

By Adam Driver, senior associate – client services, CPL

TELEMARKETING NEEDS THE RIGHT SENTIMENTS MORE THAN THE RIGHT WORDS

By Blue Donkey Intelligent Telemarketing fundamental way. Whether they get better outcomes, have a more compelling price point, or outstanding customer service, it’s essential businesses tell their customers exactly why they should choose them if they’re going to grow. However, in B2B marketing, convincing people you’re special is all but impossible if you don’t believe 100 per cent in the product or service you’re offering.

At Blue Donkey we believe the most important first step in making any B2B telemarketing call is taking a moment to really think about what makes you different.

This shouldn’t simply be a list of features but should involve thinking about who you are as a business, what you do, why you’re special and how this can benefit other people. Once you’ve filled yourself with passion and enthusiasm, you’ll be able to make your B2B telemarketing calls stand out, resonate with each buyer, and really get your marketing performing.

UNDERSTAND THE MARKET As well as knowing your own products and services inside and out, it’s a good B2B telemarketing, like all other idea to familiarise yourself with the wider channels, is reliant on organisations being market. If you understand what your able to clearly differentiate their products and services from that of their competition. potential customer may be choosing For a buyer to purchase from one business between, it will help you to better explain how your products and services are rather than another, the company must different. demonstrate they are different in a

AVOID SCRIPTS OR ANY FORM OF PROMPT Sadly, too often in B2B telemarketing, managers and other people within an organisation pre-design the telemarketing message for their team’s sales calls.

Though this can offer you and your sales team a good starting point when thinking about your products and services, a script can make the call feel more automated and less personal. A scripted call can never replicate the power, passion, and charisma of a spontaneous dialogue, and it’s precisely these three qualities that will help to make your call a success.

MAKE EACH CALL UNIQUE If your sales and telemarketing team are given the space to draw on their own skills, resources and professional experience, their passion and enthusiasm will shine through. They’ll be better able to create heartfelt interactions and really get under the skin of the people they’re speaking to.

The telephone is unique in its ability to connect businesses with potential clients and enable real two-way communication.

By being able to speak knowledgeably and freely on the phone, telemarketers can make the most of this powerful tool, make a positive impact on the people they’re speaking to and boost their chances of success.

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how to

PROTECT

To access these services please visit the protection page on the Chamber website or call our membership team on 01223 237414.

Dismissing an employee with a disability Advice from Quest, provider of Chamber Four Services THE EQUALITY ACT 2010 Work related stress translating to long term absence is growing and the impact to business is significant. So, when it comes to dismissing an employee due to ill health it can be tricky if it is to do with a potential protected characteristic with the Equality Act 2010.

Employment law experts suggest that workplace stress drives up disability discrimination claims by more than a third.

The number of disability discrimination claims at Employment Tribunals has risen by 37 per cent, from 4,770 in 2017 to 6,550 in 2018.

It can be argued that there is clearly a fundamental flaw in HR practices that have opened up the liability to the employer.

DISMISSAL FOR SICKNESS Let’s take an example of a scenario, where the company is not happy with the performance of an employee who has only nine months service and in addition has been off sick with stress and depression. The company wishes to dismiss the employee, as they have less than two years’ service and the employee cannot bring an unfair dismissal claim. Is the company ok to dismiss?

The answer is not a clear yes or no, the employee may have a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010 and they may have a claim for disability discrimination.

HOW IS A DISABILITY DEFINED? According to the Equality Act 2010, a person has a disability if: • They have a physical or mental impairment • The impairment has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to perform normal day-to-day activities.

WHAT DOES ‘SUBSTANTIAL’, ‘LONG TERM’ AND ‘DAY TO DAY’ MEAN? • ‘Substantial’ means more than minor or trivial, for example it takes much longer that it usually would to complete a daily

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task like getting dressed • ‘Normal day-to-day activities’ includes everyday things like eating, washing, walking and going shopping.

There has been a recent tribunal case, Parnaby v Leicester City Council, where an employee was impaired by depression caused by work related stress.

The tribunal ruled that he did not fit the definition of a disability. They said that his condition didn’t last over 12 months. The claimant appealed and the EAT overruled the decision and said the tribunal should have considered whether the impairment was likely to last 12 months or whether it might recur in the future. The tribunal made the assumption that removing the work-related stress by dismissing the employee would remove the impairment.

This judgement helps to clarify that the whole definition of a disability would have to be considered when making decisions on an employee’s employment.

TERMINATION OF CONTRACT When considering a termination of contract for an employee who has a disability, employers should ask the following clarifying questions: 1. Does the person have a physical or

mental impairement?

2. Does that impairment have an adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities?

3. Is that effect substantial?

4. Is that effect long-term and the person would be affected in the future?

Medical practitioners can help you answer some of these questions, and if there is any doubt that the condition is a true disability then other alternatives to dismissal would need to be considered.

For example, reasonable adjustments or alternative employment. If none of these options are viable, then termination could be possible under incapacity.

The process is not as straightforward as it may have first appeared and you are encouraged to seek advice prior to taking action in such cases.

ask the

Performance management; how to avoid the pitfalls In British culture we tend to have an aversion for tricky conversations, yet we know avoiding them can lead to

unwanted and costly tribunal claims.

Ex-employment lawyer, StressLess Coach and leadership expert Vikki Pratley at Skylark talks about how to navigate the pitfalls of an underperforming team member.

WHY IS PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT TRICKY? Legislation and best practice require employers to follow a ‘fair process’ before terminating an employee’s contract. When matters of a disciplinary nature arise, formal procedures kick in much sooner, giving employers a framework to apply.

When concerns about an employee’s performance arise the law expects employers to manage issues informally first. And here begins the cat and mouse game of performance management.

WHAT DIFFERENT APPROACHES ARE THERE? Often performance management is only thought about when things start going wrong. If, instead, we have performance at the forefront of our mind, we can iron out any potential wrinkles as we go.

By using key leadership skills, such as explicitness and feedback, we can set and maintain boundaries consistently. We can catch employees ‘doing things right’

EXPERT

in the moment and breed more of the same.

HOW DO I NAVIGATE PERFORMANCE? With all best intentions, sometimes an employee’s behaviour can be undesirable. So first define that behaviour, together with the desirable behaviours we want to see more of.

Doing this allows us to ask “do these behaviours really matter in terms of actual performance?” and, if so, “does the person clearly know what is expected?.” In my experience, these questions bring up a range of answers!

If we answer ‘yes’ then ask; “could the person do what was required if their life depended on it?” This acid test is great for flushing out whether our employee hasn’t got the skills required or they won’t perform. Whichever it is, we then know what questions to ask that individual to uncover, and therefore address, the route cause.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Many businesses I talk to struggle with recruitment, which is a costly drain on resources. So attracting and retaining talent is more important than ever. This approach, even if it does still result in a dismissal, saves time, money, stress and contentious risk. But actually, often improves performance!

What’s new with Making Tax Digital (MTD)?

HMRC have updated their guidance VAT Notice 700/22: Making Tax Digital for VAT. Taylor Keeble answer your questions.

MTD IS ABOUT VAT-REGISTERED BUSINESSES ONLY? Yes - Making Tax Digital (MTD) is mandatory for ‘non-deferred’ businesses trading above the VAT threshold for VAT return periods commencing on or after 1 April 2019; VAT Notice 700/22 contains most of the practical guidance businesses need to comply with the MTD rules.

WHAT’S IN THE NEW GUIDANCE? The update set out new information and rules on the use of supplier statements, petty cash transactions and charity fundraising events with a view to making record-keeping a little easier. The guidance on the turnover test, following the rules when exempt from MTD, digital

links, and supplies made and received by third party agents has also been updated.

IS THERE ANY MATERIAL CHANGE THAT MIGHT AFFECT AN ORDINARY BUSINESS? Yes, quite possibly, in terms of reduced record-keeping: Use of supplier statements – these can be used instead of individual invoices as long as all supplies on the statement relate to the same VAT period, and the total VAT charged is shown Petty cash transactions – individual purchases with a VAT-inclusive value below £50 can be batched into a single entry in the digital records. The entry may not however exceed a VAT-inclusive value of £500 Charity fundraising events – all sales made can be treated as covered by one

invoice for the event, and the same for event purchases.

ANYTHING ELSE OF NOTE? In relation to the sections that have been updated, in section 4.2.1 Digital links, the following paragraph has been added: “This could be a transfer or exchange of data within a business (for example, between two systems) or a transfer of data to a tax agent in order that they can prepare a VAT Return or make a calculation (for example, a Partial Exemption calculation).”

WHY HAVE THEY BROUGHT IN THESE CHANGES? These new provisions are practical and designed to reduce the work involved in complying with MTD, making compliance easier and more straightforward. If you have any questions on these changes or MTD more generally please speak to your accountant or professional advisor.

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Would you like to become a Chamber member?

Get in touch today to find out the many benefits.

Tel: 01223 237414 Email: enquiries@cambscci.co.uk

• THIS MONTH’S NEW MEMBERS • New Directions @newdirectionsp2

Performanta Ltd @PerformantaSec

Cycle Pharmaceuticals Ltd @CyclePharma

Serco Ltd - Skills Support for the Workplace

Face2faceHR @LCanhamHR Gordon Hemphill Hot Sauce Design Ltd @MattThrower13 Intergr8ed Systems Ltd Kaizen Continuous Improvement Coaching Studio Omneluxe @omneluxe Optimum Time Ltd @OptimumTime

@SercoGroup Tees The Pitt Building @pittbuilding Trillium Recruitment Partners @jeghobamien Uniqsis Ltd @Uniqsis Wilkinson Accounting Solutions

Tees Tees is a Legal 500 top tier firm, providing expert legal services and independent financial advice.

They work for individuals and their families, businesses large and small, and also organisations such as schools. With six offices and 320 staff across the East of England, including an office in Cambridge, the people at Tees pride themselves on their enthusiasm for building lasting relationships with clients, as part of helping them to achieve their goals. www.teeslaw.com

RADICAL SPORTSCARS Radical sports Cars (est. 1997) is a British manufacturer of purpose-built racing cars and road legal sports cars, with eight models offering varying specification.

With over 32 approved dealers globally, Radical have a presence on five continents stretching across Europe, the Americas including the Caribbean and Canada, Asia, The Middle East and Australia.

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news from

NEW MEMBERS

CREATING ART, IMPROVING LIVES

RHR Foundations RHRF is a new provider of Reward and HR consulting services helping companies with the ordinary, extraordinary and hard challenges: ‘the difficult stuff’.

They offer experience at every stage of the business life cycle; from start up’s, companies experiencing rapid growth and those mature organisations wishing to innovate. www.rhrfoundations.co.uk

Rowan is a Cambridge-based charity and arts centre for people with learning disabilities. They provide a safe, creative and welcoming environment where they use the arts as a tool to bring people together; break down issues of social exclusion and improve health and wellbeing.

Rowan actively wants to work with local businesses in Cambridgeshire and the surrounding areas. By engaging with them you can make a difference to the day-to-day lives of their student artists as well as fulfilling your business aims. www.rowanhumberstone.co.uk

Compandben International Ltd Compandben International, based in Cambridge and Geneva, provides HR support and payroll administration services in 100+ countries. They, or their local partners, also employ staff for clients, enabling them to have staff in countries outside their main base without having to set up branches or subsidiaries there. www.compandben.com

Trillium Recruitment Partners Specialist construction industry recruitment consultants based in Cambridge, providing temporary and permanent staffing solutions from labourers to senior permanent placements and executive search. www.trilliumrecruitment.co.uk

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Shine Bright Wear Bright for CHUMS Charity As a charitable and community focussed charity we investigate many avenues with regard to grants, corporate funding and general awareness raising. Like most charities we do this via events and local partnership. Amidst coffee mornings and cake bake sales we too have our popular annual day of fundraising fun.

Shine Bright Wear Bright happens every February during Children’s Mental Health week.

In 2020 this will take place from 3-9 February.

We use this event to promote the ideal of optimistic and bright feelings by dressing brightly and sharing a smile (or a glittery wig).

Shine Bright Wear Bright has grown dramatically in popularity across our home county of Bedfordshire and I would like to invite the participation of your workplace to support our recent transition into Cambridgeshire.

We use recreational therapies such as football and music to support children and young people troubled by low self-esteem, anxieties or other socially debilitating states of mind. We can only do this with the support of communities and business. We do need your support in helping to ensure a happy future for the younger generations.

Please do call today to find out how to become involved with CHUMS or for full details about how to participate or sponsor our Shine Bright Wear Bright event. Our event sponsor can enjoy full social media coverage with their logo displayed on all of our publicity material during and on the build up to Children’s Mental Health Week. We are also delighted to include any fundraising activity by the sponsor within our own PR activities including the sharing of photographs and videos.

ROB GRANT Corporate and Community Fundraising Manager (Cambridgeshire & Peterborough).

CHUMS Charity

INTRODUCING STRAIGHTAHEAD Having delivered a Disability Confident seminar at the Manchester Business Network earlier this year, I had the pleasure of meeting Vicki Culverhouse, CEO of Straightahead UK. Vicki was very impressed with the seminar and we got chatting about the work Leonard Cheshire does to support people to Live, Learn and Work as independently as they choose, whatever their ability.

It became apparent that Vicki wanted to help, she asked me if our charity might benefit from some telemarketing support. This conversation came at a very interesting time because we

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were just about to launch our first partnership programme ‘Work for All’ targeted at SME’s and telemarketing support was something we could only dream about!

Vicki set to work, she had her team attend a briefing session all about Leonard Cheshire and the very diverse work we do throughout the UK and Internationally. Her very capable crew, led by Kaitlyn Joyce, Business Manager, have been an absolute pleasure to work with. Their professional approach to quite a complex project has been hugely beneficial.

Although Straightahead only started

to work with us in August we have had fantastic results to date. There have been 35 presentations delivered by Kaitlyn and the team, resulting in nine leads which are actively being followed up and what is a very promising future partnership.

I very much look forward to continuing to work with Vicki, Kaitlyn and the very talented team at Straightahead!

JEN SWEENEY Leonard Cheshire Disability’s Regional Fundraising Development Manager for North England

chamber supports

CHARITY

Misconceptions about Children’s Hospice Care At East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), we find there are lots of misconceptions about children’s hospices. Have a read below to see how your perceptions stack up.

MISCONCEPTION: A children’s hospice is like a hospital.

FACT: Our Milton hospice is more like a home than a hospital! Our staff don’t wear uniforms, and our building is brightly decorated and fun. For each child our staff personalise their bedroom and bedding, and hang a sign on the door with the child’s name and picture.

Lisa, Abbie’s mum, says: “When I walked into the hospice it really wasn’t what I’d pictured – it was so homely not clinical at all. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming – as soon as you walked in they made you feel like everything was going to be ok.”

MISCONCEPTION: Knowing a family with a child with a lifethreatening condition is rare.

FACT: In a 2018 survey by Together for Short Lives*, 35 per cent of people surveyed had known a life-threatened child, and 11 per cent said this had happened to them or a family member. We currently care for 366 children and young people in East Anglia, but estimate there are actually 2,000 who could be benefitting from our services.

Though many families live with a life-threatened child, several people can feel alone in their situation, which is why EACH provide groups for families to meet each other.

Lisa says: “Over the years we’ve attended lots of groups run by EACH as a family and with Abbie. I’ve found these such a help – they give you chance to speak to people in a similar situation. No one is ever shocked by the things you say as they have been through the same thing.”

MISCONCEPTION: Children with life-threatening conditions are normally affected since birth.

FACT: Children can be affected by life-threatening conditions at any age. Whilst some children are diagnosed at birth or prenatally, others may be much older when they discover a life-threatening condition.

Effie seemed perfectly healthy when she was born, and by two years old she could count, knew her shapes and colours, and enjoyed walking and dancing. At two and a half, however, Effie had a sudden drop seizure, which was followed by rapid deterioration in her physical and mental abilities. She was eventually diagnosed with Batten Disease.

Our nurses helped to care for Effie for several years, before she died at six years old.

MISCONCEPTION: Children’s hospices are sad places that are only about end-of-life care.

FACT: Our Milton hospice is often a happy and fun place, where children can live life to their full potential. End-of-life care is an incredibly important part of our work, but we actually offer a whole range of services, including short breaks, counselling, hydrotherapy, specialist play and art and music therapy.

Even when we are delivering end-of-life care, we endeavour to ease suffering wherever possible. Claire, mum to Jacob, talks about the 10 days she and her family spent at the hospice after Jacob’s death: “The staff looked after us, helped us plan his funeral and say goodbye. He slept in a bed with his teddies, duvet and pillow. The staff played him nursery rhymes and talked to him every day… My nephew visited Jacob in his room and said ‘It looks like he’s asleep’. He cuddled him and asked me to read them a story. Afterwards he asked ‘Is it always this lovely when someone dies?’” *Together for Short Lives’ family life and perceptions report, 2018.

Support from companies in the Cambridgeshire area is crucial in helping us to care for local life-threatened children and their families. Please get in touch with Lottie Driver if you would like to find out more about supporting and partnering with EACH: Tel: 01223 800765 • email: cambs@each.org.uk • www.each.org.uk • Twitter: EACH_hospices • Facebook: EACHhospices Registered Charity Number: 1069284.

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LOGISTICS COMPANY EXPANDS WITH SUPPORT FROM LLOYDS BANK Masters Logistical has purchased its existing premises and an additional adjacent 3.5 acres of land to increase its operations with the support of a £2.5million funding package from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

The Cambridgeshire business, which transports goods to and from businesses both nationally and internationally across 17 European countries including France, Germany and Denmark, has purchased the site it previously rented for 15 years.

The £2.5million cash injection from Lloyds Bank, which forms part of the Bank’s commitment to lend £1.7billion to businesses in the East of England in 2019, enabled the business to buy the necessary

land to scale up operations. The Bank’s loan is part of its commitment to lend £18bn to British businesses this year to help Britain prosper.

Masters Logistical now plans to build a new warehouse on the site and to hire an additional three members of staff. It is expecting to increase its annual turnover by 10 per cent to £6million in the next year.

The company works with local East Anglian businesses to transport their goods up and down the country and around the world.

Paul Upton, Managing Director of Masters Logistical, said: “Purchasing this land, and our existing premises, is a huge step forward for our business. We’re excited to

push on with our development plans and get our new warehouse in place.

“Lloyds Bank has been by our side throughout this process. The funding allows us to build both our workforce and our customer base.”

Michael Adams, Relationship Manager at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “It’s encouraging to see that Masters Logistical is investing in its future. Local businesses can continue to rely on it to continue exporting their products.”

“We’re proud to help local businesses like them provide essential services to the region by offering them a loan, and look forward to seeing the new warehouse in the future.”

Thinking about executive coaching in your business? “exceptional coaching” “has always made a positive impact on our people, the organisation and the bottom line” “highly recommended”

Get in touch to see how our expert coach panel can help you develop high-performing, successful and flourishing people.

Call us on 01223 655667 or email enquiries@managingchange.org.uk to find out more.

www.managingchange.org.uk 20 connected

news from

ELY & EAST CAMBS AREA

King’s Ely wins national eTwinning award King’s Ely has won a prestigious award in recognition of its “outstanding contribution to international school collaboration”.

‘United in Diversity’- a groundbreaking Erasmus+ funded project involving King’s Ely, IES Andrés Vandelvira in Albacete, Spain and College Chaloupe Saint-Leu in La Reunion, France – has secured a British Council eTwinning National Award.

Esmeralda Salgado, Head of Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) at King’s Ely Senior, was on hand to collect the award at the 14th annual British Council eTwinning National Conference in Nottingham.

The award means United in Diversity was among the highest-scoring eTwinning projects in the UK this year, based on a framework of pedagogical innovation, curricular integration, communication and exchange between partner schools, collaboration between partner schools, use of technology, and results, impact and documentation.

Four other King’s Ely eTwinning projects were also awarded ‘Quality Label’ status at the ceremony in recognition of their beneficial impact on King’s Ely Junior pupils. Lorraine Oldham, Key Stage 2 MFL Co-ordinator at King’s Ely Junior, was on hand to collect the awards.

The projects awarded Quality Label status were ‘Bonjour Mon Ami’ for Year 7 pupils, ‘Message in a Bottle’ for Year 5 pupils, ‘European Chain Reaction’ for Key Stage 2 students and ‘Rutas Molonas’, which involved Year 8 pupils.

Speaking about the awards, Mrs Salgado said: “We are over the moon that all five of our eTwinning projects

have been awarded Quality Labels. The fact that United in Diversity has secured a British Council eTwinning National Award came as a great surprise but also a great honour. Thank you to all of the students, teachers and parents who have been involved with our eTwinning projects, both here at King’s Ely and overseas.”

United in Diversity has involved Year 9 and 10 students at King’s Ely Senior. The school’s MFL department was successful in securing a Language Erasmus+ Project Grant from the British Council and European Commission to deliver the project alongside students and staff from IES Andrés Vandelvira and College Chaloupe Saint-Leu. Since the project went live, Mrs Salgado and her team have been instrumental in organising two phenomenally successful exchange trips to both partner schools. As well as the exchange trips, the project has seen King’s Ely students working collaboratively with their overseas partners, including on the production of a video diary in the target language exploring a particular festival which represents the culture of the visiting country.

The culmination of the project was when the French and Spanish schools visited King’s Ely in June this year in order to take part, together with King’s Ely students, in a series of workshops with the aim to design a multilingual, promotional video celebrating the

heritage of all countries involved in the project in the context of Europe.

Mrs Salgado said: “I cannot put into words what a fantastic impact the United in Diversity project has had on our students and the whole King’s Ely community. The project has not only enabled our students to improve their linguistic skills because all activities were conducted in French and Spanish, but they have also developed their ICT skills and genuinely fostered a love for cultural differences and tolerance.

“During their visits to La Reunion and Albacete, our students spent most of their time whilst at the French and Spanish schools carrying out their video diaries via workshops. They also got to experience festivals first hand and undertook a number of day trips to emblematic historical or geographical places. As a school, we are so honoured to have been given the opportunity to deliver this project, which echoes the MFL department’s mission to take languages outside the classroom.”

The MFL departments at King’s Ely are hives of activity and the school thrives on developing linguistic competence in all pupils while offering a wide range of enrichment opportunities. Strong links with our partner schools, including in France, Germany and Spain, allows us to make learning a language a rich and real experience, through the use of projects on which to base students’ learning.

Working collaboratively with more than a dozen different schools across Europe also resulted in King’s Ely being officially recognised as an ‘eTwinning School’ in 2018.

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REGISTRATION FOR BEST EMPLOYERS EASTERN REGION 2020 HAS OPENED

Fitz Events brings new look to conferences and meetings Forty event planners attended a recent reception to celebrate the relaunch of the conference and meetings offering at Fitzwilliam College, now branded Fitz Events.

Representatives from companies and organisations in the wider Cambridge area attended to hear at first-hand what is available for events of all kinds – residential conferences, one-day meetings and corporate dinners – and to be introduced to the new Events Team.

Presentations were made by the new Master of Fitzwilliam College, Sally Morgan, Baroness Morgan of Huyton, the Bursar Andrew Powell, Fellow Kourosh Saeb-Parsey and Head of Catering & Events Robert Clarke.

Fellow Kourosh Saeb-Parsy who not only studied at Fitzwilliam as an undergraduate and postgraduate, but has also held many events at the College over the years in his role as Transplant Surgeon at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, highlighted the benefits of using the venue for conferences, research meetings and dinners.

The Events Team took the guests on informal show rounds in small groups, followed by a drinks and canapés reception in the Foyer of the Auditorium.

Robert Clarke said: “We are delighted to relaunch our meetings offering and to demonstrate our capability for hosting events of all kinds. Our new Events team is highly experienced in helping clients to create memorable occasions – whether it’s a small gathering or a much larger residential conference.

“Not only can we provide excellent facilities, we can also add value to our clients’ events with our flexible and creative approach.”

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Employers passionate about developing their organisation’s culture, engagement levels and workplace environment can now register to take part in Best Employers Eastern Region 2020 and book a place at the launch event.

Best Employers, which supports the economic growth of the East of England through increased employee engagement, returns for the fifth time in 2020. Founded by professional recruitment specialists Pure with psychometrics experts eras ltd, Best Employers has become a force for culture and organisational change which businesses across the Eastern region are using to shape and develop their employee engagement strategies.

Best Employers Eastern Region 2020 will launch with a leadership conference on Wednesday 18 March 2020 in Newmarket. Business leaders and HR executives will be able to network with like-minded professionals to share ideas and solutions on evolving workplace culture and hear insights from industry experts on increasing engagement. Guest speakers will include David Smith, who

has 35 years’ experience of change management, including 15 years spent in the turnaround of the Asda Retail Business. David will share how he took Asda from a bankrupt broken business to a high-performance retailer, leading the changes which created a productive performance-based culture.

The conference will mark the opening of the 2020 employee engagement survey at the heart of the Best Employers Eastern Region initiative. The free, expertly designed employee survey is run every two years to enable businesses to discover their current engagement levels, track their progress and benchmark their organisation against some of the region’s top employers.

Meet Cambridge’s new venue-finding portal set to deliver benefits for event planners The conference and events bureau for Cambridge has just launched a new online portal for event organisers, streamlining the process of finding suitable and available venues for their conferences, meetings and dinners.

Meet Cambridge, the only official venuefinding service for space at The University of Cambridge and the Cambridge Colleges, is introducing the ‘My Event’ portal so that planners can keep track of enquiries and see responses from venues in real-time, making the process of finding a venue much easier and quicker.

This faster turnkey solution is borne out of feedback from busy planners who indicated a need to be able to keep track of responses from venues, when organising multiple events.

Meet Cambridge’s ‘one stop shop’ for venue-finding in Cambridge – a free service for event organisers – processes all enquiries through its online system which means that requirements are instantly matched with venues and responses are relayed quickly and efficiently.

My Event, also free of charge to use, now takes the functionality one stage further, enabling event organisers to log into their personal portal to view their enquiries, check responses, select or reject venue offers, make provisional bookings and request site visits.

There is also a facility to download proposals, update contact details and marketing preferences and contact Meet Cambridge directly if they need further information.

news from

CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS AREA

Domino Printing celebrates major production milestone

Domino Printing Sciences has just manufactured its 20,000th Ax-Series continuous ink jet (CIJ) printer on the award-winning production line at its

Cambridge manufacturing site.

The printer was first launched in 2016 and is now being used all over the world, with sister manufacturing sites in China and India.

Paul Clarke, Domino’s Product Director CIJ, said: “Our Ax-Series continues to set the benchmark for CIJ coding in the industry. This marks another fantastic milestone for Cambridge and our broader global business.”

The ground-breaking design means that the printer is suitable for the most

demanding industrial coding environments, with customer applications in industries as diverse as food production, pharmaceutical packaging and electronics component manufacturing.

Domino employs 2,700 people worldwide and sells to more than 120 countries through a global network of 25 subsidiary offices and more than 200 distributors. Domino’s manufacturing facilities are located in China, Germany, India, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and USA.

BLIND MEDIA STUDENT CELEBRATES NATIONAL BRAILLE WEEK A teenager is proving that people can do anything, if they put their mind to it, by going into his second year as a media student at Cambridge Regional College.

Budding sports radio presenter and Spurs fan, Matthew O’Leary, says the support he has received has been beyond his expectations and is urging anyone else with disabilities to take on the challenge to follow their dreams.

Among the supportive additions to his learning package have been braille stickers, which tutors put on the radio equipment, to help Matthew in his dream of becoming a sports radio presenter.

“One of the most important additions has been the braille on the radio studio controls. It means I feel confident in what I am doing,” said Matthew, deputy president of the college’s Student Union.

Matthew, who created a Podcast for disabled young people during his first year at CRC, added: “If people think they can’t do something, I would say this – there is no such word as can’t. There is always a way.

I’ve proved it by doing this course for a year and now going into the second year.”

The college says that Matthew’s story shows the importance of celebrating National Braille Week which raises

New trains running on busy NorwichCambridge route New bi-mode trains, which can run on diesel or electricity, are now in service on the Cambridge-Norwich route, where last year over 700,000 journeys were recorded.

VIP guests from Cambridgeshire and Norfolk took a journey on one of the new trains and a celebration was held at Cambridge station, where Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia Managing Director, Daniel Zeichner MP and James Palmer, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough gave speeches.

Modern longer state-of-theart bi-mode trains are now in service on three routes on the Greater Anglia network – Norwich to Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft and Cambridge - just three years after the contract was signed to buy 58 trains from Swiss train manufacturer Stadler.

Jamie Burles, Greater Anglia

awareness of the importance of braille and other alternative formats that open up the written world to people with vision impairment.

CUBIQ WINS BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Managing Director, said: “The Cambridge-Norwich route is one of our busiest regional routes, with increases in passenger numbers reflecting the growth of both cities.

“Our new trains are longer, with more seats, and facilities to help passengers make the most of their travel time such as plug and USB points and free fast wifi.

“These are intercity quality trains on a regional route – and appropriate for a line which travels between East Anglia’s two biggest cities. Feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Creative agency Cubiq, which is celebrating its fifteenth year of trading, has been named Business of the Year at a prestigious awards ceremony.

The specialists in design, branding, print, packaging, digital, web, PR and marketing picked up the coveted trophy at The Bury Free Press Business Awards 2019.

Cubiq is now serving more than 200 clients, including national and international brands, and will soon be doubling its office space in Newmarket. Launched in 2004, and still owned and managed

by John and Gemma Treby, Cubiq is a Top 10 UK Agency which has grown organically without external investment.

Founder John Treby commented: “This award tops off an exceptional year for Cubiq. We are especially proud to have created Stansted

Airport’s Summer marketing campaign and to be working closely with The Jockey Club to create artwork for The British Champions Series and some of the biggest racing festivals of the year. All of our clients, regardless of their size, receive the same level of care, knowledge and creativity because we’re passionate about helping businesses grow.

I believe that’s why we’re going from strength to strength after 15 years, a feat achieved by less than 25 per cent of start-ups.” connected 23

Send us your photos each month and we’ll include the best of the bunch!

Email images direct to s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Legends turn out for Teenage Cancer Trust

Mick George Group hosted their annual Charity Match at Cambridge United Football Club which saw a selection of Club legends grace the hallowed turf once again. The fixture raised a commendable £2,000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

AMAZON WELCOME THE CHAMBER The Amazon delivery station in Peterborough welcomed local business leaders for a tour of its site. Guests were given a behind-the-scenes look at the technology involved in sorting and delivering parcels to customers across the region.

UcWA veterinary nursing students celebrate with a day of punting Veterinary nursing students from the University Centre West Anglia’s (UcWA) Cambridge Campus participated in a day of punting on the river Cam to mark the close of their welcome week. 20 students took part in the afternoon event, which was organised in conjunction with Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) and UcWA as part of their induction programme.

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Wear it Pink Career Juice were delighted to raise £125.00 on Wear it Pink day to raise funds for Breast cancer awareness.

it’s happening

OUT & ABOUT

QUIZ SUCCESS FOR BUCKLES

CYCLING SIBLINGS THANK HOSPICE FOR RELATIVES’ CARE

Buckles held onto their title and won the Peterborough quiz by one and a half points and keep the Hegarty Shield for another year. Savills were runners up and Osprey took home the losers gnome!

Thanks to Phil Elmer for being our quiz master.

Two sets of cycling brothers recently took to two wheels to raise funds for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, after their close relatives received the Hospice’s care. Tony and Danny Rudd pedalled from London to Paris and raised over £4000 in memory of their mum.

Safari Networking Delegates took part in Safari networking at Jesus College, Cambridge and Elton Furze Golf Club in Peterborough recently. Great event for building new business connections.

Networking across the county Natwest ‘Coutts’ office hosted us in October on the Vision Park in Histon. Jo Evans spoke about the East Cambs Business Boost

at Poets House in Ely and Trevor Burfield gave a quick introduction to negotiation at Huntingdonshire FA.

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news from

FENLAND AREA

UcWA Cambridge Students Celebrate at UcWA Graduation Ceremony Over 20 veterinary nursing students from the University Centre West Anglia’s (UcWA) Cambridge Campus attended their graduation ceremony on Saturday 5 October at Alive Corn Exchange at King’s Lynn.

The students studied the BSc in Veterinary Nursing and Applied Animal Behaviour and FdSc in Veterinary Nursing and Applied Animal Behaviour at UcWA’s Cambridge campus based in Milton.

The students took to the stage to take the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons pledge and declaration, overseen by Matthew Rendle of the Veterinary Nurses Council, to officially become registered veterinary nurses, certified by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

The students repeated the RCVS pledge, after Matthew Rendle, below: “I promise and solemnly declare that I will pursue the work of my profession with integrity and accept my responsibilities to the public, my clients, the profession and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and that above all my constant endeavour will be to ensure the health and welfare of animals

to my care.”

This addition to UcWA’s annual graduation proceedings is a direct result of the college receiving accreditation from the RCVS, which means that all UcWA veterinary nursing graduates who complete either the college’s veterinary nursing or veterinary nursing with applied animal behaviour degree or foundation degree, will now be fast-tracked into the profession.

The approval by the RCVS means that students graduating from the above courses can now join the Register of Veterinary Nurses without having to undertake a preregistration examination, which otherwise would be an additional exam sat on top of their degree at a later date.

CWA principal, David Pomfret, said: “This summer our HE students demonstrated their confidence in our HE provision with UCWA achieving an overall satisfaction score of 100 per cent in the National Student Survey on both the BA Hons Psychosocial Studies and BA Hons Early Childhood Studies programmes. The 2019 graduands also achieved great success with over 75 per

cent of all completing students achieving ‘Good’ degree outcomes (first class or upper second classifications). Our HE students have sacrificed much to achieve success, but with the support of their family, friends and ongoing support from staff they have overcome many obstacles. Our graduates should be extremely proud of themselves and what they have achieved.”

FdSc Veterinary Nursing and Applied Animal Behaviour student, Rachel Mason won the award for overall UcWA Student of the Year for her outstanding achievements during her time at the university centre.

Rachel Mason’s tutors said: “Rachel has shown true resilience throughout the duration of her course. Rachel joined us as a mature student following a very successful career as a health and safety officer. From the outset Rachel has been wholeheartedly committed to achieving her career change and her dream of becoming a veterinary nurse.”

Rachel is currently working as a veterinary nurse at Village Vet.

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HEWITSONS YOU Whether you are an individual, a business, or an organisation such as a charity, our approach to understanding the issues you face ensures we deliver the specialist legal guidance to get you where you want to be. You and Hewitsons: it’s a partnership that works.

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Do you have some exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page?

Get in touch. Tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

HUNTINGDONSHIRE AREA

BEACON SPONSOR KIMBOLTON LIVE Kimbolton Live, an event in Kimbolton, starred the Bellamy Brothers and Ronan Keating!

Beacon Wealth Group (incorporating Beacon Wealth Management and Beacon Wealth Legal) sponsored the amazing music event.

The brilliant Bellamy Brothers headlined Country at the Castle on Friday 30 August, with special guests Ashley Campbell, Katy Hurt and the CC Smugglers. It was the perfect hoedown for all country music fans. Paul Gilks and his wife won VIP tickets to Country at the Castle, by taking part in Beacon Wealth Group’s competition on Facebook.

Beacon Wealth Group set-up Beacon’s corner on the night with 6ft LIVE letters people could sign, a wild west selfie waggon with props, and a competition to win a Fortnum and Mason hamper of which Della Sharman was the lucky winner.

Everyone was ecstatic for Ronan

Keating Live on Saturday 31 August, which saw Ronan starting his 26th year in the music industry - making him something of an anomaly in the world of pop music! Supporting Ronan was Katie Kittermaster, an 18 year old singer-songwriter from Kent, and Joe Bygraves, a 23-year-old pop singer-songwriter from Bedfordshire.

Sarah O’Callaghan won VIP tickets for Ronan Keating Live, by taking part in Beacon Wealth Group’s Facebook competition.

Tony Larkins, Managing Director, Beacon Wealth Group, commented: “Beacon Wealth Group like to support the community, being able to sponsor such an amazing event and support Kimbolton

Mick George Group achieve Sunday Times Top Track 250 Status The 15th Annual ‘Sunday Times, Grant Thornton Top Track 250’ has been revealed and for the second consecutive year, local construction services supplier Mick George Group is included, having climbed more than 60 spaces in the rankings.

Compiled by Fast Track, a leading research and events company, the table ranks Britain’s privately-owned mid-market growth companies by performance.

To achieve a listing within the league table, a number of demanding criteria have to be fulfilled, not least; total sales between £110 - £700m, profits up to £100m, sales / profit growth minimum of five per cent annually and employed staff between 50–5,000.

The Mick George Group are one of just 11 companies from its core operating regions in the East to have made it on to the prestigious list, an impressive feat when you look at the stature of the many national brands named alongside the construction brand.

Jon Stump, Joint CEO at the Mick George Group, said: “This is great recognition for the Group to be included within the Sunday Times Top Track 250 league table for the second year running. It reflects the continued efforts that everybody within our business is making for sustainable long-term success and is testament to their hard work and diligence.

“Although our overarching strategy and objectives are clear, we believe that our ability to embrace change and adapt to market forces has been fundamental in the growth that the business has achieved. It is an exciting time for the company.’’

School is a huge privilege, I attended both nights and had a great time. The event is very well organised, I was pleased to be able to meet the acts - the Bellamy Brothers even shared a photo with our marketing team on their own social media.”

Chamber members work together to develop new brand and website for Keystone in St Neots Marketing consultancy Keystone and design agency Big Bear Creative have demonstrated the power of collaboration with the launch of Keystone’s new brand and website this month.

As with any rebrand, there’s so much more to it than just a new look. After six years in business, Keystone looked closely at who they are, what their purpose is, who they serve and why.

Exactly the approach Keystone takes with its clients. Big Bear Creative’s Brand Director Emma Sheppard worked closely Beacon Wealth Management were highlighted with the Keystone team to developLtd a brand identity thatas truly a Small the Advice Firm of of the the consultancy; Year in the Money Marketing presented essence rejuvenating the 2019. a full suite of visual brand elements to logoAwards and designing work The alongside for the first time.

Digital Director Dave award itceremony held, in City Central at the HAC in Sheppard then utlised theand brand developed Emma for the June, was recognised attended by thebybest financial website; constructing an online presence that both reflected planning companies and individuals throughout the UK. This thesought-after new brand and helpedwas Keystone to reiterate its two accolade well received amongst industry coreleaders focusses Marketing Strategy for scaling B2B’s and and–fellow peers.

Community Engagement campaigns for Councils and not for The selection process was in-depth and they were judged profits. on factors that continual for clients, Talking about theincluded investment it has enhancement made in this rebrand, professional qualifications and the overall efficiency Founder of Keystone Hayley Williams said: “We couldn’tofbetheir model. anybusiness more proud of the new brand and website produced by our friends at Big Bear Creative.

We had known for some time Tony Larkins, Managing Director at Beacon Wealth thatManagement, our brand and messaging no longer commented: "I feel veryaccurately proud thatreflected Beacon whohave we been are and what we do until now.

TheFirm same team, highlighted as a– Small Advice of great the Year delivering the veryMarketing best thinking to transform impact at the Money Awards.

There aremarketing exciting times andahead engagement – but now with a confident brand to match.” for Beacon.” connected 29

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page?

Get in touch. Tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Businesses tackle the workplace ‘sickie’ at employment law seminar Workplace absences cost British business £18billion per year. Despite this cost, one of the city’s leading employment law specialists has warned employers to tread carefully when saying ‘enough is enough’ with persistent absence.

Speaking to over 200 HR professionals and business owners at the annual Employment Law Seminar organised by Anne Corder Recruitment and Hegarty Solicitors, Martin Bloom unpicked recent cases and gave delegates advice on how to tackle the workplace ‘sickie’.

The event saw Martin explain: “every employer faces challenges with workplace absence, often coming down to them deciding whether dismissal would be fair.

That can be a difficult path to navigate.”

Tim Thompson, partner at Hegarty Solicitors, also presented delegates with advice on protecting their employer reputation. With many businesses focussing on their employer brand, Tim advised they would be wise to clearly communicate expectations regarding staff behaviour to minimise any reputational harm caused by an unfair dismissal claim.

Buckles Solicitors acquires London-based Lyndales Solicitors Top 200 law firm Buckles Solicitors has announced its acquisition of London-based Lyndales Solicitors.

Buckles has offices in Peterborough, London, Nottingham and Stamford and the acquisition of Lyndales reflects the award-winning firm’s recent emphasis on growth with a strong focus on the London market.

Operating under the name Buckles Lyndales, the existing London office will be joined by the Lyndales team

and relocate to 40 Furnival Street. The acquisition propels the firm up the ranking table with a turnover of £12m+ and more than 90 lawyers.

Buckles’ Chief Executive, Duncan Jackson, says: “We are delighted to officially announce the acquisition of Lyndales to strengthen our London proposition. Based on a long history of client-led service, Buckles has a strong regional reputation acquired mainly through organic growth. The

legal market has changed and we don’t want to rest on our laurels.

Building on a position of strength and safeguarding our clients UK-wide, we are implementing an exciting growth strategy. Lyndales is a perfect fit for us as they are also a people-driven business. Lyndales is an established London firm and we are thrilled to merge our teams’ expertise to offer our clients an even wider range of legal expertise.”

SOLICITOR TO BE PART OF NATIONAL PILOT SCHEME TO EVALUATE THE IMPACT OF MEDIATION In recent years the Courts have seen an exponential increase in Court of Protection claims being issued, at a time when the Courts have had to cut their budgets. In all but the most urgent of cases, parties can face many months wait to obtain enough Court time for final hearings.

The Court of Protection is a specialist Court which protects the interests of people who have lost their mental capacity and are therefore unable to manage their own affairs. The Court has the power to appoint a ‘Deputy’ to deal with property and financial affairs and in some instances the health and personal welfare of the person who is no longer able to make their own decisions. When a dispute arises in relation to a vulnerable person’s affairs, the Court of Protection has the jurisdiction to get involved and resolve those disputes.

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However, it can take many months for an application to process through the Court before a hearing is listed. To try to ease pressure on the courts and speed up the time it takes to resolve disputes, a mediation pilot scheme has been set-up to evaluate whether mediation, when compared to litigation can save time and money by resolving issues which would otherwise have to be resolved by the Court at a final hearing.

Mediation in the Court of Protection is different from almost any other form of mediation because the parties are mediating about a third party, who will in most cases, not have capacity to enter into a mediation agreement.

Karon Walton, Head of Court of Protection at Hegarty Solicitors, is one of a small group of mediators who have been identified as having the appropriate expertise and qualifications to participate

in the pilot scheme.

Karon commented: “This is an exciting development, which I wanted to be involved with from the beginning, in order to help obtain the evidence that there is a viable alternative to settling disputes in the Court of Protection. There is no winner or loser, but a joint agreement that parties can concur on.”

news from

PETERBOROUGH AREA

Award-winning PAB Languages Centre marks 10th anniversary

MHA MacIntyre Hudson win three British Accountancy Awards Accountancy firm MHA MacIntyre Hudson were the big winners at this year’s British Accountancy Awards, securing three prizes including the prestigious National Firm of the Year award.

The firm, which has 12 offices covering the midlands and south east, were also winners of the Tax Team of the Year and Large Firm Graduate and non-Graduate Programme of the Year prizes, making them the most successful company at the event.

Sarah Dodds, Partner at MHA MacIntyre Hudson, commented: “This is a very welcome accolade for everyone within the firm to win the National award and truly reflects the hard work of all our 900 staff across the UK. This award, along with the successes for our Tax team and our efforts with those starting their career in the industry, really showcase the benefits of our employeeled focus and our ethos of bringing true value and understanding to our clients.”

PAB Languages is marking 10th anniversary with a series of free events across the UK to thank all their employees, customers, business partners and suppliers for all the trust they have placed with them.

Delegates gathered in Peterborough to Celebrate Cultural and Language Diversity and were treated to a fantastic line-up of experts including the CEO of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, John Bridge OBE DL, who officially opened the event.

Lelde Please presented an overview of CSR practices at PAB Languages, and Cathy Mellor delivered a speech on public speaking and the importance of the tone and body language.

PAB Languages, Director Iwona Lebiedowicz provided guidance on communicating effectively and building successful relations with people from

different countries and cultures while Christian Walsh gave an insightful presentation on Tanzania and East African Cultures.

Managing Director, Iwona Lebiedowicz, said: “Since 2016 our focus and commitment to serving our customers and community have not changed. We support mainly UK based businesses and exporters. We will continue to provide high-quality services enabling relationships between people from different countries and cultures.”

Four rising stars earn legal qualifications at Roythornes Roythornes Solicitors has announced the qualification of four talented legal professionals to solicitor having completed their training contracts with the firm.

Bede Finnigan, Emily Hickling, Emily Wilson and George Faulkner have each qualified as solicitors and will work across the firm’s specialist commercial, agricultural property and litigation departments.

2019 has already proven to be a successful year for the top 200 law firm,

with 41 new starters and 14 internal promotions across the firm’s four offices in the Midlands and East Anglia.

Vember Mortlock, Managing Director at Roythornes Solicitors, said: “George, Emily, Bede and Emily’s hard work and dedication to the firm, as well as their personal development, has been exemplary and I am delighted that they will begin their careers as solicitors with us.

“The qualification to solicitor undoubtedly marks an important milestone in any legal career and I join the full team in wishing each of them well in the next stage of their professional development.

“I see a bright future ahead for these rising stars and look forward to seeing them each progress through the firm over the coming years.”

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY SECTOR IS WELL PLACED FOR RENTAL GROWTH According to Savills latest spotlight report ‘Peterborough: in high demand’, the city is well placed to capitalise on an increasing lack of supply in both the office and industrial sectors. Consequently, the growing demand for investment opportunities across the region is likely to encourage both good quality refurbishments and speculative development.

In the industrial sector, take-up hit 861,512 sq ft (80,037 sq m) in the first six months of 2019, 13 per cent above the long-term annual average. This strong transactional activity paired with limited new development has kept vacancy rates at chronic lows of 2.6 per cent. As a result, Savills has seen rents increase by up to 40 per cent with prime units, depending on size, now standing at

£7.50 per sq ft (£80 per sq m), up from lows of £3.70 per sq ft (£40 per sq m).

On the other hand, the office market has seen restricted take-up this year, partially due to the limited supply of high quality accommodation. The lack of stock can largely be attributed to permitted development (PD), which has seen more than 600,000 sq ft (55,741 sq m) converted into residential since the legislation was introduced.

Another solution to the lack of supply is the refurbishment of second hand stock, a good example of this is CEG’s Stuart House in the city centre. The scheme underwent extensive works in recent years, now comprising a new gym, café and other amenity space.

This has played a large part in the building’s

popularity, which is now almost fully let.

Savills suggests that landlords need to invest in improving their stock in order to enhance letting prospects.

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news from

STAMFORD AREA

Helen becomes InvestSK’s first apprentice The organisation that encourages businesses in South Kesteven to recruit apprentices is setting a good example by taking on an apprentice of its own.

Helen Ward (18) has joined InvestSK as an apprentice office assistant and will support the economic development company at its office in Grantham while studying for an NVQ Level 3 in Business Administration at Grantham College.

“We’re delighted to welcome Helen to the team,” said Steve Bowyer, Chief Executive at InvestSK. “She’s really grasped the opportunity with both hands and I’m pleased to say we’re already seeing the benefits of recruiting an apprentice – the new skill set that Helen brings is really valuable.

“We’re practising what we preach. Part of our remit is to help businesses grow by promoting apprenticeships in South Kesteven, and what better way to do that than by taking on an apprentice of our own? Apprenticeships can be a great way for a business to grow their own talent in a way that makes commercial sense.”

NEW COLLEGE STAMFORD SUPPORTS EMPLOYEES AFTER LONGSTANDING RELATIONSHIP WITH THOMAS COOK New College Stamford has had a strong relationship with Thomas Cook for more than a decade. The holiday giant has become a valued employer to the college over time and after their collapse, which resulted to a loss of 1,000 plus jobs locally, college staff pulled together to show their support with a dedicated careers event for those affected.

Thomas Cook employees have inspired many of our students over the last 10 years through work experience, visits, interview preparation and opportunities for Overseas Resort Representative qualifications. Many of the college’s Travel and Tourism students have secured careers in the travel industry thanks to the opportunities provided by Thomas Cook.

Sarah Young, Assistant Principal for Curriculum, said: “The event was a way for us to give back and support Thomas Cook

employees after their contribution to the success of many of our students over the years. We are extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such amazing and professional people within the industry.”

Employees of Thomas Cook were invited to the college’s Digital Skills Centre to take part in a variety of activities including; CV writing, interview techniques, IT skills workshops and, LinkedIn and social media support.

With exhibitors including New College Stamford Vacancies, Apprenticeships, Peterborough Regional College, Job Centre Plus, National Careers Service, Travel Counsellors, Scout Recruitment, Red Robin Recruitment, Citizens Advice, Christians Against Poverty, Avon Cosmetics and Shutterbox.

Tim Silcock, Careers Advisor at New College Stamford, said: “The workshops were a huge success and we are confident those who attended left with some positive actions to support them getting back to work. A few attendees have also been invited back for lecturing and support staff vacancies at the college which is really positive.”

If you are a former employee of Thomas Cook and are seeking support please email enquiries@stamford.ac.uk or call 01780 484311 to speak to a member of the New College Stamford’s Information, Advice and Guidance Team, they will be happy to help suggest courses or training that could be beneficial for you.

Alternatively check out New College Stamford’s recent vacancies at www. stamford.ac.uk/about/work-with-us

Do you have some exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page? Get in touch.

Tel: 01223 237414 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk connected 33

Masterplan for growth in St Neots nsuring support for the development of thriving Market Towns is a key priority for the Combined Authority.

This commitment is certainly evident in St Neots with the continuing focus of the St Neots Masterplan looking at a range of improvements that will positively develop the growing Market Town. Huntingdonshire Chamber committee member Hayley Williams from Keystone asks Katie Williams, Town Development Manager at St Neots Town Council to share more.

E

As someone who lives in St Neots and runs a business from the town centre, I’m pleased to see so much investment coming forward for the town. For those who don’t know what is the St Neots Masterplan for Growth?

The masterplan project was developed by the board of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority to ensure that the market towns in Cambridgeshire are all interconnected in an overall plan that supports the

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region’s future prosperity. The Masterplan for St Neots is the first of a series to be commissioned by the Combined Authority. The root focus is to help determine how best to maximise regeneration and reinvigoration of the key market towns in Cambridgeshire; maximising their potential as vibrant places to live, work and relax.

The Combined Authority is the strategic and funding partner for the masterplan, with Huntingdonshire District Council responsible for implementation. There are then a number of organisations, groups and specialists represented on the steering committee – including me on behalf of St Neots Town Council.

We know that St Neots was the first market town in the Combined Authority to be earmarked for support under the Masterplan concept – what exactly is involved in being part of its Steering Group?

The Steering Group is very much a partnership – made up of contributors from the public, private and community sectors. We meet regularly; initially

building a programme of engagement, evidence gathering, and idea generation to scope the ambitions of the town.

The overall focus now is on agreeing investments that will transform and better serve the community and business needs of the town.

The St Neots Masterplan Steering Group has initiated a number of programmes to deliver growth.

report from

What’s the latest outcome from the Masterplan for the town?

ST NEOTS TOWN COUNCIL

2020, subject to final planning approval.

More widely, a recent announcement by We were pleased to see our new central Government confirmed St Neots dedicated bike parking facilities in the inclusion in the Future High Street Fund, town take their place in September; which will see the town bid to receive installed as part of a series of planned £25 million of capital funding to enable a The St Neots Masterplan is of town centre improvements. St Neots Town transformational town development project course a long term plan for St Neots. to be realised too.

Council worked collaboratively as part of What else is on the horizon for the the St Neots Masterplan for Growth to Our thanks to Katie Williams, Town commission two new dedicated cycle racks town?

Development Manager at St Neots Town Longer term parts of the Masterplan providing convenient, town centre parking Council for sharing the latest St Neots for cyclists, which hadn’t been available include improvements to skills, employment Masterplan for Growth updates. To keep previously. opportunities and looking at options for up to date with the work of the Steering providing improved community, leisure and Group, and to download the latest reports We positioned the racks in front of the commercial opportunities on the riverfront and insights from their work, visit www.

Market Square, right in the heart of the and in the town centre. Improved transport stneotsmasterplan.co.uk town. Designed and manufactured by and digital links are also targeted in the Cyclehoop, the Bike Ports are an inventive Our Huntingdonshire committee is piece of street furniture that provides clear, plan. This includes works to improve and always interested to hear from Chamber widen footpaths and cycle routes through highly visible cycle parking for up to eight members that would like to represent Riverside Park – and the work is planned to the local business community in our bikes. The eye-catching product is visible coincide with the development of the new at a distance, and helps to send a clear Huntingdonshire Chamber committee foot and cycle bridge. Construction for the meetings. Call us on 01223 237414 if message about the importance of space new bridge is likely to begin in late spring this is of interest. for bicycles too. We are delighted to see that the racks are already in regular use.

We also installed raised planters alongside the bike racks - designed to contain bee friendly plants to encourage pollinators moving forward.

The overall focus now is on agreeing investments that will transform and better serve the community and business needs of the town.

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connect with

SIGNPOST 2 GROW

Help and support from Signpost 2 Grow Seeking new opportunities can be somewhat challenging for some businesses, and different businesses go about this in various ways.

To some, it’s about finding local opportunities, to others, national or international opportunities.

For small businesses it’s all about being savvy and on the ball, always being on the hunt for a new business opportunity that catapults your business to the ‘next level,’ whether it’s exporting, marketing and sales, finding new funding streams or discovering a chance to network with a new group of like-minded people.

Whatever it may be, Signpost 2 Grow can help to point you in the right direction.

EXPORTING OPPORTUNITIES Exporting is a great way to expand into new and emerging markets, increase your profits, revenue and customer base, but it can be very difficult. The Department for International Trade provides unmatched international trade advice and practical support to UK-based companies. Their Exporting is Great website provides a dedicated search tool allowing you to browse through over 20,000 exporting opportunities available in industries such as creative and media, education, food and drink, security and many more.

Your local Chambers of Commerce can also offer a range of services to help exporters in the international marketplace, especially export documentation.

MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES With the rate that technology is evolving, new marketing tools are constantly being developed creating new audiences to market to. It’s always a surprise when we speak to business people that aren’t on some form of social media. Let’s

face it, most people nowadays are connected via some form of social media, whether that’s for social reasons or professional networking.

The opportunity of social media is unbelievable, and we still think that most businesses aren’t tapping into its full potential. Google offers a free training service to small businesses to encourage them to sell online.

Whether that’s through websites or social media channels. Contact Signpost 2 Grow and we can plug you into this free training to get you started.

FINANCIAL OPPORTUNITIES There have never been so many opportunities available for small businesses to receive finance than now, ranging from grants to angel investors. It’s vital, as a business that you find the right funding stream for you. British Business Bank’s Finance Hub website helps businesses understand and discover the finance options that enable them to grow, and it’s free.

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Signpost 2 Grow are always looking

at putting on great events for the local business community for free.

This year, we have partnered with East Cambridgeshire District Council and the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce to deliver East Cambs Business Boost 2019. It brings together over 400 local SMEs through networking, business exhibitions and incredible keynote speakers.

This year we are proud to announce Levi Roots “Reggae Reggae Sauce Entrepreneur”, as this year’s headline speaker as well as Google Digital Garage and Jem Hills. You can register via our Eventbrite page, simply search “Business Boost 2019”.

To find out about all the opportunities available for you and your business, visit the Signpost 2 Grow website; http://signpost2grow. co.uk/ or get in touch via email hello@signpost2grow.co.uk or telephone 01480 277180.

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insight from

largely on their own. Businesses take longer and typically involve more people.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT MARKETING? Consumers can react swiftly to marketing which is impactful and snappy. Consumer Most companies either sell to consumers brands are often aspirational so that consumers wish to be associated with (business-to-consumer or B2C) or other them. Marketing can be more emotive or businesses (business-to-business or B2B).

Sarah West of Full Mix Marketing looks at playful; using clever straplines or amusing campaigns. the impact on marketing.

Marketing to businesses needs to HOW ARE CONSUMERS AND be more sustained and contain more BUSINESSES DIFFERENT? information. B2B brands tend to mirror Consumers typically make purchases their customers more closely and are more to satisfy an emotional need (e.g. hunger, consistent so businesses are in no doubt of status, pleasure). Businesses make the benefits offered. more rational buying decisions for their Burst marketing is an intense campaign company’s benefit. over a short period of time using a single Whilst consumers want to be happy with marketing channel. It can work well for B2C their purchases, businesses prefer to be marketing where there is an immediate seen to be making good decisions. Whilst need, such as promoting ice creams during businesses enjoy a close relationship with hot weather. As businesses make longersuppliers, consumers need less interaction term decisions, drip marketing is more with the brands they choose. effective for B2B. This is where a mix of Consumers make quick-buying decisions marketing channels is used to communicate

Different tactics for B2B and B2C Marketing

SARAH WEST

a consistent message over a longer period.

Brand awareness is often a goal of B2C marketing where demand is high.

Brands want to ensure their name is the one consumers recall. For B2B marketing, where the number of potential customers is smaller, direct marketing to other businesses is typically more cost-effective.

WHICH MARKETING CHANNELS WORK BEST FOR B2B? If businesses are actively seeking what you deliver, ‘pull’ marketing tactics are best.

SEO and Google Ads can ensure they find your website. Advertising, sponsorship and networking can raise awareness.

If what you deliver is more niche, direct marketing will again give stronger results.

Mail, email and LinkedIn can reach decisionmakers. Trade events can be an opportunity to introduce what you deliver and PR, blogs and other content can establish you as experts. Your website needs to act as a compelling online showcase.

For more help visit: https://fullmixmarketing.co.uk

MOORE THE NEW NAME FOR MOORE STEPHENS At Moore, our purpose is to help people thrive.

Whether you’re a business, a not for profit organisation or a private individual we can help. As well as audit, accounts and tax compliance we also offer a complete payroll service, accounting software training, bookkeeping, tax returns and much more. www.moore.co.uk

Get in touch today T 01733 397300 east.midlands@moore.co.uk

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chamber

EVENTS

AMAZING BENEFITS OF INFORMAL NETWORKING EVENINGS

November 2019

20 21 27

Peterborough Greyhound Stadium 5.00-7.00pm

Metro Bank, Cambridge 5.00-7.00pm

Coach House Hub, Chatteris 5.00-7.00pm

December 2019

2

XL Press, St Neots 5.00-7.00pm

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Poets House, Ely 5.00-7.00pm Mulled wine and mince pies will be provided by Poets House

Christmas Lunch

CHAMBER

MEMBERSHIP DATE Wednesday 20 November TIME 9.30-11.30am LOCATION Chamber Office, 6 The Forum, Minerva Business Park, Peterborough, PE2 6FT DATE Thursday 21 November TIME 9.30-11.30am LOCATION Milton Hall, Ely Road, Milton, Cambridge, CB24 6WZ PRICE Free to attend, please register in advance CONTACT Bren Coleman on 01223 209811 or email b.coleman@cambscci.co.uk Come and learn the real, tangible benefits of membership in terms of financial savings and increasing revenue and profitability.

Whether you’re looking to generate interest in your services and increase sales, develop your professional skillset, explore new opportunities to do business overseas, or take advantage of the cost-savings and protection available, our extensive membership package offers it all.

You will also discover our latest promotional opportunities and get connected with our benefit service providers. We will also explain how we can help you engage with others in the Chamber network and across the wider business community.

DATE Friday 6 December TIME 12.00-3.00pm LOCATION Westminster College, Madingley Road, Cambridge, CB3 0AA PRICE £55.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £65.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members CONTACT Hannah Shaw on 01223 209803 or email h.shaw@cambscci.co.uk Enjoy a fabulous three course meal in the beautiful Dining Hall at Westminster College. The historic décor promises to create a real festive feel, starting your run up to Christmas in exactly the right way.

During the event you’ll hear from a guest speaker and we’ll hold a raffle in aid of our Chamber charity of the year, East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices.

Sponsorship opportunities available: please contact Hannah Shaw on 01223 209803 for details.

Chamber members can book events online at www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk connected 45

INFORMAL NETWORKING EVENINGS JANUARY 2020 Start the New Year by forming new business connections across the county.

6

13

15

JANUARY

JANUARY

JANUARY

St Ives (Hunts) Golf Club 5.00-7.00pm

Poets House, Ely 5.00-7.00pm

The Solstice, Peterborough 5.00-7.00pm

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22

JANUARY

JANUARY

Barclays Bank, Cambridge 5.00-7.00pm

Oliver Cromwell Hotel, March 5.00-7.00pm

Visit our website for further details.

Business Women’s Christmas Lunch DATE Tuesday 10 December TIME 12.00-2.30pm LOCATION Orton Hall Hotel, Orton Longueville, Peterborough, PE2 7DN PRICE £30.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £40.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members CONTACT Helen Bosett on 01733 370809 or email h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk Organised by the Business Women’s Sector.

Join us for our annual festive networking event. A twocourse dinner, glass of wine, inspirational speaker and excellent company are wrapped up in the ticket price.

You’ll be on the move between courses to gain the best value of making business connections so bring plenty of business cards!

Guest speaker Rebecca Stephens was formerly MD of Peterborough Telegraph and has run her own business.

She is now City Manager for CityFibre Peterborough.

We look forward to Rebecca sharing some of her challenges and lessons learnt through her career and how to achieve that all important work life balance!

We’ll also be raising money for our Chamber charity of the year, East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices, with a raffle.

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chamber

EVENTS

CAN YOU DONATE A RAFFLE PRIZE FOR OUR CHRISTMAS LUNCH EVENTS? Our charity raffles at our Christmas lunch events will raise funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

EACH is a charity that cares for lifethreatened children and young people across East Anglia, as well as supporting their families.

To donate a prize, please contact Helen Bosett or Hannah Shaw on 01223 237414.

CHRISTMAS DRINKS DATE Wednesday 11 December TIME 6.00-7.30pm LOCATION Dawson of Stamford, 6 Red Lion Square, Stamford, PE9 2AJ PRICE £7.50 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £12.00 (plus VAT) nonChamber members CONTACT Helen Bosett on 01733 370809 or email h.bosett@cambscci. co.uk Our popular Christmas Drinks event returns to the unusual surroundings of Dawson of Stamford. Join us for a glass of wine and sample some party food at this historic building where you can view fine quality antique silver in the upstairs gallery.

Places are limited and must be booked in advance.

Sponsored by

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