Business Direction 57 by Distinctive Media Group Ltd

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE SPOTLIGHT Business Direction

Issue 57 September/October 2020

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ITY SUSTAINABIL IN THE SPOTLIGHT ction Business Dire

FIRSTWORD

TWO COUNTIES RESILIENT IN RECOVERY During July and August businesses have been gradually welcoming staff back to work, increased orders and customers back into their stores, after months of closures and hardship for the local business environment a greater sense of normality has returned to the area. With government Coronavirus support schemes winding down, including the Job Retention Scheme, it is now vital that businesses can access further support they desperately need in order to survive the coming months if the economy is going to see the V shaped bounce back that we are all hoping for.

Issue 57 tober 2020 September/Oc

BUSINESS DIRECTION

Business Direction, Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s full colour bi-monthly publication. Designed and produced by business people for business people. Distributed to 4,000 businesses. The deadline for the 'Technology and Innovation for Business Growth' edition is Wednesday 30 September Please send all submissions to businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk

EDITOR

Rahim Bas 01905 673 639 businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk

EDITORIAL & SUBSCRIPTIONS

businessdirection@hwchamber.co.uk 01905 673 639 www.hwchamber.co.uk/business-direction

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Distinctive Publishing, 3rd Floor, Tru Knit House, 9-11 Carliol Square, Newcastle, NE1 6UF www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk

ADVERTISING

Angie Smith Business Development Manager, Distinctive Group 0191 5805472 angie.smith@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

FEATURE EDITORS

Helen Compson helen.compson@distinctivegroup.co.uk

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publisher accepts no responsibility for omissions or errors within this publication. Editorial submissions are included at the discretion of the editor. The opinions expressed in articles and letters within this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber. All offers, promotions and competitions appearing in Business Direction are the sole responsibility of the advertiser/ promoting party and Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce does not accept any responsibility for any representations made within them.

Government must listen to ongoing business concerns and challenges they will need to overcome in order to thrive. Government should be focused on providing businesses with the stability they need in order to protect jobs, renew customer confidence and create new opportunities. Released in August, the Quarter 2 Covid-19 Economic Indicator, in partnership with the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, paints a clear picture of the impact that the height of the pandemic had on companies, with figures not seen since the peak of the global financial crisis. It also revealed business confidence fell off a cliff edge during the second quarter, along with almost all other indicators, with 74% of businesses experiencing fewer UK sales than the first 3 months of the year. Most alarmingly however was the statistic that over a third of businesses expected to decrease the size of their workforce within the next 3 months. Going forward this will need to be addressed by government, with many Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses expressing concern that the measures put in place in the Chancellor’s summer statement are simply insufficient to prevent this statistic becoming a reality. To read the full Covid-19 Economic Indicator Q2 Report, which gives a detailed snapshot of the economic impact that has exasperated the local business community, please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2020/08/QES_Q2-2020-LR-singles.pdf. This vital information provided by over 600 Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses will be fed to local and central authorities and will shape future policy and business support. The data collection period for the Quarter 3 Covid-19 Economic Indicator is currently open. I would urge all businesses to inform us of the barriers to growth that your businesses is currently facing, and how the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted your business. Businesses are encouraged to take part in the 90-second survey and help shape future business agenda. The data collection period ends Wednesday 16 September, to take part in the online survey please visit here www.surveymonkey.com/r/QESQ3Marketing

First Word

Chamber News

Business News

5-6

Policy News

Business News 16 Skills

Business News

19-20

Chamber Training

22-23

Feature

24-25

Big Interview

26-27

Business News

28-29

Events

Two Counties

Worcestershire Business Central 36 Movers and Shakers

New Members 39 International Trade People to do Business With

40-41 44

Business News 45 Charity News

Member Benefits

Chamber Spotlight

The September / October edition of Business Direction will put a spotlight on Sustainability. A topic which has been a focus of the Chancellor as part of his summer statement targeting the green homes sector as an opportunity for growth for the UK economy, including the £2 billion Green Homes Grant scheme to upgrade homes across the UK, providing opportunity for new jobs to be created and opportunities to be utilised by businesses. The UK is also still working towards the government target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Businesses across the country will play a huge part in achieving this goal. The Business Energy Efficiency Programme (BEEP) looks to support eligible businesses around Herefordshire and Worcestershire to become more environmentally friendly and in doing so save money on energy costs. We are delighted to welcome Simon Helmer, Energy and Resource Efficiency Advisor who will discuss why sustainability is so important to businesses and the support available to them. For further information please see page 50.

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The September / October edition of Business Direction will also highlight many other sustainability stories from businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. We are also delighted to welcome Worcester Bosch Managing Director, Carl Arntzen as our Big Interview as well as a cover feature on the University of Worcester and their sustainability efforts. Best wishes Sharon Sharons@hwchamber.co.uk

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Our Patrons are:

September/October 2020

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBERNEWS

A THIRD OF BUSINESSES LOOKING TO REDUCE WORKFORCE SAYS ECONOMIC INDICATOR REPORT Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, have released the results of the latest quarterly economic report, outlining the impact of Covid-19 on businesses during Quarter 2. The report also places a specific focus on the impact of COVID-19 on employment and skills. This report captures the impact of Coronavirus on businesses in Herefordshire and Worcestershire between Monday 18 May 2020 and Monday 8 June 2020.

need to do more than simply open businesses; consumers will need to have the confidence to go out and spend. Without a dramatic increase in demand and cash flow, the risk to the labour market will be significant. To read the full report visit here:

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES WITH ‘SHOP IN THE SHIRES’ CAMPAIGN Along with promoting Members stories online and through print, the Chamber have this month decided to go that extra step. Included within the latest Business Direction is the ‘Shop in the Shires’ business supplement, which includes a select Members directory to spotlight those businesses who have faced tough times over the past number of months and give those Members a chance to spotlight their business.

Key report findings overview: 74% of businesses surveyed experienced fewer UK sales than last quarter 59% of businesses surveyed expect their turnover to decrease over the next 3 months

This free campaign has been provided to help celebrate the wonderful businesses that make the two counties great and potentially bring new eyes to the businesses included within the directory.

Confidence and plans to increase investment have reached record low Only 20% of businesses were operating at full capacity

Sharon Smith, CEO of The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, commented: “We know that our counties are nothing without these businesses. The last few months have impacted the local business community massively, so the Chamber are delighted to support by spotlighting businesses from the two counties with this campaign.”

A third of businesses expect to reduce their workforce in the next 3 months The biggest challenge for businesses moving forward will be maintaining cash flow in a subdued economy. The easing of lockdown measures will

BRAND NEW SERVICE CHAMBER CUSTOMS TO AID UK IMPORTERS AND EXPORTERS ChamberCustoms delivers a customs declaration service for UK importers and exporters, of all sizes, in every region of the United Kingdom. With our extensive knowledge, reputation and first-class service in facilitating international trade, the Chamber can take the hassle out of your hands when it comes to exporting and importing goods. The service is offered direct to businesses and through UK freight forwarders, ensuring that customs clearance is accurate, timely and avoids additional costs through delays or errors.

With direct links to the HMRC customs handling system and all inventory linked ports, the Chamber can ensure that your goods, no matter where they enter or leave the UK, will be cleared for onward transportation smoothly. ChamberCustoms can help you keep your time sensitive supply chains moving efficiently and economically. Navigating trade documentation will be even more important within the next few months. Please get in touch if you have any queries about trading internationally or want to find out more about customs declarations services. www.hwchamber.co.uk/international-trade

September/October 2020

BUSINESSNEWS

GILLES BIOMASS HEATING’S SOLUTION TO A MORE SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS In today’s environment, it is more important than ever to take steps to move toward more sustainable ways of operating. Changing business practices to reduce emissions benefits a business’s bottom line by becoming more efficient, reducing waste and cost, and taking advantage of the government incentives available.

A Kidderminster company has produced a brand-new promotional video entitled ‘It’s time to weather the storm and support UK businesses’. Storm Enviornmental has invested £1 million in a new rotary moulding machine. The new machine has been responsible for increased capacity, new capabilities and has helped create local jobs. Storm want to say a big thank you to its staff for keeping the machine running and for playing a huge part in keeping the business operational throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

The use of biomass heating can provide many benefits and can be produced in ways that are both low-carbon and sustainable. Here in the UK, Gilles has well over 1000 boilers in operation heating homes, schools, military installations and more. Even though the initial shift toward using biomass may have been a daunting prospect for some, it is now easy to see that it was the right decision. Fuel purchased from

IT’S TIME TO WEATHER THE STORM AND SUPPORT UK BUSINESSES

sustainable sources means that running a biomass boiler can be carbon neutral and cost effective when compared to using fossil fuels, saving businesses money and becoming more sustainable at the same time. www.gilles-biomassheating.co.uk

Director, Ian Powell, said: “We are proud to debut our state of the art rotary moulding machine, which is the largest in the United Kingdom. Costing over £1 million, the rotary moulding machine is a key asset within our manufacturing process and has allowed us to take our innovation and creativity to the next level.” Scan the QR code to view the promotional video. www.stormenviro.co.uk

DRPG’S SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY Sustainability has been ingrained in the culture at DRPG since they began in 1980 and it plays a big part in today’s success. DRPG has developed and launched its own CSR Charter earlier this year. It holds the creative communications agency to account in the way they do business, directing efforts and investment into the initiatives and options that will make the biggest positive difference or significantly reduce a negative. The launch in February 2020 saw 40 trees planted at their headquarters in Hartlebury, to mark the milestone 40th anniversary. Since then, DRPG have installed over 700 solar panels at their Hartlebury site, helping to generate over 194 kilowatts of renewable energy, saving over 100 tonnes of carbon annually. This has already seen a quick return on investment as the panels have been powering the office and studios purely on solar energy since May 2020. To ensure the Charter objectives are being met, an in-house sustainability team

have the responsibility of making sure sustainability remains visible throughout the entire business. The sustainability team also championed the first ever Sustainability Month in August, sharing tips and ideas to the 350-strong team on simple changes they can adopt to be more sustainable professionally and personally. Celia Law, CSR Charter Lead, said: “Sustainability Month has been an opportunity to put a spotlight on the

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

twenty objectives outlined in our CSR Charter, directing our efforts towards the Sustainable Development Goals where we as a business can contribute most.” The CSR Charter has since gone on to win gold at the EVCOM Clarion Awards in the Brand Communication category, celebrating brands and companies with strong CSR credentials. To view the CSR Charter please visit here: www.drpgroup.com

BUSINESSNEWS

A SPOTLIGHT ON SUSTAINABILITY & R&D

GovGrant want sustainable businesses to get the maximum benefit they deserve for innovating in the UK. The drive towards sustainability, green energy and a low carbon future is challenging companies of all sizes to innovate every day. They are continually impressed by the work their clients do to improve their environmental performance. GovGrant help them to recognise and maximise the tax relief for any R&D activity. For tax purposes, R&D doesn’t need to be research done in the lab, it can be designing new low carbon products or simply improving processes, services or materials.

Once GovGrant have identified R&D businesses, they can then consider the wider benefits of their Intellectual Property (IP). With a simple patent, found in a company’s R&D, they could save on corporation tax through the UK government’s Patent Box scheme. Sustainable businesses that invest in IP should be rewarded with the full range of government incentives available. For further information please contact steve.thomas@govgrant.co.uk or call 07704 146773. www.govgrant.co.uk

LOVE YOUR LAUNDRY WITH JULU’S ECO-FRIENDLY PRODUCT Based in Ross-on-Wye, Julu Ltd are making laundry days a little more eco-friendly with their award-winning wall mounted clothes arier the Laundry Ladder. The Laundry Ladder is helping homes around the world to change the way they dry their clothes. Air drying clothes can reduce your carbon foot print with the reduction in the use of the Tumble dryer. Clothes that are air dried will last longer as they avoid the harm done by tumble driers. This clever wall mounted version is so versatile that as well as using it as an indoor solution with its portability, it can easily transport to be an outdoor solution. Customers who wish to take advantage of the fresh air and warm rays on sunny days simply purchase a second set of brackets to place on a wall

HOW FITTING A FLOW REGULATOR TO HOUSEHOLD TAPS COULD MAKE HUGE SAVINGS The importance of saving water is well documented, using more costs money to heat it, uses energy that adds to our carbon emissions and further depletes what is becoming a scarce resource. So, whilst it may seem a simple request to wash our hands regularly for 20 seconds, if it doubles the amount of water used each wash it results in many thousands more litres of water being washed down the sink. Kevin Gates, UK Managing Director at the world’s largest flow regulator manufacturer, Neoperl, said: “As an industry we have the technology to easily reduce the flow of water in taps without compromising the experience. We all have taps in the home where water is largely used for just washing hands or cleaning teeth. Most of the time these taps have a higher flow rate than required and we are simply throwing clean water down the drain.

Julia and Lucie the founders of Julu ltd, have added other eco-friendly products to their website.

“It’s a really affordable solution to retro fit a flow regulator, they simply need to be aware that flow regulators exist, obtain the right advice as to which regulator to fit to retain adequate performance and finally they need to purchase a simple tool to fit it.”

www.juluhome.co.uk

www.neoperl.net

outside. Packed in recyclable cardboard there is no harmful packaging waste. Made from wood this attractive clothes airer is designed to last.

September/October 2020

Your local, award winning legal experts SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS WHAT EMPLOYERS NEED TO KNOW Settlement Agreements are often used to bring an employment relationship to an end where a mutual parting of ways is preferred over a compulsory dismissal. It is a legally binding contract between an employee and employer which usually gives the employee money in return for their agreement not to sue the employer. Settlement Agreements can also provide an invaluable way of resolving a dispute; including where the employment relationship is ongoing. Many employers assume a standard template is sufficient to get the job done. However, no two employment scenarios are the same. To guarantee business protection, the terms of the agreement should be bespoke to ensure the document captures everything agreed and compromises claims effectively. Here are some common misconceptions around Settlement Agreements:-

ASSUMING £30K CAN BE PAID TAX FREE

It’s a myth that employers can always pay the first £30k of a termination payment on a tax free basis. The £30k exemption only applies to payments that are not payments of earnings and so every payment under the agreement will need to be considered separately to determine its tax status.

MISUNDERSTANDING THE USE OF CONFIDENTIALITY CLAUSES There is a legitimate place for confidentiality clauses in some instances however the use of them has come under considerable scrutiny over the past few years. Confidentiality clauses must be

Lisa Kemp

carefully drafted and should not be used to intimidate victims of harassment and discrimination or to prevent an individual making a disclosure to the police, regulated healthcare professionals or legal professionals.

ASSUMING ALL CLAIMS CAN BE WAIVED Not all employment claims can be compromised under a settlement agreement. Some claims, such as claims for failure to inform and consult under the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (‘TUPE’), can only be settled through ACAS Conciliation and some claims cannot be compromised at all.

MISUNDERSTANDING THE USE OF AN ENTIRE AGREEMENT CLAUSE

The inclusion of an entire agreement clause means that anything agreed outside the agreement is not legally binding; this could

be fatal for an employer wishing to rely on post-termination restrictions without properly reaffirming those covenants in the settlement agreement itself to ensure their business is protected.

IGNORING THE STATUTORY CONDITIONS

For a settlement agreement to be legally binding, and to constitute a valid waiver of claims, there are a number of statutory conditions that need to be satisfied. If these requirements are not fulfilled, the agreement will be invalid and unenforceable; meaning the employee can still sue the employer. In a climate where many employers will be faced with making difficult decisions around workforce resourcing, employers would be well advised to seek early advice on their specific circumstances. If you need help negotiating or drafting a settlement agreement please contact Lisa Kemp on 01905 677073.

CHAMBERNEWS

REMOTE WORKING - CHANGING ATTITUDES AND APPROACH If remote working has taught us anything, it’s how much businesses can accomplish away from the office. Jobs that were never imagined being performed anywhere but a professional setting, were suddenly being successfully handled from home. As businesses reflect on the success of their remote working efforts, those looking to adopt the changes on a more permanent basis should now use this time to stop and think about their short, medium or long-term ambitions. Whether you’re in the very early stages of your remote working journey, or have an existing remote workforce, there is always room to improve the digital experience when working outside of the office. As attitudes toward remote working change, so should the approach toward technology and the tools needed to accommodate this new way of working. For some businesses this new period will allow them to start testing remote working in a ‘hybrid’ environment. Instead of switching completely to a remote based environment, they can begin by working a few days from home, progressively developing the technology needed to support long term changes. This testing period will ultimately prove what new technology is required, what older technology will be faded, and what existing technology can be adapted and utilised.

CLOUD:

For businesses who may still be operating on on-premise infrastructures, mass

remote working can put a huge strain on its capabilities. To overcome these barriers, a majority of businesses will now look to adopt cloud services thanks to its flexibility, scalability and capacity to cope with fluctuating demand. Choosing the right cloud computing model, such as private, public or hybrid, will be vital for long-term sustainability and should be met with careful consideration to meet your needs now, and in the future.

is stored and how it is moved around the business. Cloud based Information management solutions provide a secure central platform to store, manage, edit and share data across the business, easily integrating with existing business systems and providing customised automations.

SECURITY:

Cloud infrastructure will essentially act as the backbone in your remote working strategy and will open businesses to a wide range of business applications and services. To successfully continue remote working, businesses need to take a closer look at which cloud apps and services they’re investing in - this could be anything from communication platforms such as Microsoft Teams, to hosted telephony, IT support or information management.

In light of Covid-19, many businesses took short cuts to expand their remote connectivity in a relatively short space of time, but have since failed to bring their security measures in line with their new remote environment. Businesses should look to prioritise an assessment of their current cyber security, such as firewalls and anti-virus, whilst considering further measures such as remote monitoring or multi-factor authentication, as well as considering who has access rights.

MICROSOFT TEAMS:

SUPPORT:

DATA MANAGEMENT:

Helping to navigate the changes of remote working, EBC Group offer a number of key technology solutions including cloud, communications, cyber security and IT support. Their experienced team is on hand to offer helpful advice to aid your business through this transition.

As businesses look for ways to simplify their communication services, one solution has provided an easy way for employees to collaborate and communicate from one accessible platform. Microsoft Teams, which was largely used as an internal communications tool prior to lockdown, has since seen its user numbers more than double, pushing businesses to explore Team’s full functionality. Offering a complete unified communications solution, the Teams platform accommodates a host of business functions, including internal and external calling, meetings and conferences. Data and information management can be more difficult with remote work, but with the right tools can be simple. Businesses should look to review their current data processes, highlighting where their data

With employees now relying so heavily on technology, it’s essential that businesses assess their current IT support. With internal IT teams struggling to fix issues away from the office, remote monitoring and management solutions will provide complete visibility of networked devices, as well the ability to fix and access these devices, regardless of location.

For more information on EBC Group’s remote solutions, contact 0121 585 4400 or hello@ebcgroup.co.uk, or visit www.ebcgroup.co.uk.

Bring your team together with simple, cost effective remote working solutions. private | managed | hybrid | recovery

EBC Group understand that businesses have a lot to think about when it comes to the digital workplace and their remote workforce. Our experienced team is on hand to offer helpful support and advice, alongside our award winning services including; cloud, communications, cyber security and IT support.

0121 585 4412

hello@ebcgroup.co.uk

W: www.ebcgroup.co.uk/cloud

September/October 2020

ADVERTORIAL

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

ALL ABOARD THE CLIMATE ROLLERCOASTER “A week after the extreme heat, we’ve got the fifth named storm (Ellen) bearing down on us this morning. This is the first since flood-making Dennis in February. Heavy rain, gales & charts that would be more appropriate for January!” This was a Worcestershire weather update from Dave Throup (Manager at The Environment Agency) on 19th August 2020. It is an example of how the climate is changing locally, due to increasing human caused carbon emissions. These changes to the climate are just beginning, over the coming years they will become more severe bringing with them intense flooding in winter, and dry heatwaves in summer. To help counter Climate Change the UK Government has set a legal target for itself – net zero carbon emissions by 2050. It is hard to overstate the changes we will

need to make as a society over the coming years to meet this target - it is going to be difficult to achieve and will require the complete restructuring of how the UK Economy works, starting now. Over the next 5 years there will be increasing regulations put in place at the local level to favour environmentally conscious companies. Even now larger companies need to start recording and lowering their energy carbon footprint per the new Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulations. My advice for all business owners is to at least take the first step of measuring the carbon footprint of your organisation (which is a straightforward process). Once you know what your footprint is, and what the main drivers behind it are, then you can identify simple changes to your business practices that will lower your footprint (and there are a wealth of Government grants available to help you with this). This simple activity will future proof your organisation by (1) making it much easier for you to comply with upcoming regulations (2) you can market your carbon footprint reductions to win more consumer

sales and B2B tenders (3) you will likely save money (4) Change of this nature will resonate with many of your employees increasing morale and engagement. If you would like to discuss any of this further, please feel free to contact me. I am always happy to chat to local business owners and provide advice. dlavelle@gogreenexperts.co.uk Dominic Lavelle GCMA, ACMA, IEMA member, BSI member

Become a Carbon Neutral Business • Want to increase your sales & brand image quickly and easily? • 67% of British consumers are more likely to support brands that combine a great product with a powerful social purpose • We help businesses go carbon neutral in 3 easy steps • We are a member of the British Standards Institute - we certify your carbon neutral status to an internationally recognised standard > Prices from £750 + VAT > 20% discount for Chamber members > No quibble full money back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied

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September/October 2020

POLICYNEWS

GOVERNMENT BACKS GREEN RECOVERY The outbreak of the coronavirus and the subsequent global pandemic will change the face of business. The impact on oil producers has been significant, with demand for energy to run public and private transport collapsing over a matter of weeks as nation states took the unprecedented peacetime decision to go into lockdown. Whilst wreaking havoc on ‘business as usual’ this crisis may pose opportunities for business, as government places a renewed emphasis on a ‘green recovery’, investing in the green economy and attempting to accelerating the shift to a low carbon economy. As the UK Government announced its plans to restart the economy in pursuit of recovery the Business Secretary, Alok Sharma, chaired a number of ‘recovery roundtables’ bringing together businesses, business representative groups and leading academics in June. The roundtables not only focused on recovery from COVID-19, but also sought to explore key domestic and global challenges to support a green and resilient recovery and ensure the UK is at the forefront of new and emerging industries. Time was also dedicated to a specific ‘Green Recovery’ roundtable, which considered how to capture economic growth opportunities from the shift to net zero carbon emissions. Since hosting these roundtables, the government has made further announcements to support a green recovery, featured in the summer statement made by the Chancellor on Tuesday 7 July. The government’s £3

billion package of green investment hopes to decarbonize public buildings and cut emissions. The Green Homes Grant will provide grants of up to £5,000 per household to make their home more energy efficient in England. For those on the lowest incomes, the scheme will fund energy efficiency measures of up to £10,000 per household. The Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund is a new fund set up to help social landlords improve the least energy-efficient social rented homes, starting with a £50 million demonstrator project in 2020-21 to decarbonise social housing. The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme dedicates £1 billion over the next

The Chamber network is now keen to see government back date grants under the ‘Green Homes Scheme’ to ensure the order book of firms associated with installing energy efficiency measures do not plummet over the summer as customers wait until the open date of September 2020 to utilize the scheme. Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

year in the form of grants to public sector bodies, including schools and hospitals, to fund both energy efficiency and low carbon heat upgrades. The Automotive Transformation Fund builds on the announcement last year of up to £1 billion of additional funding, the government is making £10 million of funding available immediately for the first wave of innovative R&D projects to scale up manufacturing of the latest technology in batteries, motors, electronics and fuel cells. The £3 billion package welcomed by the business community who had called for an economic recovery that prioritizes jobs and supports our net-zero ambitions, as part of a coherent strategy to restart, rebuild and renew. The Chamber network is now keen to see government back date grants under the ‘Green Homes Scheme’ to ensure the order book of firms associated with installing energy efficiency measures do not plummet over the summer as customers wait until the open date of September 2020 to utilize the scheme. Businesses need initiatives which start now to ensure demand picks up before the furlough scheme comes to a close at the end of October. Window firms and trade suppliers warned of suffering a collapse in business that has forced many to re-furlough staff after the scheme incentivised customers to wait until September.

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BUSINESSSUPPORT

REMOTE DELIVERY OF ASSESSMENTS A SUCCESS AT WCG A leading apprenticeship provider is urging employers to take advantage of new government incentives as it continues to successfully deliver assessments for existing trainees. WCG is the largest apprenticeship training provider in the region, training over 2,500 apprentices each year and working with more than 1,100 employers annually. All employers that hire an apprentice between 1 August 2020 - 31 January 2021, will be entitled to government incentive payments of £2,000 for apprentices aged 16-24 (in addition to the £1,000 incentive already in place) and £1,500 for apprentices aged 25+.

The trainees have ranged from engineering to equine and in some cases, live video has been set-up to allow assessors to complete the end point assessments.

“The small groups we have had in at college sites have worked well, particularly in areas such as engineering, where the practical assessment is crucial to their development.

WCG has been delivering learning to apprentices across all sectors during lockdown through remote delivery and virtual one-to-one sessions.

Mark Eden, Director of Work-Based Learning at WCG, said: “All of our staff, apprentices and employers have risen to the challenge to ensure no drop off in delivery.

“As a training provider, we are ready to welcome the next cohort of apprentices and will continue to support employers regarding the requirements for their business.”

The college group is now completing end point assessments for all apprentices, and for where these aren’t able to be completed remotely, the college has opened facilities specially to complete training.

“Even if apprentices have been furloughed, we have continued their training and utilised their time – which has been well received by employers, who have received regular contact from our team.

WCG offers a wide range of apprenticeships in a variety of industries. Please contact: E: employerenquiries@wcg.ac.uk T: 0330 135 6940 W: www.wcg.ac.uk/apprenticeships

THE BEST THERE IS ‘Make It Worcestershire’ is a campaign to support and celebrate the finest produce and producers our incredible County has to offer Developed by One Worcestershire in partnerships with Worcestershire Food and Drink To find out more about this brand-new campaign, visit the One Worcestershire website. Or, get involved in the campaign by using the hashtag #MakeItWorcs on social media.

Worcestershire

Food&Drink

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September/October 2020

BUSINESSSUPPORT

T2M RESOURCING APPOINTS ADDITIONAL CONSULTANT AND INVESTS IN FURTHER BUSINESS EXPANSION! T2M Resourcing, trusted recruitment partner to many high growth and market leading companies has invested in further consulting resource, training and commenced a new venture to provide added value services to companies that require HR support with employee engagement, attraction, development and retention. We are delighted to have appointed William Poolton-Jones to the team at T2M. William joins our Technical & Engineering Division where he will work with Dominic Aston and Harry Barnett. Our Technical and Engineering team recruit a broad range of roles that have recently included Chief Technology Officer, Managing Director â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Software business, Engineering Business Unit Director, IT Procurement Category Manager and Engineering Service Delivery Manager roles. T2M Talent Management Solutions

provides a range of services that support companies with the attraction, development and retention of staff. We have trained assessors in Psychometric testing (such as Thomas International, SHL & McQuaig), can conduct employment engagement surveys, employee exit interviews, outplacement support, employee onboarding and mentoring / coaching services right through to managing all aspects of your recruitment activity. Steve Randall, Managing Director, commented â&#x20AC;&#x153; at a time of much uncertainty

I am pleased to report that T2M Resourcing have continued to engage and support our clients and candidates over the past few months with much success. Our further investment in growth illustrates our confidence that T2M Resourcing can build upon our success to date and would like to thank our clients for their ongoing loyalty. To discuss any aspect of recruitment or employee engagement and retention please call Steve on 07412 786686 or email Steve@T2Mresourcing.com. Visit our website at www.t2mresourcing.com

BUSINESS LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY WHY SHOULD YOU APPLY FOR With the UK starting to come A BUSINESS LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY? out of the worst pandemic If you are unable to act on behalf of in our history and businesses your business it may affect or ultimately hopefully starting to get back invalidate your insurance, causing to some form of normality, problems with any potential future claims. many business owners and Without a Business Lasting Power of directors will be relieved that Attorney banks may freeze a business their crisis management strategy, contingency planning and support account if an owner or director is unable to act. This means that employees or from Government schemes have creditors could not be paid from the enabled them to survive. Whilst businesses may have come through the worst, I wonder how many business owners have considered preparing Business Lasting Powers of Attorney to cover events were they unable to make decisions in relation to their businesses. A Business Lasting Power of Attorney sets out how decisions will be made should a business owner or director lose capacity or are unable to act for the business, for example due to being out of the country, in hospital (for whatever reason, including COVID-19) or have had an accident.

business bank account. Additionally, should there be an overdraft in place the banks could insist on this being paid in full immediately otherwise it would start looking to crystallise company assets to service the debts.

The only course of action without a Lasting Power of Attorney in place would be for someone to apply for a deputyship order, which can take between 9 and 10 months to obtain. The simple preparation of a Business Lasting Power of Attorney in advance would prevent any problems from arising.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

For further information or to set up a Business Lasting Power of Attorney please email us at admin@whitehorsewills.com or visit our website at www.whitehorsewills.com

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BUSINESSSUPPORT

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September/October 2020

ADVERTORIAL

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BUSINESSNEWS

WORCESTERSHIRE CCC PROUD TO ANNOUNCE EBC GROUP AS NEW OFFICIAL IT PARTNER Worcestershire County Cricket Club are proud to announce EBC Group as their new Official IT Partner as they expand their already flourishing partnership with the county.

REDUNDANCY SUPPORT FROM HEWETT RECRUITMENT Redundancies are a huge challenge for all parties, especially during this uncertain time, Hewett Recruitment are offering bespoke redundancy support packages, designed to fit each unique requirement. Whether it’s a large-scale redundancy, a small cluster of employees or even just one individual. They are offering support to businesses with plans to make redundancies, providing specialist guidance and advice to help minimise the impact for individuals facing this unnerving time. With tailored redundancy workshops, outplacement consultancy packages and one-to-one support sessions, Hewett Recruitment are supporting affected individuals to re-discover their potential. Laura Hewett, Director at Hewett Recruitment said: “We are highly experienced in offering this service as it is something we offered during the 2008/09 recession, so we have updated the content and can now offer remote workshops as well as traditional classroom-based sessions. Recent sessions have received excellent feedback from individuals, saying they feel much more confident entering the job market, both in terms of where to look for work and how to position themselves to secure their next role.” For further details, visit www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk/ redundancy-support-service or contact Director, Laura Hewett, laura@hewett-recruitment.co.uk. www.hewett-recruitment.co.uk

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Extending their already lengthy association at Blackfinch New Road, the 2020 season sees EBC Group as Worcestershire CCC’s official collar sponsor for the Bob Willis Trophy four-day competition and Vitality Blast tournament, as well as extending sponsorship of the top floor of The View which is known as the ‘EBC Group Technology Suite’. In addition, EBC Group will continue to provide Worcestershire CCC’s VoIP telephony system as well as a managed print service, alongside a newly installed and upgraded live PitchView camera. David Hoskins, Commercial Manager at Worcestershire CCC said: “It’s integral for us as a business to keep moving

forward with technology and improving the efficiency in the ways that we work. Having an IT Partner with a wide range of services is crucial to us achieving that.” www.ebcgroup.co.uk

SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS AT HILLSIDE BREWERY Hillside Brewery was founded in 2013 when Peter and Paul (Father & Son) purchased a run down 40-acre farm in the Forest of Dean. The business has now won in excess of 50 awards both for its products, the development of the company and its sustainable credentials. This has been another exceptional year while working towards the United Nations sustainable development goals. When the farm was originally purchased it used a lot of heating oil and calor gas. This year has finally seen the removal of these. In addition, a new 40,000 litre underground tank has been installed to collect all of the brewery slurry which is taken off to an AD plant to produce new energy. All of the water on site comes from an on-site bore hole, drawing water up 60m. The water is consistent, mineral rich and creates a delicious beer.

By the end of the year 100% of the packaging used at Hillside Brewery will be fully compostable or recyclable and all of the general waste is used to create energy at the biomass plant in Gloucester. Hillside Brewery truly have a focus on sustainable business while having a positive impact on their local community and environment around them. www.hillsidebrewery.com

September/October 2020

ADVERTORIAL

NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENT FOR THE COMMUNITY HOUSING GROUP The Community Housing Group based in Wyre Forest has announced the appointment of a new Group Chief Executive following the retirement of Ray Brookes in June 2020. Matt Cooney will join the Group in September 2020 and brings a wealth of experience from previous roles within the social housing sector. He has held senior roles at a number of local authorities and became the Chief Executive of Solihull Community Housing in 2004. Under his leadership the organisation was awarded the highest 3 star rating for excellence by the Audit Commission. In 2010, Matt became Chief Executive of Asra Housing Group and successfully brought the organisation through a merger with Paragon Community Housing in 2017. The new company, PA Housing, owns more than 23,000 homes in London, Surrey and the Midlands. In 2019, he joined Surrey County Council as Interim Chief Property Officer to transform their property portfolio and improve asset management outcomes. Matt Cooney said: “I am delighted to be joining The Community Housing Group and I look forward to working with colleagues, customers and partners to build on the success of developing community housing services and develop the next chapter for The Community Housing Group. My aim is to work with stakeholders to develop a reputation as a strong provider of new housing and for

developing excellent services.” Andrew Foster, Group Chair said: “We are very pleased to welcome Matt to the Group. We have ambitious business plans and we are confident that he brings a valuable set of skills with him to help us to continue to prosper and grow.” Joyce Hopkins, Chair of the Customer Voice and Assurance Group (CVAG) commented: “As Chair of the CVAG, I was invited by the Group Chair to be involved in the recruitment process for the new CEO. It gave me an early opportunity to grill Matt about his experience and views on customer engagement. Now that he’s been appointed, the CVAG are looking forward to working with him and discussing how we can build on the Customer Engagement Strategy of the

I am delighted to be joining The Community Housing Group and I look forward to working with colleagues, customers and partners to build on the success of developing community housing services and develop the next chapter for The Community Housing Group.

Group which we oversee as part of our role in co-regulating service delivery.” The Community Housing Group has around 6,000 homes across the Wyre Forest District and plans to deliver a further 258 new homes by 2021. Their award winning Construction and Development Team (who have recently received 6 nominations in West of England LABC Building Excellence Awards 2020) look for innovative construction methods and best use of land to ensure that homes exceed the Government’s Decent Homes Standard and are well equipped for modern, digitally connected lifestyles. In addition to offering homes for rent, sale and shared ownership for customers with different housing needs and an extensive range of housing, care and support and employment services, the Group is leading the way in developing technology enabled care (TEC) solutions for customers across the County and surrounding areas. Its 24 hour monitoring and response centre offers an enhanced support service through the use of sensors and digital technology which is designed to support independent living at home. Their solutions not only enhance the lives of customers but provide substantial cost savings for commissioning bodies and social care providers. An exciting time for Matt to join the Group and shape its future development.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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SKILLS

WCG SELECTED TO DELIVER NEW DIGITAL QUALIFICATION WCG (formerly Warwickshire College Group) has been selected to offer three new T Level routes covering Health and Science, Engineering and Manufacturing, and Construction routes from 2022/23.

Angela Joyce, CEO of WCG

THE ‘AGELESS’ BENEFITS OF WORK EXPERIENCE

T Levels (Technical Levels) are part of the government’s flagship reforms to technical education in England. The qualifications are similar to A Levels and are designed for students after GCSEs who wish to follow a technical pathway at further and higher level, rather than a solely academic route. They can lead to employment, an apprenticeship or higher study. The college group will be among the first to introduce the new technical qualifications, which are primarily aimed at learners aged 16 to 18 years. T Levels will be based on employer-designed standards and will have a focus on gaining workplace

experience to help students be employment-ready. Angela Joyce, CEO of WCG, said: “We hope that delivery of T Levels at WCG will help to create more skilled workers for the region, fill the skills gap and be of great benefit to the regional economy.” ww.wcg.ac.uk/tlevels

LOCKDOWN LEARNING FOR APPRENTICES Herefordshire and Worcestershire Group Training Association (HWGTA) apprentices, staff and employers faced uncertainty back in March, with the training centres closed and many learners on furlough during the lockdown. Despite this HWGTA rose to the challenge with an amazing 96% of apprentices remaining in learning, with excellent co-operation from employers and learners in embracing the adjustments to the training delivery. The HWGTA team, together with the learners, are very grateful for the continued and vital support that employers have shown to the apprenticeship programmes during a difficult time. The objective moving forward will be to find the right balance between the use of technology and face to face learning, to ensure the best possible outcomes for students.

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With the recent announcement by the Chancellor regarding his “plan for jobs”, HWGTA is uniquely placed to enable local employers to take advantage of up to £3000 incentives, available for hiring apprentices, and build their future workforce with skilled employees. If your business would like to find out more about Apprenticeships and the potential benefits on offer, please contact Hayley Grismond for a no obligation chat – 01432 377010 or hayley.grismond@hwgta.org. www.hwgta.org

Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) Level 3 Business student, Elliott Fitzgerald-Harris, had a brilliant opportunity earlier this year to gain an ‘ageless’ work placement with Age UK Bromsgrove, Redditch & Wyre Forrest (Age UK BRWF). Speaking on his placement with Age UK, Elliott said: “During my time at Age UK I completed a number of tasks that allowed me to gain multiple skills such as planning events, being part of meetings and learning how to give my input. My work experience has helped me gain confidence and improved it massively.” “I have gained multiple skills such as planning events, being part of meetings and learning how to give my input. My work experience has helped me gain confidence and improved it massively.” Work experiences, such as those provided by Age UK, are incredibly worthwhile which is why HoW College incorporate an element of work experience into every further education course; providing every student with the chance to build on their skills and improve their CV. Moving forward into the new academic year Heart of Worcestershire College and Age UK BRWF are continuing to work together, and in response to COVID-19 are planning virtual work placement projects until placements can resume in a physical capacity. www.ageuk.org.uk/brwf www.howcollege.ac.uk

September/October 2020

BUSINESSNEWS

LIGHT YOUR BUSINESS UP GREEN FOR NATIONAL RECYCLE WEEK

GJS DILLON HELPS REGIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHER TURN A NEW PAGE The teams producing some of Worcestershire’s most popular local newspapers have relocated to new premises in Worcester with the support of Worcestershire-based commercial property consultancy and Chartered Surveyors GJS Dillon. The National Recycle Week campaign, which is run every year, is this year being held from 21st – 27th September. The theme this year is “thank you” to acknowledge the work done by the recycling crews during lockdown as they continued to collect from people’s houses (and a few businesses) and also to thank the public for continuing to recycle when the world was a little bit chaotic to say the least! As part of the work being done by Worcestershire County Council and the six district councils, they are asking buildings to light up green to show their support for Recycle Week. So far they have had agreement from the

town halls in Bromsgrove and Redditch, the Palace Theatre, Worcester Arena, University of Worcester’s Arthouse Clock Tower, Evesham Bell Tower and Broadway Tower. Shops and businesses in the county are also encouraged to light up green for the duration of Recycle Week. If businesses are interested they can contact Emma Stuart at Worcestershire County Council (estuart@worcestershire.gov.uk) for more information or just light up and send Emma photos of your green business and they will then include in publicity material during the week.

Staff from Worcester News and its sister titles have now moved to first floor offices in Redhill House in London Road, Worcester. The open plan offices with separate meeting rooms measure 7,174 sq ft and are close to Worcester City centre and just 1 mile from junction 7 of the M5 motorway. There are also 26 allocated car parking spaces available. Acting on behalf of a private pension fund, Andrew Lewis, GJS Dillon’s Associate Director, negotiated the ten-year lease. Julia Lancett, Managing Director of Newsquest Midlands South said: “We wanted to provide a more modern, comfortable and business conducive environment for our team.” www.gjsdillon.co.uk

LOW CARBON BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES During these challenging times, companies are seeking new ways to survive, evolve and expand. Growth opportunities from net zero could be one such good route to explore.

develop sustainable products and services. Their team is available to give you support and guidance on how to develop new, sustainable, low carbon products and services from a whole range of different waste materials.

As customer demand for low carbon goods and services is rising, it is becoming increasingly important for suppliers to demonstrate their carbon footprint. More and more businesses are reviewing their supply chain emissions. All of these factors will drive growth in the low carbon market sectors including bioenergy, energy-from-waste, energy systems and bioproducts.

EBRI has helped businesses from a wide range of industry sectors including agricultural, engineering, waste management, construction, financial services, marketing and food manufacturing. The Energy & Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI) at Aston University provides practical solutions for businesses in the West Midlands to

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

To see some example case studies visit www.bioenergy-for-business.org/ case-studies/. www.bioenergy-for-business.org

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BUSINESSNEWS

FOLK2FOLK SECURE INVESTMENT FROM FOREST OF DEAN DISTRICT COUNCIL Chamber Member FOLK2FOLK has secured investment from the Forest of Dean District Council. By investing via FOLK2FOLK, the council will be helping to fund business loans to SMEs in the Forest of Dean. FOLK2FOLK facilitates loans to credit-worthy businesses seeking finance to grow, develop or diversify. Loans are funded by everyday (retail) investors as well as Institutions such as Local Authorities, looking for a property-secured and inflation-beating return on their capital. Forest of Dean District Council is the second local authority to register as an investor via FOLK2FOLK’s award-winning lending platform, with Cheltenham Borough Council already registered. Through this partnership, the council will contribute capital to fund loans for businesses in the Forest of Dean who are unable to access finance via the banks.

THE INCREASING IMPORTANCE OF YOUR DIGITAL SHOP WINDOW Roy Warren, FOLK2FOLK managing director, said: “Our unique local lending model means we’re the perfect investment vehicle for councils. By investing via our platform, the council will be using their cash reserves to lend to local businesses, enabling them to access the finance they might need to as they emerge from the pandemic lock down. www.folk2folk.com

QUALITY ASSURANCE AT HEART OF NEW £2 BILLION GREEN HOMES GRANT Builders, plumbers, and other tradespeople across England will need a government-backed seal of approval to provide their services as part of the new £2 billion Green Homes Grant going live at the end of September. The new scheme will see the government fund up to two-thirds of the cost of home improvements of over 600,000 homes, supporting over 100,000 jobs in green construction. Tradespeople must register for TrustMark or Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accreditation to take part in the scheme, which will cover green home improvements ranging from insulation of walls, floors and roofs, to the installation of low-carbon heating, like heat pumps or solar thermal. The government’s wider green package, announced in July by the Chancellor, also includes an additional £1 billion programme to make public buildings, including schools and hospitals across

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the UK more energy efficient. An additional £50 million will pilot innovative approaches to retrofitting social housing at scale. www.gov.uk/government/news/qualityassurance-at-heart-of-new-2-billion-greenhomes-grants

How do you give your customers the best shopping experience if you don’t have a bricks and mortar business? Easy – through your digital shop front! In fact, this is true for all businesses, whether they are based online or not. In the digital age a lot of consumer research is carried out online, and more and more people are making purchase decisions based on what kind of online experience they’ve had. To put that into context, 84% of people will buy from a business they follow on social media over one they don’t. Throw a global pandemic into the mix that has had an impact on high street footfall, and you’re left with a retail landscape where it’s more important than ever to make sure your digital shop front is working hard to promote your business. The team at Copson Social have the following advice on how to optimise your digital shop front: Be helpful – Give your customers as much information up front as possible. Your opening hours, whether you have parking, if you do gluten-free; anything that’s an FAQ, highlight on your website and social channels. Create connections – Social media isn’t about how much content you push out, but how many conversations you have. Don’t just fire out multiple posts and then walk away. Stick around, engage with people and build those connections. Be yourself – The great thing about local businesses is the people behind them. The chances are there are 10 other businesses that offer the same product or service as you, so sell your personality instead! www.copsonsocial.co.uk

September/October 2020

CHAMBERNEWS

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CHAMBERTRAINING

VIRTUAL TRAINING VS CLASSROOM TRAINING: THE DEBATE For a long time, virtual training has been on the rise, but now more than ever businesses are looking for an alternative option to classroom training. The COVID-19 pandemic has seen the whole country in lockdown, with many businesses across the two counties shutting their doors and working remotely since March. Therefore, many businesses are now looking for a flexible alternative to traditional classroom training, to help lower costs, eliminate unnecessary travelling and to help ease employees demanding work schedules. With restrictions beginning to lift and advanced measures being put in place to ensure maximum safety of individuals, some training providers are finding they are still unable to deliver classroom training due to their facilities not being able to meet the requirements or, it’s not financially viable to deliver training whilst social distancing is in place. Therefore, the virtual training world is growing rapidly and more subjects are now being taught online than ever before. The Chamber Business Training department began delivering virtual training mid-May and by the end of August have delivered training to over 200 delegates across 50 different training courses. Many of these have been adapted to suit the virtual environment and have been specifically designed to help businesses restart and recover. But the big debate is, can virtual training deliver the same results as classroom training?

ADVANTAGES OF VIRTUAL TRAINING Accessible to anyone in the business, regardless of location Cost effective training solutions Minimal disruption to the working day – no travel time needed Easily replicate the classroom environment using breakout rooms and whiteboard Course handouts are digital and save on printing

Sustainable advantages such as save on paper waste and reduced travel pollution Content is engaging and interactive throughout Training is accessible anywhere Larger groups can be trained at once – increasing opportunities for group discussion

ADVANTAGES OF CLASSROOM TRAINING Allows training to take place away from the work environment Group sizes can be big or small Face to face teaching and opportunities to ask questions Delegates receive a physical learning pack Hands on activities can be incorporated into the learning Encourages discussion and debates in the room

Build personal relationships with the trainer and other delegates Training session is always instructor-led Although classroom training has always been the normal for the training department, there have been many benefits to virtual training for businesses. Whilst some training topics are not suitable to be delivered virtually, a mix between the two can widen the departments reach and appeal to all kinds of different businesses. Delegates are in favour of virtual training with 100% of attendees that filled out a post-course feedback form stating they’d still attend virtual training even if classroom training was on offer. Overall, the Chamber training department will continue to deliver virtual training along-side classroom training when it returns. Businesses will have the flexibility to attend either a classroom or virtual courses depending on their learning style and preference.

New virtual training courses are continuously being added to the fast-growing portfolio, all courses can be found on the Chamber website here: www.hwchamber.co.uk/online-training-courses. Can’t find what you are looking for? Email training@hwchamber.co.uk with your course suggestions.

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September/October 2020

CHAMBERTRAINING SEPTEMBER COURSE DATES

SEPT/OCTOBER COURSE DATES

OCTOBER COURSE DATES

Managing Performance in the Team Thursday 3 September - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT for Members £200+VAT Non-members

Leading Change Thursday 24 September - 10.00am-3.00pm £95+VAT Members £120+VAT Non-members

Conducting Effective Team Appraisals Wednesday 14 October - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Advanced Microsoft Excel Monday 7 September - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

IOSH Managing Safely Tuesday 29 September – Friday 2 October 9.00am-4.00pm £495+VAT Members £595+VAT Non-members

HR for the Non-HR Manager Thursday 15 October - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Mentoring in the Workplace Wednesday 9 September - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Introduction to Project Management Wednesday 30 September - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Virtual Sales Training Thursday 10 September - 10.00am-12.30pm £60+VAT Members £85+VAT Non-members

Introduction to Microsoft Excel Tuesday 15 September - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Role of the Team Leader Tuesday 15 September - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Intermediate Microsoft Excel Thursday 1 October - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT for Members £200+VAT Non-members

Effective Presentation Skills Tuesday 20 October - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Employment Law Update Wednesday 21 October - 10.00am-3.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Creating a Customer Care Culture Tuesday 13 October - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

PowerPoint for Presentations Thursday 22 October - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Mental Health First Aid Awareness Wednesday 14 October - 9.30am-1.30pm £105+VAT Members £140+VAT Non-members

Communicating for Success Thursday 29 October - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Workplace Mental Health Awareness Wednesday 16 September - 10.00am-12.00pm £45+VAT Members £70+VAT Non-members

Internal Auditor Training Thursday 17 September - 9.00am-4.00pm £160+VAT Members £200+VAT Non-members

Whilst we are continuously expanding our online offering, please let us know if there are any training courses you would like the Chamber to deliver in the future. All up to date courses can be found on our website: www.hwchamber.co.uk/events-and-training-calendar. We are looking forward to welcoming delegates back at the Chamber on training courses in the future. For more information on any of our training courses, please see our website or email our training department on training@hwchamber.co.uk.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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FEATURE

UNIVERSITY HARNESSES THE POWER OF NATURE TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT A truly practical champion of sustainability, the University of Worcester has been practising what it teaches for 15 years now. Indeed, the roots of environmental awareness run deep at this one-time teacher training college, peopled as it was with students in the 1950s and 60s who then mostly went on to teach in rural schools across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. So when the university was highly commended in the Sustainability Institution of the Year category at the United Nation’s International Green Gown Awards this summer, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Prof. David Green summed it up succinctly: “Sustainability is in our institution’s DNA.”

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River and countryside management and conservation have long been on the curriculum at University of Worcester, but it’s true to say its environmental credentials have been burnished during his tenure. “I remember making a joke at a staff meeting when somebody asked me about the environment and I said ‘Green by name, green by nature’,” he said. “When I came here as Chief Executive in January 2003, I had already long been concerned about environmental matters – I read the Gaia Hypothesis written by James Lovelock in the 1970s. “So, I arrived a devotee of the approach that you should start where you are, use what you have and do what you can, to use the famous quote by Arthur Ashe.” He and his team started in the most unglamorous of fashions, by replacing all the old-fashioned lightbulbs with LEDs.

The promotion of walking, cycling and recycling swiftly followed, as did the appointment of a colleague to be specifically responsible for environmental matters. The most recent innovation is the introduction of a cost-effective salary sacrifice scheme for staff who would like to buy an electric car, and the bolstering of the number of charging points on campus from 16 to 116. “We try to avoid environmental bling,” he said. “We take a very practical approach.” There are some gems of sustainability tucked away here nonetheless. Take The Hive, for example, Europe’s first fully integrated university and public library, opened by Her Majesty the Queen in 2012. Thermal efficiency is at the heart of the design, with water from the nearby River Severn channelled through the library’s support columns.

September/October 2020

FEATURE

Prof. Green said: “Nobody can see it and 99.9% of people are unaware that river water is circulating through the building. “But the water stays at a pretty constant 12degC, so in summer it’s cooler than the air and is used as form of air conditioning, and in winter it’s warmer, so reducing heating bills. “It’s a very simple solution that works with nature.” Similarly, the water in the newest hall of residence is heated by solar panels which, even on cloudy days, will raise the temperature of the water, at the very least closing the gap that might need to be filled by more traditional methods. And as for the former, now repurposed library building … “We used the old Spanish trick of planting a row of deciduous trees in front of the south-facing façade,” he said. “On a hot day, the building is shielded, but by winter the leaves have long gone. “By using pretty simple design solutions, we have managed to achieve quite a lot really. “We were bringing our energy consumption down even as we were the fastest growing university in the country, between 2010 and 2012.” The students themselves play a significant role in caring for their environment and the environment. Of the 10,000 or so on roll, between 400 and 600 of them will be acting as student or course representatives at any one time. They are certainly hot on the causes of global warming, often coming up with good ideas for turning down the thermostat. As for University of Worcester itself, when it was named the UK’s Sustainability Institution of the Year at the national Green Gown Awards last November – propelling it into the international finals to be pitted against competition from Australia, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, Mexico, Spain and Peru – it was the eleventh year in row it had been awarded First Class Honours. Prof. Green said: “We were thrilled to have the honour of representing Britain and Ireland in these global awards. “Universities have a particular responsibility for leadership as we educate so many who will one day be leading teams and organisations throughout the country and the world.” www.worcester.ac.uk

Prof. Green

Sustainability is in our institution’s DNA. I remember making a joke at a staff meeting when somebody asked me about the environment and I said ‘Green by name, green by nature’.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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BIGINTERVIEW

STRIDING TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY In July, Chancellor Rishi Sunak chose to make a couple of his job protection scheme announcements from the shop floor of a factory he was visiting. He chose to do it while being hosted by Worcester Bosch, a company striving for sustainability at every level. Part of a Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) programme investigating the feasibility of switching our natural gas distribution network to the carbon-free gas that is hydrogen, Worcester Bosch is a firm supporter of the Government’s drive to achieve Net Zero by 2050. As such, decarbonising the UK’s millions of central heating systems is top of the company’s ‘to do’ list, said CEO Carl Arntzen. Founded in 1962 and absorbed into the Worldwide Bosch Group in 1996, today Worcester Bosch is the UK’s market leader in domestic boilers – which means it has a significant contribution to make. Carl said: “Achieving sustainability is important to us both in terms of what we are doing in-house and, most importantly, the products we sell. “Home heating and hot water accounts for approximately 15% of carbon emissions here in the UK, so the challenge

around decarbonisation is something we are right at the heart of.” In tandem with the gas network repurposing study, which has been running for two or three years now, Worcester Bosch is busy designing a prototype domestic boiler that will run entirely on hydrogen. Having established that it isn’t possible to wholly convert existing natural gas boilers, the company’s solution is a new, hydrogen-ready boiler capable of running on natural gas until the grand switch-over, if the government opts to go down that route. Domestic central heating trials are due to begin in the not too distant future and the decision on whether to go with hydrogen (or not) is expected at the end of 2022, early 2023. “Assuming the decision is yes,” said Carl, “they would then start the roll-out of the gas network conversion to hydrogen and that’s probably a 15 to 20-year programme we’re talking about, because you would have to switch it over town by town, street by street. “That’s what was done when we converted to natural gas in the 1970s, when we moved away from town gas which, interestingly, was 50% hydrogen, so we’re going back in time!” In its feedback to BEIS, Worcester Bosch suggested in that scenario every new boiler installed from 2025 onward should

Home heating and hot water accounts for approximately 15% of carbon emissions here in the UK, so the challenge around decarbonisation is something we are right at the heart of.

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be a hydrogen-ready boiler, irrespective of a town’s switch-over date. Homes had to be ‘pre-populated’ with the right equipment, said Carl. “You can’t replace 26 million boilers or even, say, the one million in Manchester overnight.” In answer to those arguing instead for greater electrification, he points to the problem posed by the high level of Victorian and Georgian housing stock in this country. It is nigh-on impossible to achieve the insulation levels needed within their old stone walls to make electric heat pumps either effective or remotely economical. “New houses built and insulated to zero-carbon standards, that’s where you install electric heat pumps, because they only require low heating levels trickling

September/October 2020

BIGINTERVIEW

away in the background,” he said, “but don’t waste your time trying to do that in the large population of old stock. “Instead, decarbonise the country’s whole gas supply, which will present a zero-carbon solution for millions of Victorian and Georgian houses up and down the UK.” Keele University is running another research project Worcester Bosch is participating in, testing the impact of up to 20% blends of hydrogen on an existing gas network and connected domestic boilers. “So, there are several plans coming together,” he said, “ranging from the complete switch away from natural gas to testing to what extent hydrogen can be introduced into the network before it

starts to have an impact on the existing boilers.” Worcester Bosch is also very focused on putting its own house in order too. The company continuously reviews operations at both its sites in Worcester and Derbyshire and acts on the findings to plot a route to being carbon neutral.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

It already has a contract that guarantees its electricity is drawn solely from renewable sources. Carl said: “We’re not perfect, but we are determined – our intention at Worcester Bosch is to focus not only on the appliances we are selling, but also on our own carbon footprint in everything we do.”

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BUSINESSNEWS

PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS FOR EU EXIT On 31 December 2020 the UK’s Brexit transition period will end and we will leave the EU single market and customs union. Our terms of trade with the EU will then depend on the trading agreement which is currently being negotiated. If agreement is reached, trade with the EU may be free of tariffs and additional regulations, but even if that is the case there will still be a requirement for customs documentation for all goods moving between the UK and EU. In the absence of a trade agreement, and time is very short for such an agreement to be reached, documentation will be required along with potential inspection requirements for some goods and customs duties on goods according to the EU tariff for third countries and the new UK tariff. Every business which buys or sells goods with EU customers and suppliers will

JACKSON’S WIN SME NEWS’ BUSINESS ELITE AWARD 2020 Jackson Family Funeral Directors, who are proud to be one of the very few remaining independently owned Funeral Directors in Worcestershire, have won an SME News’ Business Elite Award, praising their family values and their commitment to the community. Particularly in a time when coronavirus has affected families across the region, these awards recognise the continual high standard of care that Jackson Family Funeral Directors show at a very emotional time. Matthew Jackson, Managing Director at Jackson Family Funeral Directors, explains: “Our family values run through everything we do, so to win an award for the Best Family Run Funeral Service is a true honour. Recent challenges we have all faced due to the COVID-19 safety restrictions have put even more strain on our families, but the continued dedication of our team ensures we always deliver an exceptional service, no matter what the circumstances.” The Business Elite Awards 2020 celebrate those enterprises who consistently provide the best services and products for their clients, allowing them to standout within their representative fields. www.jacksonfamilyfunerals.com

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Wendy Andrews, Bishop Fleming VAT Director

need to have a plan to address these new requirements. For more guidance on preparing for EU Exit, please contact: Wendy Andrews - VAT Director at Wandrews@bishopfleming.co.uk or call 07816 138998. www.bishopfleming.co.uk

CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED TO SUPPORT AND PROMOTE WORCESTERSHIRE’S FOOD AND DRINK SECTOR The Worcestershire food and drink industry is getting new support through the new ‘Make it Worcestershire’ campaign. The Make It Worcestershire campaign has been developed by One Worcestershire and Worcestershire Food and Drink to promote local produce and outlets. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused heavy disruption to many industries; however, the food and drink sector has been one area where outlets and producers have had to innovate to succeed in these new conditions. Some businesses have been able to offer home delivery or DIY kits to keep their customers interested with great

feedback, however some have suffered due to being unable to open their restaurants and hotels. Customers are encouraged to love their local shops and look out for the Make it Worcestershire campaign which highlights the produce made in the county. For more information about the Make It Worcestershire campaign and for how to get involved, visit the One Worcestershire website. www.oneworcestershire. com/makeitworcs

COUNTY HALL IN FULL BLOOM FOLLOWING NATURAL NETWORKS FUNDING Worcestershire County Council was awarded just under £3,000 in European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) grant from the Natural Networks programme to create areas of wildflowers across the county and around its main site. The funding has led to large areas of wildflowers being planted by the Council’s Countryside Service at various locations around the County Hall site and Worcestershire to increase opportunities for wildlife and pollinators. The funding has also been used to install bee posts and a bee brick to provide safe nesting sites for solitary bees and other pollinators. Bees and pollinating insects aren’t the only wildlife to benefit from this funding, the wildflower habitat will also benefit from a range of species visiting the site, including hedgehogs, birds and bats.

Councillor Tony Miller, Cabinet Member with responsibility for the Environment

Through the Natural Networks Programme, grants are available between £2,000 and £200,000. Organisations can apply for a grant for up to 45% of projects costs. The programme will be running until December 2022. www.worcestershire.gov.uk/naturalnetworks

September/October 2020

BUSINESSNEWS

HCR SOAR UP NATIONAL M&A DEAL LEAGUE TABLE Client demand for mergers and acquisitions took regional law firm Harrison Clark Rickerbys to second place nationally for the number of deals it completed during the first half of 2020, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Demand for deal making from clients meant HCR soared up the Experian national rankings, from 9th to 2nd place, helping clients in tough times to bring more merger and acquisitions over the line than many much larger ‘magic circle’ global law firms in the UK, with 62 completed deals.

This achievement is replicated in the regional listings; the firm took top spot in the South West, South East and Midlands, and third place in the East of England – all further up the rankings than previously. Rod Thomas, Managing Partner and head of the firm’s Corporate Team, said: “This has been a tough period for many of our clients and our focus has been on helping them to keep business moving so that they emerge in the best position possible. We have needed to be flexible and agile in our approach, and the team’s readiness to do whatever it takes for the client is evident in these figures.” www.hcrlaw.com

VAMOS THEATRE’S CULTURE IN QUARANTINE SHORT FILMS REACH TOUCHING FINALE Despite the theatre industry still in lockdown, Worcester’s acclaimed Vamos Theatre has been busy over the last few months producing ‘How Hard is Waving?’ a phenomenal 20 short films commissioned by the BBC’s Culture in Quarantine.

CENTENARY LOUNGE ON TRACK FOR PRESTIGIOUS RESTAURANT & BAR DESIGN AWARD Centenary Lounge, Worcester’s Great Western Railway inspired restaurant in the High Street has recently been nominated for an International Restaurant & Bar Design Award and has now officially made the winners shortlist in the Café and Heritage categories. Aasia Baig, Founder and Managing Director of Centenary Lounge said: “We are delighted to have been nominated for the award. Over the past decades we have refused to be side-tracked and have continuously reinvented our restaurants and, by focusing our décor on the 1930s golden age of railway travel, we believe we have brought something genuinely new to the relaxed dining and elegant tearoom experience.” This will be the 12th awards ceremony

and features entries from over 100 countries worldwide. The competition is fully inclusive and is open to a wide variety of outlets. During October 2020, the finalists will attend a glittering event in London to choose the winners of each design category. www.centenarylounge.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

The first episode, which marked Vamos Theatre’s BBC debut, was broadcast on Tuesday 7 July, and reached its touching finale on Saturday 1 August. The commission was a huge challenge for the company during an unprecedented period for the whole country. Guided by film maker and editor Dan Hill, each of the cast performed at home filming their own footage. Performed entirely without words, How Hard is Waving? features Ryan, alone in lockdown, who is doing his absolute best to support his family through video link alone. The shorts take the viewer on a journey through four weeks of daily online meet ups with Gran, who is living with dementia, and her carer Katie, Dad who is into DIY, and Ryan’s best friend Fingers. BBC iPlayer Link: www.bbc.co.uk/ programmes/p08k9jz5 www.vamostheatre.co.uk

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CHAMBERNEWS

FACING THE FUTURE WITH YOUR WORKFORCE As businesses assess the way forward beyond lockdown, bringing more employees back into the office, some will be considering restructuring, reorganisation or possibly redundancies. Getting these processes right from the start can make a crucial difference both to the business and to the employees - Michael Stokes, Head of Employment at Harrison Clark Rickerbys, looks at some of the key points for employers to bear in mind. Returning to work Many people are now coming back into work, either from furlough or from remote working â&#x20AC;&#x201C; those who are worried about going back will ask what their rights are and what employers are obliged to do. The government has issued guidance on working safely, which sets out steps which all employers should take, along with sector specific guides. The general guidance includes provisions on allowing people to work from home, undertaking risk assessments, managing hygiene, ensuring workplace distancing or taking alternative steps where this is not possible. While this is guidance and does not have any statutory force, there are various statutory provisions which place a statutory duty on employers to maintain a safe workplace e.g. the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. The guidance is therefore in addition to these provisions and does not replace them. Shielding employees Those who were shielding may feel particularly at risk when they are required to return to work â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they are likely to have serious health conditions and may meet the definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010. With the pausing of shielding, and the use of part-time furlough as the furlough scheme runs down before

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A PASSION FOR PEOPLE

July/August 2019

CHAMBERNEWS

ending on 31 October 2020, some of those people will now be expected to return to the office, rather than working from home, and employers need to take their concerns into account.

“This continues to be a difficult time for both employers and their employees. We’re here to help you navigate the twists and turns so your business and your workforce are ready for the future.”

Again, employers may have duties towards the employee under both the health and safety legislation and the equality legislation. They will need to undertake an assessment of the risk posed to the employee in returning to the workplace. Under the Equality Act they will also need to consider whether reasonable adjustments could be made which would allow the employee to remain in employment.

Insisting on shielding employees returning to work, even when they could work from home, may lead to a disability discrimination claim. Employers would need to be able to show that their decision was ‘objectively justified’ in order to defend these claims. Annual leave Many employers have insisted that employees should take some of their annual leave when they were furloughed. This is understandable – they do not want employees returning to work with their full annual leave allocation left to take before the end of the year. However, many employees resent this as they have not been able to spend their annual leave in the way they would wish. Employers who want staff to take annual leave at particular times must give the employee notice of this and the period of notice must be at least twice as long as the length of the annual leave they are required to take. This continues to be a difficult time for both employers and their employees. Employees may be understandably anxious regarding their livelihoods and income, whilst many employers will be fighting to keep their businesses afloat. Some understanding and compromise will be required from both parties, although the safety of employees should always be paramount.

For advice on this and any other employment questions, talk to us. Michael Stokes Head of Employment and Immigration T: M: E:

01905 678 545 07807 747 455 mstokes@hcrlaw.com

Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

www.hcrlaw.com

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ADVERTORIAL

FUNDING FOR BUSINESSES IN LOW CARBON TECHNOLOGIES The Renewable strand of the European Funded Low Carbon Opportunities Programme (LOCOP) supports businesses to install renewable energy systems with the aim of saving carbon emissions and reducing energy usage and costs. The programme is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Worcestershire. To help businesses consider their renewable energy options, the Programme offers a free 12 hour bespoke assessment. As well as free advice, grants of up to ÂŁ100,000 are also available for technologies such as: Solar PV Geothermal heat systems Biomass boilers Air, Ground or Water Source Heat Pumps Briar (part of the Zenergi family) provide expert advice to Worcestershire

businesses and bring a wealth of experience in delivering energy efficiency, carbon management and cost reduction solutions to businesses. Using their energy and engineering expertise they will work with businesses to determine individual needs and to assess the best way to incorporate renewable technologies into the business. Briar have recently carried out an assessment at Smart Cut Limited, a company based in Pershore. Their report identified that the Company could achieve annual financial savings ÂŁ7,800 per year with carbon emissions reduced by 19 tonnes by installing a solar array. Generation capacity at the site would increase to provide 51% of the current annual electricity consumption. Coronavirus has not stopped support from being provided and businesses can still register on the programme. Some work may be able to be carried out remotely and if it is safe to do so it may be possible to do the reviews on site

John Wade, Energy Consultant, Briar.

To find out more please; Email: sustainability@worcestershire.gov.uk Visit: www.business-central.co.uk/locop Call: 01905 677888

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Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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EVENTS

UPCOMING WEBINARS SUPPORTING BUSINESS The past number of months have proved successful for the Chamber Events team implementing and delivering an ever expanding list of exciting and informative virtual events. Businesses across the two counties (and sometimes even further) have logged on to a vast range of webinars and informative sessions held by experts within a chosen field. The current offering that the Events team are providing Members have been delivered to help and support businesses through these difficult times, Events

and Training Manager, Olivia Williams, commented: “For businesses at this time, information is key, a number of webinars which we are providing are designed to give as much guidance to businesses as possible, with experts on hand to decipher important information covering topics such as HR, legal, finance and more.” The online events currently on offer are not just limited to helping businesses navigate these tough times. A number of favourite in-person events previously held have gone through a technology makeover and have shifted online, these include the Manufacturing Forum, Sustainability Forum, Online Networking and the Women’s Business Forum. Here are just a couple of upcoming webinars that you may be interested in:

VIRTUAL WOMEN’S BUSINESS CONFERENCE, SPONSORED BY BISHOP FLEMING The annual Women’s Business Conference will take place virtually via Zoom on Thursday 17 September between 9.30am-12.00pm. Hear from our inspiring female speakers and enjoy the networking opportunities throughout the morning in the ‘breakout rooms’. We are pleased to announce our guest speakers: Speaker: Sue Fitzmaurice, Total Rewards Manager at Southco Manufacturing

BI-WEEKLY ONLINE NETWORKING The Chamber Events Team are pleased to offer a free bi-weekly networking session for Members, taking place on Zoom on Thursday’s from 12.00-1.00pm. Our interactive and informal webinars are designed to help raise your business profile, meet other local businesses and continue to build connections. Each session provides the opportunity for each attendee to participate in a 60 second ‘around the virtual room’ introduction, interact in smaller groups using the breakout rooms, and hear a presentation on a variety of current topics from a local speaker.

Topic: Protecting company culture, from furlough to flexible working Speaker: Emma Hallam, Senior Risk Manager at HSBC Topic: Economic impacts of COVID19 and how we build back better Speaker: Heather Horton, Founder of Ecrubox Digital Ltd Topic: The missing link between sales and marketing to drive results Cost: Members £15.00+VAT Non-members £20.00+VAT

To book onto any webinars, please email events@hwchamber.co.uk or keep up to date with all of our latest online events at www.hwchamber.co.uk/events-and-training-calendar

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September/October 2020

TWOCOUNTIES

MIDLANDS ENGINE HOLD VIRTUAL ROUNDTABLE TO DISCUSS REGIONS ROLE IN UK RECOVERY High profile business and public sector leaders from across the Midlands say it’s time to rethink what sustainable growth is for the economy.

AIRBAND FAST-TRACKING FIBRE ROLL-OUT IN HEREFORDSHIRE Hundreds more homes in Herefordshire will have access to ultrafast fibre broadband by September this year as Worcester-based internet service provider Airband ramps up delivery speeds. Fastershire is the partnership between Herefordshire Council and Gloucestershire County Council to bring faster broadband to the two counties. The rollout with Airband is funded by Herefordshire Council and the Rural Broadband Infrastructure Scheme and managed by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs using the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE). More than 92 per cent of properties in the county can access superfast broadband and the project is working with Worcestershire based supplier, Airband to extend coverage further and provide a new fibre broadband network to over 4,000 properties in 10 rural communities in Herefordshire. Airband Marches manager, Chris Penkoks, said: “ultrafast connectivity to the large area stretching from Canon Frome in the north to Preston Cross in the south, and from Stoke Edith in the west to Waller’s Green in the north, was a priority for Airband and should be live by September 2020.” Councillor Ellie Chowns, Cabinet Member for Environment, Economy and Skills, said, “It’s great news that the Fastershire and Airband rollout is extending coverage in the county to another 4000 homes and businesses. This innovative technology means that more remote areas can be reached more easily which is great news for those that have waited a long time for connection.”

Their views were aired at a virtual round table hosted by The Midlands Engine where they met with academic experts to discuss how the region can play a leading role in driving a green, sustainable economic recovery after COVID-19. The roundtable was held amidst growing calls that a green recovery driven stimulus package is critical to ensuring the UK economy is resilient and sustainable in the long term. The discussions explored the region’s unique position in supporting a green economic recovery package and the key opportunities and challenges it posed, particularly in relation to job creation, reskilling the workforce and the impact of technology and new ways of working. Sir John Peace, Midlands Engine Chairman, added “There is no doubt

Midlands Engine Chairman, Sir John Pearce

a green growth agenda poses real challenges and is likely to require policy, financial and philosophical commitment from a wide stakeholder group. The valuable insights shared in the roundtable will directly inform our ongoing work in partnership and discussions with key decision makers.” www.midlandsengine.org

WORCESTERSHIRE ECONOMIC RECOVERY PROJECTS CONFIRMED WITH £12M FUNDING SUPPORT Numerous projects across Worcestershire have been given the green light after £12m of Government funding was announced Tuesday 4th August, part of the Government’s Getting Building Fund. The projects and programmes will help support jobs, skills and infrastructure in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. The funding will support a variety of projects such as improving digital connectivity and innovation in the county, through a Fibre to the Premise (FTTP) scheme in Worcester city, the expansion of the Science and Technology Park in Malvern, Tenbury Wells Flood alleviation and redevelopment of the Severn Campus at the University of Worcester to create the infrastructure for extra nursing and health students, as well as many others.

The expanded Science and Technology Park in Malvern, which has been given the go ahead

Information around the projects confirmed within Worcestershire will be available on the Worcestershire LEP website over the next few months, for more detail, visit www.wlep.co.uk.

www.airband.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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WORCESTERSHIREBUSINESSCENTRAL

www.business-central.co.uk

TAKE PART IN THE WEST MIDLANDS BUSINESS TRENDS SURVEY West Midlands businesses are being urged to take part in a survey to inform local Growth Hubs on the challenges facing businesses in the area and to help shape the business support provision throughout the region.

The business trends survey, being held by Growth Hubs in the West Midlands, will provide valuable information regarding how the region’s economy is performing and will support the Growth Hub network in informing government on the current trends and issues of business in the West Midlands.

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Kevin Aisbitt, Growth Hub manager at Worcestershire Business Central, said: “We encourage businesses in the area to complete the short survey which will help paint a picture of the region’s economy and the support that is required for business. Your survey responses will have an indelible effect on how we inform central government and key stakeholders on the issues local business face.” The survey, which will take no more than 10 minutes to complete, can be completed at www. business-central.co.uk/ wm-trends-survey/

THE GROWTH HUB HAS A NEW LOOK Worcestershire Business Central (WBC) has rebranded with a new fresh look. The change aligns the Worcestershire Growth Hub with the One Worcestershire brand, further solidifying WBC’s place in Worcestershire business community as the first point of contact for FREE business support in the area. Wes Dance, Business Information Officer at Worcestershire Business Central, who worked with the team to implement the rebrand, commented: ‘The new logo and rebrand is very positive for the growth hub of Worcestershire. Not only does it strengthen our previous brand, it also aligns us with the One Worcestershire brand, allowing us share the ambition of raising the profile of Worcestershire.’ For further information and business support, please contact Worcestershire Business Central on 01905 677888 or email info@business-central.co.uk.

September/October 2020

CHAMBERNEWS

GUIDANCE FROM APPRENTICESHIP PROVIDER TDM TO ACCESS NEW GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL INCENTIVES In July, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a series of incentives businesses can access when recruiting new apprentices. There are specific criteria for the funding so below is information to help you access this support and on apprenticeships in general. Employers will receive: £3000 for hiring a new apprentice aged 16 to 18 (a £2000 increase on the existing £1000 national incentive currently available) £2000 for new apprentices aged 19 to 24 £1500 for new apprentices aged 25+ The incentives don’t apply with existing employees. The funding is available to access between August and January inclusive with half the incentive paid at the start of the apprentice’s programme and the remainder on completion.

In addition to the existing and new incentives, there may be funding available from local or regional authorities in conjunction with Local Enterprise Partnerships and Growth Hubs. To access the funding, follow this guidance online to: set up an Apprenticeship Service Account via the Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) https://bit.ly/2PHzKL1 and; “reserve funds” for the Apprenticeship programme https://bit.ly/33N1UfT. An apprenticeship is a job with a learning plan and apprentices require support from a dedicated mentor within your business, a role that covers the requirements of the qualification and 20% of their work time dedicated to off-the-job learning. Apprentices are high-quality additions to your workforce, bringing new ideas, energy and a fresh perspective to your business. Often apprentices start their careers with you and live locally, so you can mould them to your business’ way of working and retain them for the long-term. You’ll benefit from increased capacity and

capability to service new clients, deliver new products and maintain competitive advantage. The Development Manager delivers tech and digital apprenticeships across the West Midlands. For any questions on these incentives or apprenticeships, including setting up the Apprenticeship Service Account, please email enquiries@tdm.co.uk or call us on 0333 1010040

KMB ARE ONE OF THE UK’S LEADING TELEMARKETING AND OUTSOURCE PROVIDER Before the pandemic, 100% of our staff worked in our office in Redditch. In just over a week, we successfully transitioned everyone to work from home with the majority still doing so, doing our bit to help the environment with a reduction in emissions, petrol consumption and travel time. KMB has embraced technology, not only using video conferencing tools but purchasing new technology to ensure efficiency & excellent customer service. We have invested in training and upskilling our workforce using many of the tools provided by the Hereford & Worcester Chamber of Commerce & Bizsmart. If you want to find out more about KMB call us on 01527 518 373, email us at info@kmb.org.uk or visit our website kmb.org.uk.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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MOVERSANDSHAKERS

NEW FAMILY LAW APPOINTMENT AT SME SOLICITORS

ST RICHARDS APPOINTS NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Denise McCabe has joined the firm in April in the role of Senior Paralegal. She brings to the team 40 years of family law experience. Denise’s expertise covers all aspects of family breakdown including: divorce, separation, finances, children cases and pre and post-nuptial agreements and change of name.

Responsible for business development and income generation at the Worcestershire-based hospice, Sara Matthews previously led the charity’s hugely successful Worcester Stands Tall campaign in 2018 which brought majestic giraffe statues to the city.

Ian Stirzaker, Senior Partner and head of SME Solicitors’ Family Law department comments: “Denise has a strong, longstanding professional reputation in the Droitwich and Worcester area, and we are delighted to welcome her to our team.”

Sara will also lead the hospice’s second public art trail, Worcester’s Big Parade, in summer 2021 which will see a herd of colourful elephants line the city’s streets and open spaces for eight weeks. www.strichards.org.uk

PRO VICE-CHANCELLOR APPOINTED VISITING PROFESSORSHIP Ross Renton, Pro Vice Chancellor at the University of Worcester, has been appointed a Visiting Professorship at the UK's largest academic institution and a world pioneer in distance learning. The Open University has conferred the Visiting Professorship on Ross, who will now act as an external advisor to the University and co-operate with staff in the Centre for Access. “I am honoured to be appointed to this role at the largest university in the UK, which has been at the vanguard of transforming lives through innovation in education for over 50 years.” he said. www.worcester.ac.uk

www.smesolicitors.co.uk

WORCESTERSHIRE LAW FIRM APPOINTS NEW HEAD OF GROWING 38 PARTNER FIRM DIRECTOR OF RESIDENTIAL JOINS JHD PARTNERSHIP HOUSING Simon liversage has over 30 years of experience in the construction of housing and residential market with a full knowledge of the disciplines that underpin a successful business in the sector with a track record of delivery. Simon will be growing the already successful JHD Partnership Housing business as they become the Developer of choice with Housing Associations and land owners providing affordable solutions with a quality delivery onsite for much needed housing across the country. www.jhdpartnershiphousing.co.uk

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mfg Solicitors has appointed partner and corporate law specialist Clare Lang as head of department. Clare will now lead the team which specialises in mergers and acquisitions, business disposals, management buy outs, reorganisations, and a series of business-related commercial and finance matters. Clare Lang commented: “I’m thrilled to be appointed as head of department following two years of really impressive growth in the team.

TALISMAN PLASTICS APPOINTS NEW TECHNICAL SALES MANAGER Malvern-based injection moulding specialist Talisman Plastics has announced the appointment of Martin Hefford as their new Technical Sales Manager. In this newly created role, Martin brings a wealth of experience gained through senior sales positions with leading automotive manufacturers and globally respected plastics injection moulding specialists.

“Despite these difficult times, we are continuing to make deals for our clients and completed five major transactions in the first half of June alone.”

Talisman Plastics Managing Director Shaun Champion, said: “With over 10 years’ experience in plastics injection moulding roles, Martin has a proven track record in building an understanding of customer requirements.”

www.mfgsolicitors.com

www.talismanplastics.co.uk

September/October 2020

NEWMEMBERSPROFILE

KERRIS CROOK HR TO OFFER FULL SUITE OF HR SERVICES Kerris Crook HR Consultancy is based in Stourport-on-Severn, Worcestershire. Kerris Crook is CIPD accredited, has a Masters’ Degree in HR, and has in-house HR experience within many different industries. Some of Kerris’ career highlights include providing support to Countrywide Farmers throughout their interesting journey and travelling the country to food production sites to manage TUPE, redundancy and restructure processes. More recently Kerris established a HR Department on an engineering site.

Welcoming our newest Member, ActionCOACH Evesham, business growth specialists covering Worcester, Stratford and Evesham. ActionCOACH Evesham focus on providing results: Increasing your profits, sales, customers, satisfaction, productivity and success. They focus on the areas that matter most to deliver the result you want.

Kerris Crook HR Consultancy provides the full remit of HR services. The Consultancy has partnered with a leading recruitment software provider as a cost-effective alternative to a recruitment agency, advertising any vacancies, conducting telephone interviews and presenting the best CVs. A partnership is also in place with the leading HR software provider, enabling access to HR data via the Cloud.

provided through restructures and redundancies either in person or via Zoom. The Consultancy can work with you to consider ideas in the hopes of avoiding redundancies and ensure that all action is taken in line with legislation.

Finally support and guidance can be

www.crookhr.co.uk

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INTRODUCING METHOD Method is a growth agency hell-bent on helping companies flourish in 2020. They partner with you – to generate fresh leads, acquire new customers, engage your current clients, and maximise your competitive advantage – using a suite of growth services. This comprehensive suite includes more traditional tools like graphic design, branding, photography and video, web design, web development and digital marketing. But they go further, with services the power of which you may have left untapped: like content marketing, HubSpot integration, UX and UI design, website conversion optimisation and social media management. www.hellomethod.co.uk

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

039

INTERNATIONALTRADE

THE INTERNATIONAL MARKETING MIX A framework for the management of the customer relationship and ensuring that an exporter’s international proposition matches customer and market needs.

Based upon its understanding of the international target customer segment, competition, and the local business environment a company can use the 7Ps model to ensure its international marketing mix is relevant and compelling. The Marketing Mix is made up of those constituent parts of a company’s product or service proposition that enable the effective tactical management of the customer relationship by ensuring that the product or service proposition matches market and customer needs. Normally used to check the Marketing Mix for companies selling services, the 7Ps model has been adapted for use as a “checklist” in an international business environment. In this period of global market disruption, it is more important than ever that a company’s offer is as aligned as much as possible to client and market needs. The 7Ps comprise: Product (or Service), Promotion, Price, Place, People, Process and Physical Evidence.

PRODUCT: Areas for consideration include: A decision on which goods or services within a company’s portfolio to sell in the international target market. This portfolio may be different to the portfolio sold in the UK given local international market and product lifecycle and development differences in the target country

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Specification - do the products/services take into account local tastes/culture Features, benefits and product USPs versus the international competition Other Product decisions may also involve choices regarding: Brand names – does your existing brand names carry weight, are they appropriate, what values/meanings do these brands carry internationally? Warranties, technical specifications and accreditations Packaging – translations, design, markings etc IP and Copyright

PRICE: Will the pricing structure achieve business margin objectives bearing in mind factors such as: Import duties, local taxes Competitor pricing, volume of sales Product costs associated with producing the correct product specification for a target market Accreditation costs Logistics costs (transport, insurance, freight) End-user vs. distributor vs. agent pricing levels Pre and after sales/warranty provision/ support Local in-country purchasing power parity Business and operational costs associated with international sales and marketing

PROMOTION Decisions have to be made about promotional and marketing communications channels. It is by these means that the

target audience is made aware of the existence of a product or service, the brand and the benefits it confers: Advertising (type TV, billboard, internet etc.) Public relations (PR) Conferences/exhibitions/seminars Relevant and appropriate social media channels Branding: logo, strap-line, packaging and labelling, corporate signage, stationery, POS etc. – all must reflect the brand values the business wants to portray Digital Marketing including; website, social media and other digital marketing channels Special mention must be made of the importance of international website. Now more than ever, as the world’s window on a business and its proposition, the website is crucial for the building of an international brand and local, in-country brand awareness. Does the website currently accurately reflect the UK business, what is and what it aspires to be Is the business proposition clear, unambiguous and compelling and does it demonstrate clearly the company’s competitive advantage versus its competition Does it have a relevant, up to date international “look and feel” that appeals culturally and linguistically to the international markets the company is targeting Social media (Facebook/Twitter/ LinkedIn), newsletters – which channels are most appropriate for the target country Good, relevant, unambiguous information about products/services

September/October 2020

INTERNATIONALTRADE

International search engine optimisation for the countries the company wishes to target Your window on the world and the world’s window on you Creates credibility, understanding, acts as a “call to arms” and a point of reference

PLACE Involves the decisions concerning the selection and management of the correct market entry channels, direct or indirect, to international markets and management of them. Appropriate international market entry method could be: Exporting – direct from UK, direct from own local sales and marketing office, indirect via local distributors/agents/ own representative office Strategic Alliances Joint Ventures Manufacturing/Assembly Operations Outsourcing

to develop these relationships and do they espouse values the company wants to promote A UK company’s international representatives (companies/individuals) – are they the “right” people/ organisations to represent your brand, develop key networks etc HR - does the UK business employ a workforce that has experience of international cultural differences, languages etc. necessary to ensure successful firm internationalisation

PROCESS Ensuring an effective and efficient supply chain in a global trading environment is key to ensuring customer satisfaction. Also, at the market-end: Does the distributor/agent/ representative company etc. “fit” the product service expectations you want to see in the field – after sales, pre-sales for products, brand promotion etc After-sales support, pre-sales support

Licensing

PHYSICAL EVIDENCE

Foreign Direct Investment

Physical Evidence pertaining to the brand; therefore, the “look and feel” of the brand (adapted for local conditions) marketing communications, brand materials etc. are all key to ensuring that a business proposition is providing the Physical Evidence to demonstrate and uphold the company’s brand’s values.

Acquisition The Channel is your Interface with the International Country Market.

PEOPLE Normally used for services-oriented businesses (people are often the service itself), for international operations the people (and organisations are included in this) aspect of the mix is very important; Relationship and networks are key in developing country markets – both with company representatives/ representative company and the end-user. So, do the sales/company representatives have the right qualities

An example of this might be the marketing materials and look and feel of the company’s website for a high quality product offering – anything short of promotional materials or a website that that looks and feels less than sophisticated and does not espouse the highest of quality will not provide the physical evidence needed to support the brand in the eyes of the market and client.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

SUMMARY The list of items for each “P” above is not exhaustive, they are only some of the criteria companies need to bear in mind when considering each section. Choices need to be made from this mix to provide a superior proposition for the international customer at a reasonable cost and bearing in mind competition and other external business environment threats and/or opportunities. Other things to consider are: To change or not. The same marketing mix from one country to another given the potential for differing market requirements in different countries as well as differing business environment factors If needs and buying behaviour differ, then the mix must change to match new requirements Sensible international marketing mix requirements can only be made when the target customer is understood through as much ongoing research as possible The International Marketing Strategy selected (e.g. Selling Existing Products into New Markets - Ansoff) will have implications for the emphasis on the mix constituents The Marketing Mix provides a company with an ongoing “checklist” to ensure that their international proposition is matching market and client needs and ongoing review will ensure that the business remains competitive in the target international market. To see how the International Trade team at the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce can help your business with advice and support please get in touch by calling 01905 673 600 or emailing internationaltrade@hwchamber.co.uk

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September/October 2020

WHAT’S STOPPING SMES FROM GOING DIGITAL? According to a recent report by The Enterprise Research Centre (ERC) and Xero, not enough UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) are adopting digital tools. By rejecting these newer business management systems, SMEs are missing an opportunity to increase their productivity. Because there are so many of them, this missed opportunity is having a negative impact across the whole of the UK economy. And in this new post-Covid19 world, any benefit to the economy, no matter how small, must be encouraged.

DOES SOFTWARE MAKE THAT MUCH OF A DIFFERENCE?

As the Managing Director of a software company, my answer is of course going to be a resounding YES! But you won’t want to just take my word for it. The Office of National Statistics (ONS) have found a strong correlation between productivity and use of digital technologies. Specifically, they found that companies that used digital tools had more sales per employee than those who didn’t. A clear indicator that properly implemented software can really boost a business’ productivity.

HOW DOES SOFTWARE BOOST PRODUCTIVITY? Each system or piece of software is different, but in general, using digital tools makes people more productive by taking over repetitive tasks, streamlining where information is found, reducing the need to re-enter information or formatting, etc.

The ERC found, for example, that using a CRM system boosted sales per employee by 18.4%....wow! But businesses in the UK are just not taking advantage of these productivity boosting tools. In the UK only about 12% of business were using more than 6 of the key digital technologies outlined by the EU Digital Density Index…the EU average is around 26%. This means that 88% of businesses are just plain missing out on these productivity boosting systems.

HOW DO WE FIX THIS?

There isn’t a simple solution to this digital divide. The way I see it, there are three things that have to be done if the UK is going to become a world leader in the adoption of all things digital in their businesses. 1. Improvements to infrastructure If businesses are going to rely on digital tools to get their day-to-day tasks done,

they need to be able to access them. It’s as simple as that. Too many rural businesses are being left behind because of a lack of high speed internet. This means there is a huge need for real, tangible investment from government and internet service providers in improving the UK’s infrastructure. And it is happening…slowly…meaning a slower increase in productivity. 2. Skill Building We need to improve the digital skills of the people who will be using these tools. I speak to so many businesses every day who worry about implementing a CRM system because of the levels of tech literacy in their business. Schools are doing their part. More young people are coming out of school with a solid grasp of how computers work and how to use them (and code for them!).

digital tools is completely untrue. More than that, it’s damaging to businesses, stopping their adoption of tools that will benefit them. When it comes to adopting new software, there needs to be buy in from SME business owners. They need to be willing to (or better yet enthusiastic to) change the way they do things. I don’t mean completely changing business processes to fit new software, that’s not how business systems should work in my opinion. But having a clear understand of where a business isn’t being as productive as it could be and going out in search of software that can help. And then having an open mind about what other areas of the business could benefit from it. We have to end this trend of avoiding new technologies because a business has “always done things this way”. It’s time to explore new ideas and technologies.

But for those people already in employment, it’s the responsibility of the business and the software provider to help educate them.

Read more about the research behind this article here: www.tenentrepreneurs.org/s/ Upgrade.pdf

The training sessions we run with new system users is just the first step. We’ve also got a library of how to articles and regularly post videos to help get our users feeling confident in using the system.

And if you’d like to talk to me or a member of the OpenCRM team about your CRM software can benefit your business, call 01748 473000 or visit us at www.opencrm.co.uk.

Because if they don’t feel confident, they won’t use it. And if they don’t use it, they’ll never get that 18% boost in productivity. 3. A Change in Outlook Too often conversations about technology and software revolve around the idea that they will only be relevant to the younger members of the team. This is in part because of the need for education, but also because of the way people view technology.

Graham Anderson, is the CEO and founder of OpenCRM, one of the UK’s leading customer relationship management systems.

This idea that only young people can use

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

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September/October 2020

BUSINESSNEWS

‘JUMP-START’ FOR UK’S LEADING CREATIVE INDUSTRIES In a major move to jump-start the country’s cultural and creative sectors following lockdown, the Culture Secretary has announced the launch of a government-backed scheme worth half a billion pounds for domestic film and TV productions struggling to get coronavirus-related insurance.

The funding will be available to all productions made by companies where at least half of the production budget is spent in the UK and is estimated to cover more than 70% of the film and TV production market to the end of the year.

The government has also set out how organisations can apply for £880 million in grants as part of the £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund, which is the government’s biggest ever one-off investment in the arts.

IMPORTANT ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES SHOULD STILL BE ON BUSINESSES MIND

In the UK, the film and television production industry supports more than 180,000 jobs and contributes more than £12 billion to the economy annually.

Businesses were undoubtedly gearing up for 2020 to be the year in which they prioritised sustainable actions and committed to reducing their environmental footprint. However, that was pre-COVID-19. A refreshingly large number of politicians and business leaders are still speaking about the importance of sustainability and are committing to green growth as the economy recovers. Some sustainability measures are relatively affordable and simple to introduce, but others will cost significant sums of money – for example installing renewable heat sources or a low carbon fleet.

£20 MILLION TO HELP SMALLER BUSINESSES RECOVER FROM THE EFFECTS OF PANDEMIC Thousands of smaller businesses in England are set to benefit from £20 million of new government funding to help them recover from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, the Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government has been announced. Small and medium sized businesses will have access to grants of between £1,000 – £5,000 to help them access new technology and other equipment as well as professional, legal, financial or other advice to help them get back on track. It comes on top of an unprecedented package of Government support to help

businesses to recover, including the £2 billion Kickstart Scheme which will create hundreds of thousands of new, fully subsidised jobs for young people across the country, as well as £1.6 billion invested in scaling up employment support schemes, training and apprenticeships to help people looking for a job. The support will be fully funded by the government from the England European Regional Development Fund and distributed through Growth Hubs, embedded in local areas across England. Please visit www.business-central.co.uk for more information.

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

Ben Stansfield, Planning & Environment Partner at Gowling WLG, comments: “There will inevitably be a slowdown in investment in green choices as business have to survive in the short-term and cash is king. As long as businesses keep talking about environmental issues and are honest about their plans for improving their sustainability credentials, most stakeholders will be satisfied with that approach. There will come a point when more progress will need to be made of course. Equally, there is likely to be a role for government support for investment in green measures.” Significant carbon reductions will flow by being more flexible in our working practices – and there will likely be benefits beyond the resulting greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in terms of personal wellbeing. www.gowlingwlg.com

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September/October 2020

CHARITYNEWS

WHITE HERON DRINKS RAISES MONEY FOR HEREFORDSHIRE MIND White Heron Drinks has been raising money for Herefordshire Mind during lockdown where a proportion of every online sale was donated to help the great work that Mind does in the county. Jo Hilditch, Founder of White Heron Drinks, commented: “Even though like many other charities, they are fighting for their life themselves, they continue to offer front line support and care to the vulnerable. They are real heroes so we’re passionate about supporting them and the people who rely on them so much.” David Harding, Herefordshire Mind, said: “We are seeing increasing numbers of people contacting safe haven, impacted emotionally by worries over Coronavirus and we continue to offer dedicated support to all those who contact us. All of our staff, tutors and volunteers are working as “One Mind” to make sure we’re there for everyone during this horrific time so we can’t thank Jo enough for being part of this ethos with this fundraising initiative.”

LITTLE TRINITY’S NURSERY ARMED FORCES PACKAGES Paintings, drawings, and cherished cards were created by children at Little Trinity Nursery in Kidderminster and added to an array of personal care packages destined for members of the armed forces serving overseas. Manager Gaynor Carter explained: “We have a child in nursery whose father is in the armed forces and currently serving in the Middle East until the end of September so we thought it would be wonderful if we could do something to show our appreciation and support for all the many men and women serving our country and spending long periods of time away from their loved ones.

www.herefordshire-mind.org.uk

“We decided we would love to send care packages and invited our parents to donate items of toiletries and snacks and encouraged all our children, those in nursery and at home, to make pictures and cards with a message of thanks so that they could be included.”

www.whiteherondrinks.co.uk

www.littletrinity.co.uk

WYRE FOREST DISTRICT COUNCIL TO LAUNCH COMMUNITY LOTTERY Wyre Forest Community Lottery will help local charities and organisations raise cash to continue their good work in the district. The council will not receive any money from the scheme. The council has appointed an established operator which works with other councils across the country to manage the new online weekly draw. The first draw will take place at the end of November and tickets will cost £1 with 60p going towards local good causes, compared with just 28p in the pound for the National Lottery. The rest goes towards prizes, operating costs and VAT. The draw will be weekly with a jackpot of £25,000 for a matching sequence of six numbers, other prizes being £2,000, £250, £25 or three free tickets. The council will be inviting local organisations to take part in a virtual event in September where they can find out more about the criteria and learn how to apply to become a good cause. More details can be found here www.bit.ly/3hJ97Sm

WORCESTERSHIRE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION GIVES OUT £400,000 IN COVID-RESPONSE CAMPAIGN Worcestershire Community Foundation has been running a successful campaign supporting community groups and charities in Worcestershire in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Since March 2020, a total of £400,000 has been distributed to 125 projects supporting all aspects of Covid-related community needs across the county. Organisations and projects supported include foodbanks, hospices, community and homeless centres, volunteer networks and technology support to give people

vital access to remote services during lockdown.

in a position to help them deliver their services into the future.”

Development Director Lucy Wells commented: “It’s amazing how local organisations have risen to the challenges presented by Covid-19. WCF has been proud to support the wealth of innovation and community spirit shown by local organisations. We are now undertaking research to look at longer term issues the voluntary sector faces in Worcestershire so that we are

For further information on WCF’s work or to donate please go to www.worcscf.org. uk or contact Lucy at lucy.wcf@comfirst. org.uk or call 07909 111812

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

047

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HW CHAMBER MEMBERS CAN ACCESS HELP AND GUIDANCE WITH ARMED FORCES INITIATIVE The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is proud to be part of a unique project aimed at providing support to the Chamber network and its Members in making an informed, meaningful and proactive pledge to the Armed Forces Covenant throughout England and Wales. Chamber Military Network is the first project of its type to be funded by the Forces in Mind Trust and is fully supported by Defence Relationship Management and the British Chamber of Commerce. The Black Country Chamber of Commerce is the project’s delivery agent and the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce work together with British Chamber’s, their business Members, West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association and the wider Armed Forces Community to encourage the signing and carrying out of Armed Forces covenant pledge commitments. Philip Sinclair, Regional Employer Engagement Director Employer Engagement Team, West Midlands, said: “Having signed the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC), HW Chamber of Commerce has been very proactive already in raising awareness of the Covenant amongst their Members, signposting me in my role as a Regional Employer Engagement Director for the MOD, to those organisations keen to learn more about it, and also about the Employer Recognition Scheme, where the MOD seeks to recognise our most supportive employers appropriately.” “I am also delighted that the HW Chamber is working so closely with their member organisation Ubi-Tech 3R Ltd. Ubi-Tech is a veteran owned business and are themselves holders of the Silver ERS award. Fantastic advocates of the Covenant, I look forward to welcoming as members of the Gold Alumni Association, hopefully this year! I see Chamber Military Network becoming a huge success and a model for other institutions to follow, thus ensuring that as a nation we will continue to pledge that together we acknowledge and understand that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society they serve with their lives.” To date more than 5000 organisations have signed the Armed Forces Covenant

Chamber Member Ubi-Tech (3R) Ltd collecting their Employee Recognitions Scheme award

including businesses and charities nationwide. Chamber Military Network will see Chambers and their Members undertake the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant and deliver their employment pledges as part of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). “The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce is very proud to have such a close association and relationship with the West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association and fully support the new Chamber Military Network project. We are well positioned to be able to promote the campaigns and benefits to encourage local businesses to further engage and support our reservists and of course promote the benefits to employers of such a relationship.” Dawn Hardman, Director of HR Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Hereford & Worcester Chamber of Commerce became Covenant signatories in 2019 when they organised a “Bugle Breakfast” in Herefordshire. Local businesses were invited along to hear about the Armed Forces Covenant which was a huge success. The Chamber are now working towards their silver ERS accreditation and regularly hold events and support campaigns such as Armed Forces week to introduce businesses to the benefits of working with members of the Armed Forces community.

extremely pro-active and since joining we have benefited from free training seminars, attendance at industry events such as The Business Expo, speaking opportunities and also support in our endeavours to deliver our training into Europe. We have been a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant since its first inception and we are proud to be so. We are now Silver ERS award holders, the covenant has raised our profile on social media, and we have benefited from the networking opportunities that have come our way from meeting other like-minded organisations.” The success of the Chamber Military Network was recently recognised as 4 Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber Members were amongst 127 new employees awarded Gold Accreditation. Congratulations to Herefordshire Council, NMiTE, Spectra Group and Level Peaks Associates. For more information about Chamber Military Network email info@chambermilitarynetwork.co.uk or visit: www.chambermilitarynetwork.co.uk. To see how the HW Chamber can help your businesses contribute towards the Armed Forces Community, please email DawnH@hwchamber.co.uk for further information.

Richard Lee, Managing Director Ubi-Tech (3R) Ltd, said: “The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, is

Business Direction published by Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

049

CHAMBERSPOTLIGHT

WHY IS ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IMPORTANT TO COMPANIES? Simon Helmer Energy & Resource Efficiency Advisor - Business Energy Efficiency Programme

JOURNEY SO FAR Driven heavily by UK law (The Climate Change Act 2008) the last decade has seen a 30% reduction achieved in Britain’s greenhouse gas emissions. A big part of this success is the tremendous upsurge in electricity produced from low carbon sources such as offshore wind. Renewable power generation has increased almost five fold. Generally overlooked, there has also been a significant improvement in energy efficiency thanks to business investing in energy efficient equipment. Actual energy use is down 15% and down 21% per person.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Policy makers have turned their focus on heating and transport. UK government has committed to end the sale of new petrol, diesel and hybrid cars and vans by 2040 and is poised to introduce new incentives for low carbon heating technologies from 2022.

The switch to a low carbon world is a major change and along with adaptation to a changing climate presents a vast market opportunity to provide the solutions needed. The sector in the UK is already estimated to be worth £46bn annually.

CONSUMER AND BUSINESS ATTITUDES

TIPS - MEASURE, MEASURE, MEASURE

A recent survey of consumer attitudes across major western economies commissioned by the Carbon Trust found 42% of adults agreed it was important for them to know a company is taking action to reduce the carbon emissions associated with a product before they buy it. 64% said they would be more likely to buy a product that could differentiate itself from competitors by demonstrating achieving a reduction in its carbon footprint. This is reflected by business perception of the need to act on environmental sustainability issues. At the start of the year, nearly a quarter of businesses in Herefordshire & Worcestershire told us reducing their carbon footprint is a key priority and a fifth were interested in using more sustainable materials.

050

Brand perception is important to most businesses and perceived sustainability is a facet of this that has risen in importance both for clients and other stakeholders. Ultimately use of resources either directly or indirectly equals cost and it is good business practice to manage these.

The government has recently ramped up ambition from an 80% reduction in direct greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 to a 100% cut. This essentially means eliminating fossil fuel combustion to atmosphere in the next 30 years. Locally, more stretching targets have been set to achieve carbon neutrality in just 10 years.

Many businesses still do not routinely monitor their energy use and the carbon emissions impacts of their business both directly in the electricity and fuels used and indirectly to produce the raw materials or services purchased. Measurement has to be the first step to effective management.

ELECTRIFICATION As electricity increasingly becomes the low carbon option consider if electrification is feasible for processes in your business consuming fuel such as oil heating, diesel forklifts, cars and vans.

HAVE A GOOD STORY TO TELL Often when they sit down and think about what they have done over the last few years organisations have a good story to tell about the progress they have made towards a more sustainable business, but this has not been recorded in a systematic way. Having a narrative with evidence of what has been achieved so far is a good base to build on as further actions are taken and continuous improvement demonstrated.

LOCAL SUPPORT Generous support is available to eligible Herefordshire & Worcestershire small/ medium businesses to help de-carbonise their organisation, including grants up to £20,000 for resource efficiency improvements, up to £1000,000 for renewable energy systems and upto £50,000 for innovating new products and services that will delivery greenhouse gas savings. For further information please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/support/advice/ business-energy-efficiency-programme or email info@business-central.co.uk or call 01905 677888.

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September/October 2020

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This continues to be a difficult time for both employers and their employees. We’re here to help you navigate the twists and turns so your business and your workforce are ready for the future. Michael Stokes, Partner, Head of Employment and Immigration Team, Harrison Clark Rickerbys

01905 612 001 I www.hcrlaw.com Harrison Clark Rickerbys is a trading name of Harrison Clark Rickerbys Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the SRA

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