Inspire business magazine: Summer 2015

SALES TRAINING Time for a rethink Page 6

SECURITY TIPS Seasonal advice from Dyno Locks and Alarms Page 15

FRANCHISING 1 The pros and cons of this business model Page 16

ISSUE NINE • SUMMER 2015

IT’S OUR BUSINESS TO INSPIRE YOUR BUSINESS

MAIN FEATURE

Jane Malcolm Inspired by a bird of prey to set up charity.

Pages 12-13

The law won

Solicitors’ Pictons wins big at the FSB Bedfordshire Business Awards. Page 4

Chew on that!

Fratellis wins Bedfordshire Food and Drink Awards. Page 10

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Issue One

welcome

Publisher: Community Communications, 12 Alexandra Avenue, Luton Beds, LU3 1HG

Editor: David Tooley inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk

Advertising: Mostaque Koyes mostaque@communitycommunications.co.uk Kyle Ellis kyle@communitycommunications.co.uk

Design: Heather Ellis heather@communitycommunications.co.uk

Printed by: Bartham Group www.barthamgroup.com

Disclaimer Any views expressed in Inspire Business Magazine are those of the individual authors and not necessarily those of the publisher.

No part of the magazine should be copied or distributed without the prior consent of the publisher and remains the property of the publisher.

For copies of the magazine for your reception or to receive a top-up supply, email inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @INSPIREBIZMAG

welcome INSPIRED FOR GOOD

Starting a business needs a cast-iron belief in yourself and your cause, as well as talent and an excellent plan. People who run charities and other good causes can often be role models for other businesses because invariably they have that deep conviction to the cause.

Jane Malcolm, the subject of this edition’s main feature, set up and is running Level Trust a Luton-based charty aimed at giving children a fighting chance against poverty. Although just 29, Jane is living proof of the old adage “if you’re good enough, you’re old enough”, setting out to do something practical to help level the playing field for children who come from challenging circumstances.

Are you as dedicated to your business as Jane is to her charity?

Jane clearly remembers her moment of inspiration... seeing a bird of prey wheeling in the sky above as she walked in countryside. It was when she knew it was what she had to do, then she went for it.

IF YOU HAVE AN INSPIRING STORY TO TELL, GET IN TOUCH WITH INSPIRE. EMAIL INSPIRE@COMMUNITYCOMMUNICATIONS.CO.UK Here, at Inspire we appreciate all the people who make it possible. Bartham printers, publisher Mostaque Koyes, designer Heather Ellis, our fabulous readers and growing band of advertisers, the receptionists who take copies in business centres and hotels and our distributors.

All vital cogs who make it possible for Inspire’s wheel to turn.

In this issue 12

Jane Malcolm feature (p12) Insidethegames wins big award (p17)

21

3

Thank you for reading the magazine and being a part of #TeamInspire.

Follow us on Twitter @inspirebizmag or email me inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk Thousands of people around the world are also looking at all the editions of the magazine online at issuu.com/inspirebizmag

we are listening

Hertfordshire Recruitment Pledge (p20) Dacorum’s Den (p21) News round-up (p22-23) Pizza Offer (back page)

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We want to hear from you: perhaps your expertise would be of help to others, or our advertising opportunities are perfect for you or you simply want to give us some feedback.

inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk We’re listening.

Issue Nine

4

awards

Pictons triumphs at the FSB Bedfordshire Business Awards 2015 Winners of Community Business of the Year LAW FIRM RECOGNISES THE CONTRIBUTION OF MEMBERS OF STAFF WHO DO A HUGE AMOUNT FOR LOCAL CAUSES

Pictons Solicitors, a leading regional law firm, triumphed at the FSB Bedfordshire Business Awards 2015 by winning the coveted trophy for Community Business of the Year.

It’s the first time that the company had entered these prestigious awards and they chose a very competitive category that had lots of entries.

Sukh Saini, Managing Partner of Pictons says “I decided to enter the FSB Bedfordshire Business Awards in the Community Business of the Year category in recognition of the fact that there probably isn’t any member of Pictons staff who hasn’t raised money for a worthy local cause, whether that’s by abseiling down a high building, collecting bras for African communities, swimming, cake baking, sky diving, moon walking, clothes and food collections and many other activities.

“In such a supportive company every member of staff receives generous donations from their colleagues and plenty of encouragement.

“Throughout our four offices in Herts, Beds and Bucks supporting the local communities is

Summer 2015

inherent in our company culture. It’s a way that we can give something back to the communities in which we are based. As a company, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is very important for us. We support many causes including Age Concern Luton, the MK Hospital’s Little Lives Appeal, Mary Seacole Housing Trust, Keech Hospice, Luton and Dunstable Childrens’ fund; NOAH, the Milton Keynes and Luton Food Banks, the Level Trust and the Disability Resource Centre, amongst many others.

Support “We are also pro active in the sponsorship and support of local sport and sportspeople with a wide range of sponsorships including:The Hatters Cup, Luton Town Football Club, sponsorship of The Luton Town Show, giving live LTFC football matches to the local community on Diverse FM; supporting young amateur boxing champion Jordan Reynolds to reach the Olympics 2016, Hemel Hempstead Town Cricket Club, the Wheathampstead Wanderers Under 7s and Stockwood Park Rugby Club.”

“We’ve always been involved in the Community Awards in Luton, since its inception in 2010.

In 2011 we became Headline Sponsors and have continued our wholehearted support ever since. It is wonderful to celebrate the unsung heroes within a community that is as diverse as Luton.

“We also fund the Legal Show on Diverse FM community radio, giving free professional advice on a wide range of subjects. A number of our staff are also Trustees of some of the charities we support.

“Charities wouldn’t be able to do their fantastic work without the financial support of the business sector. I believe it is appropriate for businesses to encourage and inspire their staff to be charity minded- think of the tremendous success of Comic Relief and how employees devise incredible schemes to raise money while having enormous fun in the process.

“I know that the charity and community work we do creates tremendous goodwill for Pictons but I don’t think, anyone or any business supports charities or community projects for what they can get out of it.

“The biggest benefit is simply the satisfaction of knowing that because of what we have done as a company we have been able to help someone and hopefully improved their lives.

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

event

5

Going international INVESTORS WERE INVITED TO MILLBROOK IN BEDFORDSHIRE BY THE SOUTH EAST MIDLANDS LOCAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP (SEMLEP) AND UKTI Investors from across Europe, China, Japan and Australia flew into the UK this week to make a guest appearance at world famous Millbrook, the leading vehicle test, validation and engineering service provider.

At this ‘Speeding Towards International Success’ event on July 2 a select group of automotive, engineering and high performance technology companies from across the South East Midlands gathered to meet and greet the international delegation.

The investors, invited to Millbrook by the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP) and UKTI, the Government agency set up to attract foreign direct investment, were treated to a behindthe-scenes tour of this highly secure testing facility.

A popular backdrop for many Hollywood blockbusters, guests were given the unique

opportunity to see the 70km of test tracks in a variety of exhilarating passenger experiences, including an electric Mercedes Benz, Aston Martin and military-style SWAT vehicle.

A number of key note speeches from the region’s leading automotive experts, including Millbrook, Cranfield University, Transport Systems Catapult, Prodrive and Nissan, were held throughout the event, as part of an insight into the ‘complete circuit of technical excellence’ that the South East has to offer.

Daniel Mouawad, Chief Executive of SEMLEP, said: “It is exhilarating to welcome this UKTI delegation of investors to our area and to introduce these businesses to fellow high performance companies from our area who have had a unique opportunity to forge new international relationships.

“It is particularly timely, in the lead up to this week’s Grand Prix, to be able to showcase the speed and expertise of the South East Midlands to the world.”

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Alex Burns, Chief Executive of Millbrook explained: “Millbrook’s ongoing strategy is focused on raising awareness and building relationships with international prospects, and today’s event was particularly important in supporting our engagement activities with key foreign companies.

Connections “These new connections will enable us to grow our customer base and service an even wider range of clients in the automotive, transport, petrochemical, defence and security industries.”

Growth Minister James Wharton, expressing his support for the event, said: “Local Enterprise Partnerships are driving growth right across the country and I congratulate SEMLEP for creating such a great opportunity for investors from around the globe to see the skills and opportunities available across the whole region.

“They are showcasing the best of British industry.”

Issue Nine

6

sales

Be more confident IT IS TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR SALES TECHNIQUES, SAYS CHRIS DAVIES, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SANDLER TRAINING FOR BEDS, HERTS & BUCKS

A company is on a mission to end the discomfort of selling by teaching salespeople to be more authentic, confident and effective in their approach.

Chapel Training, based off J13 M1, between Bedford and Milton Keynes, has launched Sandler President’s Club.

“The perception of ‘salespeople’ is very often poor, mainly because many of them consistently use techniques that have moved little since the 1970s,” says Chris Davies, managing director of Sandler Training for Beds, Herts & Bucks.

“The damaging view of selling is of a pushy person broadcasting ‘Features or Benefits’, insisting anyone who listens should buy regardless it is what the customer needs.

“That is not the Sandler way to sell because it’s neither comfortable or authentic. It also creates a lot of work handling objections or

giving away free consultancy unnecessarily or worse!”

As one of the Top 10 training companies globally, effective methods are well developed where companies can adopt a predictable, systematic approach to sales growth keeping both the ‘seller’ and the prospect feeling OK throughout the whole experience.

Sandler Training has been helping companies improve their sales & management processes for more than 40 years. Chris has 38 years of leadership experience with IBM, Sony and others and award winning, extensive background in the Sandler Selling System.

Chris added: “Our methods are reinforced in through training, practice and experiences shared with others because we know that is proven to result in lasting success for our clients.

“Plenty of clients testify this approach is especially rewarding because of the longterm nature of our partnerships generating confident, supportive attitudes, behaviours and techniques.”

For more information about President’s Club and other programs such as Leadership, Customer Services and Selling for Professionals, visit: www.miltonkeynes.sandler.com or contact Chris Davies at chris.davies@sandler.com or on 01525 280777.

Summer 2015

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

7

FREE Business Support for ambitious businesses in the South East Midlands Giving you the skills to help grow your business

Call us on

0300 01234 35 Or visit www.VelocityBusinessSupport.com

@VelocityGrowth #WhatYouKnow facebook.com/VelocityBusinessSupport linkedin.com/company/velocity-business-support

Funding

Business Advisers

Website

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Helpdesk

Networking Issue Nine

Events

8

Summer 2015

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insurance

9

Tradesmen, beware

of the small print!

INSURANCE POLICIES MAKE GREAT BEDTIME READING, WRITES MARTIN BLOWER OF A PLAN! Great bedtime reading?

That’s a statement most sane people probably wouldn’t agree with.

When it comes to tradesmen’s public liability insurance though, if you are relying on an assumption that all policies were created equal, and ‘well public liability cover is public liability cover isn’t it’, then you may find yourself in difficulty just when you least need it..

Most liability policies have restrictions which on the face of it seem reasonable e.g. they prevent you from working in nuclear power stations, on oil rigs, or airside at Luton airport. It is unlikely that this type of restriction is going to be a problem to most plumbers or painters and decorators.

There are however additional restriction which many policies have over and above these more obvious restrictions which would probably at the very least surprise you, and more likely give you serious cause for concern, if not sleepless nights..

A common such restriction relates to the height of the building in which you work. As an example if you are a painter and decorator and

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are insured with a very well known, TV advertising, insurer you might be surprised to know that your policy doesn’t cover you if you have ever decorated any of the flats in Luton over three stories high (Marsh Farm, Hockwell Ring, Handcross Road, Park Street to name but a few).

WHY? Because their policy says you are not covered if you work in any building over 3 stories high, even if you are just decorating the inside of a flat. Other trades such as plumbers, bathroom and kitchen fitters will have similar types of restrictions, and they are applied by many household name insurers.

Put simply if something goes wrong you would be on your own and paying for any damage out of your own pocket.

At A Plan we don’t sell policies with such restrictions (it’s a good job we don’t mind a slightly less enthralling bedtime read than most...).

Have a quick look at your policy to check, or give us a call and we can check for you!

Issue Nine

10

food

A champion restaurant

FRATELLI CUCINA ITALIANA, IN AMPTHILL, WON THE BEDFORDSHIRE FOOD AND DRINK AWARDS OVERALL TITLE. INSPIRE REVIEWS THE RESTAURANT In my experience the words “traditional” and “genuine” are often over-used in connection with restaurants but that is not the case with the award-winning Fratelli Cucina Italiana, writes David Tooley.

It was superbly moorish, with the red onion and mozzarella my very favourite tastebudteasing combination.

The service was excellent – and quick. With busy business lives to lead, I think people truly appreciate the option of convenient and tasty food.

Nestled on busy Dunstable Road, in the pretty market town of Ampthill, in Bedfordshire, visiting Fratellis is like popping over to modern Italy.

Its unfussy and professional service ethos reveals a justifiable confidence in the food on offer, which includes items on the superb value Express Lunch Menu, which was what myself and friends chose when we visited for lunch on a Friday.

Being of the veggie persuasion I chose a Giardinera panini, with Italian vegetables, red onion, black olives and mozzarella. Nearly all of my five-a-day in one panini for just £5.50!

Fratellis’ Italian credentials are impeccable.

The business was established in January 2007 and is owned and managed by three brothers Carmelo, Mario and Antonino Di Giorgi.

Their aim is for every customer leaving Fratelli to feel that little bit happier and more relaxed than when they came in.

According to their high rating on TripAdvisor, it is not just me and my friends who are happy with this venue. Fratellis is the proud owner of a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. TripAdvisor awards a Certificate of Excellence to accommodations, attractions

Summer 2015

Impeccable

and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers.

Fratellis also recently won the coveted overall county title in the first ever Bedfordshire Food and Drink Awards. They also picked up the Restaurant of the Year category in the food and drink awards, which were voted for by customers.

Awards More than 29,000 votes were cast in total in the awards, which were presented at The Conservatory at Luton Hoo Walled Garden on Monday June 15.

Fratellis Normal Opening Times are Monday to Saturday: 12 pm - 2:30 pm; 6 pm - 10 pm and on Sunday: 12 pm – 3 pm Fratelli Cucina Italiana is at 111 Dunstable St, Ampthill, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK45 2NG Phone: 01525 405551 Email: info@fratelli-italian.co.uk Website: http://fratelli-italian.co.uk

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

hr 11

Mental ill-health No.1 cause of staff absenteeism:

What is your business doing about it?

PRESENTEEISM, OR EMPLOYEES COMING INTO WORK WHEN THEY ARE MENTALLY UNWELL IS BECOMING AN INCREASING PHENOMENA IN BRITISH WORKPLACES. In 2013, more than 15 million sick days were lost to anxiety, depression and stress at a cost of £15 billion to the economy.* Mental ill-health has now replaced physical disorders as the largest contributing factor to staff absenteeism.* In any one year, one in four British adults experiences at least one mental disorder and among people under 65, nearly half of all ill health is mental illness.* Yet, only a quarter of those are in treatment.* Presenteeism, or employees coming into work when they are mentally unwell is becoming an increasing phenomena in British workplaces. While HR professionals may celebrate the fact that absence management rates have remained relatively flat during the recession, it has been speculated that Presenteeism costs UK workplaces £15bn per year, compared to around £8bn for absenteeism.*1 Many companies today offer gym memberships, serve healthier food in their cafeterias and require annual physical check-ups – but do you have mental health provision?

All departments have to have a trained first-aider – but what about a mental-‘wealth’ equivalent?

The economic burden of mental illness on businesses is growing, yet few organisations have any workplace strategies in place to help their staff cope.

Contact Talk For Change: Telephone: 01908 228830 - option 4 E-mail: support@talkforchange.org.uk Website: www. talkforchange.org.uk Follow us on Twitter: @TalkForChangeMK *Source: NHS England Nov 2013, ‘Valuing mental and physical health equally’. *1 Source: Investors in People, 2014

Benefits Promoting the mental wellbeing of employees can yield economic benefits for the business or organisation, in terms of increased commitment and job satisfaction, staff retention, improved productivity and performance, and reduced staff absenteeism.

Talk For Change can provide evidence based programmes for businesses such as ‘Thriving at Work’, which can help staff achieve optimal levels of mental health and performance.

We can support full teams, train line-managers, and work with senior executives to guide strategy on performance improvement.

We can also provide ‘ask the expert’ drop-in sessions with our own experienced qualified therapists, or train and support your own employees to become mental-wellbeing champions who can spot the early warning signs of mental ill-health and support their colleagues in-house.

Services Our services can be offered directly to your organisation or we can work with your current healthcare provider.

As an NHS organisation, Talk for Change team of therapists are highly qualified and experienced and cover all aspects of mental ill health, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, perinatal depression, dealing with groups at work, coping with pressure.

As a result of our current programmes which have been specifically developed to improve people’s mental wellbeing – for staff who complete their treatment programme the recovery rate is 84%.

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Issue Nine

12

inspiration

A bird of prey provided Jane with her

moment of inspiration

ANTI CHILD POVERTY CHARITY FOUNDER EXPLAINS WHAT MOTIVATED HER TO START LEVEL TRUST Child poverty charity founder Jane Malcolm remembers very clearly the moment of inspiration when she decided to create Level Trust.

Jane, 29, a youth workers’ team leader with Youth Scape, was approached by a group of friends to start a charity to help children living in poverty in Luton.

“I was walking along, through some fields and it was a beautiful, sunny day,” said Jane of the moment around two years ago. “I saw a bird of prey circling above and at that moment I decided I really wanted to do it.

“At that moment I experienced deep clarity and it was a feeling of great empowerment.”

Until that moment Jane, a committed Christian, had her doubts and felt she had not been ready for the enormous challenge of setting up a charity from scratch.

The child poverty statistics in Luton are staggering. An estimated 16,000 children and young people in the town are living in relative poverty, many of them in working families where the household income isn’t high enough to support basic costs.

“Children know if they are in a family in poverty and it really stresses them out,” said Jane. “Children will truant or be removed from school because they are essentially embarrassed at their circumstances.

Summer 2015

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inspiration 13

“We have had examples of children not going to school if they have a PE lesson because the family cannot afford the kit.”

Jane believes if people choose to look, they will see signs of poverty. Holes in shoes is not uncommon, as is children not having had breakfast or a coat or jacket to wear on cold days or even in the winter.

“One in four of our children is living under the relative poverty line in Luton,” said Jane, who adds that this has a detrimental effect on their health, their ability to learn and thereby their life chances.

Level Trust, based in Upper George Street in the town centre, aims to ‘level the playing field’ for children and young people so that regardless of background every child can have access to the same resources and opportunities as their peers.

With thousands of children in relative poverty in Luton, it is a huge challenge for Jane and her small team of four regular volunteers.

“We have supported about 4,000 children over two years in partnership with schools,” explained Jane. “We give guidance and say their must be evidence of relative poverty.” Level Trust uses gift cards to support families and avoid possible issues of stigmatism.

“Everyone uses gift cards, so the families aren’t singled out as being ‘poor’” The gift cards can be redeemed in local shops for things like shoes or winter coats.

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Jane has seen the fabulously positive effect on children who feel that someone is supporting them. ““Children have grown in confidence because for the first time they are given something new like their friends,” said Jane, who is expecting her own first child soon. “A new pair of shoes can change a child’s outlook. We’ve seen children with bad behaviour settle down and enjoy school because of our interventions.

“We have seen huge differences in attendance. Children without coats and holes in their shoes don’t want to go to school when it is wet and cold.

“As far as health goes, we have seen anecdotal evidence of fewer colds and fewer fungal feet infections.”

Level Trust projects include for school stationery, and an annual summer school giving hot meals and involving lots of fun.

“School meals are great in term time but lots of children go without a main meal in the holidays, so this fills a gap,” said Jane.

Jane admits that the work to relieve poverty is “sticking plaster” and that to have a longer term solution needs work with others, including debt counsellors and better and more jobs in the local economy.

Jane intends to increase political lobbying with key people, including the Archbishop of Canterbury whom she met on his recent visit to Bedfordshire.

“I was able to raise with him the problem of people being on tax credits not being able to access school meals,” she said.

Another hot topic is the cost of school uniforms. “I want to lobby schools that are charging far too much for school uniforms.”

Like many charities, Level Trust needs volunteers to expand and grow its services. The charity needs people to handle office and events roles, its uniform exchange scheme and summer schools.

To help Level Trust email Jane jane.malcolm@leveltrust.org

Issue Nine

14

apprecticeships

Budget impact on Apprenticeships WHAT ARE THE CHANGES TO APPRENTICESHIPS, AND HOW WILL THEY AFFECT BUSINESSES LOOKING TO TAKE ON AN APPRENTICE, OR A PERSON CONSIDERING TAKING AN APPRENTICESHIP 3 million new apprenticeships will be created by 2020, funded by a levy on large employers. Firms that are committed to training will be able to get back more than they put in.

WILL THE NEW APPRENTICESHIP LEVY BOOST BRITAIN’S PRODUCTIVITY? The most significant change for business leaders looking to nurture the next generation of managers is the introduction of an apprenticeship levy for large firms.

Chancellor George Osborne said the new levy would still mean businesses offering apprenticeship schemes “get more back than they put in” and that it will co-exist with a commitment from the Chancellor to create three million new apprenticeships.

It will help employers train the leaders of the future and its focus on professional management will put British business on track to a more productive future.

HIGHER APPRENTICESHIPS Higher apprenticeships are the best combination of on the job training and employees studying for a higher level qualification to give knowledgeable workforce that your business needs.

Higher apprenticeships range from Aerospace to Accountancy, Construction to Creative and Digital Media, higher apprenticeships range across the sectors and represent hundreds of different job roles.

The government want to make higher apprenticeships available to more businesses. There has been £40m government funding for higher apprenticeships up until July 2015, and a further £20M to fund the higher educational to the end of March 2016.

There are no age restrictions for a Higher Apprenticeship.

Fotolia #73540482 Author: highwaystarz

DEGREE APPRENTICESHIPS Degree Apprenticeships allow apprentices to gain a full Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree whilst working and employers to shape the graduate/post-graduate level skills they need. As part of wider growth, the number of Apprenticeships in food, farming and agri-tech are set to treble.

BUSINESS BENEFITS The benefits of apprenticeships are becoming increasingly obvious to more and more businesses.

Apprenticeships develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce. Businesses that offer apprenticeships view them as beneficial to their longterm development.

As reported by the National Apprenticeship Service, at their conference on 8th July; • 82% of employers take on apprentices to build the skills capacity within their business.

• 88% of apprentice employers believe they lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce, leading to greater loyalty and quality.

•

• • •

75% of apprentice employers say the programme has helped cut recruitment costs.

80% say that apprenticeships will play a bitter part in their future policy.

81% of consumers favour companies that employ apprentices.

80% of employers feel that apprenticeships reduce staff turnover.

81% of apprentice employers say they make their businesses more productive. The average apprenticeship completer increases business productivity by £214 per week.

AGE GRANT Did you know that you may be eligible for an Age Grant of £1500 • If you have less than 50 staff • If your apprentice is aged 16 to 24 • If you have not employed an apprentice within the last 12 months The grant is available for apprenticeship starts up to 31st December 2015, subject to eligibility and availability.

RE-TRAIN WITH AN APPRENTICESHIP Many people who have faced redundancy have used an apprenticeship scheme to re-train for new skills.

Apparently as many as 60,000 people over the age of 25 have re-trained in an apprenticeship.

Many people believe that an apprenticeship is only for teenagers fresh out of school, this is simply not the case. There are many apprenticeships available for mature adults.

An apprenticeship is often an easier way to retrain than going back to college or university, giving you the ability to learn whilst you gain experience.

Therefore if you are looking for a career change, maybe consider an apprentice.

For more information on Apprenticeships please call Sheelagh or Charlotte on 01908 616184.

Summer 2015

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

security 15

It’s finally here…summer JON SPELLEN OF DYNO LOCKS AND ALARMS WITH SOME SEASONAL SECURITY ADVICE

We know when you go away you want to relax and sometimes being so relaxed can lead to people being lapsed when it comes to their personal security.

3 Always opt for a safety deposit box or safe at the hotel. This will give you peace of mind that your passports and valuables are safe whilst you are out. As not all hotels share the same security measures you take at home.

We want to ensure all our customers and friends stay safe when travelling abroad, so this month we thought we should share some ‘staying safe on holiday’ tips.

4 Try to blend in – looking like a tourist can make you target for thiefs, so read maps before leaving the hotel.

Valuables

1 Research where you are going – find out about the culture, be aware of any local scams, make sure you are aware of the shadier parts to avoid. Being prepared will put you in a better position for security.

5 Keep your valuables out of sight – keep purses in a zipped compartment of your bag, wallets in front pockets and phones in your bags where possible.

6 If you want to see the sights why not take an organised tour – these are usually organised by locals and take you to all the best sights, whilst providing safety in numbers.

2 Don’t carry all your cash in your purse or wallet. Keep it hidden in a number of places so you have a backup of cash if needed.

7 Travel in pairs – being in pairs means you are less likely to be targeted than walking around on your own 8 If a crime takes place ensure you report it straight away to the local authority and follow up with written confirmation. This may aid if you are putting in an insurance claim for lost goods.

Above all stay safe when you are away and enjoy your holiday to the max.

Don’t forget as part of our commitment to reducing crime we offer free no-obligation security surveys, so why not take advantage call us now on 01582 519910 to book.

Alternatively if you have any questions about any of the security measures we have suggested please do not hesitate to contact me on 01582 519910 or email jon@dynoalarm.co.uk.

Be safe people.

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(+++ *)( (++0 gj nakal \qfg&[ge Issue Nine

16

finance

Page kindly sponsored by

Telephone: 01582 608601

A look at franchising JOHN WRIGHT OF STOTEN GILLAM EXAMINES THE PROS AND CONS OF A POPULAR STYLE OF BUSINESS CREATION Franchising is becoming increasingly popular as a business arrangement in the UK across a range of sectors.

Franchising is used to describe a situation in which one person or organisation, the franchisor, provides the right to another person, the franchisee, to use the franchisor’s name, trademarks and business systems.

The franchisor will usually receive an initiaiton fee from the franchisee together with on-going management service fees.

These can vary enormously from business to business.

In return, the franchisor has an obligation to support the franchise network with training, product development, advertising, promotional activities and a specialist range of management services.

Each business outlet is owned and managed by the franchisee.

However, the franchisor retains control over the way in which products and services are marketed and sold, and controls the quality and standards of the business.

The advantages of operating a franchised business include: • It is your own business

• Someone else has already had the bright idea and tested it

• There will often be a familiar brand name which should have existing customer loyalty.

• There may be a national advertising campaign

• Some franchisors offer training in selling and other business skills

• Some franchisors may be able to secure funding for your investment as well as discounted bulk buy supplies

• However, there are potential disadvantages which include the following:

• It is not always easy to evaluate the quality of a franchise especially if it is relatively new

• Extensive enquiries may be required to ensure a franchise is strong

• Part of your annual profits will have to be paid to the franchisor by way of fee

Summer 2015

• The rights of the franchisor, for example to inspect your premises and records and dictate certain methods of operation, may seem restrictive

• Should the franchisor fail to maintain the brand name or meet other commitments there may be very little you can do about it There are many factors you may need to take into account when choosing a franchise, including the following: • Your own strengths and weaknesses – make sure they are compatible with the franchised

• Thoroughly investigate the business you are planning to buy or establish

• Research the local competition and make sure there is room for your business

• Give legal contracts careful consideration • Last but not least, consider and take advice about the financial projections for the business – cash flow, working capital needs and profit projections will form the core of your business plan.

Important The franchise agreement or contract will be very important and is designed to ensure you run your business along the lines set out by the franchisor. The following areas should be covered: • The name and nature of the business

• The geographical territory where the franchisee can use the name

• How long the franchise will run • The fees (both initial and on-going) that

However you might require assistance in looking critically at the costs of entering into a franchise and we at Stoten Gillam can provide you with an initial free consultation.

We can also help with the all-important business plan, including cash flow, working capital needs and profit projections.

Contact us to find out more on 01582 608601 or email john.wright@ stotengillam.co.uk

How do you a whole

will be charged

• What happens if the franchisee wants to sell or either the franchisee or the franchisor want to end the agreement

• The terms of the relationship, specifically those dealing with training, advertising etc The franchising industry claims to be able to help you start a new business with a much greater than average chance of survival.

Statistics seem to back this up and suggest that a franchised business has a much better chance of surviving the first few years than other new businesses.

Maximise your reach and your budget. Get the attention of a wider audience and let your message be heard loud and clear.

Inspire Business Magazine and Community Magazine.

Sometimes two reads are better than one. www.communitycommunications.co.uk

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

journalism

17

World success for

sports news website A BLETCHLEY-BASED COMPANY IS SHOWING THE WAY IN ONLINE JOURNALISM Pictured,Sarah Bowron, third right, Duncan Mackay, second right, and the insidethegames.biz team at Baku 2015, the first European Games in Azerbaijan

A Milton Keynes sports news website has been officially recognised as one of the very best in the world for the quality of its journalism and its commercial strategy.

The website, www.insidethegames.biz, based in Bletchley, won the only commendation in the Best Commercial Innovation category at the Online Media Awards, held in London, with the very biggest names in the media industry.

“We are now well and truly on the top table in the media industry,” said MK resident Sarah Bowron, the managing director of insidethegames.biz publisher Dunsar Media.

“Not bad for a company formed in Milton Keynes only six years ago!

“The commendation recognises us for the absolute top quality of our journalism and for our commercial strategy.”

Experts with insidethegames.biz are often heard on national radio and TV with their latest and most up to date news and interviews

from the world of Olympic, Commonwealth, European and Paralympic Games.

As well as the commendation, the team’s chief columnist David Owen won the Best Freelance Writer with the other two shortlisted candidates, Alan Hubbard and Mike Rowbottom, also from insidethegames.biz The team is lead by editor and MK resident Duncan Mackay, who previously worked at The Guardian and The Observer for 16 years. He said: “This award is very well deserved but it is a testament to the strength we have here that the other shortlisted candidates are also our people.

“It is no wonder with such a team of outstanding journalists, along with our senior reporter Nick Butler, that insidethegames.biz is regarded by everyone as the world’s leading independent Olympic news website.”

Owen, who has been writing for insidethegames.biz for eight years, was recognised for his hard work, knowledge and skill when reporting for the website. “He gives a robust touch to his subject,” the judges said when choosing Owen, the former sports editor of the Financial Times.

Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

The Online Media Awards judges praised insidethegames.biz for establishing commercial relationships with the Association of National Olympic Committees, the International Judo Federation, Baku 2015, the first European Games in Azerbaijan, the Olympic Council of Asia, the World Karate Federation and the World Taekwondo Federation.

Showcase This relationship building involved setting-up bespoke online sections within insidethegames. biz for each of them – allowing them to showcase their work, much of which had previously gone unpublicised.

Also, for the Association of National Olympic Committees and Baku 2015, the company published and distributed specially produced high-quality magazines that are read throughout the world.

The Online Media Awards attracted entries from some of the world’s leading websites including Al Jazeera, The Huffington Post, The Guardian, The Times, CNN, USA Today, Sky, Channel 4 / ITN, ITV, Sunday Times, BBC and Reuters, to name but a few.

Issue Nine

18

radio

S P O N SO R E D BY

community AWA R DS

2 01 5

THE 6th ANNUAL LUTON & BEDFORDSHIRE COMMUNITY AWARDS

“I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.”

Maya Angelou

Nominate your hero today. www.communitycommunications.co.uk mostaque@communitycommunications.co.uk 01582 573471 @community_award lutoncommunityawards

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS MEDIA SPONSORS Specialist Cars

Summer 2015

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

inspiration 19

Rosa’s bringing Leighton Buzzard shop back to life FASHION AND DANCING ENTREPRENEUR ROSA CRISTINI SEES A HIGH STREET BASE AS IMPORTANT TO HER BUSINESS FUTURE An empty Leighton Buzzard shop is being brought back to stunning life by an awardwinning champion of women’s fashions.

Rosa Cristini’s SoYou boutique is moving to 28a Market Square at the top of the high street following renovation work.

Rosa, who recently won the title of Entrepreneur of the Year at the FSB Bedfordshire Business Awards, said her customers greatly appreciate the opportunity to have a place to go where they can get advice on what to wear.

Discerning “It is so important for ladies to get the dress that is right for them, especially the ladies of the Leighton Buzzard areas who are very discerning and know their styles,” said Rosa.

“The new SoYou gives the boutique room to cope with more customers to browse, to talk and to make sure they have what’s right for them in an easily accessible, relaxing space. ”Many years ago the shop housed a traditional lingerie boutique called SUSAN’s and Rosa is proud of bringing life back to a closed down shop. The business is moving from upstairs at the Green House.

Rosa said: “I am grateful to Jackie Burgess, the owner of the Green House for her help in providing SoYou with such an incredible opening location for its launch. “I’ve always loved the look and feel of Leighton Buzzard town centre. It’s great to be part of a revival!”

Rosa was also proud to be a champion of Leighton Buzzard at the recent FSB Bedfordshire Business Awards where won the Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Rosa, who runs Redhotred dance classes up the road in Milton Keynes, showed the judges that she has successfully diversified into a new sector. “The two businesses, dancing and fashion, are linked by my desire to create create opportunities to enhance self esteem and make positive changes,” said Rosa.

For more information seek out SoYou on Facebook or visit the website at www.soyouboutique.co.uk Please mention Inspire Magazine when responding to advertisements.

Issue Nine

20

recruitment

Recruitment pledge EMPLOYERS IN HERTFORDSHIRE ARE BEING URGED TO MAKE A PLEDGE TO HELP PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES FIND AND STAY IN WORK. Business leaders from across the county gathered in Hatfield for a Learning Disability Confident event run by Hertfordshire County Council and supported by the Department for Education.

They heard about the barriers individuals with learning disabilities can face when applying for jobs and while at work, as well as simple steps employers can take to improve the recruitment and retention of this potential workforce.

Businesses have pledged to do one or more of the following: review company recruitment procedures and practices provide supported internship work placements (a structured study programme in a work setting) offer work experience opportunities or provide paid employment.

Richard Roberts, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “Hertfordshire County Council is committed to supporting businesses to thrive and grow and we can do this by meeting the county’s skills needs through education and training for everyone.

“By taking a few simple steps, employers can change their recruitment practices attract candidates with learning disabilities, and that will benefit not just the individuals themselves, but their entire workforce and their business as a whole. With a little help, businesses can make a huge difference.”

The scheme has also received the backing from the Department for Education.

Minister for Children and Families, Edward Timpson, said: “It’s absolutely vital young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities are supported in the transition to the workplace when they finish education.

We want to help young people develop the best skills to fulfil their full potential.

“Hertfordshire County Council’s initiative fits in with what we are trying to achieve through our SEND reforms – to help children with additional needs to achieve their best by putting their needs at the centre of the system.

Summer 2015

Pictured (left to right): Gareth Ecott, Store Manager, Boots Stevenage; Louise Jordan, Pathways to Employment, Department of Education; Michael Hartley, Intern, Currys PC World Stevenage; Cllr Richard Roberts, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services at Hertfordshire County Council.

Thanks to the Supported Internship Scheme, Michael Hartley, 18, from Stevenage, is an intern at Currys PC World and was recently awarded employee of the month. He spoke at the event at the Ramada Hotel on Tuesday 9 June to ask businesses to get involved. “My advice? Never say no to an opportunity! I have responsibilities and I am more independent. I absolutely love that feeling.”

Business leaders from across Hertfordshire attended the event: Gareth Ecott, Store Manager, Boots Stevenage, said: “Trialling Supported Internships has helped us to employ young people with learning disabilities in Hertfordshire.

Diverse “North Hertfordshire College’s ‘Job Coaches’ support the young person to learn the skills and tasks they need for the job, and we get a diverse and happy workforce.

It’s win win. As a team, we’re proud of what we have achieved and it shows in the great atmosphere in our store.”

James Elms, Bishop’s Stortford Sainsbury’s store manager, said: “We already employ people with learning disabilities in Bishop’s Stortford because we know that our customers want to see a workforce that represents the people we serve. This event has informed us of the help available through supported internships and I welcome the joined up approach between local and central government to support businesses in Hertfordshire.”

Joanna Harry, inclusion and diversity manager at GSK, said: “Making our business accessible and providing employment opportunities for people with disabilities is extremely important to us and we have introduced schemes to enable this.

“However, in order to make a more significant impact on society, we need more companies to follow suit and that is why we fully support this initiative.”

To find out more about the pledge and Supported Internships, email ldd. dutyyouthconnexions@hertfordshire.gov. uk or call 01438 844999.

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

entrepreneurs

21

Pictured, from left, Ambi Singh (Corona Properties), Chris Taylor (Dacorum Borough Council), Mike Penning MP, Andy Cook (FFEI) and Peter Willson (Hopespare).

The magnificent seven ENTREPRENEURS HAVE RECEIVED BUSINESS BOOSTS FROM DACORUM’S DEN FUNDS. INSPIRE FINDS OUT Seven exciting entrepreneurs from across Dacorum have won financial backing from a panel of judges after an intensive day of business cross-questioning in the style of TV’s Dragons Den. The winning ideas will receive cheques of around £1,000 each from the Dacorum’s Den panel at a ceremony on Friday, July 24 and include a new gin distillery, a chiropractic service and a photographic studio for motorbikers.

Andy Cook from FFEI, one of the Dacorum’s Den judges, said: “Great ideas often develop into large businesses and it was exciting to hear from people who have such superb insights.

I am looking forward to watching these businesses grow.”

Fellow judge and Hemel Hempstead MP Mike Penning chaired the panel and said: “It was great to see and hear from the entrepreneurs who I am sure will be driving economic growth and employment in Dacorum in future years.

Sometimes a relatively small investment in a business idea can go a long way.”

Chris Taylor, Dacorum Borough Council’s Group Manager for Strategic Planning & Regeneration said: “Dacorum Borough Council is supporting economic growth and employment in a number of ways, encouraging inward investment and business growth, the Regeneration projects and Dacorum’s Den. “It’s not all about large amounts of money and big projects. Sometimes a little bit of help can go a long way.”

The Dacorum’s Den judges were: Mike Penning MP; Andy Cook (FFEI); Chris Taylor (Dacorum Borough Council); Ambi Singh (Corona Properties) and Peter Willson (Hopespare). Winning businesses will also benefit from one to one support from business advisor and assistant team leader of the DBC Economic Wellbeing team, Lesley Crisp. Lesley will guide each of these businesses to ensure growth and development, which is a free service Lesley offers to all local businesses.

The judging took place on Friday, June 12 at Maylands Business Centre and the winning projects are: Acorn Wellbeing Centre, in Old Town, Hemel Hempstead. Self-employed therapist Helen Lehre, 51, and her team of clinical therapists are developing counselling services, including for bereavement. They will be using their £1,500 Dacorum’s Den money to market their services.

Balance Chiropractic, will be opening in Queensway, in Hemel Hempstead in July 2015.

Run by directors Aliya Musa, 54, and Sherie Booth, 53, they are planning an active health festival in Hemel Hempstead in January 2016.

They will be using the £1,000 Dacorum’s Den money to buy a spinal analysis machine that they can take on to the streets to show people about their posture.

Electronics machinery company JE2 is based in Maylands Business Centre, in Hemel Hempstead and is run by John Ellison, 53, along with his wife, Gerry and his nephew Jake McCauley.

He is developing machinery to fill the gaps in double glazed windows with inert gases.

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This green technology stops heat from escaping through windows. Before moving to the business centre, John started out in his garage at home. JE2 has been awarded £2,000.

Mustard Pix is run by Dean Williamson, 45, in Hemel Hempstead. It will involve a specialist photographic studio to take pictures of riders and their prized motorcycles. Dean will use his award of £1,500 to buy equipment and fit out his studio.

Pink Lemon Cakery is run by Carina Parkinson, 34. in Nash Mills. Carina will be using her award of £1,000 towards equipment for her children’s cupcake decorating parties.

Her unique buttercream colour and flavour combinations are not only fun and different but also challenge the senses.

Puddingstone Distillery is the brainchild of husband and wife team Ben, 42, and Kate Marston, 40, from Tring. They are planning to launch a new brand of gin, called Campfire, from their distillery in Wilstone.

They will be using the £1,000 awarded to launch and market a Crowdfunding project to lever in more investment. Alongside the gin there will be tours, tastings and other unique events.

Twee is run by Lauran Wise, 33, from Great Gaddesden, who sells home made jams, chutney and honey at shows and fetes and from local shops.

Lauran’s mum, Carolyn, is a beekeeper and her brother is Tim Wise, is involved with Treelife.

Lauran plans to use her award of £2,000 to buy a top of the range gazebo which she can use at shows.

Issue Nine

22

in the news

In the news Rugby World Cup Plans are on track to deliver a celebration of rugby in Milton Keynes during the World Cup, held in England and Cardiff between September 18 and October 31 this year.

Events being planned include A Trophy Tour around the UK and Ireland, where rugby’s greatest prize, the Webb Ellis Cup, will visit Milton Keynes on August 20 and 21, an official Fanzone in Campbell Park, a nationwide Festival of Rugby, a free outdoor Clash of Drums

spectacular on the streets of Milton Keynes and much more.

Cllr Hannah O’Neill said: “Rugby World Cup 2015 is an opportunity for people in Milton Keynes to be part of one of the largest sporting events in the world.

“There is so much to look forward to with sporting and cultural events for all to enjoy in the City and at Campbell Park as well as a host of clubs and communities embracing the tournament.

“Planning with partners is going very well and we are pulling on the experience of hosting other major events to ensure Rugby World

Creating a buzz In its efforts to embrace sustainable car travel, Aylesbury Vale District Council has had three new electric vehicle charging points installed at its offices.

The Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) has provided 75 per cent of the costs with the remaining funding coming from Nissan and Charge Your Car Ltd.

Rapid The charging points installed in Gatehouse Road, Aylesbury are ‘rapid’ rather than trickles chargers which owners would use at home.

This means that cars can be re-charged in 20 to 30 minutes.

The council is planning to make the charging points available for members of the public to use on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Two electric vehicles are currently being used

by AVDC as part of its pool car scheme, saving money on fuel costs and reducing carbon emissions. The Nissan Leaf cars – provided

by Enterprise Rent-A-Car – are used by staff travelling on council business.

Summer 2015

Cup 2015 in Milton Keynes will be a truly unforgettable experience.”

Tickets are on sale now for a number of Rugby World Cup 2015 matches including all three matches at Stadium MK. Go to the official ticketing website tickets.rugbyworldcup.com to find out more.

Road closures The last planned major road closures taking place for the Bedford Western Bypass project are on the horizon.

The final section of the bypass will complete a link all the way from the A421 south of Bedford to the A6 heading north of the town, and will divert traffic away from the town centr.

These last major road closures will affect road users of the A6 north of Bedford and mark a major milestone in the project, which is currently on track to be delivered on schedule in the first half of 2016.

The road closures along Paula Radcliffe Way and Clapham Road will take place overnight for 15 days, from 8pm until 6am between Monday July 20 until Saturday August 8.

Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said “I am very pleased that the Western Bypass Project is being delivered on time and in budget, and that these last major road closures will soon be over. Thank you to residents and road users who have been patient despite the disruption whilst the works have taken place along the route. Rest assured, the closures will soon be over and out of the way, as progress towards completion of this crucial project continues apace.”

Editorial and advertising enquiries: inspire@communitycommunications.co.uk | 07931 973967

in the news

23

Recruitment Waste A solar power company is putting some of its energy into cutting red tape employment laws - because it actively WANTS to recruit older workers.

In true B&Q style, Ecohouse UK Ltd, based in Edlesborough, near Dunstable, is trying to say ‘you can do it’ to retired and semi retired people by recruiting them for sales work.

But discrimination laws prevent them from stating this in a recruitment advert.

Ecohouse director Ian Hornblow said: “Obviously we recruit younger people too; we have no problem with a young work force -

in fact we’re looking for bright young school leavers or students this summer.

“But older people, particularly if they are retired or semi retired, have so much to offer in terms of skills, experience and commitment. To us, there is nothing more reassuring than calm competence of the mature worker.”

Under discrimination law, Ian and his business partner are only allowed to include the words ‘would be suited to an older candidate’ in their recruitment ads.

“We want to say we positively welcome middle aged people, those approaching retirement and pensioners. But that would be discrimination, albeit positive discrimination,” said Ian.

Road anthem Inspiration? Sheet music sculpture on the road in Amoy City, China

The Woodside Link will be the first UK road to have its own anthem produced as a collaboration between local residents, visual artist Bettina Furnée and sound artist Marcus Leadley.

People living near the route linking the Woodside Estate in Dunstable to a new junction 11a on the M1 have been invited to contribute to the anthem by recording their own favourite local sounds - using mobile phones or other devices - before uploading them to a specially published web page at https:// centralbedfordshire.wufoo.com/forms/yoursound-from-houghton-regis-and-luton.

You can listen to the contributed field recordings from Houghton Regis and Luton at https://soundcloud.com/your-sound-fromhoughton-regis-andluton.

Selected sounds will become part of a three-minute celebratory sound and image

composition called Anthem for the Road, as part of the public art scheme commissioned from Bettina Furnée by Central Bedfordshire Council, which includes further text and sound pieces, and a community orchard.

When the road opens in September 2016, the finished compositions will be visually represented as large scale paintings on the road’s acoustic barriers and the sound will be available free in various formats, including website download, app and CD. Cllr Brian Spurr, Executive Member for Community Services at Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “When building a new road it is important to respect the people and environment in the surrounding area. This anthem for the Woodside Link is a way of capturing local life in all its diversity, as a way of saying ‘you’re important to us’ as we embrace change and progress.”

To find out more about contributing to the anthem for the Woodside Link and to book a free place on a workshop, visit www. centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/woodsidelinkart.

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park Construction work on Milton Keynes Waste Recovery Park (MKWRP) has reached another milestone – with work completed to install the tallest section of the facility.

A 55m high steel stack is now in place following a week-long installation programme.

The stack has been installed in three parts, with the sections weighing 14, 16.5 and 17 tonnes each and with a diameter of 2.3 metres.

The sections were constructed by a specialist manufacturer in Denmark prior to being transported to Milton Keynes and craned into place.

Milton Keynes Waste Recovery Park is located on Dickens Road in Old Wolverton and will bring together three state-of-the-art technologies – Mechanical Treatment, Anaerobic Digestion and Advanced Thermal Treatment - to treat ‘black sack’ waste collected from homes in Milton Keynes. Together, the technologies will increase the amount of recyclable materials which are removed from the waste, in turn cutting the amount of rubbish sent to landfill by 95 per cent.

Elsewhere on site, work continues on cladding the buildings which will house the treatment technologies and a visitor centre. Mechanical treatment technology will be installed in the autumn. Around 70 building specialists are working on site each day.

Following construction completion in January 2016, the facility will go through commissioning and rigorous testing periods before it is fully operational in September 2016.

Issue Nine

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