Government Business Volume 16.11 by Public Sector Publishing

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | Volume 16.11

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

HR/TRAINING

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Please visit www. government business.co.uk for the latest news and events

BUILT ENVIRONMENT Wood pellets, solar panels and much more at Smart Energy â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;09

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Dear Reader, New rules may be introduced to help ensure value for money on council salaries and services. As part of action to show the taxpayer that all government is acting fairly and responsibly in an era of constrained public expenditure, councils will be required to publish the pay and perks of their highest earning 2,500 posts. The proposals will create a new legal requirement for up to 475 local authority bodies to include detailed senior pay information covering salary, bonuses, pensions, perks and compensation pay offs in their next annual statement of accounts. In the current climate, the government is under pressure to make sure every taxpayer’s pound is worked as hard as possible, and transparency is vital in order for this to happen. However, the public’s reaction to published figures must be acknowledged and if it is found that council staff receive unjustified compensation this must be addressed and appropriately dealt with, not swept under the carpet in the hope that the public will forget.

Sofie Lidefjard, Editor editor@psp-media.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE If you would like to receive 12 issues of Government Business magazine for £95 a year, please contact Public Sector Publishing, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055, Fax: 020 8532 0066, or visit the Government Business website at: P NEWS P FEATURES P PROFILES P CASE STUDIES P EVENTS P AND MORE

8 www.governmentbusiness.co.uk GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE PUBLISHED BY PUBLIC SECTOR PUBLISHING LTD 226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Editor Sofie Lidefjard Assistant Editor Angela Pisanu Production Editor Karl O’Sullivan Production DESIGN Jacqueline Grist Production CONTROL Reiss Malone

MEMBER OF THE PERIODICAL PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION

Advertisement Sales Debbie Green, Julie Watson, Stephen Day, Kelly Scott, Kylie Glover, Kati Ackerman, Simon Cooney, Jayne Dula, David Morgan, Julia David, Sally Brockman Sales Administration Jackie Carnochan Administration Charlotte Casey, Victoria Leftwich Publisher John O’Leary Group Publisher Barry Doyle REPRODUCTION & Print Argent Media

© 2009 Public Sector Publishing Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. ISSN 1362 - 2541 The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Contents GOVERNMENT BUSINESS 16.11

7 NEWS 11 MONEY MATTERS The Institutional Money Market Funds Association explains the benefits of money market funds

17 SECURITY The ban on liquids in hand luggage on planes is set to be relaxed, however, advanced screening technologies must be in place in order for this to happen

21 PUBLIC SAFETY Planning, response and recovery are key topics at the Emergency Services Show, 24-25 November

25 CONFERENCES & EVENTS The Green Tourism Business Scheme is the national sustainable tourism certification scheme for the UK The South West destinations of Dorset, Bournemouth & Poole, Wiltshire, Bath, Bristol and Gloucestershire have a great deal to offer the event organiser Event organisers are beginning to realise the potential of academic venues as a credible option Find inspiration along the south coast of England and the cities of Southampton, Portsmouth, Brighton and Eastbourne

39 BUILT ENVIRONMENT London Fire Brigade is one of 12 organisations across England and Scotland to achieve the new Carbon Trust Standard Leading industry experts within the Environmental Industries Commission have launched new carbon management lobby The Smart Energy Show is a new conference and exhibition aimed at helping users benefit from the opportunities available The Local Government Information Unit looks at the role for local authorities when it comes to flood risk management CIRIA discusses the Local Authority Network on Drainage and Flood Risk Management

53 FACILITIES MANAGEMENT The Facilities Management Association guides us through savings and improvements in the public sector estate

59 HR/TRAINING CIPD’s Annual Conference and Exhibition this year takes place 17-19 November in Manchester

63 INCENTIVES & REWARDS Christmas is coming and it’s time to reward your staff for their hard work

66 RECYCLING & WASTE MANAGEMENT This year’s Recycling & Waste Management Exhibition was a huge success firmly establishing the event as the leading exhibition for the recycling and waste management sector

69 GREEN OFFICE SUPPLIES The BOSS Environment Certificate enables companies to assess the steps being taken to reduce environmental impact of how products are produced

72 LANDSCAPING & GROUNDSCARE If your business is in turf management, the groundscare industry or club facility management then make it your business to attend Harrogate Week Technical performance, economics and the environment are three reasons why the synthetic turf industry continues to grow

The Business Magazine for government

People who

deliver

The Appointments Commission is the only organisation in England dedicated to public appointments, recruiting and selecting the best possible people to non-executive roles in all areas of public life. Our proactive and imaginative approach ensures we attract a diverse range of high-calibre candidates for your public appointments. We are, like our clients, a public sector body; not only do we understand the challenges Government bodies face and the complex environment in which they operate but, as an NDPB, we face those same challenges ourselves and are required to navigate the same complex landscape.

To find out more about how we can help with your public appointments, visit

www.appointments.org.uk

Specialists In Debt Recovery

WHO HASN’T PAID YOU THIS MONTH? “We’re not just another debt recovery agency”

Established since 1971 we are the proven market leader in both utility and governmental debt recovery. We specialise within this field and consistently out perform all our competitors. Our “No Collection, No Fee” policy ensures that the onus is on us to produce excellent results. We are the proven debt recovery specialists, we guarantee to maximise your collections. Act now by calling Inter-Credit International for further information or visit our web site. Tel: 020 8482 4444 Website: www.intercred.com

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

NEWS

NEWSINBRIEF

Address domestic emissions, says report new Audit Commission report urges councils to take a lead role on reducing the carbon footprints of homes, responsible for one third of England's greenhouse gas emissions. The report, entitled ‘Lofty Ambitions – the role of councils in reducing domestic CO2 emissions’ proposes that cutting carbon emissions from homes can be achieved far more quickly and cheaply than those from industry or transport. Lagging, insulating, re-glazing and modernising can make homes more energy efficient. The report brands the government's £2.7

billion a year winter fuel payments as a missed opportunity to keep people warm and to reduce CO2. The current system pays out to all older people despite three quarters not being classified as fuel poor, and provides no incentives to reduce CO2 emissions. The report says the payments fail to focus on those in the greatest need and do not provide a long-term solution. The report calls on government to re-think winter fuel payments, and gives councils practical examples on how they can tackle emissions while at the same time reduce fuel poverty.

London’s lowest rate of alcohol-fuelled crimes revealed ichmond upon Thames has the lowest level of alcohol related crimes in London, the Public Health Observatory’s latest alcohol report reveals. There were just 6.51 crimes per thousand people in Richmond upon Thames, compared with central London, which had the highest level at 18 crimes per thousand, in 2008-9. Measures that have led to this success include the introduction of controlled drinking zones in Richmond and Twickenham town centres,

which give police discretion to confiscate alcohol from drinkers who are causing a nuisance. Premises applying for an alcohol licence must prove they will not add to the level of nuisance through extra noise or violence and the Council’s Pub Watch scheme allows pubs to inform each other and police of drunken behaviour so that it can be tackled promptly. Dispersal Orders have also been used by police, who have power to tell people causing a problem that they must leave a particular area.

Government sets out next steps to tackle fuel poverty he government has announced its next steps to help low income homes deal with high energy bills, following the release of the seventh annual Fuel Poverty Report. It plans to take more action to help the poorest insulate their homes. The government is increasing obligations on energy companies to help the most vulnerable and plans to set up a “Super” Priority Group obligation as part of the extension of the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) to 2012. Up to 90,000 homes in England, Scotland and Wales will receive help to get whole-house energy makeovers to save hard-pressed families around £300 per year on energy bills. Energy companies, in partnership with local authorities, will deliver around £350m of energy efficiency measures under the Community Energy Saving Programme CESP over the next three years.

New measures to support value for money in local government Local government Minister Rosie Winterton has announced new measures to help ensure value for money on council salaries and services. The proposals will create a new legal requirement for up to 475 local authority bodies to include detailed senior pay information covering salary, bonuses, pensions, perks and compensation pay-offs in their next annual statement of accounts. This will help show the taxpayer that all government is acting fairly and responsibly in an era of constrained public expenditure. Winterton also committed a further £31.7m to help councils and local service delivery partners find new ways to achieve efficiency savings, improve services, shape markets, and encourage greater innovation. The funding will be distributed through the nine council-led Regional Improvement and Efficiency Partnerships (RIEPS). RIEPS drive efforts to use procurement and innovation savings to improve local services or keep council tax down.

Guidance to improve library services The Museum, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) has published new online guidance to help library services meet wider local priorities and maintain a comprehensive and efficient service. As the pressure on public sector finances mounts, and with the Wirral inquiry in the pipeline, the MLA guidance is designed to help library services meet wider local priorities and maintain a comprehensive and efficient service. The website guidance highlights case studies from across the country illustrating how libraries have improved their services by redefining strategic priorities, restructuring the workforce, community consultation and co-location with other services.

Pilot scheme to help those affected by cancer at work

In addition, the government plans to tackle prices for the most vulnerable by putting voluntary social tariffs on a statutory footing. There will also be tougher regulation to make sure all consumers get a fair deal and the government plans to give Ofgem new powers to police abuses in the market. The latest official statistics show 2.8 million homes in 2007 were classed as fuel poor in England.

Macmillan Cancer Support has launched a pilot scheme to provide guidance to people affected by cancer in the workplace, which includes cancer patients, line managers, HR professionals and carers. The scheme is being launched with Nationwide and Ford who have worked with Macmillan to provide information and evidence on current practices and issues within the workplace. The pilot will run with these partners across their organisations for nine months to test the delivery and impact of the materials that have been produced, with a view to launching them to organisations across the UK from summer 2010. Cancer is covered by the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), which means employers are legally obliged to make reasonable adjustments for employees who are affected. The toolkit contains extensive information for employees and managers including how cancer affects people, how to speak to people affected by cancer, workplace support strategies, personal finances and legislation.

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

BE INSPIRED WITH SINGULARITY Utilising ‘Agile Delivery’ to transform service delivery for disabled children in Suffolk In early 2009, Singularity was chosen by Suffolk-based Customer Service Direct to work with them to develop a new website, www.activities-unlimited.co.uk. The aim of the site was to showcase short breaks for disabled children in the county, allowing people to get details of holidays, request bookings, and create online communities using innovative web 2.0 tools such as Facebook, YouTube and Flickr. Background Set up in 2004, Customer Service Direct (CSD) is a joint venture between Suffolk County Council, Mid Suffolk District Council and BT. It was set up to transform and improve services in Suffolk and manages ICT, HR, Finance and Customer Access for the two councils. Key drivers for the new website The UK Government has made improving service delivery to disabled children and their families a priority, both nationally and locally, a commitment confirmed in the NHS Operating Framework and in the Children’s Plan. Aiming High for Disabled Children (AHDC), launched in May 2007, is the transformation programme for disabled children’s services. Suffolk County Council became one of only 21 authorities in England to be named as a ‘pathfinder’ authority. It planned to transform support services for disabled children, young people and their families throughout the county. A vital part of the plan was to be the launch of a new website delivering a travel agency style service, which would enable disabled children, young people and their parents and carers to book short breaks. Challenges CSD, as Suffolk County Council’s provider of ICT services, was asked to deliver the new website and faced a number of major challenges. The website was to be delivered in a very short timeframe within a tightly controlled budget, whilst also making sure it was user friendly for all of the target audiences and providing high standards in web accessibility and user satisfaction. As part of agreeing the right requirements and priorities, it was essential to draw out the needs of the users, the children and their families along with volunteer administrators and the management team. Technical considerations such as site reliability had to be balanced against requirements like flexibility and cost. Norman Mellor, CSD website programme

The Business Magazine for government

manager, explains: “The website’s objectives were very important. It was essential we met the needs of disabled children and provided opportunities for people to provide feedback on the short breaks provided.” CSD looked for a partner that would be able to work quickly and accurately. Aware of Singularity’s experience in delivering highspeed ‘Agile’ projects for other government agencies they decided to utilise their expertise to help create a compelling new website. Norman Mellor continues: “Successful websites evolve by responding to users’ views and opinions, and incorporating these into later iterations of the site. The Agile approach worked very well for us because it didn’t prescribe what could and couldn’t be done right at the outset. Instead, the site evolved over three iterations, based on feedback we got from an extensive engagement programme. Singularity’s Agile approach really supported this was of working and was an ideal way to help us achieve our objectives.” Solution In March 2009, CSD with the help of Singularity set about creating and developing the new website using its Agile methodology ASAP. The project kicked off with representatives of Suffolk County Council joining CSD and Singularity staff in an intense three-day competitive ‘hothouse’ workshop to define the target solution and delivery plan. Two teams were selected, composed of IT, business and user representatives. The teams then competed to define the best possible site design and functionality, with a winning team chosen at the end of each day and an overall winner chosen on day three. The output of the workshop was a detailed prototype and delivery plan combining the best elements of both teams’ designs. The team structure and the intense competition of the hothouse helped ensure buy-in and commitment from all the participants, which was critical in ensuring the subsequent ’release’ of the winning solution.

The release phase consisted of tightly controlled iterations, typically four week time boxes to deliver prioritised requirements culminating in a showcase of the delivered working software. To be successful this approach required a high level of co-operation, flexibility and partnership from all participants. The Agile techniques employed allowed CSD to achieve the maximum business benefit possible in the allotted timescale. Singularity was able to prioritise and deliver the features that offered the most business value while less valuable functionality was scheduled for a future iteration. Working in this way also had the added advantage of allowing the end budget to be tightly managed by controlling the deliverables and priorities within each time box. Results Conrad Simons, head of programme development and business improvement, CSD, says: “With the help of Singularity, CSD has created an exciting new website that will appeal directly to the target audience. It has a good use of colour and adheres to the AA accessibility guidelines. The website displays clear, readable, fully scalable text, all of which helps makes it easier for disabled users to interact with the services we provide.” John Blennerhassett, director of Singularity’s Government unit concludes: “Using the Agile delivery approach we have helped CSD to implement a new online web portal quickly and effectively, ensuring good communication among all the participants as we did so. We delivered on time and within budget and we also made sure that the features we delivered align with CSD’s business priorities. I think this demonstrates that Singularity’s ASAP methodology is a fast, flexible way to deliver improved business processes in the public sector. It recognises that requirements change, and the best way to support change is through collaborative, iterative and rapid deployments, delivering value early and value often.”

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

NEWS

£20m to cut government carbon emissions

20 million is to be invested in innovative energy efficiency measures to cut emissions and energy bills in central government departments. The allocation is part of the package of £405 million low carbon funding announced at the Budget in April to help establish the UK as a market leader in renewable technology and advance green manufacturing. The £20 million will be invested in helping government departments go further in reducing their carbon emissions across their estates, realising both carbon and financial

savings. Successful solutions can then be replicated elsewhere in the public sector. Energy and Climate Change Minister Joan Ruddock said: “We know it’s important to show leadership in this area – if we want everyone else to retrofit their homes it's important government buildings also get some treatment. “Some of the money will go on energy efficiency, some on smart meters, some on low carbon cars, and some will go on mapping the possibilities of renewable energy on public land – that will be led by the Forestry Commission.”

Safeguarding of vulnerable groups enhanced new era in safeguarding children and vulnerable adults has started this month, as local authorities now have a duty to refer any concerns to the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). Local authorities and all other regulated activity providers must now refer information to the ISA if they have concerns that an employee or volunteer has caused harm or there is a risk of harm to a child or vulnerable adult.

Sir Roger, Chair of the ISA said: “This is the first major step in enhancing safeguarding to vulnerable groups, since the creation of the ISA. It brings with it a new era, where under the Vetting and Barring Scheme we are strengthening information sharing with employers and regulatory bodies to reduce the opportunities for unsuitable people having access to children and vulnerable adults.”

Cooking oil powers council’s recycling trucks ondon’s Islington Council has launched a fleet of businesswaste recycling trucks, fuelled by discarded cooking oil from the very restaurants they serve. The service, launched with the council’s contractors Enterprise, features three new vehicles with compartments for different materials – rather than one vehicle for each type of material – meaning far fewer vans and lorries on the road. The fleet can now collect a wider range of materials including glass, plastic packaging, paper, cardboard and tins. Cllr Greg Foxsmith, Islington Council’s executive member for environment, said: “This is a great example of ‘what goes around comes around’ and shows how everything that’s thrown out can be a valuable resource.”

NEWSINBRIEF New scheme to increase BAME women in power The first national mentoring programme designed to increase the numbers of black, Asian and minority ethnic women (BAME) becoming local councillors has been launched by Maria Eagle, Deputy Minister for Women and Equality. BAME women account for less than one per cent of all local councillors in England, despite making up nearly five per cent of the population. To fully reflect society, the number of women BAME councillors would have to rise nearer to 1,000. The ground-breaking mentoring programme, commissioned by the Government Equalities Office and run by Operation Black Vote, will provide development and training to 60 BAME women in up to 30 local authorities with the aim of seeing these women take the next steps into public life.

Fruit and veg task force to get England growing A new Task Force will help England to grow and eat more fruit and vegetables and improve the nation’s health, Environment Secretary Hilary Benn has announced. Comprising growers, retailers, consumers and agricultural researchers, the Fruit and Vegetables Task Force will develop an action plan to increase the production and consumption of fruit and vegetables. The new group will look at ways to get people growing their own fruit and vegetables, as well as ways to support England’s commercial growers – and to get people choosing local fruit and veg, particularly when it’s in season.

£120 million investment for Wales development Andrew Davies, the Minister for Finance and Public Service Delivery, has announced almost £120 million capital investment for Wales for 2010/11 to build new homes, provide better schools and hospitals and safeguard and create jobs. Allocations have been agreed for sums up to £118.3 million from the Welsh Assembly Government’s Strategic Capital Investment Fund. Funding from existing departmental capital budgets, other parts of the public sector, and the private and voluntary sectors will increase this investment to £300 million. The 10 projects allocated funding are £20 million for affordable housing, £35m for the Ebbw Vale Learning Works, including development of 3-16 school provision and a sports/leisure and arts centre, and £12m for the Taf Ely Learning Campus. £5.3m will be allocated to school buildings in Gwynedd, £10m for three emergency Strategic Coordination Centres, and £15m for an arts and science centre at Bangor University. £8.5m will be set for a new Emergency Care Centre at Prince Charles Hospital, £8m for the Children’s Hospital for Wales and £3.5m for the Glyn Vivian Art Gallery in Swansea. £975,000 will go towards eco-lighting at 17 monuments.

The Business Magazine for government

Written by Gail Le Coz, chief executive of the Institutional Money Market Funds Association

MONEY MATTERS

Understanding money market funds Money market funds are mutual funds that invest in high quality, short-term money market securities. For investors, these funds are as simple to use as bank deposits, whilst offering extra advantages If an investor places money in one bank deposit account, all of their risk is linked to a single bank. On the other hand, money market funds are required by law to invest in securities issued by several entities (e.g. banks, governments, companies), and many hold securities from dozens of issuers. As a result, an investor in a money market fund has limited exposure to any one issuer, frequently less than two per cent of their total investment. Investment in a money market fund also provides access to a professional cash management team. The investment manager will employ dedicated portfolio managers and credit analysts who can extensively analyse potential investments.

These benefits are provided for a fee which is small when compared with the likely cost of having such resources in-house. Money market funds are required by law to have their assets held by a depositary. The fundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s custodian will hold the fundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assets in a separate, ring-fenced account which is identified as belonging to the fund. This provides an additional level of security for investors. Investors in a money market fund are considered shareholders of this investment account, or part owners of the fund. Comparing money market funds Whilst all money market funds offer advantages compared to bank deposits, not all money market funds are the same. Money market

funds are generally managed to provide capital security, liquidity and competitive money market returns. However, some funds concentrate more on capital security and/or liquidity, whereas others put more emphasis on achieving competitive money market returns. With no two funds being equal, some simple comparisons can allow an investor to gain an understanding of how risky one fund is with respect to another. Although many money market funds are managed according to conservative guidelines, these funds are not risk free and are not guaranteed. Appreciating the risks associated with a given fund will allow an investor to best identify the fund which meets their needs. Investment risks that are frequently considered

The Business Magazine for government

Building world-class investment performance takes the right architect.

Diversiﬁed and focused investment styles. At BNY Mellon Asset Management, our goal is to build and deliver distinctive investment performance for our clients. It starts with our multiple, autonomous investment ﬁrms — world-class boutiques representing a broad spectrum of investment styles. Drawing on this comprehensive range of investment capabilities, we collaborate with you to deliver our expertise, including unique solutions that are designed to match your requirements. We manage more than US$926 billion in assets on a behalf of a broad range of investors worldwide. Working together, we can help you reach your goals.

For further information please contact us on +44 (0)20 7163 2248 www.bnymellonam.com This advertisement is a ﬁnancial promotion and is not intended as investment advice. The information provided may not be used for the purpose of an offer or solicitation in any jurisdiction or in any circumstances in which such offer or solicitation is unlawful or not authorised. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. The value of investments and the income from them is not guaranteed and can fall as well as rise due to stock market and currency movements. When the investment is sold the amount received could be less than that originally invested. To help us continually improve our service and in the interest of security, we may monitor and/or record your telephone calls with us. The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation holds 91% of the parent holding company of Alcentra group, a 19.9% minority interest in The Hamon Investment Group Pte Limited, the parent company of Hamon Asset Management Limited and a 50:50 joint ownership with WestLB AG in WestLB Mellon Asset Management. BNY Mellon Beta Management is a division of The Bank of New York Mellon, a wholly-owned banking subsidiary of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation. BNY Mellon Cash Investment Strategies is a division of The Dreyfus Corporation. Provisional assets under management have been provided by each asset manager as at 30 June 2009. Total assets under management include the asset managers outlined in this ﬁnancial promotion as well as BNY Mellon Wealth Management. Issued by BNY Mellon Asset Management International Limited. BNY Mellon Asset Management International Limited, The Bank of New York Mellon Centre, 160 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 4LA. Registered in England No. 1118580. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. CP 4200-18-09-2009 (3M) 18169

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

MONEY MATTERS

ABOUT IMMFA It is the trade association for providers of triple-A rated money market funds. IMMFA’s main objective is to ensure that members offer a high quality product and service to investors. It aims to achieve this by: • maintaining a Code of Practice for the industry; • providing generic information and performance data about the funds; • lobbying governments and regulatory bodies for appropriate treatment of institutional money market funds; • supporting the formal recognition of institutional money market funds in the UK, Europe and elsewhere. when analysing money market funds include interest rate, credit and liquidity risk. Interest rate risk Since money market funds hold fixed income securities, they are impacted by changes in interest rates. The value of these securities generally increases whenever interest rates decline. As the Bank of England has recently been lowering interest rates, money market

Our best now even better. fi 5900C fi-5900C fi-4860C22 fi-6670 / fi-6670A A

fi-6750S

fi-66770 67 / fi--6770A

PRODUCTION N SCANNERS

VRS Professional incluuded

DEPARTMENT TAL SCANNERS S

WORKGROUP P SCANNERS S

VR RS Professional includded

VRS Profe fessionaal inclu luded

fi-4340C

What makes a good family? You can rely on every single member. With Fujitsu you are in safe hands and can rely on us and our product family members. With decades of experience, market and technology leadership*, Fujitsu scanners are state-of-the-art. Fujitsu has exactly the scanner that suits your specific needs.

fi-61 6140 fi-5530C C2 C2 fi-6240 fi 6240

fi 6230 fi-6230

fi-6130

How can our best grow even better? By finding the ideal partner and combining industry proven solutions. Fujitsu scanners are now supplied with VRS capturing tools right out of the box. Document capture with Fujitsu scanners will thus be even easier, faster and more reliable by basically pressing a button. Simply said: A good family unit.

www.milk-and-honey.de

For further information please visit http://emea.fujitsu.com/scanners

* Infosource Scanner Market Report Spring 2006

All names, manufacturer names, brand and product designations are subject to special trademark rights and are manufacturer‘s trademarks and/or registered brands of their respective owners. All indications are non-binding. Technical data is subject to change without prior notification.

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

MONEY MATTERS

funds with more sensitivity to interest rate risk have benefited (since the value of the securities which they owned increased). When interest rates will rise, funds with less sensitivity to interest rates will benefit. Investors can measure the interest rate risk of a money market fund using modified duration, or Weighted Average Maturity (WAM). Both of these statistics are calculated based on the estimated cash flows of the securities, i.e. initial principal invested and interest received during the security’s life. The longer the modified duration or the higher the WAM, the more the fund will react to changes in interest rates. As shown above, the economic environment conditions determine whether or not it is beneficial to take on interest rate risk. Credit risk Certain types of money market funds only invest in government securities. Sterling government money market funds can only buy gilts, which benefit from the top rating of the UK (AAA). Investors looking for a slightly higher return can invest in traditional money market funds, which invest in short-term gilts and money market securities issued by corporations. When purchasing short-term sterling securities issued by corporations, investors take on the risk that the company will default, or not pay back the initial principal. In return for taking on this credit risk, investors in these bonds get a higher return than gilts with a similar maturity. Investors can evaluate the credit risk of a money market fund by looking at the credit ratings of the securities held by the fund. Additionally, credit risk is sometimes approximated by Weighted Average Life (WAL), or the weighted average final maturity of the securities in the fund. A fund with higher credit quality, or lower WAL, should be less susceptible to losses due to issuer defaults. However, as mentioned above, these funds are likely to offer a lower return. Liquidity risk During the recent financial crisis, many fixed income securities effectively stopped trading. This presented a problem for investors in these securities, including money market funds, as it was not possible to sell the securities to obtain cash. During this time, investors had to resort to ‘natural liquidity’, or the maturing of their investments. Even in a market with no trading – which is very rare – when a security matures the fund will automatically receive the initial principal invested (barring any defaults as mentioned above). Funds invested in securities that mature will receive these proceeds, and can then pass them along to investors wishing to exit the fund. Investors can estimate the liquidity of a money market fund by looking at the amount of securities maturing overnight and in one week. Holding securities with very short maturities, such as overnight and one week, will provide

The Business Magazine for government

natural liquidity to the fund irrespective of the market conditions. However, funds which hold a large amount of securities with very short maturities are likely to offer a lower return in a normal interest rate environment. Obtaining additional information In order to obtain more information about money market funds, investors can look at copies of 1) the fund’s prospectus, which is a detailed description of how the fund is set up and makes its investments, 2) a simplified version of this prospectus, as well as 3) the fund’s annual report. Investment managers also publish monthly factsheets which provide a brief overview of the fund and its performance. The simplified prospectus and factsheets often include many of the statistics to measure investment risk, which are mentioned above. Additionally, several data providers publish

regular information on money market funds, including many of these statistics. Some of these services are freely accessible via the internet, whereas others require a subscription. In all cases, investors can contact the investment manager for more information on how the fund is managed. Before investing, it is key to identify a suitable investment which provides prudent cash management. Money market funds can provide a viable means of obtaining both security and liquidity. However, given the variety of funds available, an investor should carefully assess any fund and consult with financial professionals before investing.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To learn more about IMMFA and its work, please refer to www.immfa.org

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

MONEY MATTERS

Meeting public sector liquidity needs Colin Cookson, head of liquidity at Aviva Investors, discusses the challenges the public sector faces in managing cash – and how to overcome them Clients, whether in the public or private sector, repeatedly tell us that investing in liquid assets takes up more management time, is more costly, and presents more difficulties than they envisaged. The dramatic events of the past 18 months have made matters even worse, with issues of risk and even the security of bank deposits a perpetual concern. The biggest issues, arguably, are finding appropriate counterparties for these cash investments – and the amount of time and resource tied up in managing a basket of segregated accounts, cash deposits and direct investment in money market securities. It was with these clients in mind that Aviva Investors developed the Dynamic Liquidity Solution. While no two clients are the same, they often face the same issues – the need for a flexible, easily managed solution for cash which offers an adaptable portfolio to meet changing liquidity and return requirements cost-effectively and efficiently. This innovative product is based on Aviva Investors’ four liquidity funds, detailed in the table below, which includes the marketleading Sterling Government Liquidity Fund and Sterling Liquidity Fund. Colin Cookson, Head of Liquidity at Aviva Investors says “By proactively managing the

allocation of investments across these funds, we can tailor an adaptable portfolio to meet investors’ changing liquidity and return requirements, in a cost effective manner” Our liquidity solution addresses the issues of diversification and credit risk of the overall investments, in a cost effective manner. In the current credit environment, clients do not always have the time or the expertise to analyse the credit risk of the assets they invest in. As part of the fifth largest insurance group in the world*, Aviva Investors brings in-house credit expertise to bear on its funds, each of which is credit rated. Investing in a pooled vehicle also offers an effective way of achieving diversification with the underlying assets providing the appropriate risk, return and maturity characteristics. Furthermore, the dynamic aspect of the portfolio allows fast, efficient switching between funds to help meet changing client needs. The funds involved are managed, in an appropriately conservative manner, by Aviva Investors. The pooled investments allow us to achieve economies of scale and to be entirely transparent in the asset management process, for example sending clients weekly updates on positions, and providing bespoke reports on a monthly basis. This all

By proactively managing the allocation of investments across these funds, we can tailor an adaptable portfolio to meet investors’ changing liquidity and return requirements, in a cost effective manner Fund name

Weighted average maturity

Performance target (gross)

Liquidity

Moody’s Rating

S&P Rating

Sterling Government Liquidity Fund

<60 days

Overnight LIBID

Daily

Aaa MR1

AAAm

Sterling Liquidity Fund

<60 days

7 Day LIBID + 0.10% p.a

Daily

Aaa MR1

AAAm

Sterling Strategic Liquidity Fund

<365 days

7 Day LIBID + 0.25% p.a

T+3

Aaa MR2

N/A

Sterling Core Liquidity Fund

<2 years

3 Month LIBID + 0.50% p.a

T+3

Aa MR1

N/A

Colin Cookson

comes supported by really first-rate client service, from the dedicated client team. The flexibility our liquidity solution offers helps clients adapt to changing times. Having significant amounts of money instantly available might be a requirement one day, but not the next. For example, if a local authority treasurer sees a delay in a building project, with our Dynamic Liquidity Solution, they can simply move cash to a longer-dated, higher-return fund. And, if the situation changes and the money has to be on hand at short notice, we can make that switch too. Moving money between funds with different liquidity – from same-day access to three days – and with different return targets and risk profiles can be a real benefit to treasurers. It’s about making cash work harder, with the right mix or risk and return, and administering money easily and effectively. *Based on gross worldwide premiums for the year ended 31 December 2008

FOR MORE INFORMATION E-mail: colin.cookson@avivainvestors.com

The opinions expressed are those of Aviva Investors Global Services Limited (Aviva Investors). They should not be viewed as indicating any guarantee of return from an investment managed by Aviva Investors nor as advice of any nature. The value of an investment in the Funds and any income from them can go down as well as up. Investors may not get back the original amount invested. Copies of the Full and Simplified Prospectus together with the Report and Accounts of the scheme are available free of charge by contacting us at Aviva Investors Global Services Limited, No. 1 Poultry, London EC2R 8EJ.

The Business Magazine for government

EXPO 2010 14-15 April 2010 | National Hall, Olympia

Countering the Global Threat

Dedicated exhibition for companies of specialist security and counter terrorism technologies and solutions High level conference featuring multiple streams Comprehensive programme of free-to-attend technology and practical workshops Networking Functions

PRE-REGISTRATION ENTRANCE ONLY, ATTENDEES WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO REGISTER ON-SITE

For more information on exhibiting, visiting or attending the conference please contact: Nicola Greenaway Tel: + 44 (0) 208 542 9090 or email: ngreenaway@niche-events.com

R e g i s te r n ow at w w w. co u nt e r t e r ro rex p o. co m

Written by Chris Yates, principal, Yates Consulting

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

SECURITY

Lifting the liquid ban With the legislation governing the carriage of liquid, aerosol and gel products in airline carry-on luggage set to expire in April 2010, the race is on to identify advanced screening technologies that can detect such explosive threats When sentence was handed down in early September on Abdulla Ahmed Ali, Assad Sarwar and Tanvir Hussain for their part in the so-called airliner bomb plot, the convictions brought sharp focus once again on airport security and particularly the ability of the systems in place at airports today to accurately detect and classify Liquid, Aerosol and Gel (LAGs) products as safe for carriage by air or otherwise. Despite the passage of time since the plot first appeared on the counter-terrorism radar screen, no solution to this somewhat important question has been deployed yet. Consequently, the restrictions foisted on travellers in respect of what they can and cannot take aboard an airliner in their hand luggage remain in force. With the temporary European Union legislation governing these restrictions set to expire next year and no clear guidance as yet forthcoming on the issue, airports are becoming increasingly frustrated with the apparent lack of progress being made at the regulatory level. PAINFULLY SLOW PROGRESS The EU in consort with the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) says it remains confident that a range of viable technologies ready for deployment at airports will have been identified before the end of this year. However, anecdotal reports that the joint EU/ ECAC programme is badly managed and in disarray, have done nothing to allay fears within the airport community that much needed guidance is still a distant maybe. These fears have turned out to be well founded. In early October the European Commission announced its decision to extend the LAG restrictions beyond expiry of the current temporary legislation. The announcement reflects delays that have crept into the hardware testing programme. ECAC has been tasked with technical preparations and has been working closely with key security system vendors to ensure the availability of hardware complying with EU standards required to allow an easing if not a lifting of the carry-on restrictions. ECAC has benefited from significant input from regulators in the United Kingdom, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Nevertheless, the problem presented by liquid explosives is said to have proven difficult, and the only general guidance currently available is that deployed solutions must fit into one of four type categories. These categories are as follows: • A = Dip strip chemical analysis type detection. • B = Individual bottle scanners. • C = Automated detection of liquids in

Despite the passage of time since the plot first appeared on the counter-terrorism radar screen, no solution to this somewhat important question has been deployed yet bags and automatic classification of liquid explosive threats outside of bags. • D = Automated detection of multiple liquid explosive threats inside bags. Airports have their sights set on a type D solution and have warned regulators that costly interim solutions are not acceptable in the current financial climate. But type D hardware is not presently available, prompting regulators to focus their efforts on type C equipment for primary screening with at least one other equipment type used for secondary alarm resolution. The European Commission presented its proposal on LAGS at the EU Council of Ministers meeting in Luxembourg on 9 October. It proposes a phased lifting of the ban over the next five years and to the following timetable: • Ban lifted for transit passengers carrying duty free LAGS in April 2010. • Ban lifted for all passengers carrying LAGS through security at airports handling 10 million or more passengers by 2012. • Ban lifted for all passengers carrying LAGS through security at all other airports by 2014. The proposal has thus far been met with a mixed response and formal conclusions are not expected before the Transport Council meets in December. All airport x-ray equipment can readily identify the presence of a bottle or other similar container in a bag. The emergence of

the airliner bomb plot has presented security system manufacturers with the challenge of determining whether the content of that bottle or container is benign or otherwise. Whilst this challenge has been seemingly insurmountable for mainstream hardware vendors, the same cannot be said for others. Level of confidence X-ray imaging in and of itself does not deliver the level of confidence required to begin lifting the LAGs restrictions. What is required is a means to verify that the content of a container is that stated on the label and a means of analysis and classification where doubt exists. Numerous companies have developed methods to achieve compliance and amongst them the principal leaders in the field are Kromek Limited in the United Kingdom, Optosecurity Inc., from Canada and, until recently, the Chinese firm of NucTech. Kromek, formerly known as Durham Scientific Crystals, commercialises technology developed in the Physics labs of Durham University. Specifically, it specialises in making semiconductor materials within the Cadmium Telluride family, which have significant application as x-ray and gamma ray detectors in security screening, medical imaging, industrial inspection and space exploration. The company has been in the media spotlight with its Bottle Scanner product.

The Business Magazine for government

RD1654 KROMEK AD new

23/10/09

13:13

Page 1

Why seeing now means believing. You can see what’s on the bottle. But can you actually see what’s in the bottle? You can with a Kromek Bottle Scanner. Using multi-spectral analysis, our revolutionary new scanner can detect if any threat liquid explosives have been substituted in a bottle or if any narcotics are dissolved in it. And it takes less than 30 seconds. It works with all containers. Glass, metal or plastic. Clear or opaque. The system is a non-invasive desktop unit and no sample preparation is required. It’s fast. It’s accurate. And it’s very simple. Only minimal training is needed to use it.

It could mean an end to bottles not being permitted in security check-in points. It could mean smaller queues at check-in desks. And it could mean increased duty free sales. In fact, Kromek Bottle Scanners could change the way check-in desks operate. Forever. So change the way you operate. Speak to us.

Tel: +44 (0) 1740 625 278 or visit www.kromek.com

CHECKPOINT EVOLUTION OptoScreener® — Automated Liquid Treat Detection Responding to new threats requires a new perspective. The OptoScreener improves the performance of new or existing, single or multi-view X-ray imaging systems with automated detection of liquid threats, including in-bag bottles. The OptoScreener connects directly to the checkpoint X-ray system, and interprets the X-ray signal to discriminate between dangerous and safe liquids. A real-time and an inline system, it does not require secondary processes, ensuring smooth and rapid flow through the checkpoint.

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

SECURITY

This highly capable device scans individual containers in a matter of seconds and generates an unequivocal pass or fail result to the operator. The device meets with EU and US standards and falls into the type C category of advanced screening equipment. “Bottle Scanner has been developed to meet specific needs of airport security, port and border protection agencies. Twin operating modes allow end users to compare the content of a bottle against its multi spectral signature to quickly determine whether that content is benign or not and conduct rapid classification of hazardous liquids, aerosols and gels against a secure customer-specified database. The unit can therefore be deployed as both a threat mitigation tool and as means of narcotic and counterfeit product detection,” comments Nigel Day, commercial director, Kromek Limited. Kromek’s solution is ideally suited as a primary screening solution in lower volume applications (transit duty-free, family and staff security channel screening at airports) and especially as a means of secondary alarm resolution in which its highly accurate analysis capability comes into its own in delivering a level of safety assurance hitherto unavailable. The company also manufactures a desktop 311+ Scanner designed specifically to screen 100 ml containers contained in the clear plastic bags we’ve all become so familiar with producing at airport security. The 311+ Scanner has been developed to enable airports to rapidly determine whether any threat items are present within these plastic bags, and identification is accomplished by means of multi spectral analysis of x-rays using a combination of Kromek detectors and the proprietary ADMIT algorithm. CHECKPOINT SCREENING In the in-line sphere a solution presented by OptoSecurity Inc. is also a leading contender given that detection is accomplished whilst passenger baggage is in the x-ray chamber. The company has expended considerable time in ensuring its OptoScreener solution can be interfaced seamlessly with the existing mainstream legacy x-ray vendor products and deliver value added detection capability to the latest mainstream hardware being offered in the marketplace. “The current generation of in-line checkpoint screening technology must evolve to meet the threats faced now and in the future. We believe that the OptoScreener product delivers that evolutionary step forward in checkpoint screening capability much needed in the airport environment and which provides a level of assurance presently unavailable that what goes in the passenger cabin is safe for carriage. OptoScreener delivers liquid, aerosol and gel explosive as well as other weapons detection capability in-line and in real-time today,” says Eric Bergeron, President and CEO, OptoSecurity Inc. OptoScreener again falls into the type C category and meets both EU and US

operational requirements as either a standalone or integrated solution to the aviation security conundrum faced. The manufacturer continues to develop licensing arrangements that enable current mainstream security system vendors to integrate its solution within current and future airport screening technology. Possible spin-off opportunities presented by this technology include the ability to strip layers from screened cabin baggage in such a way as to leave potential threat items hanging in virtual space. This presents the ability to remove laptops from bags or the person from a body scan in the virtual sense and would help to speed up processing of passengers and obviate privacy issues. NucTech had been a prime contender in the supply of advanced LAG screening technology until recently with its LS8016 Liquid Security Inspection. NucTech signed a contract with HM Revenue & Customs in 2006 to supply its machines to British ports. It also held talks with BAA plc over possible deployment of its hardware solution in the airport environment but no deal is understood to have been reached. However, the company is now mired in the controversy of an extensive and far reaching EC investigation into allegations that it has been plying prospective customers with Chinese Government backed soft loans to purchase its equipment to a degree that precludes free and open competition in the marketplace. The EU investigation coincides with another investigation into alleged corruption in Namibia, which also allegedly received a soft loan from China in order to buy NucTech machines. The company was also recently probed in the Philippines after winning an airport security contract before it had been put to public tender. AIRPORTS TRIAL UNDERWAY Two of the three systems described in this article are undergoing trial deployment at UK airports and results will help to define UK policy in respect of the eventual EU mandated requirement to meet current and future threats faced. Kromek hardware has and continues to be assessed at Newcastle and Manchester airports, whilst the OptoSecurity equipment has and continues to be evaluated in situ at Luton and Manchester airports. Both technology solutions under trial deliver a viable solution to eventual EU mandated airport compliance as well as an evolutionary and cost effective path to type D capability at UK airports over time. Operational trials are one thing but active deployment is quite another though. Should the trials be successful (and there is every reason to expect they will be), it is incumbent upon government to ensure that appropriate conditions exist to encourage airports to deploy such hardware, thus elevating the UK to the position it once held as the leader in advanced airport security solutions.

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

public safety

sponsored by

The Exhibition Over 350 trade exhibitors will form the free exhibition giving unrivalled access to cutting edge technology. The dedicated Networking Zone, which is part of the free exhibition, includes the Blue Light Zone for police, fire and rescue and ambulance services and the Emergency Response Zone, providing a unique opportunity to find out more about specific emergency responders, professional, government and voluntary organisations. Exhibitors this year include the 2012 Olympic Security Directorate, the National Flood Forum, the London Resilience Team and the Health Protection Agency. The networking opportunities presented by the exhibition are an invaluable way to develop interagency collaborations, initiatives and strategies and The Emergency Services Show provides an ideal environment to gain a better understanding of emergency response issues and a forum to debate these with like minded professionals. entwined and how this can achieved by planners to further build resilience. Stephen Grogan, head of Birmingham Resilience Team for Birmingham City Council, will be discussing the initiatives being implemented to take resilience to the next level. He will be sharing his experiences in Birmingham and how these have shaped his thinking on

how multi-agency resilience planning should move forward. In light of the current Swine Flu Professor Nigel Lightfoot, chief advisor for the Health Protection Agency, will be discussing the preparation and response to Swine Flu. A full conference programme is available at www.theemergencyservicesshow2009.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION For further information and to register for the exhibition, Networking Zone (which are free to attend) and the conference visit www.theemergencyservicesshow2009.com

CO Alarms – making NCEC – chemical ‘the silent killer’ audible emergency response e supply and install

W quality Carbon Monoxide

Detectors/Alarms. It is estimated that 30 deaths and hundreds of hospital visits are caused each year in the UK due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide detector alarm technology has in recent years improved greatly; it is now recommended that all households have at least one of these devices fitted. There are a number of carbon monoxide detector alarm manufacturers now providing quality products, covering a good range of customer

The Business Magazine for government

requirements from the DIY enthusiast to the specialist installer. We at Carbon Monoxide Alarms Ltd aim to provide the whole range of services including: advice, sales, installation, testing and most importantly to raise awareness about carbon monoxide; ‘the silent killer’. We are based in Lancashire and have a national network of engineers capable of delivering your requirements.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 0161 408 0082 E-mail: info@co-awareness.com Web: www.co-awareness.com

he National Chemical Emergency Centre (NCEC), part of AEA Group a leading energy and climate change consultancy, has been operating the UK’s national 24-hour chemical emergency response centre since 1973. NCEC’s team of chemical legislation experts and emergency responders delivers fast, up-tothe-minute advice, setting global standards for emergency response and compliance. We also provide a suite of specially developed software to help with chemical hazard identification or safety data sheet and COSHH assessment management. In the UK, NCEC provides a 24-hour advice service to the public emergency services to give them advice on how to deal with chemical incidents as part of the Chemical Industries Association’s Chemsafe scheme. This

makes it one of the most experienced teams in the world in understanding the requirements of both the chemical industry and the emergency services. In addition, NCEC also helps with all aspects of chemical risk management, offering a number of commercial emergency response services worldwide to assist companies in obtaining and providing chemical emergency response advice and information. Our commitment is to provide accurate advice in plain language to protect people, property and the environment.

FOR MORE INFORMATION For more information visit www.the-nec.com or phone +44 (0)870 190 6621 or e-mail ncec@aeat.com

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

public safety

SATELLITE BROADBAND DELIVERS RESILIENT COMMUNICATIONS Getting the message across with satellite broadband Using satellite broadband is probably one of the only ways to achieve reliable and resilient communications in locations where traditional GSM and terrestrial networks are unavailable due to geographical constraints, network overload or even failure. Whether on land or at sea, satellite communications will provide access to high speed broadband services enabling a wide range of voice, data and video applications to be run that allow major incidents to be managed more efficiently and operational outcomes to be enhanced. Interoperability Excelerate Technology is the leading exponent in the development of innovative satellite broadband systems that are now enabling the emergency services and other responders to achieve interoperability and share information to meet their responsibilities under the Civil Contingencies Act. In fact, automatically deployable satellite platforms are now a standard fit for the new generation of mobile incident command units and rapid response vehicles that are currently being specified by police, fire and ambulance services across the UK as well as being retrofitted to existing vehicles. Excelerate is also supplying satellite broadband solutions to local authorities throughout the UK to meet diverse education and business continuity applications. As evidence of the leading market position that has been achieved by Excelerate Technology, the company has been awarded many of the UK’s largest contracts to equip mobile command and control vehicles including the Department of Health’s HART (Hazardous Area Response Teams) programme, South Central Ambulance Service NHS Trust (SCAS), Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service and Thames Valley Police. Excelerate has also won significant contracts recently from Fire and Rescue Services including Fife, Galloway, Durham and Darlington, Wiltshire, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire. Other important contracts include South West Ambulance Service Trust and Police Forces including Gwent and Nottinghamshire. West Midlands Ambulance Service Trust has just taken delivery of a new Mobile Emergency Operations Centre (MEOC) that will further improve the Trust’s resilience and help achieve interoperability with other emergency services during major incidents throughout the region. Excelerate Technology installed a range of technologies including a rapidly deployable roof mounted 98cm satellite dish that enables the use of secure telephony, internet and

email. The five seat MEOC is also fitted with a dual thermal CCTV camera that enables live images to be streamed to headquarters around the clock. It also offers an outdoors briefing facility with a large external plasma touch screen contained under a heated awning. According to Daren Fradgley, Regional Head of Emergency Operations Centres at West Midlands Ambulance Service Trust: “The new MEOC allows us to set up a robust series of command and control arrangements at any incident allowing seamless communications and live streamed pictures where appropriate both night and day to Gold Control and any EOC around the Region. Over the next few months the EOC teams will be training along with the HART team to ensure that we have the best possible arrangements in place for any incident.” Integrated Solutions Automatically deployable satellite platforms can be fully operational within four minutes of arriving at the scene of an incident enabling a wide range of specialised command support applications to run. These include including STEPS (Strategic Emergency Planning Software), advanced GIS mapping, asset management database information and risk information. It also allows the use of email, instant messaging, video-conferencing and the viewing of live CCTV footage from incident and traffic cameras or television news. As well as displaying data and imagery on touch screen displays mounted inside the main ICU, wireless networks can be deployed, enabling personnel using PDAs, mobile data terminals and laptops to access tactical plans or information from STEPS anywhere within operational range. This range can be extended almost indefinitely using Excelerate’s self-powered, rapidly deployable mesh wireless nodes. Stand-alone Solutions In addition to supplying fully integrated solutions, Excelerate Technology supplies many innovative stand-alone solutions that can be rapidly deployed in any environment. They include body worn camera systems that deliver high quality, interference-free images regardless of line-of-sight using COFDM Video and UHF Telemetry. Significantly, these systems enable high quality images to be received from personnel operating inside buildings or tunnels where traditional transmission technologies will not work. Excelerate Technology also provides a comprehensive range of compact portable

satellite solutions that are quick and easy for a single person to operate with motorised setup and automatic antenna positioning. The company is also experiencing and increase in the demand for mobile BGAN solutions that deliver broadband access whilst vehicles are on the move or as a portable solution for access to broadband in hard to reach areas where vehicles cannot gain near access. Investing in research and development and providing a one-stop-shop approach to managing all the integration, real-time network operation and support issues required by the emergency services has enabled Excelerate Technology to consolidate its leading position in the market. This has already led to the company to expand its state-of-the-art project engineering centre situated at St Mellons, Cardiff to meet the demand for an increasing number of projects, whether supplying standalone solutions, retrofitting existing vehicles or building bespoke mobile command and control units.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Excelerate Technology Ltd Willow House, Pascal Close, St Mellons, Cardiff, CF3 0LW Tel: 0845 658 5747 Fax: 08700 516792 E-mail: nicolas@excelerate.info Web: www.excelerate.info

The Business Magazine for government

ALLinONE Meetings

London & South East

Designed with you in mind to save you both time and money, our ALLinONE Meetings package has all the ingredients for a successful meeting – PLUS you can choose one added value option at no extra cost: • 1 in 7 delegates free • Double BusinessClub or BusinessClubAgENt points • Free breakfast or ½ bottle of wine per delegate • Bedroom upgrades • Free Wi-Fi access in the meeting room

To find out more or to book a meeting, visit www.crowneplaza.co.uk/meetingspackage or www.holidayinnmeetings.co.uk/allinone

Day delegate rates* Heathrow

£29 from £39 from

Central London

*Rates per person and include VAT

24hr delegate rates** Heathrow

from

£134

Central London

from

£159 ** Includes full English breakfast

Available at the following hotels:

Holiday Inn London Mayfair

Holiday Inn Sutton

Crowne Plaza London – The City

Holiday Inn Regents Park

Holiday Inn Bexley

Crowne Plaza Heathrow

Holiday Inn Bloomsbury

Holiday Inn Heathrow Ariel

Holiday Inn London Kensington Forum

Holiday Inn Brentcross

Holiday Inn Heathrow M4 J4

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Written by Green Tourism Business Scheme

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

green is the business As the climate increasingly hots up so does the activity to cool down green meetings Green business, the organisation behind the GTBS (Green Tourism Business Scheme), has seen interest from the business market grow steadily. “Greening conference centres seems to be the flavour of the year – perhaps the decade – and we are seeing leading conference centres step up and really focus on going greener. The GTBS has launched its fourth version and has upped the anti for conference centres to gain accreditation,” said Jon Proctor, technical director for the scheme. “Our leading conference centres have taken this challenge very positively and we have seen a dramatic increase in activity. “As our programme requires significant action based environmental good practices as well as a robust management framework with monitoring systems we have found conference centres take significant steps to reduce impacts and emissions. Audits carried out include an advisory assessment of ExCeL, showing significant energy savings, an audit of the ACC in Liverpool, which through effective green teams is delivering concerted actions to reduce water and energy wastage and support renewable technologies, and the SECC, which is driving green issues forward through positive refurbishments and supporting reforesting actions with the Caledonian Forest. “The EICC became the first Gold award winner for version IV of the programme but we expect a number of conference centres in areas such as Glasgow, Liverpool and London to join them at the top table.“ RAISING STANDARDS Going green is no longer a question of a luxury to be enjoyed while sticking to mainstream opulent lifestyles but engineering green into the overall quality of the experience is becoming essential. This is demonstrated by some of the leading London Hotels such as Claridges and the Savoy, which are both building green into their refurbishment plans. As the GTBS requires some form of quality achievement in its procedures we are seeing increasingly commercial businesses finally seeing the green light. This light is now go for a number of hotel groups in the UK and we have seen very commercial groups such as the Ramada Jarvis, Radisson SAS, Jury’s Inns and Park Inn groups all making corporate commitments to join in. With a concerted effort it is quite possible to enjoy a high quality experience and consider the environment and this is proven through the significant number of GOLD award winning 5 star properties in both the City and the country. The Cavendish recently gained a gold

award in green tourism for London and has bespoke green meeting packages and many others are following suit. Gleneagles and Blair Atholl Castle are also gold highlighting that older properties can lead the way too. Credit Crunch In a recession going green with the GTBS makes as much sense as during the boom years. As energy prices become a greater proportion of the running costs of leading business venues, novel and well proven practices need to be established. For example, ExCeL is yielding significant energy savings by using free cooling available in the shoulder months when a well managed business needs neither cooling or heating. If we could get more businesses to follow suit with even this simple low cost action, energy bills, customer service and the sites green credentials would all be enhanced. “It is a most exciting time in our marketplace

opportunities that developing cleaner technologies and products can provide for investment and employment. The Green Tourism Business Scheme, Britain’s leading independently verified accreditation body, has seen membership numbers soar this year. ”We’ve seen a huge increase in enquiries from businesses looking for help to cut their operational costs,” said Andrea Nicholas, director of the GTBS, which has more than 2,000 members across the UK. ”Despite the credit crunch we are still seeing an increase in membership and no evidence of a slow down.” The Green Tourism Business Scheme, which is now operational in all regions of England and Scotland, ensures members have to meet rigorous minimal standards from over 150 measures of best practice before being awarded a bronze, silver or gold award. The measures include a range of actions from efficient lighting and heating, to nature

Greening conference centres seems to be the flavour of the year – perhaps the decade – and we are seeing leading conference centres step up and really focus on going greener and we have seen all businesses we deal with really taking note and making significant strides in their eco performance. We can demonstrate that our progressive businesses are achieving typically 30 per cent savings as well as securing more bookings through the green pound and we are even getting evidence that the best graduates choose green businesses to work for,“ said Jon Procter. The recession looks set to make Britain more environmentally friendly, maintain experts. Academics studying the impact of the global financial crisis on company practices claim that far from ending the green dream it will inject a new wave of enthusiasm for saving money which could actually help save the planet. ”Skeptics who suggest that the recession will put an end to enthusiasm among consumers and companies for the environment are guilty of muddled thinking,” said Professor Ken Peattie of Cardiff University, director of the Centre for Business Relationships Accountability, Sustainability and Society (BRASS). “It assumes that being ‘green’ is more expensive, whereas in many cases it involves using fewer resources, using them more efficiently and avoiding waste – all things that save money. “The premise that firms will give up environmental policies also ignores the

conservation, renewable energy, use of local produce and community involvement. Far from loosing money, studies by Leeds Metropolitan University into green hotels and B&Bs in the UK have shown that they enjoy repeat custom from between 40 and 50 per cent of their visitors, far higher than enjoyed by regular accommodation providers. “There is no danger of the credit crunch spelling the end of the green dream because a lot of the green movement actually leads to eco-savings. If anything the culture will move towards making more efficient use of resources, in terms of water, waste and energy, which will make the eco-movement stronger than ever,” said Dr Xavier Font, director of Studies at the International Centre for Responsible Tourism at Leeds Metropolitan University. “A lot of research has shown that businesses can get the same profit by increasing customers by five per cent or by reducing operating costs by ten per cent. Hotels can reduce water and energy costs by up to 30 per cent with some minimal changes. “The Ramada Jarvis chain of hotels put in an environmental management plan and they saw their utility bills go down from £5m to £4m a year. £1 million saving is surely reason enough to do it.”

The Business Magazine for government

memorable

business events

are you ready for the economic assesment? Overnight Packages from £150 per person*. Day Packages from £35 per person* Where better to open minds and make vision a reality? Set within 400 acres of forest Center Parcs offers a unique environment that provides escape from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day.

For more details please contact the Sales Team on 08443 753 492 or visit www.centerparcs.co.uk/meetings *Selected dates only

From April 2010 it’s a statutory requirement for all Principal Authorities to undertake an economic assessment of their local area. We have one of the longest track records in the development of economic assessments in England. Please contact us for our free guide, an ideal starting point for your assessment. T: 01373 890 100 research@gwebusinesswest.co.uk

www.gwebusinesswestresearch.co.uk

There are conference centres and there is Lakewood... ...meetings, training, corporate events and weddings.

THE BEST IN ANY EVENT Whatever event you are planning, you will find professional and experienced support in organising your event from the team at Lakewood. Our Resident Chef, sources local, organic produce, with the majority of our key ingredients coming from our own farms here on the Mendips. Along with Lakewood itself, we also have our carbon neutral “Eco” barn, which is the perfect venue for your team building events.

Call the Team now for more information!

Lakewood is a sustainable venue, for a greener business! Tel: 01761 463366 • Email: info@lakewoodcentre.co.uk • www.lakewoodcentre.co.uk Rhodyate, Blagdon, Bristol, BS40 7YE Find us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Linked-in.

Conferences Receptions Weddings Seminars

Exhibitions Meetings Functions Holiday Accommodation

For more information on our extensive range of venues, including availability, please contact:

Conference Office The Hawthorns, Woodland Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1UQ Telephone 0117 954 5501 Fax 0117 923 8265 Email conference-office@bris.ac.uk www.bris.ac.uk/conferences

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Creative conferencing If you’re looking to provide delegates with a unique conference experience away from the usual uninspiring locations, then look no further than the South West of England The South West destinations of Dorset, Bournemouth & Poole, Wiltshire, Bath, Bristol and Gloucestershire have an exciting and surprising array of inspirational options for your conference or event. You’ll find plenty of luxurious hotels decked out with modern conference facilities in breathtaking landscapes, as well as some truly unique and unforgettable venues such as grand country houses, private cathedral rooms or even the world’s first steel hulled ship! The region’s three world heritage sites, abundance of outdoor pursuits, gorgeous scenery and good transport links can’t fail to attract delegates from the UK and overseas. DORSET Set in a tranquil part of the south coast, Dorset enjoys charming and unspoilt countryside. Its famous Jurassic Coast has joined the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon as one of the wonders of the natural world. The seaside cities of Bournemouth and Poole have enjoyed a regeneration in recent years and provide a host of excellent locations to hold your event. If you’re looking to impress delegates in grand surroundings then the elegant Lulworth Castle, East Dorset, is set within 12,000 acres of rolling parkland, woods and farmland that provides conference organisers with such a spectacular backdrop that the scope and diversity of possible events are only limited by their imagination. Kingston Maurward House and Gardens, Dorchester, is a Georgian mansion situated in undulating countryside boasting a lake, sweeping lawns and formal gardens creating an exceptional venue for conferences and seminars. Winning Best UK Resort at the 2009 Group Leisure Awards for the second year running, Bournemouth is the place where business and pleasure meet. The city boasts the largest venue on the south coast, the purpose-built Bournemouth International Centre (BIC). Its stunning location offers sea views, which mixed with the ability to cater for up to 10,000 people across its four auditoria and breakout space, means the BIC has the flexibility to suit any event. In addition, the Chine Hotel

Bournemouth pier

in nearby Boscombe presents contemporary elegance at its very best. It offers all of the conference and training facilities that one would expect from a top three-star hotel and is perfectly positioned overlooking Bournemouth’s new artificial surf reef. Poole’s bustling Quay, great beaches and stunning natural harbour make it a fantastic location. Lighthouse, Poole’s centre for the arts, houses modern, inspiring and flexible facilities from 150 seat studios, to 1,500 seat concert hall, complete with an excellent support network including audiovisual engineers, catering and event management. The beautiful art-deco Haven Hotel, is situated on the Sandbanks peninsula with magnificent views across the harbour and bay and boasts its own self-contained business centre (the Studland Suite), gourmet restaurant, and heated indoor and outdoor pools. If a great view is important The Harbour Heights is another option. This luxury boutique hotel with its state of the art conference room commands impressive views over the harbour. The Boardroom can hold up to 50 delegates and the Hytes restaurant can hold up to 120, and for those team-building sessions, they even have their very own water sports academy! When the work is over there are a wide range of water based activities available in and around Bournemouth and Poole, perhaps most notably Bournemouth’s new artificial surf reef. In addition, The Lifeboat College, home of RNLI training based in Poole, is the perfect venue for a unique and challenging team building event, the Sea Survival Experience. WILTSHIRE For those who prefer the tranquillity of the countryside, Wiltshire offers a great range of choices. Whatley Manor, near Malmesbury, has purpose built conference facilities and a private cinema with 40 Italian leather seats. Bowood Golf & Country Club is enhancing its existing conference facilities with addition of a new hotel and spa, due to open this year. The Five Star Lucknam Park, set in some 500 acres, offers facilities for smaller executive

meetings with the chance to add on a range of team building activities such as archery, reverse steer driving and sheep dog handling. The grand surroundings of Longleat’s 900 acres of landscaped parkland (including safari park) offer a fantastic meeting point for intimate meetings in the Green Library, elegant dinners in the Elizabethan grandeur of the Great Hall or the contemporary atmosphere of the Banqueting Suite, located within the house’s Private Apartments. Salisbury Cathedral’s Refectory Restaurant offers facilities for evening events with fabulous views through the glass roof to Britain’s highest spire. At Wilton House you can choose from the Visitor Centre in the Old Riding School with its 50 seat lecture theatre or the magnificent surroundings of the 17th century Double Cube Room decorated with paintings by Van Dyck. Many of Salisbury’s hotels, for example the Mercure White Hart and Red Lion, trace their history back to the 13th century when they provided accommodation for those building the Cathedral. Today this tradition of hospitality is combined with their modern conference facilities, such as the recently upgraded facilities at the Milford Hall Hotel. For training seminars, in-house conferences and day meetings, Swindon has the greatest concentration of accommodation and hotel based conference facilities in Wiltshire, with over 1,400 rooms. In addition to internationally known hotels brands, you’ll also find independently owned properties such as Chiseldon House Hotel, Blunsdon House Hotel and the Pear Tree at Purton. For something a bit different, The Science Museum has a range of well-equipped and inspiring spaces including an intriguing corporate events area that can comfortably seat 500 people for dinner and The STEAM museum, housed in a restored Grade II listed building, boasts excellent facilities for business events, with six different rooms that hold up to 600. BATH Bath is a truly outstanding destination for conferences, meetings and corporate events.

The Business Magazine for government

You’ve just found the perfect venue for your next event! From just 2 to over 2,250 people we have a space that suits.

Talk to us now about

Meetings| Conferences| Exhibitions Training Facilities| Product Launches| AGMs

01242 539 538 www.cheltenham.co.uk

CHH Gov Bus Ad

18/9/09

10:23

Page 2

Rooms from £65.00 Room only Day Delegate rates from £29.95 24 hour Delegate rates from £99.95 Free Wifi Free car parking *Unlimited Delegate Tea & Coffee Great British Breakfast just £7.95

Christmas Parties from £19.95 per person Early booking discounts available

The Corner House Hotel Park Street Taunton Somerset TA1 4DQ T: 01823 284683 E: res@corner-house.co.uk www.corner-house.co.uk *for delegates on day and 24 hour rate only

Corner house HOTEL T a u n t o n

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Thermae Bath Spa

The wonderful backdrop of heritage and beautiful surrounding countryside is combined with a range of exceptionally high quality venues, attuned to the needs of today’s delegate. Bath couldn’t be easier to get to – only 90 minutes from London Paddington by train, a short drive from the M4/M5 motorways (Bath is located 120 miles west of London) and just 15 miles from Bristol International Airport which links to over 60 national and international destinations. The Assembly Rooms serve as Bath’s premier conference venue, providing a prestigious setting for up to 500 delegates. The Mecure Francis Hotel, housed in a beautiful Georgian building that dates back to 1728 and located in Queen Square, is ideal for private business meetings. The Park, a gracious country house hotel can provide the perfect alternative to the city. Situated in 240 acres of parkland and only five miles from Bath, it is a perfect venue for holding a team building event or conferences for up to 150 delegates. Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in Roman and Georgian heritage. This golden city is brimming with beautiful buildings and around 5,000 are officially ‘listed’ because of their architectural merit. Today, Bath seamlessly mixes the old with the new. Thermae Bath Spa is a stunning example with its cutting edge glass and stone design – the only place in the UK where visitors can bathe in natural thermal waters, ideal for incentive travel. Bath’s impeccable historic credentials don’t tell the full story; today it’s a thriving, vibrant city with a cosmopolitan buzz offering a year round calendar of festivals, theatrical, musical and sporting events. GLOUCESTERSHIRE Gloucestershire – which includes Cheltenham and most of the Cotswolds and Forest of Dean, is a beautiful part of the region and is just a stones throw to Bristol, Bath and Birmingham, and less than two hours from London. The regency town of Cheltenham has a range of great venues in grand buildings that can’t fail to impress delegates such as Cheltenham Ladies College, the Town Hall and the Mercure Queen’s, Chase and Cheltenham Park Hotels. If you’re planning a larger event then the recently opened Centaur centre at Cheltenham Racecourse offers over 2,600m² of multi-purpose conference space with seating for up to 2,250 delegates

Francis Hotel Wessex Suite

TWC Bristol

You’ll find plenty of luxurious hotels decked out with modern conference facilities in breathtaking landscapes and can hold 1,200 for dinner. The racecourse also has over 12,500 free parking spaces. Gloucester is well located for conferences, near the meeting point of the M5 and M4 motorways. Venues often appeal to organisers looking for facilities in historic venues such as the medieval Parliament Rooms at Gloucester Cathedral (the City knows a thing or two about meetings having been the Norman King’s winter court of England), and there are also state-of-the-art facilities at the University of Gloucestershire’s Oxstalls Campus and GL1’s multi-purpose Glevum Hall. The nearby Forest of Dean is a fantastic resource for team building and motivation sessions with Go-Ape, caving, river adventure or even llama trekking on offer. The internationally known Cotswolds are strewn with historic houses, gardens and ‘one-offs’ such as Tewkesbury Abbey which will add real appeal for delegates attending your event. Recent additions to the area include the 220 room Four Pillars Hotel at the Cotswold Water Park, near Cirencester, which is to add rooms shortly to and become the largest hotel in the South West of England – conference facilities are for up to 800 delegates. As a new 4-star hotel, facilities are state of the art. Calcot Manor is a Cotswolds country house hotel with health spa that has won tremendous respect locally for its new conference venue ‘The Barn’, a beautiful and intimate space. BRISTOL As the commercial hub of South West England and the closest major city to London, Bristol is a first class business destination with excellent access from three motorways, two mainline rail stations and an international airport providing links to the rest of the UK, Europe and beyond. Bristol is a city rich in culture and history and mixes top restaurants and boutique shopping with lively nightlife and a vibrant music and arts scene. An extensive range of venues in and around the city and surrounding coast and countryside are available. Set against a woodland backdrop, Cadbury House is a 4 star contemporary chic hotel complemented by fantastic views across

the Bristol Channel and beyond into Wales. The main 18th Century House has been carefully updated to meet the needs of today’s corporate market with a range of rooms and formats offering flexible layouts and latest technology whilst maintaining its original character. If you are looking for a conference venue that will really impress your colleagues, Tortworth Court Hotel is ideal. This Grade II listed building offers an unbeatable combination of conference facilities, versatile meetings and conference rooms that can accommodate up to 400 delegates, with 30 acres of grounds, hotel accommodation and a fantastic location. The Bristol Hotel, recently refurbished, sits pretty on the quayside of the Floating Harbour. This luxury venue is surrounded by the best of Bristol’s Old City and maritime history. The new Hotel Conference Centre, unveiled in 2008, features executive boardrooms, large syndicate breakout rooms and a main suite ideal for major corporate events, all equipped with the latest presentation and conference technology. For something really unique climb aboard Brunel’s ss Great Britain, the world’s first iron hull ship. The ship and dockyard on Brunel’s waterfront, provide a stunning location that will delight delegates. An event here will guarantee first class hospitality, tailored menus to suit your needs, a dedicated event coordinator, historical tours of the Ship and her dry dock, plus you’ll have wonderful images for invitations and promotional use. If you’re looking to provide delegates with a unique conference experience away from the usual uninspiring locations, then why not let one of these South West destinations surpass your expectations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.visitsouthwest.co.uk www.pooletourism.com www.bournemouthconferences.co.uk www.visitwiltshire.co.uk/site/conferences www.bathconference.co.uk www.conferencecheltenham.co.uk www.gloucester.gov.uk/conferences www.conference-bristol.co.uk

The Business Magazine for government

PW2153 CU AD 88x130 A PRESS:Layout 1

18/05/2009

14:33

Page 1

welcome to City University London

conference services

01248 388 088

conferences@bangor.ac.uk www.bangor.ac.uk/conferences

What we offer Set in the heart of the capital, our dedicated conference services team can deliver a full, professional event management service.

Welcome to our world

• committed event management team • prime central London locations • variety of venues to suit all needs • state-of-the-art AV equipment • high quality on-site catering • day, weekend and evening bookings.

For a full list of our venues and facilities, please contact the team

t: 44 (0)20 7040 8037 e: conference@city.ac.uk Conference ad 125x86 new:Conference ad 128x90 new

w: city.ac.uk/conference

15/10

Make Venue Essex your next meeting venue

3 Venues to choose from to suit all budgets Professional & passionate staff Conference & event management Residential Accommodation (available mid June-Mid September) Banqueting for up to 450 guests Tailor made packages to suit your exact requirements For further information on our exciting new developments please contact:

With innovative venues to suit all your business needs, choose the University of Essex in Colchester or Southend to make your event a success.

01443 482002 events@glam.ac.uk www.glamorganconferenceservices.co.uk

To find out more contact: Venue Essex Tel: 01206 872358 Promoting University of Essex hotel and conference venues

E-mail: venues@essex.ac.uk Web: www.essex.ac.uk/venue-essex

Written by Kirstie Danzey, marketing manager, Nottingham Conferences

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

The Rise of Academic Venues Universities and colleges have made major improvements to their conference and meeting facilities The UK is home to some of the world’s best universities, located in inspiring locations, featuring impressive architecture and providing home to some of the country’s greatest minds. For the event organiser, they offer a venue choice that has been designed to educate, inform and enlighten an audience in any chosen field, which is fundamentally what meetings and events are all about. Despite accounting for a significant percentage of the £22 billion UK meetings, conference and events industry, traditionally, the academic venue has been the venue of choice almost solely for the academic and association sector. A negative perception of a lower standard of facilities and a lower quality of service has meant it has often been snubbed by wider industries. CHANGING MINDS It seems, however, that with an increasing investment in facilities, strong communications campaigns from venues and industry bodies and the changes in certain mindsets brought about by difficult economic conditions, people are increasingly changing their ideas about academic venues and conference and event organisers are beginning to realise their potential as a credible venue option. Their lecture theatres are no longer shabby, nor are residential facilities reminiscent of old student digs. They are in fact high quality, well furnished spaces, with state of the art technology and impressive AV infrastructures. Large capacity availability is another major advantage in choosing an academic venue. For big scale conferences and conventions, universities offer large, often flexible spaces with many room options within close proximity to one another. This is all supported by a wide choice of accommodation – something for everyone seeking to meet a budget. And with close links with local accommodation providers, helping universities to source beds from neighbouring hotels during term time, bookings and demand is now being spread out much more evenly across the year. Significant improvements have also been made in the catering department, with award winning chefs now a common feature in university kitchens and high quality menu choices that focus heavily on local produce and sustainable practices. AFFORDABLE VENUES It is not just the investment and realisation of the venues’ quality and the actions of industry bodies that are changing these perceptions. Current market conditions have meant that many event organisers have been

Jubilee Campus, Nottingham

Current market conditions have meant that many event organisers have been forced to ‘tighten their belts’ and this has meant them opening their eyes to affordable venues and discovering that a lot can still be achieved with an academic venue

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

East Midlands Conference Centre

Kirstie Danzey

forced to ‘tighten their belts’ and this has meant them opening their eyes to affordable venues and discovering that a lot can still be achieved with an academic venue. It is particularly because of this factor that many universities have seen an increase in the conference bookings from healthcare professionals and the pharmaceutical industry, who have been put under increased pressure recently from the addition of Clause 19 of the ABPI (Association of British Pharmaceutical Industry) Code of Practice 2008. The clause has placed stringent rules on the costs that the industry spends on meetings and hospitality, restricting them to opt for meeting venues that are conducive to the main purpose of the meeting and do not incur any lavish costs. The same increase in popularity has been seen

The Business Magazine for government

from governmental departments opting for academic venues more and more, since facing increasing scrutiny to be more transparent in the public eye with their spending. Regardless of their great facilities, universities are also a great source of speakers and support material for any event, often linking with research and development that is being undertaken by the students, to help bring an event to life. It is not only the event organiser and venue that benefits. Profits that are generated are reinvested into the universities and therefore students benefit from a welcome injection. Buildings can be updated, whilst research programmes and other learning facilities benefit from a boost in resources and this helps to pave the way for the country’s next generation of business and thought leaders. CASE STUDY The Nottingham Healthcare Trust, the county’s mental health and learning disability service returned to the East Midlands Conference Centre in September for a third year to host its ‘Foundation for the Future’ exhibition and Annual General Meeting 2009. The event, aimed to provide an opportunity for the service’s users, their carers, partner organisations and members of the public to find out how the trust is making improvements to its services, with a review of the past year and to present its plans for the future. The event had exclusive use of the whole of

the EMCC and attracted nearly 600 attendees, aided largely by its easily accessible central Midlands location and ample free car parking spaces. The day began with an interactive exhibition featuring over 60 stalls and a variety of performances. Stalls were placed along the EMCC’s concourse area and also set out in the light and impressive Atrium. After lunch, which was held in the recently refurbished conference theatre, guests retreated to the banqueting hall where the formal AGM took place. The EMCC also had to provide a live link of the AGM in an adjacent overflow room Conference Room 3 for additional people to watch the proceedings. Nottingham Conferences With over 20 years’ experience in the provision of conference and event facilities, the ‘Nottingham Conferences’ brand was launched in 2008, to represent the entire portfolio of conference venues at The University of Nottingham. Encompassing the East Midlands Conference Centre, Jubilee Campus, University Park and Sutton Bonington, Nottingham Conferences can accommodate delegates across three unique locations, provide dedicated event co-ordinators, award winning chefs, on-site AV support and the ability to arrange accommodation either during student vacations or all year round via its Hotel Reservation Service.

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

University of Bristol conferences and events

£9million investment puts Edinburgh First

he University of Bristol, as custodian of some of the city’s finest buildings, blends seamlessly with the elegance and bustle of Georgian Clifton and the leafy downland high above the Avon Gorge, offering excellent venues for conferences, meetings and social events. By virtue of its role as a centre of learning and research, the University has many flexible facilities including modern tiered lecture theatres (seating up to 380), large halls, as well as the majestic neo-gothic Great Hall seating around 800, exhibition areas, attractive meeting rooms and extensive sports facilities. Bedroom accommodation, including many en-suite rooms, is situated in Clifton offering all the amenities of a bustling city and or Stoke Bishop, a quiet suburban setting adjacent to acres of open downland. Overnight accommodation can be provided within the Halls and there is a total of 2000

he University of Edinburgh has embarked on a £9million extension of their main conference facilities by refurbishing and extending its John McIntyre Centre. The University’s professional conference, catering and events teams, operating as Edinburgh First, are running the new-look John McIntyre Conference Centre, which opened in September. The upgraded and enlarged facilities includes the new Pentland conference suite, capable of seating up to 350 theatre style with four breakout rooms accommodating up to 250 delegates, two boardrooms and Centro; a flexible lounge area. There is free Wi-Fi and state-of-the-art audio visual equipment, a reception area and open-air terrace with stunning views of Edinburgh’s most famous natural landmark, Arthur’s Seat. All of the meeting spaces are conveniently located together on the first floor. On the ground floor, there is a new restaurant, seating up to 650 with an adjoining bar and lounge. The John McIntyre Conference Centre is situated at the heart of the University’s

bedrooms including 300 en-suite The University has many venues with year round availability in the evenings and weekends, plus weekdays out of term. In addition, year round meeting rooms are also offered within many of the Halls of Residence. Professional catering teams in every venue offer a high standard of catering and flexibility for everything from a working lunch to a formal conference dinner; from a drinks reception to parties and presentations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please contact University of Bristol Conference Office Address: The Hawthorns, Woodland Road Bristol BS8 1UQ Tel: 0117 954 5501 Fax: 0117 923 8265 E-mail: conference-office@bris.ac.uk Web: www.bris.ac.uk/conferences

Retractable service units from Pop Up Power Ltd afe, secure and silent power that pops up out of the ground when you need it and hides underground when you don’t. Pop Up Power Supplies Ltd offers retractable service units that provide electricity, water and air supply to public spaces ranging from historic sites and market places to town squares and parks. Pop Up Power retractable service units provide legacy for special-purpose stadiums. They offer possibilities for more varied uses, giving stadiums new life long after their planned functions. A series of standard products is available, as well as bespoke units with dished tops that can accommodate different paving.

newly landscaped and pedestrianised residential campus at Pollock Halls. Existing facilities include over 30 rooms for meetings and events; from large scale conferences for up to 350 to intimate private dinners. Salisbury Green, a three star 18thcentury mansion-house hotel, offers both meeting rooms and year-round accommodation. During vacation periods, conference organisers have access to around 2,000 additional bedrooms.

FOR MORE INFORMATION For further information on the new John McIntyre Conference Centre call 0131 651 2189 or visit www.edinburghfirst.com

 

Pop Up Power won the Green Tribute award 2007 as the installations are so environmentally friendly and harmonious as they blend so well into their local setting. Pop Up Power is the answer whenever outside power installationsare needed.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please contact us or stay informed about Pop Up Power’s new products by telephone: 020 8551 8363; fax: 020 8220 8838; e-mail: mbrown@popuppower.co.uk or view our website www.popuppower.co.uk

             

  

  



 

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Holiday Inn Brighton – seafront for all your corporate needs rofessional people who spend many nights away from home need to be comfortable. Some may need somewhere close to their meeting the next day, and easily accessible from main motorways. Others might want somewhere off the beaten track with a real home-from-home feel. Holiday Inn Brighton-Seafront offers both! We offer superior accommodation, sophisticated yet very relaxing ambience keeping with the expectations of today’s corporate traveller, comprehensive business and communication facilities, with wireless internet access throughout, delicious uncomplicated cuisine and efficient friendly service Here at Holiday Inn BrightonSeafront you are a person, a valued guest, not a number. A relaxing environment awaits you in which to unwind, relax and recharge. Such a refreshing change from the city centre corporate hotel or travel inn. Total flexibility, early and late check-in

and out times, forgiving cancellation policy and a highly competitive Government privileged rates available. Government rates from only £79.00 per room per night bed and breakfast. Government meeting and conference rates from only £29.00 per delegate per day.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To take advantage of these great rates please contact: Sally Crowley Sales Manager Holiday Inn Brighton – Seafront Tel: 01273 828253 E-mail: sales@hibrighton.com

Meet at the Big Sleep for £22.50 per person ooking for conference space with a difference? Look no further. The Big Sleep is the South East’s newest and coolest designer budget hotel. Our seafront location, friendly and professional staff and unique modern decor make The Big Sleep an ideal venue for your next meeting. Providing both value and style, it boasts two stylish meeting rooms for meetings, conferences, seminars and training sessions. The hotel has full disabled access, Wi-Fi throughout, delicious meals and a full range of equipment including LCD projector, DVD player, flat screen LCD TV, screen, flipchart/whiteboard, etc and inclusive in-room hire. Only 90 minutes by direct train from London Victoria, it’s an easy travel choice for delegates on an away day or team building event. For residential meetings, the hotel features 50 bedrooms including singles, twins, doubles, king size suites and group rooms. Competitive government day

delegate rate for 2010 of £22.50 per person includes three breaks, lunch, room hire and equipment. At The Big Sleep, we recognise that no two events are the same, and the dedication and commitment of our experienced staff will ensure that meeting organisers won’t have to worry about a thing.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Kathy Taylor, Sales and Marketing manager E-mail: sales.eastbourne@ thebigsleephotel.com Tel: 01323 722676 Web: www.thebigsleephotel.com

Brighton Day delegates rates from only £30 per person 24hr delegate rates from only £99 per person A family run hotel in Eastbourne with 102 bedrooms many with sea views Celebrate your Christmas Party by the sea - 3 course meal followed by Disco for only £27.95 and turn your festive party into a weekend break with a special stay over rate of £25 Bed & Breakfast per person.

hotels

64 Kings Road, Brighton BN1 1NA Tel: 01273 323221

www.umihotels.co.uk

All our rates include VAT.

For further details please contact the conference office on 01323 725 174 or visit our website on www.bw-lansdownehotel.co.uk

The Business Magazine for government

Love London. Love Brighton. Love umi.

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

Coastal attraction Find inspiration along the south coast of England and the cities of Southampton, Portsmouth, Brighton and Eastbourne When organising a large event or conference, destination is the key; giving the best experience for delegates, providing budget options from the luxurious to the traditional, and providing a striking backdrop for the event which not only attracts more visitor numbers, but keeps them coming back for more. Think Brighton, think again Brighton & Hove presents an obvious choice for organisers; long known for its ability to provide a stunning backdrop, a naturally ‘green’ environment, and one with an easily accessible set of conference venues, hotel bedrooms and exciting social options for delegates. But if you think you know the city, think again. For Brighton & Hove reinvention is part of the city’s skill set and one that means conferences and their delegates continue to return again and again, from the Local Government Association Conference 2009, Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (SOLACE) Annual Conference 2009, to the Chartered Institute of Public Relations Conference 2010. The hard work and industry of local government and the city’s tourism body VisitBrighton has opened the doors to new investment, refurbishment and the welcome of even more creative talent to provide organisers with a wealth of options that add the wow factor to visiting events. The city now offers 10,000 bedrooms across 150 hotels, and catering for all price brackets and discerning tastes. From the luxury of The Grand and Hilton Metropole and the contemporary City Inn and myhotel Brighton, to the boutiques like Hotel Una and the Seattle Hotel. This diversity is mirrored in the city’s venue options. With the centrally located

and purpose built Brighton Centre, which can seat up to 4,500, to the Royal Pavilion estate, which includes the Brighton Dome and Brighton Museum and Art Gallery. Where CSR is an increasingly used business buzz word, Brighton already finds itself an ideal destination to provide a green and responsible event. The local community is passionate about the environment and a host of businesses provide solutions from environmentally friendly tuk tuks, to bike hire when travelling to and from a conference. Because of the city’s geography, walking Brighton takes just 10 minutes so there can be no excuses for costly gas guzzling travel options. But it’s not just Brighton & Hove’s ability to physically accommodate an organiser’s conference. It is a city which truly rivals some of Europe’s greatest destinations due to its eclectic mix and cultural hub that has helped cultivate Brighton & Hove’s famous cosmopolitan atmosphere. When an organiser looks at the destination options in front of them, they want choice, they want ‘unique’, but they also want a genuine city, one that is looking forward to welcoming their delegates. Brighton does and that is why the city remains one of the most popular conference destinations in the South East. To find out more on what the city has to offer and how the VisitBrighton Convention Bureau can provide free help to conference organisers, call 01273 292629, e-mail conferences@visitbrighton.com or visit www.visitbrighton.com/conferences New Wi-Fi in Eastbourne The 3,000 conference delegates visiting Eastbourne over the next six months will be amongst the first to use the newly installed

Wi-Fi at the resort’s main conference venue, Devonshire Park Centre. The installation is a significant upgrade to the conference facilities available in Eastbourne and means that the resort, with its glorious seaside location, will have the edge to attract bigger conferences. With the lure of the coastal resort pulling in the most delegates ever for a CAMRA event earlier this year, Eastbourne is marking itself out as must-visit business destination. Devonshire Park Centre is Eastbourne’s main conference venue and offers conference facilities for up to 1,700 delegates, 2,500 sq m exhibition space, and a wide choice of rooms. Occupying the Congress Theatre and Winter Garden, the Centre enhances the versatility of the theatres, with conferences filling the venues when there are not any shows on. Set in the heart of the hotel district and cultural quarter, it is ideally located for shopping, entertainment and time out and is a popular destination with delegates. As well as new Wi-Fi and the refurbishment of the Gold Room at Devonshire Park Centre this year, 2009 has also seen another addition to conference facilities in Eastbourne with the opening of the brand new Towner. The contemporary art gallery, designed by Rick Mather architects, provides additional exhibition space for organisers using the Devonshire Park Centre. Despite the economic downturn, the conference industry remains strong for Eastbourne packing hotels with delegates outside of the busy season. Eastbourne offers more bed spaces than any other town in the South East and Eastbourne Conference Bureau works alongside an accommodation booking service, offering an extensive search of over 200 establishments and more than 7,500

The Business Magazine for government

ICONIC NEW VENUE

M E E T I N G S • S E M I N A R S • E X H I B I T I O N S • C O N F E R E N C E S • R E C E P T I O N S • T R A D E S H OW S • C O R P O R AT E E V E N T S

Open for bookings, for further information please email: f l o ra l c o n f e r e n c e s @ w i r ra l . g o v. u k M a r i n e P r o m e n a d e , N e w B r i g h t o n , Wi r ra l C H 4 5 2 J S | w w w.f l o ra l p av i l i o n . c o m

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

bed spaces to meet the needs of delegates. With accommodation providers offer special rates, meaning the town is seen as an affordable and attractive destination for those signing up to attend the events. Offering significant savings on rack rates means that delegates can enjoy a break on the south coast despite the credit crunch. With beautiful beaches on its doorstep and nestled at the foot of the picturesque South Downs, there are plenty of exciting ideas for team building and away days in Eastbourne, as well as huge scope for group itineraries. Delegates can explore Eastbourne’s charming setting in Sussex countryside, take to the skies with hang-gliding or opt for a fun-filled day out quad biking. For more information on Eastbourne Conference Bureau call 01323 415437 or visit www.conferenceeastbourne.com Portsmouth – the waterfront city Portsmouth, UK’s premier waterfront destination, has miles of sea views and centuries of history. As the home of ocean racing and major maritime events, Portsmouth is the natural choice for companies looking for a fresh approach to their function. Portsmouth has an unrivalled range of special and unique venues suitable for any occasion. Centuries of maritime heritage have left a legacy of historic buildings, ships and fortifications, whilst the glittering waterfront is home to a number of contemporary venues. Of course every destination can lay their claim to unique or at least unusual venues, so what makes Portsmouth different? Not only does Portsmouth have more than 800 years of naval history (and the venues to prove it) but also the city is constantly evolving. Over the last few years shopping, dining and living have been brought right to the water’s edge – along with great facilities for corporate functions and entertaining. This gives the city a distinctive mix of modern and historic venues in one compact city. Imagine holding your gala dinner onboard a HMS Warrior 1860, a Victorian warship. Dine on mess tables between broadside guns and enjoy entertainment from traditional shanty singers. How about a breakfast meeting 100m above sea level inside the UK’s newest icon, the Spinnaker Tower? The views are unbeatable. Or for something completely different, take your product launch out to a Victorian sea-fort in the middle of the Solent. Not only does Portsmouth have some stunning unique venues, but the city can offer many practical solutions for doing business too. Take your conference to Portsmouth Guildhall, the city’s civic pride. There’s room for 2,000 delegates right in the city centre. Or choose from one of the city’s 4-star hotels to hold your meeting. With wellknown names such as Holiday Inn, Hilton and Marriott, your event is in safe hands.

Portsmouth is surrounded by water, which means it’s as well placed for events on the water as on dry land. Corporate sailing competitions, quick-fix rib rides or leisurely harbour cruises will add a further dimension to your event. Not to mention the international reputation Portsmouth has for hosting major maritime events such as Tall Ships Race, Trafalgar 200, Global Challenge and the Volvo Ocean Race. Portsmouth boasts twelve museums, two cathedrals, two Matcham theatres, countless restaurants, pubs and clubs, art galleries and

departing the city. Southampton now offers over 2,500 hotel bedrooms following the recent opening of the Etap, White Star, Cargo and Ennios all now offering bedrooms in the city centre, plus at least another 1,500 rooms within a 20 mile radius of Southampton including the Hamble Valley and the New Forest. Three beautiful boutique hotels have recently opened their doors to visitors and conference organisers, providing Southampton with a fabulous small venue option with excellent service. The most recent addition is Ennios, which is on the waterfront and offers just five

Southampton is a thriving conference destination providing delegates with a versatile choice of activities and attractions to enhance their conference or event three dedicated shopping districts which means it needn’t all be about work. At only 90 minutes from London and three hours from Birmingham, Portsmouth offers a great alternative to other land-locked cities, but there’s no need to leave your urban comforts behind. Search for Portsmouth venues online at www.visitportsmouth.co.uk/conferences COSMOPOLITAN SOUTHAMPTON A cosmopolitan city located on the south coast just one hour from London, Southampton is a thriving conference destination providing delegates with a versatile choice of activities and attractions to enhance their conference or event. Venues offering professional conference facilities are a plenty, and Southampton is a location of immense diversity, from waterfront academic venues and stately homes in the neighbouring New Forest countryside, there is something to tickle the taste buds of every event organiser. Indeed the largest venues in Southampton are the International City Cruise Terminal, The new Ocean Terminal, Southampton Football Club and the home of Hampshire Cricket, The Rose Bowl, each offering modern, state of the art facilities with excellent conference support services, including on-site audio visual and technical support to ensure the smooth running of any event. The waterfront location of both the Ocean Terminal and the City Cruise Terminal is fabulous, with enough space to comfortably seat and dine up to 1,000 delegates for a conference. The Ocean Terminal opened in June 2009 and, although this venue is by nature a cruise terminal, the space is capable of hosting large exhibition events and conferences. Throughout the annual calendar there are occasions when this facility is used as a passenger lounge for the one million cruise passengers that pass through Southampton. Equally the City Cruise Terminal facility has great versatility to be turned into a conference or dinner dance venue within hours of a cruise ship

very special rooms, each room is unique and is furnished to a luxurious standard, and downstairs is an excellent restaurant. The Hotel Terravina is located on the outskirts of the city near to the New Forest and has just 11 bedrooms, ideal for a private take over conference. The other is the White Star Tavern and Dining Rooms located on Oxford Street, Southampton, a street steeped in history. This newly opened hotel offers 13 individually styled bedrooms plus a small meeting room and large restaurant facility. Workers joining the Titanic are recorded to have spent the evening socialising in this hotel on Oxford Street in the weeks leading up to her fateful voyage. One of the bedrooms in this hotel is named after Southampton’s most famous ocean liner. Southampton can be reached easily by air, rail and road, and boasts an award winning International Airport, with direct flights from most cities in Europe, and some of the UK’s major cities. The rail option takes just over one hour from London Waterloo, delivering you swiftly and conveniently to the coastal location of Southampton. Destination Southampton is the city’s official conference bureau, providing organisers with professional support. The team at Destination Southampton assist event organisers from all over the world on a daily basis, offering their in depth knowledge of Southampton to ensure event organisers a smooth experience in researching, visiting the city and booking their preferred venues and hotels. Adding a bit of fun or intrigue to your conference is easy in Southampton, Destination Southampton work closely with a number of team building companies to provide sailing and water based event management experiences, and land based activities including tank racing, themed team adventures such as The Rookie which is a team building event based on the TV hit The Apprentice, also The Parmesan Job Treasure Hunt in minis and much more. To contact the official conference bureau call 0845 226 9944, e-mail info@destinationsouthampton.co.uk or visit www.destinationsouthampton.co.uk

The Business Magazine for government

5 ways CRC targets are a massive headache for energy managers 1. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to cut around 10% off your carbon emissions. 2. Also, your company is now obliged to buy energy credits. 3. A league table will show customers how good or bad your company is at reducing your emissions. 4. If you fail, it costs money because you will be fined. 5. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fined, the blame comes back onto the energy manager. Want a new perspective? Join the arrows and read outside the lines for a new way to look at the problem. Then call us on 0845 072 0234 or visit www.energy360.co.uk/ governmentbusiness

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Steps for a green and safe future London Fire Brigade is one of 12 organisations across England and Scotland to achieve the new Carbon Trust Standard, the only way for organisations to prove they are tackling climate change and have made genuine reductions in their carbon emissions The Standard is the world’s first carbon award that requires an organisation to measure, manage and reduce its carbon footprint and actually make real reductions year-on-year. It requires organisations to take action themselves by cutting carbon across their own operations and in their supply chain. By making many of its 112 fire stations and its vehicle fleet greener, the Brigade, which is run by the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority (LFEPA), has cut its carbon emissions by 8 per cent over the last three years and by 17 per cent from 1990 levels – well ahead of a London-wide target of 15 per cent by 2010. The reduction in emissions has saved the Brigade in excess of £350,000 on energy costs, money that is ploughed back into energy efficiency projects. “We are delighted to be one of the first organisations to receive the new Carbon Trust Standard. Being recognised in this way is a real endorsement of the hard work that has gone into cutting the Brigade’s carbon footprint,” said Ian Shaw, LFB energy manager. “In 2005, LFB became the first UK fire and rescue service to have a solar powered fire station and now at least 40 of our 112 buildings are fitted with sustainable energy sources such as wind turbines and solar panels. Our fleet of 600 vehicles is also greener and meets Low Emission Zone directives on exhaust emissions. “With the support of more than 7,000 staff across London, the Brigade is cutting energy use and recycling more, including disused fire hose being turned into clothing accessories and furniture. Added to this, the Brigade’s procurement practices are rubbing off on suppliers, who are encouraged to meet the highest environmental standards.” THE STANDARD The Carbon Trust Standard was developed by the Carbon Trust in 2007/08 to encourage good practice in carbon measurement, management and reduction by businesses and public sector organisations. It is designed to provide a robust, objective and consistent methodology for assessing corporate carbon performance. The Standard specifies requirements in three key areas – carbon footprint measurement, carbon management, and carbon reduction performance. Assessment against the Standard is undertaken by independent third-party assessors. The assessment process is managed by the Carbon Trust Standard Company – a subsidiary of the Carbon Trust. The Carbon Trust

Saving with the Carbon Trust In 2008/09, organisations participating in the Carbon Trust’s annual Public Sector Carbon Management Programme committed to reduce their carbon emissions by an average of 25 per cent over a five-year period. The Carbon Trust’s Public Sector Carbon Management Programme guides organisations through a peer-supported process of building a team, measuring the carbon footprint, defining carbon reduction targets and projects, and compiling a compelling case for action. Projects implemented as a direct result of the Public Sector Carbon Management Programme since it was established are already saving over 500,000 tonnes of CO2 per year and generating annual savings of £36m on energy bills. In 2008/09, 109 organisations participated

in the programme – including 71 local authorities, 17 universities, 19 NHS Trusts as well as central government estate. As a result, they developed new plans that will cut their collective carbon emissions by a further 500,000 tonnes a year and save over £90 million per year on their energy bills. Richard Rugg, head of public sector at the Carbon Trust, said: “Organisations that participate in our Carbon Management Programme learn from the experiences and achievements of others in the public sector who have already embarked on the carbon reduction journey. This gives them the confidence, knowledge and inspiration to set themselves increasingly stretching targets.” Looking ahead, Rugg predicts increasing collaboration between

public sector bodies on carbon reduction in local areas, a trend driven by National Indicator NI186, which puts the onus on local authorities to reduce emissions within their area. To meet this need, the Carbon Trust is set to launch a new bespoke service called Carbon Management Leadership which will help local authorities engage local public sector and business stakeholders in area wide carbon reduction. An example of a successful collaborative pilot project is a Carbon Trust supported working group in Bristol that includes Bristol City Council, local universities and NHS Trusts. Among the initiatives it has developed is a programme to calculate Bristol’s ICT carbon footprint and develop a database of solutions to help organisations bring down their ICT emissions.

The Business Magazine for government

E E FR rgy e n e every for e hom

Certificate Number: MCS HP0002 Product Reference: PUHZ-W50VHA-(BS) PUHZ-W85VHA-(BS), PUHZ-HW140VHA/YHA-(BS)

this th h offer never ends!

by upgra upgrading free energy found in the outside a ir to o help pro air provide domestic heating and hot water, Mitsub Mitsubishi Electric’s multi-award winning air help lping so source heat pump can reduce a home’s to co y mply ou with annual fuel bills by up to 30% and its CO2 emissions by 50%**

TTelephone: l h 01707 278666 27 7 email: heating@meuk.mee.com

**These savings are based on a 4 bedroom house of standard construction built in 2000. The Ecodan replaced an 80% efficient gas boiler

www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk/heating

NQA...putting

you in control

of your carbon footprint NQA is a leading provider of accredited BS 8555 and ISO 14001 certification and IEMA approved training services which enable you to: ▶ Comply with environmental legislation ▶ Own and manage your environmental impacts ▶ Negate and offset your carbon footprint ▶ Train staff to achieve carbon reduction ▶ Reduce energy consumption and minimise waste ▶ Operate an effective environmental policy ▶ Lead the way in achieving government

2010 and 2050 targets

Take control today. Contact NQA...

Call NQA on 08000 522424 and quote GB

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

The London Fire Brigade is an award-winning organisation for its work on sustainability. In 2007 the organisation won the overall City of London Corporation’s Sustainable City Award and earlier in 2008 won an award at the Heating and Ventilation News awards. Over the last five years over 90 per cent of the Brigade’s frontline operational fleet has been replaced with new, less polluting vehicle Standard was launched in June 2008. It builds on other existing international Standards for the measurement of corporate carbon emissions: • Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Standard from the World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). • ISO14064-1 :2006, which provides a specification (at the organisation level) for quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and removals. The Standard was developed in consultation with leading businesses and public sector organisations. The Standard also incorporates qualitative criteria developed

by a predecessor scheme – the Energy Efficiency Accreditation Scheme. GREEN INIVITAIVES AT LFB The London Fire Brigade is an award-winning organisation for its work on sustainability. In 2007 the organisation won the overall City of London Corporation’s Sustainable City Award and earlier in 2008 won an award at the Heating and Ventilation News Awards. Over the last five years over 90 per cent of the Brigade’s frontline operational fleet has been replaced with new, less polluting vehicles. This includes 209 pumping appliances, 20 Fire Rescue

Units, 15 Aerial Appliances, nine Command Support Units, six Operational Support Units, six Water Carriers, two Scientific Support Units and six Fire Investigation Units. The Brigade has also been fitting out fire stations with on site energy generation technology such as Photovoltaic (PV) systems, wind turbines, solar thermal and combined heat and power. To date, nine Photovoltaic, eight Solar Thermal, two wind turbines, 12 CHP schemes, and 18 high efficiency lighting installations are now in place at London fire stations. Improvements are also being made to heating systems and sustainable wool insulation is being used in lofts. Added to this, the Brigade’s buildings are fuelled by a 100 per cent supply of green electricity and a staff motivation campaign – entitled LFB Green – designed to further reduce energy and water usage and recruit green champions at each site to spread the green message to staff.

FOR MORE INFORMATION For more information about the Carbon Trust Standard visit www.carbontruststandard.com

A complex case for a simple solution? Smarter Automated Meter Reading? A

utomated Meter Reading (amr) is now a topic that has reached even the furthest corners of the UK plc. The main driver of recent months has been the Carbon Reduction Commitment, or CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme, as it is now to be known. As recently as last week the Environment Agency has had a climb down on the requirement to buy two years carbon allowances in July 2011, essentially halving the cash flow impact of the CRC energy efficiency scheme on qualifying businesses. The CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme’s impact on your business (should it qualify) will in 2011 entirely depend upon what are called the Early Action Metrics, whereby a league table is drawn up and your companies relative performance to others is gauged by these metrics. In the first year, a successful installation of AMR across 90 per cent of your portfolio should see you avoid the associated financial penalties as AMR accounts for 50 per cent of these metrics. The other metric is to achieve the Carbon Trust Standard or other similar scheme. In the second and third year the impact of AMR has doubled, now delivering 40 per cent in the second year and 20 per cent in the third year. This now gives higher emphasis to Early Action changes and reducing more slowly to better recognise your investment in AMR. Of course your company’s ability to reduce its consumption weighs heaviest after the first year, with the difficulties of doing this from estimated invoices, AMR is the best way to prove exactly what you have used.

AMR covers a range of technologies, all of which provide users with timely and accurate access to their utility usage. AMR is available for electricity, gas and water meters, however in the case of gas and water, a data logger or other similar device needs to be connected to your meter via a pulse output, should a working pulse output be present on your meter. “It is important that your AMR solution is independently verified, financial and consumption benefits clearly detailed, and that the same company will support you in a year or two’s time when you are asked to prove the results” Jonathan Akers, Head of Technical Energy Services at BIU, who provide

metering services to RBS, Tesco, One Stop Stores, NCP, Pets at Home, Café Rouge, Poundland, Pret-aManger and the 2012 Olympics’ Athletes Village.

FOR MORE INFORMATION British Independent Utilities St Annes House, Wood St Lytham St Annes Lancashire, FY8 1QG Tel: 01253 789816 Fax: 01253 714131 E-mail: amr@biu.com Web: www.biu.com

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Vary the speed of your pump and fans and save the planet hile many public sector

estern Power

W Distribution operates the electricity distribution networks in the South West and South Wales regions. Our metering services business operates over two million metering systems. WPD’s Remote Metering team provides metering solutions to business customers on a national basis. WPD has strong reputation for operating HH sites and now also offer a national solution for NHH sites to deliver to businesses: • Accurate meter readings both for billing and settlements • Energy management data and reporting • A consistent national metering service, e.g. to manage the new connection process; and

W organisations are currently

implementing ways to record, analyse and report their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, it is essential that they do not lose sight of ways to actually reduce CO2 emissions. One of the most advantageous energy saving techniques is the use a variable speed drive (VSD) on various building services, particularly the HVAC side. A VSD is an electronic device that adjusts the speed of an electric motor driving a fan or pump, thereby ensuring that the flow meets the demand at any moment in time. This avoids running the motor at full speed, thereby saving up to 60 per cent of the electricity bill, with payback as short as six months. The world leading drives manufacturer, ABB, has created a six-step CRC Energy Efficiency plan which includes details on its free energy appraisal, aimed at identifying which fans and pumps could benefit from VSD control. With the introduction of the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme, you can save CO2 at the rate of £12 per tonne. For example, ABB recently installed VSDs at

Take control of your utility and energy costs • Integration of remote logging from sub-metering and other utility meters Integrated meter and communications products are now available take advantage of new methods of Machine 2 Machine (M2M) communications being supported by the mobile network operators, via SMS text messaging or GPRS for example. This makes a compelling case for the introduction of remote metering for businesses’ NHH metering portfolio.

FOR MORE INFORMATION If you would like to find out more call our Contracts Manager, Chris Palmer, on 08457 448900 to discuss how WPD can help you take control of your utility billing and energy costs.

a swimming pool hall, saving 177 MWh/ year which equates to 78 tons of CO2 per year. Once CRC is fully implemented then at £12 per tonne the CRC cash offset would be £936 per year – every year.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01925 741 111 E-mail: energy@gb.abb.com Web: www.abb.co.uk/energy

Taking care of your PC so you can focus on your business

IT Management for the future, now

Cut PC energy usage, save money, reduce carbon! Care Taker software can reduce the demand for electrical power across your organisation’s PC network by at least 35% and as much as 68%, without affecting your productivity – saving an average £28 and 141kg of CO2 per computer each year. Care Taker will also have paid for itself well within six months, leaving your organisation not only with a reduced electrical bill but a smaller carbon footprint! To learn more about Care Taker please contact 01224 224 235 or email info@carboncontrolsoftware.com

www.carboncontrolsoftware.com

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Influential new carbon management lobby launched Leading industry experts within the Environmental Industries Commission have launched a new Group to lobby on the economic benefits for the UK of implementing effective carbon and environmental management policy measures The Group will lobby for an ambitious, long-term and enforceable carbon and environmental management policy framework that will drive vast improvements in the way our economy manages its climate change and wider environmental impacts. By establishing this policy framework before its international competitors, the UK can position itself as a global leader in provision of environmental management technologies and services. Establishing this technology and skills base in the UK will help create new business and, potentially, thousands of new jobs. Early Members of the Group include AEA Technology, AECOM, Baker & McKenzie LLP, ERM, ICF International and WSP.

covering the key legislative and regulatory drivers for carbon management across the economy, including the Carbon Reduction Commitment, implementation of Phase III of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme and Climate Change Agreements • Corporate Reporting – covering the key issues for improving carbon and environmental management in companies and across their supply chains, including corporate carbon reporting and assurance of corporate reporting • Carbon and Environmental Management Systems – the Group will lobby on the key issues surrounding the use of environmental management systems, including their certification. • Sustainable Procurement – the Group

Since its launch, EIC has argued that the future of the UK’s competitiveness depends on establishing a world-leading environmental industry. EIC has lobbied harder and more consistently than any other organisation over the past 15 years for a policy framework that drives demand for new, innovative environmental technologies and services. The new Group will join EIC’s 11 other Working Groups representing the UK’s environmental technology and services (ETS) industry. These Groups provide a highly influential voice for the ETS industry to the Government pressing the huge potential for economic growth through a range of environmental policies.

will lobby for substantial improvements to the Government’s sustainable procurement policies to help create a “credible market” for these products and services. “Establishing an ambitious carbon and environmental management policy framework that drives vast improvements in the way we manage our impact on the environment will have immediate economic benefits,” said Danny Stevens, EIC’s policy director. “Not only by improving the efficiency with which the economy consumes finite resources, but by establishing an exciting new sector with innovative, world leading technologies and services that will help guide the long-over due – and much talked about – transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy. Through proper government support, the UK’s carbon and environmental management sector

Establishing an ambitious carbon and environmental management policy framework that drives vast improvements in the way we manage our impact on the environment will have immediate economic benefits, not only by improving the efficiency with which the economy consumes finite resources, but by establishing an exciting new sector with innovative, world leading technologies and services that will help guide the longover due – and much talked about – transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy

GROUP PRIORITIES The Group’s early priorities will include: • UK and EU Carbon Management Policy –

The Environmental Industries Commission The EIC was launched in 1995 to provide environmental technology equipment and services suppliers with a strong and effective voice to influence the debate on the future of the industry among policymakers in Westminster, Whitehall and Brussels. It aims to promote constructive co-operation between the regulated, the regulators and the UK’s environmental technology suppliers who serve them. Over 300 companies are members of the EIC and the number is growing rapidly. Through its innovative Sector Working Groups, the EIC actively promotes a supportive legislative and fiscal framework that emphasises cost effective policies, coherent standards and practical solutions. The EIC facilitates the exchange of information and experience on R&D, market opportunites, funding and training. has the potential to create thousands of new businesses, hundreds of thousand of new jobs and huge export opportunities for the UK. “EIC’s new Carbon and Environmental Management Working Group will lobby harder than any other organisation to establish this policy framework. The Group gives this crucial sector a voice in the corridors of power, building support for the environmental and economic case for effective carbon and environmental management policy measures.” MINISTERIAL MEETING Members of the Carbon and Environmental Management Group have already attended a high-level meeting with Shadow Energy and Climate Change Minister Greg Clark MP, and Shadow Secretary for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Nick Herbert MP. Members have begun a campaign to extend the government’s Carbon Reduction Commitment, as well as seeing their ideas on supporting low-carbon innovation through government procurement policy adopted by the government in the recent ‘Low Carbon Industrial Strategy’.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Web: www.eic-uk.co.uk

The Business Magazine for government

C O N F E R E N C E

E X H I B I T I O N

Wembley Stadium • 1 & 2 December 2009

The energy market is being transformed! Energy users, conscious of volatile prices, unstable supply and their carbon footprint, are getting ‘hands on’ with their own energy saving and self-generation. The Smart Energy Show is a new conference and exhibition aimed at helping those users benefit from the opportunities available.

Superb programme now published: don't miss out! An unmissable event for decentralised energy users and those planning to benefit from feed-in tariffs and heat incentives A showcase of the exciting array of decentralised energy technologies now available High quality multi-stream two-day conference with networking opportunities and extensive use of case studies Focus on the role of the public sector in driving a smarter approach to energy both in its own operation and in its wider influence with the public Jointly organised by the REA (key campaigners for decentralised energy incentives) and Media Generation (organisers of AllEnergy, the UK's largest renewable energy event)

Great value pricing! Book online today Two-day conference pass just £295+VAT (REA members £230+VAT) One-day conference pass just £175+VAT (REA members £135+VAT) Organised by

www.smartenergy.co.uk

Hear top speakers from: British Retail Consortium Marks & Spencer The Guardian Ford Motor Company BT Energy Networks Association GLA Partnership for Renewables The NHS EDF Energy Senergy Carbon Trust British Gas National Trust CHPA .....and many more!

For m and to ore inform www. book ple ation a smart energ se visit y.co.u k

Supported by

•

info@smartenergy.co.uk

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

The energy market is changing Smart Energy ’09 is the one stop decentralised energy shop under the 2008 Energy Act. The government’s consultation on Feed-in-Tariffs (FiTs) closed mid-October with over 700 responses to their proposals on how the FiTs scheme should work, including the proposed tariff levels, and work is now underway in DECC analysing these responses. The FiTs will be introduced from April 2010 to incentivise local renewable heat, power and biogas production. This will contribute to accelerated growth in the sector.

Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK at Sunderland. In 2005, in the face of rising concerns for carbon emissions, sustainability and rising electricity costs, Nissan installed six 200ft, 600kW recycled wind turbines within the site boundaries.

The energy market is transforming. Energy users, conscious of volatile prices, unstable supply and their carbon footprint, are getting ‘hands on’ with their own energy saving and self-generation. The global decentralised energy market is already growing rapidly, encouraged by strong commercial, financial, environmental and political drivers. Climate change, supply uncertainties and price volatility have encouraged new sustainable energy policies worldwide, with corporate social responsibility another deciding factor. These new-style energy producers are a

far cry from the utilities of old. They may be local, regional or central government; retailers, schools, hospitals, or owners of public buildings or stately homes; hotels, leisure centres, or sports facilities; owners of warehouses, factories and offices; port authorities; communities or housing associations; or even individual homeowners – the list goes on, and on. And the government is finding ways to motivate them. Here in the UK a successful campaign, led by the Renewable Energy Association (REA) and Friends of the Earth, has resulted in exciting new incentives for organisations and individuals to produce their own green energy

AN EVENT FOR ENERGY USERS Following this success REA, working with Media Generation Ventures (MGV), decided to develop the Smart Energy show being held 1-2 December at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London. Smart Energy ‘09 is designed specifically for decentralised energy users and potential beneficiaries of the upcoming FiTs and heat incentive. The conference organised by REA, alongside the exhibition organised by MGV, will showcase the exciting array of decentralised energy technologies available today. The conference is held over two days. The first day will focus on ‘Smart Energy and Businesses’ and Day 2 will focus on ‘Smart Energy and Communities’. Each day will be split into plenary sessions and break-out sessions to ensure people attending get the most out of their day. Both days include sessions designed to inform the audience about the different technology options available, their features and their practical application, as well as an overview of how each of these technologies will benefit under the new government incentives. Through various case studies and practical examples, a wide range of industry and public sector experts will also explore: • The role and importance of the retail sector in technological and social change in the face of climate change, particularly in relation to energy and the new populist incentives for renewables investment • The huge opportunities for industry to drive social and technological change in the face of climate change and energy security concerns, as well as exploit new business opportunities, what pioneering work is being done by companies to reduce their carbon footprint and how they benefit from investment in ‘Smart Energy’ • The role of the public sector in driving a smarter approach to energy both in its own operation and in its wider influence with the public, how the new incentives can encourage local government to step up their leadership on renewables and the role that schools, hospitals and other public institutions have to play • How communities, social enterprises and

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS Following a compelling plenary session, the first day of the conference when retail and distribution, industrial, public sector (own buildings), energy efficiency, heating and cooling, and power come under the conference spotlight, features speakers including Bob Gordon, British Retail Consortium; Matt Partridge, Ecotricity, speaking about Ford Dagenham; Thomas Martin, BT looking at their Wind for Change programme; Tony Glover, Energy Networks Association; Stephen Ainger, Partnership for Renewables; Peter Smith of the Combined Heat and Power Association; Robin Curtis, Earth Energy (case studies of geothermal); Paul Davenport, AHS Energy (case study of biomass/woodchip large scale); Ray Noble, REA (PV, how it works and the benefits); Jake Burnyeat, Green Peninsula (decentralised wind); and Guy Nicholson, Senergy Econnect looking at grid connections. Day 2 also begins with a highly relevant plenary session and then focuses on tariff technologies and energy efficiency; heating and cooling; power; community and social housing; household; local authority (and regional) with speakers including Andrew Cooper, Kirklees Warm Zone; Chris Miles, Econergy; Dave Matthews, Solar Trade Association; Ian Tubby, Biomass Energy Centre; Robert Meeks, ICE Energy; Ray Noble, REA; Alex Murley, BWEA, Steve Cunningham, Landis Gyr; Jose Davila, Centrica; Nicholas Doyle, Places for People; Alan Simpson MP; Martin Orill, British Gas (New Energy); Rob Jarman, National trust; Adrian Hewitt, Energence Ltd; Merlin Hyman, Regen SW and Peter North, LDA. Supporting exhibition “We are very pleased to be working alongside the Renewable Energy Association on this new event and are looking forward to a highly successful and stimulating two days,” says Paul Stott, managing director of MGV, part of the Media Generation Group that organises

The Business Magazine for government

Image courtesy of Arbutnott Pellets Ltd

householders can use the new renewables incentives to take charge of their carbon footprint and their energy future. “If you are concerned with energy efficiency, the mounting cost of your energy bill or the impact of your carbon footprint, then the Smart Energy conference is for you,” says Sarah-Jane Freni, events manager, REA. “It is very much a one-stop shop providing you with all the information you need from which technology is best suited for you, to practical examples of how other people did it, not forgetting valuable information on how the FiTs and heat incentive could benefit you.” You can find the conference programme at www.smartenergy.co.uk where online registration is now open. The conference is most competitively priced at £295+VAT for a two-day pass and £175+VAT for a one-day pass, with discount available for REA members.

Solar panels in a dramatic surrounding in London’s Cheapside. Picture courtesy of Dulas. Copyright: Phil Clarke-Hill

All-Energy, the UK’s largest renewable energy exhibition and conference. “REA has produced a splendid conference programme aimed at those looking at renewable energy generation systems for the first time; and those who perhaps have previously dismissed their use but are now wanting to weigh up the advantages and find out more about benefits under the FiTs, and our exhibitors will be demonstrating how energy can be produced on-site by a wide range of sectors. “These can of course be large factory schemes or small domestic schemes with a tremendous variety of options in between. Our exhibitors will be bringing all options to the attention of our delegates and visitors. They include companies with products and services relating to energy saving and efficiency; renewable energy generation; renewable heat production; energy management and monitoring; installation and commissioning; operation and maintenance; energy advice, auditing and consultancy; and biogas and renewable fuels. “Hoval, for example, will host the first public showing of their innovative new CF

ceramic filtration system, capable of removing virtually all particulate matter from the flue gases of biomass boilers (down to PM2.5). As such, the CF addresses concerns in some urban areas about particulate emissions from biomass boilers, while exceeding the requirements of air quality regulations due to be introduced in 2010. The Hoval CF can be fitted to any make of biomass boiler, including retrofit projects where space is available and, crucially, removes much smaller particles than can be removed with the cyclones that are usually used for this purpose.” Strong support Smart Energy ’09 is endorsed by the Department of Energy and Climate Change and supported by BEAMA, the Carbon Trust, EEEGR, Energy Networks Association, Energy Saving Trust, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Renewables East and Regen SW. Further information on all aspects of the conference and exhibition are available from the website at www.smartenergy.co.uk

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

A convenient and green fuel for your business

Sustainable and energy efficient technologies

are so W hy many organisations

alford based ENER·G Combined Power is the UK’s largest manufacturer of small-scale combined heat and power (CHP) systems. Since the 1980’s ENER·G have undertaken over 1,200 CHP projects from the initial design stage to installation and commissioning. We also provide operation and maintenance services with a dedicated team of service engineers available 24/7, covering the whole of the UK. Our other solutions include energy from biogas, heat pumps, efficient lighting, metering, controls and energy from waste, accompanied by our range of energy and water consultancy and procurement services. The ENER·G group designs, develops, delivers, operates and finances a variety of sustainable energy solutions to public and private sector customers

switching to brites pellets? It’s simple – energy security, pure economics, convenience and the environment! An environmentally friendly, carbon-neutral fuel, brites can benefit any organisation by providing all their heating and hot water requirements. Their impressive portfolio of customers includes hospitals, hotels, nursing homes, prisons, leisure centres and office accommodation who are reporting savings of between £1,400 to £100,000 per year on their energy bills. In a volatile energy market, brites offer tremendous price security and can also assist businesses in meeting renewable energy targets. Customers have peace of mind knowing that their fuel has come from a sustainable source and has security of supply which can be delivered anywhere in the UK and Ireland. More and more UK companies are discovering the commercial benefits of brites. Earlier this year electronics company Ericsson installed twin 200kW

Hoval wood pellet boilers with gas boiler back-up to provide base load space and water heating in the offices at the their new headquarters in Coventry. Within the next year it is expected to utilise 180 tonnes of brites a year displacing around 200 tonnes of CO2 per year and saving more than £5,000 a year compared to mains gas.

ranging from energy generation to the management of energy use, on a business-to-business basis worldwide. Our systems generate efficient electricity, heating and/or cooling, at low cost for commercial, industrial, public sector and district heating applications. Cogeneration technology is wellproven in delivering reductions in energy costs and lowering emissions. ENER·G is 100 per cent dedicated to the development of its products and markets, and over the years has seen rapid growth to achieve a strong global presence within the energy industry. Visit ENER·G at Smart Energy 09, stand 84 to discuss your energy needs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION E-mail: chp@energ.co.uk Web: www.energ.co.uk

FOR MORE INFORMATION For further information go to www.brites.eu or visit us at Stand 26 at Smart Energy 09!

Hoval showcases new filtration system at SmartEnergy 09 oval’s stand (C26) at Smart Energy ’09 will host the first public showing of the new Hoval CF ceramic filtration system, capable of removing virtually all particulate matter from the flue gases of biomass boilers. As such, the CF addresses concerns in some urban areas about particulate emissions from biomass boilers. The Hoval CF can be fitted to any make of biomass boiler, including retrofit projects where space is available and, crucially, removes much smaller particles than can be removed with the cyclones that are usually used for this purpose. The CF also provides a low maintenance solution, as the ceramic filters are self-cleaning and particulate waste is collected in the unit for easy disposal. Visitors to the stand will be able to see the new CF ceramic filter linked to a BioLyt biomass boiler, in a system that also includes an UltraGas condensing boiler – demonstrating Hoval’s expertise in integrating renewable and

The Construction Centre has everything you need he Construction Centre.co.uk is the market leader for providing specialist online information to the public and private sectors of the UK building industry. The website covers all areas of construction and has a vast database of over 100,000 products with over 15,000 manufacturers and suppliers. The Construction Centre has seen phenomenal growth since its launch in 2007. It now offers a complete research solution to thousands of professionals who need reliable and up to date building product information. There is no other construction related website which holds such a wealth of information. This online building

traditional heat sources to achieve maximum efficiency. Solar thermal systems and heat pumps will also be represented on the stand, along with TopTronic control systems. Hoval has vast experience of managing renewable and conventional heating projects, and offers a complete turnkey service including design, installation and commissioning.

encyclopaedia is an essential tool for all industry professionals to use. It has been hailed the UK’s most innovative and fastest growing online information service for the construction sector, while also offering a fast and efficient contact facility for enquiries, quotes and brochures. Over 10,000 visitors use the site every day with a specific purpose; to source the building products and suppliers they need – are you one of them?

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 01926 865825 Web: www. theconstructioncentre.co.uk E-mail: info@ theconstructioncentre.co.uk

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit Stand C26 or go to: www.hoval.co.uk

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

know your flood risk Two years after the 2007 floods, flood risk remains a key issue for local authorities and residents The issue of flood risk and how to tackle it remains high on the agenda. In the two years that have followed the 2007 floods, flooding has been the subject of extensive political comment and debate. Sir Michael Pitt’s report into the response to the 2007 flooding contained wide ranging recommendations regarding how issues arising from flood risk should be addressed in the future. Prominent among these recommendations was the suggestion that local authorities should take a lead role in managing flood risk in their area. Managing the risk The Government’s response to the Pitt Review endorsed this conclusion and the draft Flood Water & Management Bill, published for consultation on 21 April 2009, set out how the recommendations may be implemented. The draft Bill proposed that local authorities be given a leadership role over local flood risk management. In particular local authorities would be responsible for ensuring that flood risk from all sources of flooding, including surface run-off and groundwater is identified and managed. In addition, the draft Bill proposed a number of steps to increase knowledge and understanding of flood risk and this included proposals for the use of risk maps, awareness campaigns, and flood warnings. The consultation period for the draft Bill closed in July. It is clear that the issue of flooding and how the Government, Environment Agency, local authorities and other institutions deal with it will not disappear quickly. Raising awareness In support of the recommendations Landmark Information Group, the UK’s leading provider of flood data, has teamed up with the National Flood Forum (NFF) to produce a free Flood Guide for councils to distribute to their residents. As part of Landmark’s ongoing ‘Know Your Flood Risk’ campaign to raise awareness of flood risk and the impact of flooding, the guide offers practical guidance and advice, including what to do in the event of a flood and useful contacts. Landmark has worked in association with the NFF for the past two years and produced the Flood Guide as a tool for councils to offer information and guidance for residents and businesses. The guide demonstrates a recognition that local authorities have a crucial role to play in tackling flooding. It is vital that they have the

The Business Magazine for government

information, resources and skills required to meet the increased demands of any new legislation. By working closely with the NFF and local councils, Landmark aims to roll the Flood Guide out across the UK. Many commentators suggest that climate change will cause increased severe rainfall in future and bring with it an increased risk of surface water flooding and it is vital that property owners have an awareness of how to gain an understanding of the flood risk associated with their property and the steps that could be taken to address potential problems. The Flood Guide includes: • An explanation of what happened during the summer 2007 floods and why • An emergency guide providing practical advice in the event of future floods • Information about the ongoing flood recovery operation • How to establish whether a property is at risk from flooding and how to protect it. For details on how to claim your free council guide please email flood@homecheckpro.co.uk. Practical guidance The Flood Guide forms part of the ‘Know Your Flood Risk’ campaign which was launched earlier this year in partnership with the NFF. The initiative aims to provide practical guidance and support to help protect homeowners and property professionals against the risk of flooding. As a collective voice, ‘Know Your

Flood Risk’ and its members aim to raise the profile of flooding and ensure consumers are not only aware of the risks they face, but also how to mitigate them. The campaign has already attracted membership from both the public and private sectors and encourages local authorities to sign up to show their support at www.knowyourfloodrisk.co.uk. Risk assessment In addition, Landmark produces comprehensive property specific flood risk assessment reports for both residential and commercial properties. These allow property owners and property professionals to gain a clear understanding of the flood risk associated with their property. These market leading reports contain data relating to surface water flooding, river and coastal flooding, insurance claims and information relating to groundwater flooding, and can be purchased via a legal professional or directly online at www.homecheck.co.uk.

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Written by Dr Andy Johnston, LGiU

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Fighting the threat of floods Sir Michael Pitt’s report on the 2007 floods put local government at the centre stage of tackling floods. But what needs to change to give local authorities the right funds and resources to fulfil this responsibility? The Environment Agency is worried, very worried. All the indications are that flood risk is increasing; floods can hit anywhere and there is not enough money to deal with the known risks. Plus, if it all goes wrong the Agency will get the blame. Consequently, its long-term investment strategy for flood and coastal risk management Investing for the Future pulls no punches. With stark clarity the EA reveals that 5.2 million properties in England, or one in six properties, are at risk of flooding. So at the moment things are pretty bad but they will probably get worse. Recently the government released its renewed climate projections confirming that in the UK we can expect hotter summers, wetter winters and the increased likelihood of catastrophic weather events such as the summer 2007 floods. To complete the picture, we know that government spending outside health and international development will be falling off a cliff in 2011. THE ROLE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT Until recently, local government struggled to fully grasp its role in tackling flooding but in the summer of 2007, the emergency services, local authorities and the Environment Agency all mucked in to help out even though they had no explicit statutory obligation to do so. Sir Michael Pitt’s report on the floods changed the landscape and put local government firmly at the centre – the strategic framework provided by the Environment Agency recognises that local government’s role is to prepare for, help tackle and then oversee long-term recovery from flooding events. Fans of localism will recognise a familiar dilemma. Councils are best placed to perform these functions and have the local accountability through instant feedback and the ballot box. However, in order to do a good job they need money and skilled staff and both are in short supply. The bottom line is that one in six homes are at risk and only a quarter of the money needed to protect them is available. To help allocate the government’s scarce resources the Environment Agency has identified the top ten local authorities at risk based upon its National Flood Risk Assessment. Top of the list is Kingston upon Hull City Council with 120,000 properties at risk. Few of the councils affected by the summer 2007 floods make it into the top ten.

The problem for councils is that the Environment Agency’s models favour main river flooding despite the fact that by the Environment agency’s own figures more people are affected by surface water flooding and in all probability solutions to surface water flooding will be cheaper to deal with. Councils are responsible for surface water flooding, which is mainly caused by heavy rain and is unpredictable in magnitude and location. A double whammy for councils not in the top ten. The shortness of the list powerfully illustrates that the government only has the money and time to deal with the very worst cases, forcing other councils who feel threatened by flooding to be imaginative about funding.

Andy Johnston

FLOOD AND WATER MANAGEMENT BILL The LGiU is the secretariat for the Local Government Flood Forum (LGFF) – a group of more than 70 local authorities interested in ensuring that the Flood and Water Management Bill, due to be in the Queen’s speech this

Sir Michael Pitt’s report on the floods changed the landscape and put local government firmly at the centre – the strategic framework provided by the Environment Agency recognises that local government’s role is to prepare for, help tackle and then oversee long-term recovery from flooding events November, grants councils the resources and powers to match their responsibilities. Rather than the loose partnership advocated by government, the LGFF would like to see the creation of Strategic Flood Partnerships (SFPs) which would be able to apply to the Secretary of State for extra powers to manage flooding. The partnerships would be centred on the upper tier local authorities but could embrace more than one authority and even cover a whole catchment area. Such partnerships would help councils to foster greater cooperation from the water industry, give them the ability to step in and resolve problems without any additional expense to the taxpayer and help them to bridge the funding gap. Councils need to be able to tackle flood risks on private land and

charge the landowners for the work done. The Environment Agency paper suggests local contributions from councils to top up agency money or contributions from developers and some benefit from reduced insurance premiums. These funding suggestions are a start but unlikely to be enough. The LGFF is very clear that a way must be found for beneficiaries to contribute more to the cost of flood risk management. People whose homes have been wrecked by severe floods do not care about which aspects fall within the council’s responsibility and which are to be dealt with by the Environment Agency. Therefore, both need to be working closely together and properly funded if we’re not to suffer the same scale of damage to homes and livelihoods as experienced in 2007.

The Business Magazine for government

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Written by Louise Clarke, Ciria

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Staying on dry land Local authorities have a major role to play in the management and delivery of sustainable drainage Local authorities have a key role in managing local flood risk management and delivering sustainable drainage. The recent consultation on the Flood and Water Management Bill suggests that this may be formalised with LAs being responsible for surface water management and the approval and adoption of sustainable drainage systems (SUDS). The Sustainable Drainage Systems philosophy involves managing stormwater locally (as close to the source as possible) mimicking natural drainage processes. SUDS provide an opportunity to manage local flood risk and offer benefits by also improving the quality of water and enhancing the amenity of the area. They can also make a major contribution to the green infrastructure encouraging people to pursue outdoor activities, increase biodiversity and help create sustainable, liveable neighbourhoods.

applications. The SUDS implementing body should adopt most of the new surface drainage systems (upper tier local authorities in England). Supporting Local Authorities Some local authorities are likely to find the new responsibilities for flood risk management a challenge both in terms of resources and skills. It is important that they have the correct knowledge and understanding of sustainable water management and sustainable drainage practices. Support has been provided thought guidance documents produced by Defra, Local Government Association, the Local Government Flood Forum and CIRIA. CIRIA and its partners has been aware of the challenges being faced by industry and particularly local authorities and since 2006 has been supporting them through the formation of LANDFORM and

Recent strategies and consultation documents have presented SUDS as being the preferred approach to surface water management recognising the opportunities and highlighting the important role that local authorities will take in their delivery Recent strategies and consultation documents have presented SUDS as being the preferred approach to surface water management recognising the opportunities and highlighting the important role that local authorities will take in their delivery. Government policy The draft Flood and Water Management Bill outlines the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposal to improve flood risk management and secure water supplies. The draft Bill outlines the roles and responsibilities for local authorities including mapping the local flood risk management assets and being responsible for the adoption of SUDS. Before local authorities adopt SUDS they will have to comply with the National Standards for SUDS. The Bill also proposes to end the automatic right to connect to the sewer for surface water drainage. The National Standards will ensure that SUDS are included in developments and will be subject to an approval process for their design, construction and operation. New connections to sewers will only be approved if the drainage of the site is in accordance with the National Standards. The local authorities (planning authorities) should be required to take the National Standards into account when preparing planning policy documents and when determining and conditioning planning

The Business Magazine for government

the provision of leading edge SUDS training. The Local Authority Network on Drainage and Flood Risk Management (LANDFORM) is for those that work in and with local authorities on drainage and flood risk. The network provides a vehicle for LA representatives to interact, discuss and share experiences related to the challenges of flooding and sustainable drainage. It supports LAs in their operational roles by providing a free network and forum for dissemination of guidance, policy changes and facilitates the exchange of good practice, information and opinions. LANDFORM has directly engaged with over 200 professionals from local authorities through its events over the last three years (nearly 700 professionals in total). The LANDFORM website receives around 3,000 hits per month and the free seminars have on average 70 delegates. Training In the last four years CIRIA has developed training courses on SUDS building on current SUDS guidance, and assist with the dissemination and delivery of excellent practice and good SUDS schemes that comply with regulations. These high quality interactive training courses are delivered by nationally recognised experts using a number of showcase examples. The training programme enables practitioners to efficiently and confidently

plan, design, construct and manage SUDS schemes. The courses are designed for all levels of knowledge where the introduction course equips professionalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the drivers, benefits and fundamental approaches and the SUDS design course is aimed at those with more experience to help in the delivery and implementation process. Sustainable drainage is a key aspect of flood risk management and local authorities are central to the successful delivery of SUDS. The guidance documents, support networks and training can help LAs to gain greater understanding of the issues and concepts facilitating the delivery of SUDS on a range of sites.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tel: 020 7549 3300 E-mail: enquiries@ciria.org Web: www.ciria.org

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Aquadyne introduces new green drainage system A

quadyne is a green and revolutionary drainage system which is made from 100 per cent mixed recycled plastics and therefore meets all eco, green and sustainable needs (for every 200 panels of Aquadyne a saving is made of up to two hundred tonnes of carbon). Aquadyne is available in one metre panels and has a 20 per cent greater drainage capacity than gravel and has a percolation rate ten times greater than sand. When compared with traditional perforated pipe which has a five per cent open pore surface area the Aquadyne has a 50 per cent open pore surface

Aquadyne has numerous applications including highways, SUDS, sports pitches, golf clubs (fairways, greens and bunkers), landscape projects, zoos, schools, council parks and flower beds areas etc.

FOR MORE INFORMATION area. The product is easy and simple to install with little ground disruption. Aquadyne will not clog and is extremely durable and capable of withstanding up to 1,000 tonnes of pressure per square metre without any noticeable reduction in performance.

Aquadyne Sales and Marketing, PO Box 9, Stroud, GL6 8HA Tel: 01453 733625 Fax: 01453 731127 E-mail: info@aquadyne.co.uk Web: www.aquadyne.co.uk

The Business Magazine for government

Written by Michael Hobbs, Carillion Business Services, for the Facilities Management Association

facilities management

Managing property A guide to savings and improvements in public sector estate Members of the Facilities Management Association, which represents the major facilities management companies in the UK, contribute more than ÂŁ4m to the economy and employ more than 500,000 people in the public and private sectors alike. One of our members, Carillion Facilities Management provides property asset management and service delivery solutions to customers, including multinational corporations. Its world class property information systems add value to a wide range of publicly owned and corporate estates. Energy Reduction Increase efficiency; achieve energy reduction targets; use less space; comply with statutory requirements; reduce costs; and improve standards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this is the facilities management agenda facing public sector organisations. This pales into almost insignificance against the public service delivery agenda. But mention

savings and all too often facilities services are the first port of call. This can be the silver lining for facilities management in that it does feature on senior decision makers agenda, if only at budget setting time. The facilities or property director invariably

has the unenviable annual objective of meeting the budget target and reacting to crises. Rather than matching a serviced estate to the strategic requirements of delivering a public service. The result is a generation of battle-weary estates and facilities directors,

The facilities or property director invariably has the unenviable annual objective of meeting the budget target and reacting to crises. Rather than matching a serviced estate to the strategic requirements of delivering a public service. The result is a generation of battle-weary estates and facilities directors, whose expertise is in operational day-to-day management of an institutionalised, unionised and superannuated workforce

The Business Magazine for government

Thousands of floors. One mop head. With its unique gentle wash action, the Miele PW5064 washing machine significantly extends the life of mop heads and cleaning cloths. And it gives you perfect disinfection time after time. Miele products are engineered to keep performing wash after wash, year after year. Meaning less downtime, longer replacement intervals and ultimately less cost. Which is great news for your business. And your balance sheet. For years of perfect performance, it must be a Miele.

Call 0845 330 3618 or visit www.miele-professional.co.uk

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

facilities management

whose expertise is in operational day-to-day management of an institutionalised, unionised and superannuated workforce. The senior operational management recognise the need for change. Yet implementation is frustrated by corporate bureaucracy and a risk avoidance culture based on consensus decision making. As a generalisation the middle management is disenfranchised and motivation and morale low. Despite this the profile of managing the assets that form the public sector estate has never been higher. In the current economic climate this focus will only increase. The demand is for realising savings, and achieving them now. But to release savings numerous barriers need to be overcome. These include the complexity of the estate and clarity of ownership; the level of ambition and the delivery capability within public sector organisations; clarity of scope and remit of facilities and asset management; and the need to transform working practices and processes. SAVINGS ON FACILITIES In central government alone the total asset base in 2003 was valued at £220 billion and costs some £6bn per year to maintain and service. The last six years has seen significant change with relocation of departments to the regions; improved utilisation of space and increasingly transformed working practices. The

result is progress towards annual running cost savings of £1.25bn a year. At the same time improved working environments, enhanced access to technology and reduced energy consumption have been delivered. A key change is identifying how to work smarter using less space, which is contributing achieving a 2.4 million sq m reduction by 2013.

with facilities management being seen as a subset of wider support services. The decision as to what to procure is crucial to realising benefits. Moving across the continuum the scale ranges from lowest cost for a service, to realising enhanced value from the asset base across its whole life. It’s no surprise that the management requirement increases from

Progress has undoubtedly benefited from outsourcing and partnering with the private sector. Today over 70 per cent of the central government annual facilities management spend is outsourced Progress has undoubtedly benefited from outsourcing and partnering with the private sector. Today over 70 per cent of the central government annual facilities management spend is outsourced. This has been achieved through a combination of traditional tenders, framework agreements and Public Private Partnership arrangements. Support service outsourcing is an often used phrase, yet remains a mystery to many. At its simplest it is procurement of a single service, for example cleaning. At the other end of the spectrum it’s the outsourcing of elements of operational service delivery. This can be thought of as a continuum

supervisory skills and culminates in strategic management skills; and the technology investment increases from commodity computer aided facilities management systems (CAFM) to bespoke business intelligence systems. These specialist systems give real time management information, including cost of occupancy that allows real time management interventions. OUTSOURCED SERVICES The depth and quality of management required to manage outsourced services depends on whether the scope of outsourcing includes strategic management as well as operational management responsibility. Inclusion of

The Business Magazine for government

Switching to ebm-papst EC fans will reduce energy consumption and save you money

86 X 125mm advert.indd 1

7/8/09 15:08:50

Estates Online - Support Staff Intranet - Mobile Communications - Automated Request Logging

Why make hard work of it? With such a diverse range of internal customers and stakeholders, Estates Managers in the NHS have a particularly challenging role. And those challenges are set to increase as budgets tighten. We can make your life easier, boost your efficiency and slash costs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all without compromising on customer service.

The Answers Company

Ring NOW to ensure you qualify for your FREE Support Staff Intranet Module

01926 517721

Integrated fm, Charles Court, Budbrooke Road, Warwick, CV34 5LZ T:01926 517721 E:health@integratedfm.com W:www.integratedfm.com

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

facilities management

strategic management of assets and property, to maintain an estate that is aligned with the ever changing business need, is associated with Total Facilities Management (TFM) or Integrated Facilities Management. If strategic management responsibility is being retained in-house the decision is the degree to which outsourced services are aggregated into bundles or procured as individual services. Bundling offers the opportunity to create synergies between services and to drive efficiency and deliver reduced cost. All too often bundles of disparate services are created limiting the benefit to contracting with a single entity. Bundles themselves can be grouped into services that focus on compliance, in terms of ensuring that facilities are safe, warm and dry; or on hotel services including catering and cleaning; or front of house with reception and switchboard. At the simplest level single service procurements generally provide commodity services with the benefit being to drive cost improvements on a single budget line. Despite central government departments making progress there is more to be done. Other areas of the public sector have not made the level of progress seen in central government. Facilities management outsourcing in local authorities and health is at less than 50 per cent compared with over 90 per cent in some areas of central government. Expectations of funding pressures dictate potential savings must be realised, and new areas for saving identified. Traditional facilities management outsourcing may be part of the answer, but is unlikely to unlock the levels of saving required to maintain or improve the standard of service delivery demanded by the public. The days of year on year 3 per cent efficiency savings are no longer sufficient. Ways must be found of maintaining or improving service quality at a significantly lower cost base. This is not a pipedream. Outsourcing is founded on using specialist expertise to increase efficiency and make more effective use of resources and assets. For companies providing

outsourced services it is their core business. They invest in their people, in the development of enabling technologies and are constantly developing services to increase productivity and efficiency – in short they provide access to industry best practice and innovation – creating the opportunity to do more with less. ENSURING COMPLIANCE Ensuring statutory compliance is paramount, but is not a given. In complex multi-property estates the challenges are large. Up to date databases containing asset registers and histories are essential – yet all too often are none existent. And once the assets are known, how are they best maintained? Should planned maintenance be on a calendar basis, regardless of usage, or alternatively be based on criticality of the asset and its use. Is it necessary to have resident engineers or could engineers be part of a mobile team. If mobile do they need to be dedicated to a single organisation? Deployment of mobile engineers using dynamic scheduling significantly reduces travel time and increases productivity. Similar decisions that affect the quality and cost of service exist for each of the facilities management services. And it is these questions that need to be identified when specifying an outsourcing procurement and resolved during the selection process. Further benefits can be realised by addressing the assets required to deliver an organisations core business. Assets include property, fleet and IT infrastructure, which when managed collectively are referred to as Strategic Asset Management. Property asset management focuses on the property element of strategic asset management and it encompasses two interacting components. An operational component encompasses the ongoing management of property assets over the short to medium term time horizon (three to five years) within an allocated budgetary framework. The strategic component focuses on the medium to longer term (10 years and

beyond) involving decisions on investment in property assets to meet end-user needs and service delivery requirements. As part of longer term planning workplace management offers the opportunity to create improved working environments in less space, by matching space to the needs of the occupants. It is an integral part of matching the facilities and property needs to the business need and aligned working practices. Application of workplace management in private sector organisations has created significant space savings. Benefits include reduced facilities management and maintenance costs, reduced rent and rates and lower energy consumption contributing to achieving saving energy targets. CORE COMPETENCIES The application of the core competencies required for efficient facilities management delivery are transferable. Benefits can also be delivered across a range of public service operations where there is the opportunity to increase productivity and efficiency. The effective management of mobile workforces does not differ significantly between maintenance engineers and the multitude of mobile public service delivery personnel. At the end of the day it is about getting the right person to the right place with as little time spent travelling as possible. The private sector is already supporting delivery of a wide range of public service delivery. Yet this is only a small fraction of the total. Outsourcing services brings the benefit that the private sector generally takes the risk of achieving savings. This creates incentives for breaking through the inertia often associated with public sector change programmes. Undoubtedly better quality services being promised by politicians and demanded by the public can be delivered at a lower cost through a combination of public sector and private sector expertise. The opportunity is there. It now needs the strategic vision and leadership to grasp the opportunity and turn it into reality.

Turn policy into practice with Novell security ovell research reveals most companies (71 per cent) do not encrypt data on laptops, and 90 per cent of employees access unsecured wireless networks while out of the office. Security threats, especially at endpoints, are growing rapidly, leaving data vulnerable to attack. Written policies are not enough. Failing to secure your network puts your company at risk of data leaks, productivity disruptions and regulatory fines. With over 12,000 customers, Novell is a leader in IT security. Its solutions help ensure policies and regulations are correctly and consistently enforced. A three-step process manages identities,

provisioning, access and compliance in real-time to spot concerns before they escalate into problems. First, a single management console integrates identity, access and security management so you know who is accessing what, when and if they are authorised to do so. Second, technologies including

identity lifecycle management, access management, enterprise single sign-on and password management secure all endpoints whether devices are connected to the network or not. Third, network access control prevents threats from entering and contaminating the network. Novell enables you to achieve, maintain and prove compliance against internal policies and external regulations at a moment’s notice without the need for costly, time-consuming auditing.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.novell.com/solutions/identityand-security/ or call 0808 234 1638

The Business Magazine for government

Come and see us at... Stand D99 13th - 16th January 2010

Innovative Products for Presentations, Conferencing and Training Audience Response System

iQ PAD Audience Response System

Works with 2 x AA batteries • • • •

The iQ-PAD allows participants to respond with a variety of answers, including the full texting feature, and then send their answers using the send button.

Participants can give YES/NO - TRUE/FALSE answers, allowing more flexible presentations.

Full texting feature - as easy to use as a mobile phone Works with PowerPoint Ideal for use with ClassComm and CenS-Us software Answer inputs - YES/NO - TRUE/FALSE - Single Numeric - Multiple Numeric Single Alpha - Multiple Alpha - Text Mode - Likert Scale

Only £1,295 32 iQ-PAD set with ClassComm and CenS-Us

Use iQ-PAD Audience Response System with...

Class Comm

Audience Response Software

• • • •

Record and instantly present response data Instant Ad hoc participant register PowerPoint integration for pre-prepared questions ‘Text and drop’ feedback feature

Digital Visualiser Conference room solution

FREE Remote Control • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • •

Interactive Whiteboard

8100

330 Vertical Rotation

Spontaneous question format Unique floating toolbar Instantly canvass opinion Works on top of any software application

Pen board

270 Horizontal Rotation

Soft Key short cuts!

Interactive whiteboard pen!

Works with ANY Interactive Whiteboard/Pull down screen 23x optical zoom 10x digital zoom 230x total zoom 330 vertical head rotation PRO Digital + Great for video 270 horizontal head rotation • Interactive whiteboard 78”, other sizes available please conferencing! Store up to 7 images call for more details Image capture • 17 Programmable softkeys, allowing you to customise Video capture your presentation style Animation tool • Easy to use software Split screen • Full installation service available, please call for more details Connects to 2 PCs USB 2.0 Built in microphone socket 2 Video connections Scroll option Light box Training service provided Freeze frame

Only £695

Only £995 Tel: 0870 043 4024

Buy online and save 2% www.interactive-education.co.uk

Fax: 0870 043 4025

WWW Online - www.interactive-education.co.uk

Email - enquiries@interactive-education.co.uk

Post - 2 Upper Zoar St, Wolverhampton, WV3 0LA E&OE. Prices held to 30th November 2009

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

HR & TRAINING

HR is moving forward Thousands of HR and development professionals will be heading to Manchester to participate in the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development’s annual conference and exhibition Taking place in its new venue at Manchester Central on 17-19 November, the three-day event gives all those involved in the management and development of people the opportunity to hear from leading academics, thought leaders and business experts, discuss and debate key HR issues and meet up with hundreds of leading suppliers of HR products and services. A major research programme from the CIPD, ‘Next Generation HR’, will be launched at a keynote conference session, painting a picture of ways the HR function needs to evolve. Researchers are consulting with case study organisations at the forefront of current practice to understand how HR can meet its main purpose of supporting sustainable organisational performance. The conference session will outline insights and observations of emerging and progressive HR leadership. Vanessa Robinson, head of HR practice development, CIPD, comments: “Over the last decade we’ve seen many developments in HR’s purpose and role. The next 10 years will require the profession to continue to evolve and advance at an even faster pace than before. This Next Generation HR research is about shaping the evolution of the profession and then helping to arm those working in HR for the future. HR professionals need to be as prepared as possible for what’s around the corner, to know what their contribution can be and how to go about delivering that. It’s time to think about how to drive HR’s contribution forward and to add even more value to business than before.” Exhibition insights Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to get some hands-on experience of innovative HR and development tools and techniques, with on-stand activities and a programme of free features helping practitioners keep abreast of HR trends. For example, 30-minute presentations in the Exhibitor Exchange theatre will offer practical insights from suppliers on topics such as the impact of the equality bill, embedding a coaching culture, effective mediation and evaluating your training. ‘Senior level appointments – how to recruit the right person and keep them’ is the title of a presentation from Hays Human Resources while Watson Wyatt will be talking about ‘Reconnecting people to the business through effective organisation re-design’. The challenge of engaging employees on the subject of pensions will be explored by the National Association of Pension Funds, who will demonstrate how the make pensions education more appealing, and why it is so important.

HR professionals need to be as prepared as possible for what’s around the corner, to know what their contribution can be and how to go about delivering that. It’s time to think about how to drive HR’s contribution forward and to add even more value to business than before

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

HR & TRAINING

There will be a chance to find out what’s new on the CIPD research agenda and pick up on hot topics in the Essential Updates Theatre. CIPD advisers will be looking at issues such as the state of UK reward, the skills agenda and the likely impact of changes in retirement age. Another new free feature in the exhibition is the Personal Development Zone designed to help people brush up their professional skills or those of their team. As the standards for CIPD membership evolve, visitors can find out how to demonstrate and build their professional competence based on the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to be a successful HR practitioner. Topics include how to be a skilled influencer, and how to build personal credibility. While conference delegates and exhibition visitors will be looking to pick up plenty of new

employment law, pay and benefits, learning and development, wellbeing, absence management and employee relations. As this year’s event will demonstrate, suppliers know they must deliver practical solutions that support HR professionals in tough times. Suppliers are ready for the challenge, with resources and services that reflect the evolving demands of the profession. Health and wellbeing services are well represented as part of a wide variety of employee benefits and incentives products on show. Strategic concerns such as managing change, organisational design and performance management sit alongside hundreds of different products and services that reflect HR professionals’ daily mix of responsibilities. For instance, visitors looking to assess potential

As this year’s event will demonstrate, suppliers know they must deliver practical solutions that support HR professionals in tough times ideas from speakers and exhibitors to take back to their workplaces, the event is also a valuable opportunity to network and connect with fellow HR professionals. The MyEvent arena on the exhibition floor encourages networking activities, enabling visitors to drop in and participate in a range of interactive sessions. These will include roundtable discussions, speed networking, and the opportunity to meet some of the speakers at book-signing sessions. Exhibitors will be showcasing new launches, previews and updates on their stands, as well as offering information and advice. The CIPD’s own stand will be showcasing new products and services alongside advice on membership. Visitors will have the chance to preview a new resource, called HR-inform, which is being launched at the show. A subscription information service, it will feature up-to-date information, resources and tools, model policies and documents on

venues for training courses, check out a new off-the-shelf HR software package or pick up advice on employment law issues will find plenty of bread-and-butter solutions. Conference format The flexibility of this year’s conference format gives delegates the chance to tailor their visit, attending one, two or all three days. There are also a mix of different formats, including keynote sessions and master classes, workshops, organisational and strategic insights and expert-led practical sessions. The government’s major review on UK employee engagement will be discussed by David MacLeod of the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, leader of the review. He will be joined by Nita Claire, director of the Involvement and Participation Association, in a conference session that looks at the reviews findings and gives examples of organisations

Exhibition opening times Tuesday 17 November 10:00 – 18:00 Wednesday 18 November 10:00-17:00 Thursday 19 November 10:00-16:00 that are harnessing employee potential. A local perspective on ‘HR: Adding Value and Driving Change’ will be presented by Christine Brereton, deputy director of people and development, and Cathy Butterworth, director of people and development with Greater Manchester Police. Sue Scrivens, change management adviser at Gloucestershire County Council and Dave Ryan, HR Director-Employee Relations at BAE Systems will speak about ‘Developing meaningful partnerships with unions’ during the challenging times of reorganisation, restructuring and change. Masterclass and keynote speakers at this year’s conference include Jim Collins, author of ‘Good to great’, who will address the leadership challenges facing organisations. Roger Steare, professor of organisational ethics at Cass Business School, will discuss his research and experience of creating a culture of integrity and Sir Howard Bernstein, chief executive of Manchester City Council, will share his insights into the transformational changes that have taken place in his city. The CIPD will also be presenting the CIPD People Management Awards during the show, at a special black-tie awards dinner on 18 November. The annual awards celebrate, recognise and reward outstanding practicing in the management and development of people.

FOR MORE INFORMATION For more information on the CIPD’s annual conference and exhibition, including speaker details, online exhibition registration and event news, visit www.cipd.co.uk/ace or call 020 8612 6248.

BYTSYZ e-Learning for health and social care YTSYZ e-Learning is one of the UK’s leading providers of online training courses for the health, social, domiciliary and childcare sectors. Courses are developed and written by educationalists with health and social care expertise. Course-embedded exercises and trial assessments enable learners to relate their studies to the job role and contextualise learning. BYTSYZ enhances staff development with minimum disruption to the business via an online, high quality training and assessment solution that is current, accessible and cost-effective. Staff can remain in the workplace whilst learning, making staff cover a thing of the past.

The Business Magazine for government

BYTSYZ learners study on the Internet at a pace, time and location convenient both to them and the organisation. Courses are comprised of smaller bite-sized modules, allowing learners to study for periods of time that best meet their learning needs and ability. Each course is assessed online using multiple choice questions with instant notification of

results. This gives managers the confidence that real learning has taken place. Managers are able to monitor learner’s progress and learning time online. Transcripts of learning can be printed for staff files and retained as inspection evidence. BYTSYZ courses enable organisations to develop effective employees. BYTSYZ e-Learning that works.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Detailed information about online courses is available on the BYTSYZ e-Learning website. Tel: 0800 567 7107 E-mail: support@bytsyz.co.uk Web: www.bytsyz.co.uk

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

MOTIVATION

EMPLOYEE RE-ENGAGEMENT John Sylvester, executive director, P&MM Motivation, looks at the need for continuous development in employee motivation strategy If there is one thing that you can count on from the media, it is the introduction of new concepts that will sum up a particular situation, sentiment or craze. For example, the number of people choosing to enjoy some time at home rather than travel abroad for a summer holiday this year incited the phrase ‘staycation’, which seemed to appear all across the media in reflection of the popularity of this alternative holiday choice during the recession. Indeed, the recession has provided fertile ground for the genesis of a number of new concepts. One in particular, now a popular phrase among management and HR professionals following its inception in the media, is ‘employee engagement’. From the incentive, motivation and sales industry media to the HR, PR and internal communications sectors, everyone seemed to have an angle on this and it is widely used when discussing issues on staff motivation, loyalty, retention, rewards and recognition. But, as with all concepts, times change and ideas need to evolve, so I would like to coin a new phrase that, I hope, reflects the need for continuous development in employee motivation strategy: employee re-engagement. LOYAL & PRODUCTIVE In real terms ‘employee engagement’ was introduced to summarise the art of encouraging employees to buy-in to the goals, ambitions and corporate ethos of an organisation in a way that will inspire them to want to proactively drive the business forward and generate success. It aims to emphasise to the individual that they are an integral part of the organisation and that their efforts will directly contribute towards achieving success. The engaged employee will feel personally rewarded by the opportunities and successes that are created by their hard work as well as the recognition that they will receive from their employer for driving the business forward. An engaged employee is motivated and loyal, and a motivated and loyal employee is a productive one. The concept really came to the fore as the recession hit. While workforces witnessed redundancies, salary-freezes and their bonuses being retracted, the challenge to keep staff motivated and engaged became a far greater one. This was often complicated further as the staff that were retained would often be required to take on extra responsibilities and work longer hours in order to cover the deficit created by downsizing. With all of these additional strains on the working culture, organisations needed to find new ways of retaining their best performers to help see them through the difficult times and ‘employee engagement’ was coined as the all-encompassing answer to this conundrum.

of ‘Always Be Closing’ is not necessarily the key driver for the wider workforce, the concept was quickly appropriated for all productivity requirements, from reducing waste to encouraging better customer service. And this is where public sector organisations were able to join the movement and begin implementing employee engagement strategies based on their own distinct set of objectives. A ‘one-size fits all’ approach to employee engagement, therefore, simply isn’t an option here. Engagement programmes have to be tailored to each individual’s needs, attitude and status if they are to be effective in improving productivity and achieving objectives.

John Sylvester, executive director, P&MM

NEW STRATEGIES As an employee motivation expert I work with numerous organisations wanting to implement a new strategy that will help them to achieve this holy grail of employee engagement that they have read so much about. To do so requires careful research and planning. First, a detailed breakdown of the organisation’s overall strategic objectives must be communicated to the workforce at every level, explaining the goals that, collectively, the organisation wishes to achieve. Then, on an individual basis, each employee must have his or her subsidiary, personal targets outlined with an explanation of how achieving these will contribute to the bigger picture. This will involve a clear definition of what ‘good’ actually looks like as well as a transparent method of monitoring and measuring performance by which employees can gauge themselves. The next step is to introduce an aspirational incentive reward structure that recognises those who achieve and exceed their personal goals – at all times reinforcing the corporate ethos. This really began as an idea relating most directly to sales executives who needed to be engaged properly in order to ‘sell, sell, sell’, especially during the downturn. However, since the Glengarry Glen Ross sales ethos

MAINTAINING MOMENTUM So you adopted an employee engagement programme, increased productivity and achieved your objective of reducing costs, in spite of the difficult climate. Great. “Well”, you continue, “we’re now all bored again”. Or perhaps the issue is that employees that were engaged to begin with started to face new difficulties and frustrations that caused their drive and commitment to dwindle. Perhaps, also, there are younger, less experienced staff that missed a few training sessions and may never have been fully engaged. Unfortunately, here lies the greatest challenge in employee motivation – maintaining momentum. The fact is that attitudes and situations will change and the goal posts need to be constantly shifted. So here is a new concept for organisations seeking to maintain momentum: ‘employee re-engagement, and re-engagement, and re-engagement again’. Not quite so catchy, but a better reflection of the situation and challenge. No doubt over the next year, as Britain continues to work its way out of the recession, the media will invent new concepts that will be adopted by the general public to become the buzzwords of tomorrow, perhaps even better than mine. But identifying changes in attitudes is not only the task of the savvy journalist striving to sum up a current state with a catchy new phrase. It is also the task of the employer that seeks to get the best out of its workforce. The difference, however, is that while media concepts inevitably come and go, maintaining productivity through motivation strategy must be a continuous process.

An engaged employee is motivated and loyal, and a motivated and loyal employee is a productive one

The Business Magazine for government

50% off +

at 1000 Restaurants

tastelondon allows all of its members to save ÂŁ1,000â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on dining out every year by offering 50% off the total food bill at over 1000 restaurants. Your organisation can offer tastelondon memberships to your staff at a highly preferential rate, this is available exclusively through you as an employer. Implementing the tastelondon benefit at your company is completely cost free with little administrative burden. tastelondon works with numerous London based companies enabling them to provide

a new, unique, emotive and cost effective addition to their employee benefits package. These companies most notably include: Virgin, Arcadia Group, UBS Bank, Dennis Publishing, Lovells, Emap, Getty Images, Harrods, Wavv Wrap Collins, Fortnum and Mason, Greater London Authority, Buckingham Palace and Associated Newspapers to name but a few.

For more information visit www.tastelondon.co.uk email corporate@tastelondon.co.uk or call 0800 5677 241

www.tastelondon.co.uk

itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a dining revolution

Tel: 0800 5677 241

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

INCENTIVES & REWARDS

FESTIVE INCENTIVES Finding the Christmas gift or reward that will be sure to please everyone is often considered to be like finding the Holy Grail, says Andrew Johnson, director-general, The UK Gift Card & Voucher Association The best solution is to allow the recipient to select their own gift and this is why vouchers and gift cards continue to be one of the most popular corporate gift choices on the market. They offer flexibility, ease of administration and delivery and are cost-effective. It is also because employees appreciate receiving them rather than an unwanted gift that they may have to put to the back of the wardrobe or pass off to a less favourable member of the family. B2B sales of gift cards and vouchers represent around 40 per cent of total market, valuing B2B sales in the UK at around £1.3 billion, and the public sector is increasingly embracing this market when looking to reward, motivate and retain valued employees. It will come as no surprise that the Christmas period is always the busiest time for the voucher and gift card industry. I asked several of our

members why they thought vouchers and gift cards worked so well as staff incentives for the public sector, especially as yuletide approaches. LUXURY GIFTS Treats will probably be far less common as household budgets are tighter, so why not offer staff the option to splash out on a luxury/ non-essential purchase with a voucher or gift card? There are a variety of solutions available from our members that could provide the recipient with a real treat this Christmas. Take high street fashion as an example. Robert Froome, head of New Look Business Solutions, said: “Organisations have chosen the festive period as the ideal opportunity to acknowledge the hard work carried out by staff over the last 12 months as well as motivate and incentivise them for the year ahead. With the Christmas

party season shortly to be in full swing, New Look gift cards and vouchers are the ideal solution allowing women and men to wear the latest irresistible fashion gems that will wow colleagues and friends and can be worn long after the last Christmas party has taken place.” Other options on the market include experience vouchers, as Heather Rogers, director of sales, Red Letter Days, comments: “This has been a particularly tough year for employers and employees alike – longer hours, higher levels of stress and, as a result, the work/life balance in many employees’ lives will have suffered. With family the key focus of Christmas, we expect to see an increase in the type of gifts that can be shared with employees’ partners, friends and family. An experience is the kind of Christmas gift that generates the smiles, loyalty and goodwill conversations that cash can’t achieve.”

New Look store

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

The Voucher Shop – something for everyone he Voucher Shop offers an unrivalled range of retail vouchers from the high street, which means our customers have access to the widest selection at the best price. We hold stocks of all the vouchers and can dispatch within 48 hours for all your: • Staff incentives • Long service awards • Recognition and nomination programmes • Flexible benefits • Loyalty schemes • Customer promotions or prizes We provide a complete fulfilment service, direct to individuals or in bulk, including full data capture for flexible benefits schemes. Plus our innovative Voucher Cheque system allows individuals to select their own reward, ideal for incentives

The Business Magazine for government

or recognitions programmes. The Voucher Shop provides a perfect one stop shop for all your gift voucher needs. Benefits include: Over 35 voucher types (individual retailers and multi-store) covering 40,000 outlets, competitive discounts, fast efficient turnaround, multiple denominations from £1 to £25, frequent special offers, dedicated customer service team, simple ordering via fax, phone or e-mail, secure delivery (single or multiple addresses) and account facilities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To take advantage of our great discounts and special offers, contact: The Voucher Shop on 0845 0509533 or e-mail info@thevouchershop.co.uk Web: www.thevouchershop.co.uk

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

INCENTIVES & REWARDS

Perhaps a trip to the theatre would appeal to staff? Helen Jones, marketing manager for Theatre Tokens at the Society of London Theatre, says: “Providing staff with a reward that really feels like a treat and allows the recipient a few hours of escape from the daily routine can give them just the boost that they need. With Theatre Tokens they can have a night out at a theatre of their choice – whether that’s watching a musical in a local theatre or making a night of it and visiting London’s West End. “We have seen an increase in the number of organisations using our theatre vouchers as an incentive tool this year. We’ve definitely had more enquiries this year from the public sector who seem to be placing a value on offering rewards and incentives that are more personal, enjoyable and a bit of a treat during the recession.”

the recipient gets to choose from a plethora of retailers – from clothing, DIY and toys, to cosmetics, sports and homewares.”

box or tied up with ribbon. The only limit on the creativity of presentation is time and budget!” THE NEW YEAR Andy Philpott, marketing director of Capital Incentives & Motivation, has a development on the idea of offering festive incentives: “Too many companies are missing chances to end the old year and start the New Year well”, he advises. “The trick is to divide the qualifying period for end of year rewards into two – both December and January. That creates the opportunity to keep staff motivated and rewarded right up to the end of the year and to generate momentum for good start to 2010. “When choosing rewards, gift cards and vouchers can suit the varied tastes of all staff and can be adapted to different levels of reward. Compliments Card is an incentive gift card created to enable employers to make incentive payments to employees or third parties that can be the perfect solution for Christmas bonuses, even at the last minute.” So gift cards and vouchers are suitable for a number of different approaches to corporate gifts this festive season and, indeed, beyond. Graham Sellors concludes: “Christmas rewards and incentives don’t need to make the finance department drop to the floor with their head in their hands! They don’t need to be grand and expensive to make an impact; even the smallest gesture can be the biggest ‘thank you’ at such a busy time, and can ensure people go home happy for the holidays.”

ESSENTIALS The flexibility of vouchers and gift cards has always meant that they can be spent as the recipient chooses. In these difficult times this may mean that they are spent on essential purchases such as groceries or clothes for school/work. During the festive period they may also be appreciated as a way of easing the costs of Christmas shopping when buying gifts for friends and family. Graham Sellors, director of Asda Business Rewards, says: “Supermarkets and highstreet stores provide all the essentials for the Christmas period, from turkeys and tin foil to gifts and wrapping paper, so gift cards and vouchers can provide the ideal solution.” He goes on to provide some ideas: “Why not set-up a Christmas savings scheme for employees? This can help staff save a little at a time from their wage and take the bulk sum on a gift card in December. Or perhaps offer staff a gift card loaded with £25 as a Christmas incentive? Possibly the easiest way to help buy the turkey!”

CHARITY Lest we forget, however, Christmas should be a time of good will to all men, and Donate As You Spend is a voucher provider that allows organisations to offer their staff to contribute to good causes. Terry Harvey, founder of Donate As You Spend, said: “Gift vouchers make an ideal method to donate to charity and, with Christmas being a time of giving, what better way to show you care, or that you are a responsible organisation, than to associate a gift with a charity donation? Donate As You Spend also enables the recipient the chance to donate their gift vouchers to a charity of their choice. With the season of goodwill approaching fast and charity suffering more than most from the recession, what better time is there to help?” The recession will no doubt have an impact on corporate Christmas gifting options this year. “While many people will look back and say that this has been a tough year,” says John Sylvester, executive director of P&MM and head of its Motivation division, “many organisations will be a lot more optimistic about the future at the end of this year than they were last Christmas. Corporate gifts solutions will still need to be cost-effective, flexible enough to cater for a wide degree of tastes, as offering choice is more important than ever, and yet still able to make a lasting impact long after the last of the mince pies has been polished off.” “The Spree Card provides a great solution as funds are loaded and can be spent wherever the MasterCard sign is on display, providing the ultimate choice at over 26 million outlets worldwide. This leaves the recipient the freedom to spend the gift how they choose, whether to buy themselves a treat, to get away for the Christmas period and use their rewards abroad, or to save it for making the most of the January sales.”

OFFER VARIETY The key with all voucher and gift card solutions is that the recipient is empowered with the decision to select their own gift. This choice can become even wider with some of the multi-store options that are available. “When it comes to incentive and reward programmes, offering staff something they really want, particularly at Christmas, is a key consideration”, says Jock Jordan, group sales director for multi-store gift card One4all. “A scheme that motivates employees to go that extra mile delivers the best results for business. By giving staff choice with a multi-store gift card it gives the individual freedom to choose their own gift, which carries huge trophy value.” Martin Cooper, sales and marketing manager of Love2reward, agrees: “When rewarding a diverse group you really can please most of the people, most of the time. Take the multi-option voucher for example, where

GIFTABILITY One criticism that is often made about vouchers and gift cards is that they lack the personal touch. However, most voucher companies, such as The Voucher Shop, now ensure that the gift is presented in such a way that it becomes about more than just receiving a paper voucher. Comments Kuljit Kaur, head of business development, The Voucher Shop: “One of the most popular reward options at Andrew Johnson Christmas is the Voucher Cheque which can be personalised to individuals for any amount. The cheque can be fully branded and provided in a stylish envelope, along with a personalised letter or other appropriate message that makes a real impact when it is presented. Gift vouchers can be given to recipients in a variety of Christmas-themed ways that gives them a personal touch. These include branded presentation wallets, including a tailored message, within personalised cards, inside a gift

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

recycling & waste management

the show that counts Most successful RWM ever heralds further expansion for environmental sector’s premier event “Recession? What recession?” was heard up and down the aisles at this year’s Recycling & Waste Management exhibition RWM 09. Confirming its place as the number one recycling and waste management exhibition in the UK, RWM 09 attracted more visitors and exhibitors than ever before. Initial figures show a 7 per cent increase on last year’s record attendance. A total of 9,762 people (subject to audit) visited RWM 09 at the Birmingham NEC from 15 to 17 September. Stand space was sold out with over 500 exhibitors and over half have already rebooked for 2010. “RWM has grown consistently over the

contract on Stadler’s stand at the show. JCB also announced the sale of two new high specification machines on show in the outdoor area to Newcastle-based Graphite Resources Limited, which will use them for handling waste at its £50 million Derwenthaugh EcoParc facility on the banks of the River Tyne. The vehicles were 456ZX wheeled loading shovel and JCB JS220LC tracked excavator complete with new JCB SG Selector Grab attachment. “It’s been the best RWM yet, and very important for Helesi as a venue for a UK launch,” said Ian Bellamy, UK business director at Helesi. “We’ve generated very good quality leads from the local authority

RWM has grown consistently over the last five years and against the background of a general economic downturn we still saw substantially more visitors and exhibitors than ever this year last five years and against the background of a general economic downturn we still saw substantially more visitors and exhibitors than ever this year,” said event director Gerry Sherwood. “There was a real buzz about this year’s show, which with the new Korean pavilion had a growing international flavour among exhibitors and visitors alike. Up and down the show floor record numbers had clearly come to RWM to do business.” EVENT HIGHLIGHTS Inside the exhibition halls, visitors packedout the three free seminar theatres as top flight speakers delivered thought-leading presentations on Local Authority, Business and Energy & Water themes. Among the most popular were those given by retailers like Asda, Sainsbury and Marks & Spencer; from Miller Homes and Wates in the construction sector, and those covering the subjects of anaerobic digestion, energy from waste and carbon reduction. RWM provided exhibitors with the perfect environment to meet prospective customers obtain sales leads and, in many cases, sign lucrative new contracts. Biffa and Stadler signed the contract for a £13.5 million advanced automation commercial and Industrial treatment facility to be built at Trafford Park, Manchester. Senior representatives from Stadler, the turnkey plant supplier, and TITECH UK, providers of the automated sorting systems joined Dr John Casey of Biffa to sign the

The Business Magazine for government

and private contractor markets.” Corin Wright, sales and marketing manager at JMC Recycling was surprised and delighted at the success of their stand: “We took orders for 24 of our metal recycling machines including all of our display models. That’s more than last year and much more than we were expecting in the current climate. We are also getting more orders from our sales follow up.” “We’ve been absolutely inundated,” said Fraser Macintyre, national sales manager at Recresco. “This is the best RWM in the 10 years we’ve been attending. I can’t fault it. Even on the last day it was very, very lively. Visitors from the local authority sector have been plentiful and we’ve got some great quality leads.” MINIMISING ENVIRONMENTAL IMACT Behind the scenes organisers were keen to minimise the environmental impact of the exhibition. Dry waste segregated by exhibitors and visitors at the recycling points provided by SSI Schaefer and Straight was compacted and baled by Mil-tek, while food waste collected from the NEC’s catering outlets was processed onsite by Tidy Planet. RWM 10 takes place from 14 to 16 September 2010 at the Birmingham NEC. Entry remains free of charge. For more information visit http://www.rwmexhibition.com; for a flavour of RWM 09 visit the exhibition blog http:// blog.emap.com/rwm/ and follow RWM on Twitter at http://twitter.com/rwmexhibition.

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

RF.Tipping-Edge86x125

12/12/08

09:38

Page 1

R U O AD Y IS YLO G PAIPPIN ER T U OV E? G O D Y EE TH EW N

Omniweigh is designed to provide accurate weighing information especially for tippers to keep both driver and business legal.

Tel: 01527 526112

www.redforge.co.uk

Providing highly accurate readings of both payload and total vehicle weight the UK manufactured, and easy to install Omniweigh is VTS compatible and is available with optional extras including USB memory connection.

Robust, Reliable and Realistic

Specialists in on-vehicle weighing solutions ed Forge Ltd is the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading specialist in onvehicle weighing solutions with a superb range of axle loadindicators and on-vehicle weighing equipment specifically designed and manufactured for use in the heavy and light goods vehicle environment. Red Forge products offer simplicity, practicality and reliability with the reputation of a first class aftercare service. Other products such a reversing sensors, bleepers, cameras, hazard beacons and hand wash units can also be supplied and installed by our highly trained installation team whilst your vehicle is in our workshops.

For use in electric vehicles and fork lift trucks, the Red Forge Warmaworkâ&#x201E;˘ is a uniquely designed solid state in-cab heater. It offers unsurpassed practicality, reliability and increased productivity for electric vehicles and fork lifts used in cold conditions.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Red Forge Ltd Address: 9 Palmers Road, East Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcs, B98 0RF Tel: 01527 526112 Fax: 01527 523862 E-mail: sales@redforge.co.uk Web: www.redforge.co.uk

The Business Magazine for government

Leaders in the fieLd of greener office soLutions

At Office Depot our public sector expertise and leadership in sustainable office solutions can help you become a greener business and reduce costs. Not just in the provision of environmentally preferable products (though we do offer an award‑winning range) but in every aspect of our supply chain to you. By consolidating suppliers, orders and using alternative delivery methods, helping you improve your recycling and waste management, we can reduce both our cost to serve and your environmental impact.

We collect the awards. Our customers are the winners.

Our dedicated team can advise on the best green choices and our Environmental Guide for the public sector outlines the issues you face in legislation, codes and guidelines. Take a look at www.yourenvironmentalguide.com. Talk to our public sector team now and we’ll demonstrate that green doesn’t have to be a distant dream.

0844 412 0042 www.whyofficedepot.com

2007, 2008, 2009

2005, 2006, 2007, 2009

Stop Press! office depot announced as 2009 winners of both the Business technology award and the reseller Marketing excellence award.

SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR 2009

GREEN RETAILER INITIATIVE 2009 (nominee)

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD 2009 (nominee)

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

green office supplies

Realising your green agenda More are more companies are becoming aware of the impact they have on the environment. The office supplies industry is no exception, says the British Office Supplies and Services Federation As global warming is making a major impact on the world, environmental issues are at the forefront of many business agendas. Companies are increasingly assessing their environmental obligations and continually looking at ways in which they can reduce their waste. Many suppliers and manufacturers are seeing the cost saving advantages of reducing waste and recycling. Companies are incorporating these policies into their daily duties, making it part of their corporate social responsibility. The British Office Supplies and Services (BOSS) Federation is heavily involved in many aspects of helping companies inside and outside of the office supplies industry gain a greater understanding of their obligations. The Federation offers advice to help companies compile strategies for improving the environment. choosing the right supplier In this era of change, it is important to assess many factors when choosing a supplier. Cost and speed of service are important; however, a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environmental ethos can also assure their clients that they are

conscious of the contribution which needs to be made to help save the planet. Through obtaining a better understanding of how the office supplies industry is regulated will enable companies to be better equipped to know how to choose

As the Federation is aware of the lack of time and understanding companies have on this issue, it introduced an Environment Certificate. The BOSS Environment Certificate (BOSS EC) was launched in 1996 to help and encourage those organisations that are beginning to

Through obtaining a better understanding of how the office supplies industry is regulated will enable companies to be better equipped to know how to choose an environmentally conscious organisation for their office supplies needs an environmentally conscious organisation for their office supplies needs. Environmental Standards The environmental standards initiative covers many areas of best practice and legislation for the office products industry. Environmental systems can help companies to save money in areas such as greater energy efficiency as well as provide evidence of a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environmental policy.

create environmental policies, as well as those who want to improve their current policies. Although the BOSS EC does not replace formal accreditation it is a useful stepping stone to developing a fully accredited environmental standard such as ISO 14001. In addition, government departments, public authorities, multinationals and national organisations are increasingly asking their suppliers to confirm their environmental credentials. The minimum requirement is an accredited corporate

The Business Magazine for government

OFFICE TECHNOLOGY

HSM (UK) Ltd. · Tel. +44 (0) 1543.272.480 · info@hsmuk.co.uk · www.hsmuk.co.uk

The new HSM SECURIO P36: Even more security, even more economical.

HSM supports the OroVerde “Guatemala Rain Forest” project.

Our range now includes the biggest ever HSM SECURIO – which provides data security for whole office floors. The impressive and attractively designed HSM SECURIO P36 is also a big energy saver. See the benefits of the new HSM SECURIO and get to know HSM’s famous “Made in Germany” quality. www.hsm.eu

Great Products, Great People.

Winner of the BOSS Federation Dealer Excellence Award 2009 At Excel Office Supplies we go out of our way to provide the very best in both customer service and cost savings for our corporate clients. In addition, we also offer other attractive benefits as part of our overall business package. • £300m purchasing power • On-line procurement • Cost-centre budget control • Contract account management When it comes to looking after our customers, we don’t just deliver excellence – we also get rewarded for it. Excel Office Supplies Paje House, 164 West Wycombe Road High Wycombe, Bucks, HP12 3AE

www.eos.uk.net sales@eos.uk.net Tel: 01494 519988

The Green Printer Company Environmentally friendly solutions to your laser printing needs

With over 15 years experience in the remanufacture of consumables and refurbishing of printers we can offer significant carbon footprint reductions* alongside serious cost savings.

Looking at Managed Services? We offer cost per copy solutions that are flexible, require no long term commitments, and include the printer! For more information call or email:

0871 871 6787 sales@ontrakservices.co.uk *please ask for a copy of the UKCRA carbon footprint report on remanufactured cartridges

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

green office supplies

environmental statement. Quite often there is a request for evidence of formal environment management, such as ISO 14001 or EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme). evaluation There are consistent evaluation criteria designed to make it more transparent for applicants and evaluators. The criteria clearly show what applicants are required to provide and gives best practice guidance for those who may not have all the requirements yet. Companies will be able to track their own performance year on year and demonstrate where continuous improvement has been made. The certification process enables companies to look at and provide details of the Environmental Management System (EMS), as well as a copy of the formal Environment Policy. It encourages them to provide a list of who has responsibility for environmental policy in the organisation, both at board level and

operationally. It identifies the environmental impacts of the organisation; those that can be controlled and those that cannot be. The BOSS EC enables companies to assess what they are doing with regards to training and awareness and with its supply chain management, i.e. the steps being taken to reduce environmental impact of how products are produced. Selecting a stationery supplier that is accredited either through the BOSS EC or ISO14001, will reinforce their environmentally conscious status. Packaging waste The EU Directive on Packaging and Packaging Waste was adopted in December 1994. It covers all packaging placed on the market within the EU at industrial, commercial, office, shop or any other level regardless of the material used. It aims to reduce the overall impact of packaging on the environment by:

• reducing packaging at source • eliminating harmful materials in packaging waste • maximising packaging waste re-use for recycling, composting or energy generation • minimising quantities going for final disposal. The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 1997 were made under sections 93, 94 and 95 of the Environment Act 1995. They implemented the 1994 EC Directive on Packaging Waste. The regulations place a legal requirement on certain UK businesses to recover and recycle packaging, so the UK can achieve the targets set out in the EU Directive. The regulation affects those who: • manufacture materials for packaging (i.e. a manufacturer of cardboard to be made into packaging) • convert materials into packaging (i.e. a manufacturer of cardboard boxes) • put goods into packaging (i.e. a company filling boxes with pens) • sell packaged goods to a customer who removes the packaging (i.e. a retailer selling boxed goods to their customers who throw away the boxes) • import packaging or packed goods from outside the UK (i.e. an importer importing boxed goods from Europe). Companies are required to ensure that an equivalent amount of packaging waste has been recovered and recycled to meet their obligation. In the UK this is done by purchasing vouchers, the standard form being Packaging Waste Recovery. There were two new complementary EC Directives transposed into English Law in 2007. Firstly, the WEEE Directive sets out criteria for the collection, treatment, recycling and recovery of waste electrical and electronic equipment, making producers responsible for financing most of these activities. The WEEE Directive was implemented in January 2007, where it was the producer’s responsibility for clearing household and nonhousehold (business to business) items and the take back of WEEE by retailers and distributors. Secondly, the Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (ROHS) Directive facilitates the dismantling and recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment by restricting the use of hazardous substances used in their manufacture. Both directives cover a wide range of products. The categories covered are large and small household appliances, IT and telecommunication equipment, consumer equipment (TV, video, hi-fi, etc), lighting, electrical and electronic equipment (with the exception of large stationary industrial tools), toys, leisure and sports equipment, medical devices (exempt from RoHS and re-use and recovery targets under WEEE), monitoring and control instruments (exempt from RoHS) and automatic dispensers.

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

landscaping & groundscare

Welcome to Harrogate Week If your business is in turf management, the groundscare industry or club facility management then make it your business to attend Harrogate Week The plans for Harrogate Week 2010 are well under way and this year there have been some exciting changes from within BIGGA, the body that organises the exhibition and education programme. The exhibition has long been attracting a wide audience from the turf management industry, from football, rugby, cricket, tennis and the large stadia, as well as golf, however, BIGGA has opened its membership up to all groundsmen in the sports turf industry. Come along to the exhibition and visit the BIGGA stand on B19 where the staff will be on hand to give advice and information on all association matters. Exhibition Harrogate Week incorporates BTME, Europe’s largest indoor turf exhibition, which runs alongside the ClubHouse Exhibition every January at Harrogate. The two shows combine to become Harrogate Week and give visitors a genuine one-stop shop for their clubhouse and sports venue needs. The event has been held every year at Harrogate International Centre in Harrogate, since 1998. Attracting over 7,500 visitors from all areas of turf management, the groundscare industry and club facility management, a trip to Harrogate Week will enable visitors to discover what’s new in an exciting, ever changing, growing market. With innovative product ideas at Harrogate Week it’s your best opportunity to meet all the players in the groundscare industry under one roof. With over 100 exhibitors booked in so far you will be able to research a vast array of products and services from companies dedicated to helping you maintain the best possible playing surface at your sports venue. For a list of all exhibitors attending Harrogate Week 2010 visit www.harrogateweek.org.uk. Education The five-day Continue to Learn programme contains 23 workshops and a series of seminar sessions both on the official programme and the “Fringe” programme, which offers exhibitors the opportunity to present to visitors. For the first time Harrogate Week will offer education on conjunction with the Professional Golfers Association (PGA), British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) and the Club Managers Association of Europe (CMAE). In addition there will be the regular seminar run and organised by the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A), English Golf Union (EGU) and the Golf Club Managers Association (GCMA).

The Business Magazine for government

The programme covers all aspects of a sports turf industry from management, presenting; accounting; first aid; irrigation and water management; health and safety; marketing; training assistants; soil science and carbon auditing. The week will also include “The 2mm Debate” Seminar, a topic that has had the sports turf industry buzzing for the last 12 months and which has attracted much interest. “We are delighted that our 2010 Continue to Learn programme offers so much to so many and I am particularly pleased that so many related bodies have identified Harrogate as the ideal opportunity to conduct training and meet fellow professionals,” said BIGGA chief executive, John Pemberton. To view the full Continue to Learn programme, including Free Seminars visit the Harrogate Week website, www.harrogateweek.org.uk. Social Night Harrogate Week not only has three full days of exhibition and five days of learning and development, it also has many networking opportunities throughout the week. There is as much business carried out throughout the evening in the hotels and restaurants on an evening as there is during the day. The BIGGA Social Night is being held at The Old Swan Hotel on Tuesday, 19th January from 7.00pm to 10.30pm. Last year the first Social Night proved a huge success and this year it will be even better. The BIGGA Wild West Bonanza has Tequila Shot girls to welcome you where your ticket price includes a reception drink, a two-course meal, entertainment, chips for the casino tables, and free use at the side show stalls.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Tickets are priced at £20 + VAT if purchased before 30 November, £25 + VAT after this date. For further details contact Sandra on Tel: 01347 833800 or e-mail sandra@bigga.co.uk.

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

landscaping & groundscare

Ecosolve – tops for turf managment cosolve Ltd, operator of Ecosol Turfcare and the legendary Drill n Fill and Deep Drill aerators, have much to offer local authorities who run rugby, football, bowls, cricket, golf or tennis facilities. Our Turfcare division operates state-of-the art equipment to manage all types of sportsfield requirements – from one-off alleviation of specific problems to complete pitch renovation. We can provide a tailor-made maintenance contract for scarification, reseeding and fertilising throughout the season or simply for end of season maintenance. Ecosol Turfcare can manage whole projects such as complete rebuilds or resurfacing to the installation of cricket squares. The Drill n Fill and Deep Drill aerators have a proven track record in improving poor drainage, compaction and grass growth on all sportsturf. After treatment,

play can recommence rapidly and there will be fewer closures due to flooding. The aerators can go 18 inches deep to ease compaction and allow water to percolate through the duct into a drainage layer. The Drill n Fill backfills with a soil amendment of your choice to improve the rootzone. Ecosolve’s service and support is second to none and we offer no-obligation site inspections and advice. Come and visit us in Hall M, BTME Harrogate 2010.

FOR MORE INFORMATION For further information contact Ecosolve Tel: 01666 861250 E-mail info@ecosolve.co.uk Web: www.ecosolve.co.uk

The Business Magazine for government

Written by Albert Prisse, Secretary General of the European Synthetic Turf Organisation

landscaping & groundscare

GREENER THAN GRASS? Why the synthetic turf industry continues to grow If natural grass could meet all our needs we wouldn’t need synthetic turf and the industry would languish. However, it’s growing strongly – this year reaching an annual installation rate of 25 million square metres (2,500 hectares, or over 6,000 acres). From small and specialised beginnings in the 1970s the European synthetic turf industry has grown into a business worth 1 billion annually, employing 10,000 people. There are now 300 million square metres – 30,000 hectares or 74,000 acres – of synthetic turf in Europe. In recent years synthetic turf has been specified increasingly in landscaping applications and even at airports (because it does not support wildlife, such as birds, which can pose a threat to passenger safety). But its main use is in sports and leisure facilities: in Europe there are now more than 15,000

performance in ball behaviour and surface characteristics – hockey pitches are designed to be fast, for example, with shorter surface fibres densely packed together. In football and rugby, players need different types of ball behaviour and a surface that accommodates sliding. Modern synthetic turf pitches have been developed to provide the classic feel of grass at its best but, crucially, every day – all year round. Economics The second driver of the synthetic turf industry is economics. While synthetic turf is more expensive to install, it is much cheaper to maintain and can provide a high return on investment. While a natural grass playing field is limited to maybe 250 to 300 hours of playing time a year, a synthetic turf field will cope with 1,500 hours – ensuring that as many people

In recent years synthetic turf has been specified increasingly in landscaping applications and even at airports (because it does not support wildlife, such as birds, which can pose a threat to passenger safety). But its main use is in sports and leisure facilities: in Europe there are now more than 15,000 synthetic turf football pitches (600 of them in the UK), over 1,000 hockey fields, 200 rugby pitches and 5,000 tennis courts synthetic turf football pitches (600 of them in the UK), over 1,000 hockey fields, 200 rugby pitches and 5,000 tennis courts. There are three main reasons for this growth: technical performance, economics and the environment. Technical performance Modern synthetic turf is a highly technical product – the result of many years development work involving the industry and its customers. It is made from extruded and tufted polymers, usually polypropylene or polyethylene yarn, and will last for up to 15 years. In landscaping, playability is not generally an issue, but the turf must look good all year round with minimal maintenance. In sports installations, however, synthetic turf has to offer defined performance characteristics consistently in two ways. First, from day to day – so players can be confident about their playing style each time they come to the field – and second, from pitch to pitch. This helps to ensure player safety. Different sports demand different types of

The Business Magazine for government

as possible can play. In addition, there’s five times as much potential income from rent. Of course synthetic turf facilities do not incur costs associated with regular watering, weeding and mowing – nor do they need expensive fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides. Overall, synthetic turf costs two to three times less than natural grass in maintenance expenditure. Environment The third growth driver is the environment. Synthetic turf is environmentally friendly in origin (the materials it is made from), the manufacturing process, installation, use and disposal. While the impact of chemicals on the environment has been studied – and mitigated – over many years, the changes being brought about by climate change are less wellknown and more difficult to predict. However, experts seem to agree that temperatures will rise and patterns of rainfall will change. In areas of low rainfall landscaped grass and natural playing surfaces can be reduced to dust – even today a football pitch in southern

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

landscaping & groundscare

About ESTO The European Synthetic Turf Organisation (ESTO) represents 90 per cent of the h1 billion European market, covering the industry from raw materials to installation. Based in Brussels, ESTO (www. eu-syntheticturf.org) acts as a forum for the industry, setting standards and dealing with emerging issues. For buyers and end users it is an objective resource, offering wideranging information including research, statistics and advice. Europe might need up to 7,000,000 litres of water and 1,200 kilos of chemicals every year to prevent this happening. In these conditions, synthetic turf installations do not put pressure on scarce water resources. Common to all climatic conditions is the need for high usage: local government decision-makers face ever-increasing demand for leisure facilities, and need to make the best use of available space. With perhaps five times the playing capacity, a synthetic turf facility means that fewer pitches are needed, producing clear environmental benefits. Continuous development Synthetic turf has already come a very long way since it was originally developed in the US in the early 1960s, and progress continues. ESTO members, who work to the most rigorous quality standards, invest heavily in research into all aspects of synthetic turf – from performance and maintenance to injury rates – and new products come to market every year. As pressure for more leisure facilities continues to grow and budgets remain tight – against a backdrop of environmental concern and climate change – the synthetic turf industry is set to grow further still.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To find out more visit: www.eu-syntheticturf.org

The Business Magazine for government

Government Business | Volume 16.11

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Advertisers index The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service ABB

Ecosolve

Mitsubishi

Adventis Coltman

Edinburgh First

NCEC

Emergency Services Show

Novell

Appointments Commission Aquadyne

Ener-G Holdings

NQA

Balcas

Excel Office Supplies

Office Depot

Bangor University

Excelerate Technology

Ontrak Services

Best Western Lansdowne Hotel

Floral Pavillion Theatre & Conference Centre

Optosecurity

British Gas

Fujitsu

Pop Up Power Supplies

Genee World

Ptarmigan Media

15 67

British Independent Utilities

IBC

BYTSYZ

Glamorgan Conference Services

Red Forge

Carbon Control Software

GWE Business Centre

Security Watchdog

Caron Monoxide Alarms

Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront

Shelter UK

Center Parcs

Holiday Inn London Kensington Forum

Singularity

Charity Gift Vouchers

Hoval

Taste London

Cheltenham Racecourse

HSM UK

The Big Sleep Hotel

CitroĂŤn

IFC

Inter Credit International

The Smart Energy Show

City University London

JP Morgan Asset Management

Thornbury Golf Centre

Corner House Hotel

Kromek

Trouville Hotel

Counter Terror Expo

Lakewood Conference Centre

UMI Brighton

Delta Controls

Landmark Information Group

University of Bristol

Eastwell Manor

Lavazza Coffee

University of Essex

Ebmpapst UK

Miele Company

Western Power Distribution

The Business Magazine for government