Business Network June 22

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BUSINESS

Keep up to date on latest developments at

network www.emc-dnl.co.uk/news

JUNE 2022

@EMChamberNews

CHAMBER CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBIL ITY SUMMIT SEE PAGE 42

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES DELIVERED WITH IMPACT HOW BUSINESSES CAN EMBRACE THE ESG AGENDA INTERVIEW

POLITICS

COSY CEO PETER ELLSE DL ON CREATING A ‘SOCIALLY USEFUL’ BUSINESS

PLAN TO BOOST SKILLS IN REGION IS VITAL FOR BUSINESS GROWTH

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THE FIRST WORD

CONTENTS JUNE 2022

NEWS UPDATE 4

MEMBER NEWS Pump donation brings clean water to Zimbabwe

26 APPOINTMENTS Architect practice adds three new directors

THE BIG INTERVIEW have a bit of a confession to make – I hate acronyms. As someone who covers a wide breadth of industries in this magazine, I regularly find myself trying to decipher codes that have become second nature to the businesses that use them daily.

So it feels hypocritical of me to introduce a new one into your lexicon in ESG. These initials represent environmental, social and governance, although I’m aware many will still be none the wiser. You may, however, have come across the idea of – yes, another acronym – CSR, or corporate social responsibility. Effectively, this is about how businesses “give back” via various fundraising or voluntary activities that benefit local and global causes.

These are an important arm of any business and we see fantastic examples every month in our EMComingTogether section of this magazine – which enjoys a bumper four-page special in this issue (p15-18) – ranging from sponsored challenges to staff volunteering days.

ESG, however, goes deeper and integrates these activities into every aspect of a business.

In essence, it’s an overarching strategy for how organisations make themselves sustainable, a force for social good and transparent to their stakeholders. The pandemic has turbo-charged the desire for employees, investors, shareholders, suppliers and partners to work for and with businesses that encapsulate these values.

Our focus feature (p58) shines a spotlight on Chamber members successfully engaging with the ESG agenda – examples being how engineering firm Tidyco is helping to boost design technology skills in local schools that will ultimately supply its future workforce, and TTK Confectionery lending its enterprise expertise to a charity in desperate need of new funding avenues.

A company that truly captures the spirit of ESG is Cosy, whose founder Peter Ellse DL is the subject of our big interview (p28). He has created a “socially useful” company that supplies sustainably-sourced outdoor play equipment to help young children learn and develop, gives away 10% of profits to charities via the Cosy Foundation, employs ex-offenders, encourages staff to be active in their community and supports the small businesses that make up its vast supply chain. Its brilliant work was recently rewarded with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development.

The Chamber’s CSR Summit on 7 June, titled From CSR to ESG: Delivering social responsibilities with impact (p42), brings together these various strands and gives businesses an idea on where to start their ESG journey.

28 Peter Ellse DL, CEO of Cosy

Dan Robinson, Editor, Business Network

63 BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION Protecting your business from cyber crime

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32 STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS Sign and Print Academy aids community and helps train potential workers 34 CHAMBER NEWS Getting to know the Chamber president’s nominated charities

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS 48 Why an ESG strategy is important for businesses as well as the planet

INTERNATIONAL TRADE 50 How PR Marriott Drilling won Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade

POLITICS 52 Local Skills Improvement Plans offer a wide range of benefits to businesses

FEATURES 55 CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION & PARTNERSHIP A day in the life of a charity worker 56 How businesses can help vulnerable owners and their pets 58 FOCUS FEATURE How and why businesses are embracing ESG

64 Tips on how to safeguard your vehicle fleet

TRAINING & EVENTS 66 Peer networks for senior leaders 67 Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam to speak at Annual Dinner

Editor Dan Robinson T: 07764 431028 E: dan.robinson@emc-dnl.co.uk Contributor Jasmine Thompson All Submissions E: magazine@emc-dnl.co.uk Chamber Membership E: membership@emc-dnl.co.uk Follow the Chamber W: www.emc-dnl.co.uk Twitter: @EMChamberNews

Publishers Kemps Publishing Ltd Unit 8, The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull, B91 3DA T: 0121 765 4144 w: www.kempspublishing.co.uk Managing Editor Laura Blake T: 0121 765 4144 E: laura.blake@kempspublishing.co.uk Designer Lloyd Hollingworth Advertising T: 0121 765 4144 E: jon.jones@kempspublishing.co.uk Printers Warners (Midlands) plc

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY 69 Making the most of the Digital Upscaler

BUSINESS SUPPORT 73 LEGAL Why making a will is a crucial undertaking 74 FINANCE Employee ownership makes a big difference 76 SKILLS College earns plaudits for skills education 78 PROPERTY Italian restaurant gets a new lease of life

PRIVACY NOTICE Kemps Publishing Ltd process personal information for certain legitimate interest purposes, which includes the following: •

To provide postal copies of this publication to Chamber members and Kemps’ customers; and

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To offer marketing and promotional opportunities within this publication to Chamber members and prospects.

Whenever we process data for these purposes, we always ensure we treat your Personal Data rights in high regard. If you wish to, you can visit www.kempspublishing.co.uk to view our full Privacy Notice and to learn more about our legitimate interests and your rights in this regard.

BUSINESS NETWORK is produced on behalf of East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed to members without charge. The Chamber and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. While every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither the Chamber nor the publisher can accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Chamber. This publication (or any part thereof) june not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd.

80 MOTORING Nick Jones drives the new Audi SQ5 81 INFORMATION Retaining staff during ‘The Great Resignation’

COMMENT 82 THE LAST WORD Chamber president Lindsay Williams looks at how CSR can have even greater impact June 2022 business network

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MEMBER NEWS

Dame Sarah joins university Rights Lab Anti-slavery thought-leader Dame Sara Thornton DBE QPM (pictured) has joined the University of Nottingham’s Rights Lab as professor of practice in modern slavery policy.

As a professor, Dame Sara – who completed her three-year term as the UK’s independent anti-slavery commissioner in April – will collaborate with colleagues in the Rights Lab on research focused on prevention, business responses, supply chains, and the role of the financial industry in tackling modern slavery.

The Rights Lab is home to the world’s largest and leading group of modern slavery researchers.

Dame Sara’s focus in this new part-time role will also include policy-relevant modern slavery research, and achieving impact from research evidence in national and international contexts.

She said: “In my role as commissioner, I have become familiar with the genuinely worldleading and very impressive work of the Rights Lab, and so am delighted to be joining such an outstanding group of scholars.

“I have championed the relationship between research and practice throughout my career in public service, and this new role as a professor of practice is a fantastic opportunity to continue to do this.”

As established by the Modern Slavery Act 2015, the role of an independent anti-slavery commissioner is in place to spearhead the UK’s fight against human trafficking and modern slavery.

Between 2019 to 2022, Dame Sara was responsible for encouraging good practice in the prevention and detection of modern slavery and the identification of victims.

Rights Lab director Professor Zoe Trodd said: “Dame Sara is one of the global anti-slavery movement’s thought-leaders, an outstanding researcher and champion of high-quality evidence, and brings to this role her national policy experience and deep experience in anti-slavery strategy.”

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The Cawarden water pump in action in Zimbabwe

Pump donation will bring clean water to Manicaland Derby-based demolition specialist Cawarden has donated a water pump to a community in Manicaland – a province in the north-eastern highlands of Zimbabwe.

The pump has the ability to produce up to 10,000 litres of potable water per day, supplying about 300 people, who are now able to collect clean drinking water every day.

The company worked with its water cooler supplier, AquAid Water Coolers, to provide materials for the pump, which was built by local people to ensure users can

‘A lifetime supply of potable and productive water to more than two million people’ repair and service it themselves.

Group marketing and communications manager Emma Attwood said: “We are proud to put our name to this incredible initiative and we’re pleased to be helping to make a difference.”

For every purchase of AquAid’s water coolers, an automatic

donation is made to The Africa Trust, which works to bring sustainable solutions to poverty in the continent.

Fern Shaw, online marketing and communications specialist at AquAid Water Coolers, added: “We are grateful to Cawarden for using our water dispensers and being among our 33,000 customers nationwide. By ensuring everyone in its organisation remains properly hydrated, it has helped bring a lifetime supply of potable and productive water to more than two million people in communities across Africa.”

Encore cheers ex-service personnel Recruitment agency Encore Personnel is renewing its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant for another year as it steps up to silver accreditation – after supporting ex-service men and women to find work.

The business first signed the Armed Forces Covenant in May 2021, when it achieved a bronze award, which recognised its commitment to supporting the military community.

Over the past year, Encore has found jobs for more than 50 members of the ex-armed forces community.

The recruitment agency is now aiming to achieve silver status, which will see it introducing new HR policies and guaranteed interview schemes to demonstrate and advocate its support to help exservice men and women find their feet in a new world of work.

Encore, which has 10 branches across the Midlands, including its head office in Leicester and sites in Nottingham and Derby city centres, employs more than 200 staff and specialises in warehousing, manufacturing, logistics, driving and engineering recruitment.

Business development consultant James Simpson, who heads up Encore’s activities for the Armed Forces Covenant, said: “We’re making real progress,

From left: John Epton, James Simpson and Ian Warman

with more ex-service personnel joining our team than ever before. Having the right support in place is crucial for ex-service people. I know how hard it is to step out of the routine of military life into the working world, but Encore really go the extra mile to ensure that you are supported. They are so accommodating and understand that it takes time to adjust to changes.”

• Find out more about how Chamber members are getting involved with CSR activities in an extended EMComingTogether section – p15-18.

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MEMBER NEWS

Manufacturer making a splash protecting oceans

TDP in Antarctica

Derbyshire-based manufacturer TDP prevented 350 tonnes of plastic waste from reaching rivers and oceans last year.

The business, which makes outdoor furniture from 100% recycled plastic, is now sharing best practice and spreading the word about the value of the circular economy.

It’s using a recent expedition to Antarctica, where members of the team joined 23 scientists on a fact-finding expedition to highlight the plight of Earth’s ecosystems and encourage others to find sustainable solutions.

Managing director Rob Barlow (pictured) said: “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved in recycling plastic and keeping it out of our oceans, but our recent trip to Antarctica highlighted just how much more there is to be done to protect our precious planet.”

TDP’s factory in Wirksworth uses plastic waste collected in the nation’s recycling bins to manufacture products ranging from chairs, tables and benches to

‘We’re proud of what we’ve achieved in recycling plastic and keeping it out of our oceans’ beehive stands, bird boxes and hedgehog boxes.

In 2021, TDP’s commitment to the circular economy redirected 8,029 cubic metres of plastic waste and prevented 2.1 million tonnes of CO2 from being released into the atmosphere.

Now, the manufacturer is forecasting to bring 500 tonnes of plastic waste back into the value chain.

It has taken a net zero pledge and worked with sustainability consultancy Wylde Connections to develop a strategy and roadmap.

Rob added: “We have to find more sustainable ways of doing business, and we plan to continue our educational outreach programme in the coming months – to share our experience and expertise to encourage more sustainable thinking.”

Data firm sold to digital specialist Peak Indicators has been acquired by digital transformation specialist TPXimpact.

TPXimpact, which has seven offices in the UK, took over the Chesterfield-based company alongside Manchester-based Swirrl to strengthen its data expertise to help clients solve interconnect challenges.

Established in 2008, Peak Indicators is a data science and analytics consultancy working with public and private sector companies to provide technical skills in data engineering, business analytics, data science and artificial intelligence.

In a statement, founders Andy Ball and Antony Heljula said: “From the inception of Peak Indicators, we have strived to create a company that is committed to our people, our customers and our community. These core values align with those of TPXimpact and we are excited to join them in using our collective skills to continue improving the world around us.

"We are excited to join another purpose-led business in the next stage of our growth journey. As part of the TPXimpact team, we look forward to continuing to deliver impactful change.”

TPXimpact CEO Neal Gandhi added: "With a comprehensive and specialist range of data capabilities now in place, these acquisitions represent another key strategic step forward for TPX in our mission to take on the multitude of complex challenges facing the public and commercial sectors and deliver sustainable digital change.”

Gifting company expands its unique product range

Natalie Bamford

Personalised gifting company Colleague Box has expanded its product range by selling flower bouquets and adding to its limited edition collection to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

The Derby-based business, set up by the Chamber’s reigning Business Woman of the Year Natalie Bamford and her husband Adam, has evolved from an SME created in their living room to a global enterprise operating from a 4,500square feet warehouse in the city.

The flower bouquets – which start at £26.99 for their “vanilla skies posy” featuring white roses, white germini and purple statice – have been well received by those wanting to bring a smile to the face of a friend of colleague.

And for those wanting to celebrate the Queen’s 70th year as monarch this month, there

are two bouquets available – the Queen’s Jubilee summer bouquet and the Queen’s Jubilee purple passion posy – as well as bespoke gift boxes featuring tea-time treats.

CEO Natalie said: “We’re really excited about our new product range, which coincides with Colleague Box’s two-year anniversary.

“The bouquets are reasonably priced and the feedback we have received so far has been extremely positive. The Jubilee boxes, too, have been popular as companies look at ways in which they can celebrate such a momentous occasion.”

Colleague Box has recently been given a fivestar hygiene rating by Derby City Council, meaning it can now its products – including the Jubilee boxes – via online delivery services including JustEat and UberEats.

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MEMBER NEWS

Nottingham now has best full-fibre broadband service

Adam Rhodes

Merger deal for financial advisers Rhodes Wealth Management has significantly increased its client base after merging with another financial advisory firm in Ilkeston.

The company has joined forces with Paul Bainbridge Wealth Management, which will allow it to bring complementary services under the Rhodes umbrella.

Adam Rhodes began his firm as a one-man operation in 2007 and it now has a staff of 27 between its headquarters in Brailsford, near Ashbourne, and an office in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire.

The link-up with experienced Paul Brainbridge, a fellow St James’s Place partner, has been agreed as Paul moves towards retirement.

Paul said: “During 2021, I have been in discussions with various St James’s Place partnerships with the idea of merging my business into theirs. The objective has been to improve client servicing by having larger resources to call upon.

“I have known Adam Rhodes for many years and he has a wealth of knowledge and experience.

“He and Tristan Gilbody run a successful St James’s Place partnership, supported by a fantastic team of financial advisers and well-trained support staff.”

Adam added: “I have known Paul since I started at St James’s Place and I was delighted when he decided to entrust me and the team with the task of supporting him and his clients.

“While nothing will change for Paul’s clients in the shortterm, over time he will begin to hand over the day-to-day management of their finances to advisers from Rhodes Wealth Management.”

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Internet users across Nottingham are now able to connect their homes and businesses to the best digital infrastructure available after progress made by CityFibre.

The UK’s largest independent full-fibre platform has now made the majority of homes in the Wollaton area “ready for service”, which means residents can choose to connect to full fibre-enabled broadband services once live in their area.

In Nottingham, customers can already sign up to UK launch partner Vodafone on selected Vodafone Pro Broadband plans, as well as TalkTalk, Zen, Air Broadband and Gigabit Networks, with other providers expected to join the network soon.

The rollout is now progressing into new areas with construction underway in West Bridgford, Basford, Hyson Green and Arboretum, while work in areas such as Lutterell, Bulwell, Compton Acres, Edwalton, Abbey, Gamston, South, Meadows and Trent Bridge is set to

start in the next three months.

Homes in the Bilborough, Aspley and Leen Valley areas are also ready for service. Once the citywide rollout reaches completion in 2027, almost every home and business locally will have access to full-fibre services from a choice of internet service providers.

Dominika Walker, CityFibre’s area manager for Nottingham, said: “Reaching this latest milestone means residents can now start to benefit from this digital investment that will future-proof their connectivity for decades to come.”

In celebration of this latest milestone, CityFibre welcomed Lilian Greenwood, MP for Nottingham South, for a tour of the works in Wollaton.

She said: “Becoming one of the best-connected cities in the UK with CityFibre’s state-of-the-art infrastructure is vital to Nottingham’s future. Full-fibre connectivity will support our economic, social and smart city ambitions.”

...and Leicester has options too Telecommunications service dbfb is offering businesses in Leicester up to six months’ free broadband with a purchase of 1Gbps full-fibre internet via the company.

It is an official launch partner of CityFibre and, after a successful roll-out in Northampton and Milton Keynes, the company is now helping Leicester businesses access full-fibre connectivity.

Managing director Simon Pickering said: “We’re excited to bring our services to Leicester. It’s a city that is constantly evolving and it’s great to be a part of it. We’ve helped more than 1,000 businesses in the UK, both SME and larger enterprise businesses transform the way they do business.

“Every business is different, and we don’t believe in onesize-fits all. Solutions need to be flexible and customisable to enable growth, and to continue to grow with the business.”

Lilian Greenwood (right) with Dominika Walker and Harry King of City Fibre

Awards applaud entrepreneurial spirit A host of Chamber members were recognised at the Nachural Entrepreneurship Awards.

Held at the King Power Stadium on 13 May, the awards, spearheaded by Nachural Events founder Ninder Johal, recognised entrepreneurial spirit in the regional business community.

Fraser Stretton Property Group was the headline sponsor for the event and the Chamber sponsored the Small Business of the Year category – with director of policy and external affairs Chris Hobson and strategic partnerships manager Sanjib Sahota presenting the award to Design Studio Architects.

Other winners from Chamber membership included Cross Productions’ owner Jenny Cross (Business Woman of the Year), Business 2 Business (Enterprise of the Year), Your IT Department (Excellence in Customer Service), Easy Internet Services (Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion), Help the Homeless Leicester (Community Excellence), Spark Academy (Highly Commended) and Creative62 (Excellence in Innovation). Chan Kataria OBE, emh group chief executive, and RSM UK’s Leicester office managing

Narinder Nijjar and Jaz Kaur of Fraser Stretton Property Group at the Nachural Awards

partner Kevin Harris both won a Contribution to the Region award.

Mark Robinson, managing director of Creative62, said: “We’re over the moon to have achieved an award which aligns so strongly with our values as a business, as we think innovatively for our clients on a daily basis.”

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MEMBER NEWS

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MEMBER NEWS

Service will connect software experts A new start-up is looking to disrupt global freelance platforms UpWork and Fiverr by offering a service dedicated to certified software experts.

UpStripe connects companies with experts so they can fix software issues, outsource skills, accelerate projects and grow their business faster.

The start-up, based in Nottingham, was born out of founder Dan Marconetto’s own experience and frustrations while helping US tech companies to expand into Europe and running agencies.

When it came to software, Dan couldn’t get the help and support he needed when he needed it.

“We wasted time, we made a bunch of mistakes and we weren’t able to grow as quickly as we would have liked,” he said.

Dan Marconetto

“Over the years, we started working with experts and our results improved dramatically, which for us meant more leads, more opportunities and more business. I then had the idea to offer this service out to other companies and created a marketplace.”

Through UpStripe, businesses can connect with highly-skilled software experts – all of which have been carefully vetted by the company.

He believes large companies like UpWork and Fiverr, platforms that connect freelancers across numerous professions with businesses looking for one-off services, have become very broad in their offering.

“Our aim with UpStripe is to make the offering super focused on the quality of the supply,” he added.

Ride-sharing firm buys UK start-up A Nasdaq-listed ride-sharing company has agreed a $100m (£80m) deal to buy UK startup Zeelo in the latest in a string of acquisitions as technology companies push into the transport industry.

Dubai-based Swvl, which recently listed in New York through a merger with blank cheque company Queen’s Gambit Growth Capital, has made five acquisitions in the past eight months.

The acquisition of Zeelo, a smart bus platform that connects businesses and education providers with transport operators to create bespoke routes, provides Swvl entry into the UK market.

Mostafa Kandil, Swvl founder and CEO, said in a statement: “Swvl was founded on the belief that accessible transportation is essential to unlocking economic opportunity.

“Swvl and Zeelo share a vision and mission to provide reliable transportation that gets riders where they need to go in an affordable, safe, and environmentally-friendly manner.”

The company said the deal will expand Swvl’s B2B offering with a managed transport-as-a-service platform that connects riders via their employers and schools to operators and drivers.

Zeelo was founded by two British entrepreneurs who sold an earlier mobility company to Addison Lee in 2014, and has operations in the US, UK and South Africa.

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Exhausted NHS staff need immediate help Action must be taken immediately to support our NHS as workers feel “exhausted, drained and undervalued”.

That is according to leadership expert Kul Mahay (pictured), who spent 30 years working for the police and now works with organisations to help develop cultures where people perform to their very best.

His words come after a study commissioned by the University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust reportedly discovered how low morale and overall physical and mental exhaustion affected staff at the Trust’s accident and emergency department.

‘People are exhausted, frustrated and sad in healthcare. They are going off sick in droves’ The Empowering Voices report, published last December, involved 45 members of staff including 14 consultants and doctors.

It was seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service and details – which included how staff had been instructed to “cry privately” rather than in front of patients as they struggle to deal with burnout – were reported in local media.

Other hospitals have reported similar pressures and Kul, from Derby, said: “We all clapped for NHS and keyworkers during the pandemic, but it is now, as hospital wards are full to capacity and there is a massive backlog of appointments, that they need our support.

“It’s not just in hospitals; dental practices are struggling too. GP surgeries are under pressure. They need empathic leadership to help combat low morale, sickness and burnout which, ultimately, poses a risk to patient care.

“People are exhausted, frustrated and sad in healthcare. They are going off sick in droves. I’ve been working with a healthcare sector provider in the Midlands recently which employs 1,400 people. It recognises that, over the past two years, healthcare has been one of the biggest industries affected by the pandemic and that it is important to carry out an internal ‘health check’ on their own teams.

“Like so many other areas of the healthcare industry, this organisation is experiencing high levels of turnover and abstractions and trying to an ever-competitive pool of potential recruits. It is not alone. I am helping many to explore the type of leadership and culture that is much-needed in this post-covid world.”

Kul, who specialises in emotional intelligence and creating healthy cultures, feels that, while healthcare staff are probably the most affected, other public sector organisations are also experiencing high levels of stress, burn out and turnover from their staff.

“Often, we think of public sector investment as an increase of resources and staff and, to a large extent, that is true,” he added. “However, unless we also invest in the cultures of our great public sector institutions and help them to become organisations that people aspire to be a part of, we will always struggle to deliver the highest quality of service that we can.”

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MEMBER NEWS

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MEMBER NEWS

Mike Kapur OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, at the official launch of Charnwood Molecular

Lab space will enable firm to grow New lab space at Charnwood Campus will be used by Charnwood Molecular to accelerate its growth in global pharmaceutical and biotechnology markets.

Lord-Lieutenant of Leicestershire, Mike Kapur OBE, officially opened the world-class facilities during a recent visit.

Clinical research organisation Charnwood Molecular had previously moved into the threestorey laboratory on Charnwood Campus Science Innovation and Technology Park. It will house more than 150 scientists.

It addresses a national need for highlyspecialised biochemistry facilities that will drive life-saving medicinal discoveries of the future.

The project was supported by a £3.4m investment from the Leicester and Leicestershire

Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) in partnership with Charnwood Borough Council.

Funding was used towards recommissioning 57,000 sq ft of unused medicinal chemistry laboratory space on the campus, which forms part of the Loughborough and Leicester Science and Innovation Enterprise Zone.

Andy Reed OBE, interim chair of the LLEP board, said: “Through effective use of local resources, such as those at Charnwood Campus, we are building a productive and innovative economy at the cutting edge of science, which will support the health of people around the world.

“By investing in projects such as Charnwood Molecular, we are helping to create high-quality jobs to add to the 900 already created on Charnwood Campus since its designation as an

Robot could be used for human surgery A repair robot that takes inspiration from the bendiness and sensing ability of snakes to access hard-to-reach places in harsh industrial environments is now being explored for use in human surgery.

The snake-like robot, called COBRA, has been developed at the University of Nottingham. It successfully demonstrated it in jet engine inspection and repair, as well as nuclear plant installation and maintenance, and is now refining it for medical use.

Based in the Rolls-Royce University The robot is designed to access hard-to-reach places Technology Centre (UTC) in Manufacturing and On-Wing Technology at the university, COBRA’s researchers are the only group in the world to have perfected this kind of remote-controlled technology for industry.

The UTC has now secured Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Impact Accelerator funding to adapt COBRA into the first robot in the UK specifically for throat cancer and injury surgery.

UTC director professor Dragos Axinte said: “We have started early tests to see if the robot can navigate and has enough motion capabilities to perform surgical procedures.”

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enterprise zone site.”

The company works with clients on innovative chemistry throughout the drug discovery process, from target identification through to lead identification, compound optimisation and scale-up.

By fully integrating its drug discovery teams on the site, the laboratories have quadrupled Charnwood Molecular’s capacity and will support further expansion of the company’s services.

Professor Steve Allin, founder and CEO of Charnwood Molecular, said: “The truly worldclass facilities at Charnwood Campus provide us with a key piece in our strategic plan to become the provider of choice for integrated drug discovery and development services within the global life sciences sector.”

NFL Academy to touch down in Leicestershire An American football academy that offers British students the opportunity to play for college teams in the US while boosting employment prospects will soon be based in Leicestershire.

The National Football League’s (NFL) UK-based NFL Academy will relocate to Loughborough College and Loughborough University for the start of the 2022-23 academic year.

Set up in 2019 and currently based at Barnet and Southgate College in London, the NFL Academy provides students aged 16 to 19 with pathways into employment, further education and the opportunity to play NCAA college football in the United States by combining full-time education with professional-level American football coaching.

From September 2022, all football and academic operations will move to Loughborough, where

The American football academy will be based in Loughborough

a partnership between the college and the university will provide an opportunity for young players to become part of a world-renowned centre of sporting excellence.

The college will provide highquality coaching, education, accommodation and pastoral support to its cohort of players, while the university will provide performance staff and world-class facilities to focus on the physical development of students.

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MEMBER NEWS

Shredding firm expands to offer storage facility Shredall SDS Group has launched sister company Loft Self Storage to mark a milestone in the firm’s history.

The Nottingham-headquartered business expanded its services from document shredding to storage through its new venture, which launched in January.

Loft Self Storage offers both domestic and business clients the opportunity to rent eight-foot selfstorage containers. It also provides a mobile self-storage service,

Nik Williams

picking up items from home or office, and transporting them for storage, and returning them when required.

Initially, Shredall - which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year – invested £42,000 in 20 containers, located at Bestwood Village Business Park in Nottingham, but due to the popularity of the service, it acquired a further 20 units in March. After reaching capacity for a third time, Shredall is planning to

Lucy Shipley

Loft Self Storage containers will be available to domestic and business clients

buy a further 20 units – which are predicted to give the sister company an annual turnover of £100,000.

Group managing director Nik Williams said: “Shredall SDS Group still has many of the same customers from 25 years ago and we are very grateful for their loyalty.

The success of the past and our positive trajectory promise a great future for the group.”

Off the back of the success of its sister venture, Shredall has also reported a 25% increase in turnover, growing by £800,000 in the past year to reach the total of £5m. It has pledged £2,500 to be split between multiple charities,

which include Nottingham Hospitals Charity, a local charity near its depot in Scotland called Florentina the Brave and is working with the community to send supplies to Ukraine.

Group director Lucy Shipley said: “Our ability to adapt to market changes is the key to our success. We’ve faced the gradual shift towards a ‘paper light’ generation and view digital solutions as the future of document management.

“We also support the circular economy, partnering with sustainability-focused events such as COP26 and earning the title of Paper Recycling Business of the Year 2021.”

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MEMBER NEWS

Tony offers tips on how to negotiate a pay rise A Derby businessman has shared his expertise on how to successfully ask for a pay rise – after a survey revealed that women who ask for pay rises are less successful than men.

Tony Prueitt, owner of ActionCOACH Derby, has worked with major global organisations and high-profile, city-based SMEs including awardwinning clothing business Fox Wholesale Vintage.

And he decided to reveal some of his top tips after a YouGov poll found that one in five women who ask for a pay rise are given the thumbs-up from their bosses compared with just under a third of men.

The survey, which was conducted by more than 16,000 adults, found that of the 40% of people who asked for a pay rise, just over a quarter succeeded.

Tony said: “With the proper preparation and courage, you increase your chance of getting what you think you deserve. Don’t push too hard. Times

are hard for everyone right now with the increase in the cost of living – but don’t be a pushover.

Strike that balance and make your case.”

‘Show your boss that you’re a valuable and committed member of the team’ Tony believes the best time to ask for a pay increase is when things are going well, such as after completing a big assignment, or when being asked to increase your workload, while he suggested researching your worth compared to peers in the marketplace.

He added: “Think like your boss and don’t lose your cool. You want to show your boss that you’re a valuable and committed member of the team.

Ask for more responsibility. Maybe taking on more responsibility or widening your role will make their

Tony Prueitt, of ActionCOACH Derby

lives easier or eliminate the need to hire another person. This way, you’re freeing up capital for your raise while saving the company money.

“And finally, if the answer is ‘no’, don’t leave empty-handed. Ask what you can do to earn it in the future. There may be constraints that you don’t appreciate. Have them help you understand what you need to do in the future to get your raise.”

Taking a healthy new approach A Nottingham-based company supplying health services in the community and out of hospital has supported the first UK clinicians to complete the Government’s new course for specialist staff working in GP surgeries.

Despite the pandemic, Primary Integrated Community Services (PICS) and GPs in Nottingham have accelerated the first contact practitioners (FCP) scheme in which NHS England funds specialist roles in community GP surgeries.

In March, four FCP specialists in physiotherapy completed Health Education England’s roadmap to practice in primary care programme.

By 2024, the target is that all adults in the UK will be able to see an FCP and they all need to have completed the roadmap.

This means thousands of staff in primary care across England will follow in their footsteps.

Charlie Akiens was the first FCP in Nottingham to be recruited to this new type of role when she was employed

by PICS in April 2020. She is now clinical lead for one of the busiest FCP teams within primary care in the country.

She said: “I am proud to be part of a pioneering team as we’ve developed the FCP service, driving forward the health and well-being of our population at a local level through primary care.”

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Medstrom staff in Castle Donington celebrate with the dolphin mascot

Firm celebrates milestone for unique dolphin therapy Medstrom is best known for manufacturing hospital beds and as the second largest provider of total bed management services to the NHS – but it recently celebrated the milestone of a healthcare innovation inspired by dolphins.

The Castle Donington-based company marked National Dolphin Day on 13 April to commemorate 10 years since the launch of its dolphin therapy technology, a unique mattress system that creates a simulated fluid environment for complex human patients.

It is based on a support system developed by US Navy engineers, who recreated the feeling of buoyancy during the transportation of dolphins after the mammals – trained to undertake underwater reconnaissance – began dying from being taken out of water due to the circulatory distress caused by gravity exerting pressure on their internal tissues and organs.

Medstrom’s version of this technology, introduced in 2012, enables full immersion and envelopment,

significantly reducing pressure, shear force and tissue deformation.

It has been instrumental in the treatment and prevention of pressure-related tissue damage – such as where repositioning is challenging – as well as in pain management for end-of-life care patients.

To mark the anniversary, the company held a staff celebration with various dolphin-shaped sweet treats and invited a dolphin mascot to take photographs with employees.

Commercial director and registered general nurse Rachel Apsey said: “This is an incredible milestone, which means so much to us all here at Medstrom.

First and foremost, in terms of the success that dolphin therapy has provided both patients and caregivers throughout the healthcare sector.

“We’ve put the most compromised patients on dolphin therapy, who weren’t expected to do well and have gone on to do very well. So, I can’t wait to see how many more patients can experience improved outcomes thanks to dolphin therapy.”

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MHA to play role at manufacturing expo

High Sheriff aiming to inspire local youngsters Derbyshire has a new High Sheriff who is promising to raise career aspirations of primary school pupils in the city and county.

Mike Copestake was recently installed during a ceremony at All Saints Church in Turnditch (pictured).

The former corporate lawyer, who spent 26 years with solicitors Freeths, also wants to help charities that work with young people and support ex-offenders into work following their release from prison.

He hopes to visit 100 schools during his year as High Sheriff, where he will tell of a childhood ambition to become a firefighter and introduce youngsters to inspirational people from the county.

These include Olympic hockey gold medallist Hollie Webb – a former Turnditch Primary School pupil who also worked for HMRC – and ex-Alvaston Moor pupil Clive Lawrence, who grew up in a single-parent household and was awarded an OBE earlier this year for his services to education.

Mike said: “When I was vice-chairman of inward

investment agency Marketing Derby, we would visit Cannes for the annual MIPIM, a major international property investment show.

“Most people thought it was a jolly but one of my proudest moments was when the Financial Times voted Derby as having the best investment strategy in the world, ahead of Hong Kong and New York.

“But while this was an incredible honour, one of the biggest weaknesses in our city and in certain parts of the county is social mobility and a distinct lack of aspiration.”

He has plans to become more involved with charities such as Safe and Sound, Enthusiasm and YMCA Derbyshire, which all work with young people, and the police youth engagement team.

Mike is also encouraging children and young people to enter the High Sheriff’s prestigious National Crimebeat Award for the most innovative and successful crime prevention projects carried out by young people.

MHA MacIntyre Hudson is the audit, tax and advisory sponsor of Manufacturing and Engineering Week 2022.

Running from the 7 to 10 June at the NEC in Birmingham, M&E Week brings together a series of digital and sectorspecific live events that will showcase end-to-end manufacturing and engineering solutions, to encourage conversation, business, knowledge-sharing and action.

As the audit, tax and advisory sponsor, MHA will run several workshops and roundtable business clinics during both days of the show.

Chris Barlow (pictured), partner in MHA’s manufacturing and engineering team, said: “With our client focus and sector-led approach, we advise many manufacturing and engineering companies across the various stages of their development.

“We consider ourselves a true partner in terms of audit, tax and advisory work to the sector, which we do through the power of great relationships, great conversations and great futures.”

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MEET THE CHARITY: WARNING ZONE Elaine Stevenson, CEO of Warning Zone, Leicester Who does your charity support and how?

Warning Zone supports 21,000 children and young people every year in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland via two overarching programmes: 1. Our award-winning interactive safety centre, where children aged 10 and 11 learn to reduce their risks of harm, injury, death, criminal coercion, grooming, online exploitation, bullying and anti-social behaviour with the help of our trained volunteer guides.

Children at the charity’s training centre

2. Our state-of-the-art Roadcrew show for young people aged 12 to 17, delivering high-impact content, discussing subjects as diverse as mass hate campaigns, online psychological manipulation techniques, the role gender plays in online abuse, and how students can recognise and handle risks, finishing with a Q&A session where students discuss and explore issues important to them.

Why is the service you provide important?

The younger generation is amazing. We need to support, rather than judge, these people in this complex and confusing society we’ve all created.

Children are being increasingly coerced into drug dealing; knife crime; online exploitation, grooming and radicalisation; bullying and hate; vandalism; and other behaviour that puts them at risk of harm or a criminal record.

Children are also still being harmed, injured and killed by trespassing on railways, building sites and quarries (including live social media streaming of dangerous behaviour in these locations), drowning and cold-water shock in outside water locations, road accident injury, misuse of alcohol, fires in the home, and electrocution on railways and other outside electrical systems.

For our volunteers, we offer skills and confidence, increasing their employability, promotability and wellbeing.

What challenges have you experienced as an organisation, and how have you overcome these?

We continued engagement with schools and partners during lockdowns, and created a portfolio of digital modules and videos for use in class or online. We really have come back stronger and are fully booked this school year, and almost for next year.

We are a charity generating all our own income so we can offer highly-subsidised services. Our work is preventative and not seen as emotive. All our donors and partners are heroes, but it can sometimes be more difficult to express this in hard evidence. Our partnerships with corporates have been very positive, working together in different ways to achieve our overall aims, both programmatic and financial.

How can businesses support the charity’s work?

We love working with people from all sectors, and value understanding and learning from each

Elaine Stephenson, CEO of Warning Zone

other. We love the kind of mutual support that comes from a passion for making sure we work together with children and young people, so we can live in a community that’s looking out for each other and enhancing our lives and environment. As well as ideas and meaningful engagement, we also need financial and resource input, and have found the following mechanisms extremely useful: 1. Three-year sustainable commitment 2. Sponsorship and participation in fundraising events 3. Sponsorship of a zone 4. Corporate volunteering 5. Specific one-off donations for essential maintenance and improvements 6. Pro bono work For more information, visit warningzone.org.uk

FOUNDATION FUNDS LIFE SKILLS TRAINING The Randal Charitable Foundation awarded a £85,000 grant to Warning Zone to fund 1,630 training sessions for 10 and 11-year-olds.

Sessions will encourage responsible behaviour and sound decision-making among the children while helping them to lead full and active lives.

The funds will also support major repairs to the roof of the Elaine Stephenson with Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, chair of trustees safety centre, which opened in at the Randal Charitable Foundation Frog Island, Leicester, a decade ago.

Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, chair of the trustees for the Loughborough-based foundation, said: “Our mission is to directly save lives, as well as to support initiatives which provide essential educational support – particularly to initiatives which may prevent the loss of life.

“We’re delighted to be supporting Warning Zone, which through its centre is giving the children and young people the essential life skills to protect themselves while online and offline.

This is particularly important, as making the right choices and taking steps to safeguard themselves, is essential at this stage in their personal growth.”

Nelsons’ staff volunteer at Stonebridge City Farm

Nelsons’ volunteers help brighten up city farm Five members of Nelsons’ Nottingham office supported an urban community farm by volunteering.

Paralegal Charlotte Cadman, apprentice paralegals Wesley Walton and Tim Atkinson, trainee solicitor Vikky Lai and digital marketing manager Chelsea-Ann Read spent a day at Stonebridge City Farm, in St Ann’s.

They helped with activities such as painting walls, fences and benches, as well as putting up new signage.

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More demand for Citizens Advice Citizens Advice in Nottinghamshire has experienced increasing numbers of people turning to its services as the cost-ofliving bites.

The charity, which assists people with issues such as legal, debt, consumer and housing, has six services in the county and together, there was an increase of more than 3,000 requests for help in 2021/22 compared to the previous year.

This took the annual total above 30,000 but the organisation said the highest number came in the final quarter of the financial year as individuals faced the challenge of rising inflation.

‘Our service is a barometer of what is happening in society and the economy’ Kathryn Stacey, chief executive of Citizens Advice Ashfield, said: “In the last financial year, we helped 5,036 people in Ashfield, but in the last quarter there was a significant increase in requests for advice, up by 25% on the same period last year. Our service is a barometer of what is happening in society and the economy.”

Once known as Citizens Advice Bureau, the charity has modernised its branding and operations in recent years.

In addition to traditional advice in-person, it provides support and information by telephone, online and webchat.

It also uses information on the problems faced by its service users to inform policymakers. The main challenges include reductions in income, budgeting problems, housing insecurity and employment issues.

Citizens Advice Ashfield estimates its social return on investment is £25 for every £1 of unrestricted funding.

Kathryn added: “We are an essential service helping people in their hour of need but we are also an important partner to local government, the NHS and in many cases business. The help we provide reduces the costs on other service providers, keeping people out of crisis and living productive lives.”

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Specialist charity gives exploited children back their self-esteem Safe and Sound, a specialist child exploitation charity based in Derbyshire, has launched new therapy services to help young people regain their self-esteem and move forward positively with their lives.

It now offers innovative services such as person-centred creative art therapy, in which each young person undertakes six sessions designed to help them rediscover their confidence, re-establish selfworth and re-connect with those around them by formulating healthy relationships with other people.

The organisation also created a new sponsorship programme to coincide with its 20th anniversary to support the new programme, as well as other services for individuals and wider communities.

Chamber members including Cosy Foundation, Invictus Communications, Wathall’s funeral directors and Creationz Marketing have already signed up.

Safe and Sound CEO Tracy Harrison said: “Grooming and child exploitation has a devastating impact on young people’s lives, and the therapeutic art process creates a non-judgemental environment that encourages them to look upon themselves with empathy, compassion and unconditional positive regard.

“It will be a valuable part of our one-to-one and group support, and ensures our young people feel valued, heard and respected as part of their recovery.

“Finding different ways to support young people is more important than ever with the increased referrals – particularly among very vulnerable groups such as new communities and young people with special education needs and disabilities.

“I am delighted we are marking this important milestone in the charity’s journey with the launch of this service – made possible through

the fundraising and sponsorship support of local individuals and businesses, as well as foundations and grant-giving organisations.”

Safe and Sound supports an increasing number of children, young people and their families whose lives have been affected by exploitation including online grooming, sexual exploitation, coercion to run drugs through county lines, trafficking, modern slavery and radicalisation.

In 2021, the charity worked with 203 young people – up from 150 the previous year – as well as 49 families whose children are being groomed and exploited.

It also engaged with more than

3,100 young people via outreach activities in communities such as Derby city centre, Long Eaton and Swadlincote.

The charity’s expertise came to the fore during the 2010 landmark case Operation Retriever, which was Derby’s first prosecution for child sexual exploitation and abuse. Safe and Sound’s specialist team supported every young person affected by the criminal actions of 13 defendants, who were jailed in total for up to 22 years for 70 offences.

For more information on supporting art therapy via sponsorship, visit www.safeandsoundgroup.org.uk

HSBC’s David Tomlinson, left, with colleagues and Safe and Sound’s Tracy Harrison, third right, at the charity's recent race night

YOUNGSTERS BANK ON HSBC SUPPORT HSBC will hold a series of workshops with Safe and Sound to teach young people life skills such as budgeting and opening bank accounts.

The sessions will also support struggling families with financial planning as part of the charity’s transitions programme to help people move forward positively with their lives.

HSBC area director David Tomlinson said he first encountered Safe and Sound while judging the Excellence in Collaboration category of the Chamber’s Derbyshire Business Awards.

He said: “As well as supporting the charity’s fundraising efforts, we were keen to share our expertise in financial planning with young people as they transition into adulthood and with families who perhaps have been disengaged in the past with the services and support that banks can provide.”

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Funding to help find new cancer drugs and therapies Hope Against Cancer, the Leicestershire and Rutlandbased cancer charity, has released another £50,000 of funding to five vital projects across the region.

Five individual £10,000 pots of funding – made available after donations and hard work from Hope’s supporters and fundraisers – are being directed to projects that could lead to new developments in cancer drugs and therapies, to improve treatment and outcomes for patients now and into the future.

Working with doctors, professors and other research staff, the charity has carefully allocated funding to provide specialist research equipment and resources in a number of specific, identified areas.

‘One of the ultimate aims of the targeted funding is it will result in the availability of new drugs and improved treatments’ Projects to benefit include the development of a liquid biopsy approach to early detection of head and neck cancers, evaluation of drug effectiveness in breast cancers, advancement of drugs for mesothelioma prevention to clinical trials stage, identification of difunctional cells in patients with lymphoma, and therapeutic screening of patients with colorectal cancers.

One of the ultimate aims of the targeted funding is it will result in the availability of new drugs and improved treatments that can be trialled at the Hope Cancer Trials Centre at Leicester Royal Infirmary.

Hope Against Cancer CEO Nigel Rose said: “The areas receiving our funding are what we refer to as ‘pump-priming projects’. They are the beginnings of new approaches that explore the understanding of cancers, a step which is vital if we are to develop better treatments.

“Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to find funding for these early stages, so the £50,000 will actually be helping our partners to expand knowledge and test ideas that they otherwise would be unable to do.”

Groups urged to walk for water Clean water charity Aquabox is encouraging groups across Britain to mark its 30th anniversary this month by organising a fundraising Walk for Water in 2022.

Set up by the Rotary Club of Wirksworth, Derbyshire, in 1992, the charity assembles robust hand-pumped water filters and sends them to disaster zones, conflict areas and refugee camps around the world so that people living in extreme deprivation can at least have access to clean, safe water for drinking, cooking and washing.

The first Walk for Water was held by the Rotary Club of Ayr, in Scotland, on 8 May and the charity is now urging businesses, schools, clubs and individuals to get involved and raise funds along the way.

Donations can be made via www.justgiving.com/campaig n/Aquabox-30thAnniversary or for more information, contact Kevin Barclay at Aquabox on aquaboxwalksforwater@aqua box.org

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MEET THE CHARITY: MOSAIC 1898, LEICESTER Zoheb Shariff, CEO of Mosaic 1898, Leicester Who does your charity support and how?

We are a Leicestershire-based charity working to provide life-enhancing care, support, and opportunities for disabled children and adults (and all those supporting them). We recognise and challenge the prejudice, discrimination and social isolation disabled people face throughout their lives and work to create a community that celebrates inclusion, equality, independence, choice, empowerment, respect and dignity for all – something we have been doing since 1898.

Today, our work remains a vital resource to Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. More than 2,000 disabled adults and children draw on our wide spectrum of support and services every week, and we reach thousands more who support them, including social care workers, statutory and health partners, and other charitable organisations that complement our service offer.

As a true enterprising charity, we invest in our colleagues and volunteers to deliver long-lasting social impact to disabled people and their families. From information, advocacy, social inclusion opportunities, care in the community, children’s short breaks and accessible holidays through to safeguarding and direct payment support services – we aspire to be the first point of call for all disabled people, regardless of complexity or need.

Why is the service you provide important?

Our support and care has never been more needed. Our charity provides personalised opportunities and pathways centred around the disabled person to lead fulfilled lives, make choices, access their community, have everyday experiences, find friendship and have fun. Every person has inherent worth – it is our mission is to remove barriers and create environments for people to flourish and reach their potential.

Living with a disability often means living on the fringes of society, being excluded, unheard and undervalued. Our support and services see beyond the disability and empower disabled

Mosaic 1898 supports disabled children and adults

people to raise their voices, see their value and find their place in society. Beyond this, we provide parents and carers with much-needed time away and respite, giving them confidence and peace of mind that their loved ones are safe and in good care.

What challenges have you experienced as an organisation, and how have you overcome these?

During the pandemic, our charity responded to the needs of the people we support in the face of ever-changing restrictions and uncertainty to ensure we can continue to provide help that couldn’t be accessed elsewhere.

We have a fantastic team of caring colleagues that go above and beyond in every moment to fulfil the vision and mission of the charity. Their grit and compassion enable us to stand strong even in the most difficult of times.

How can businesses support the charity's work?

As a charitable company, CSR is embedded in everything we do. We strive to create opportunities to work with businesses and professionals that are meaningful to our partners and further our impact.

We have some exciting upcoming ventures that will offer East Midlands businesses the opportunities to get involved, enhance lives, and make a real difference. We would love to hear and talk to businesses developing their CSR commitment, seeking a cause to support, or keenly interested in promoting inclusion, diversity, and disability in their workplace.

We are also continually looking for professionals to come on board and work with the charity as strategists, advisors or trustees, and contribute to the next phase of our journey.

If you’d like to know more, reach out to us.

Purpose Media helps tee up golf event Hot on the heels of The Masters, Derbyshire-based marketing agency, Purpose Media provided sponsorship and marketing support for the first ever Ryder Cup-style golf event for disabled people.

Amazon was the main sponsor of the event and has committed to further raise its profile to help secure its ongoing viability.

Named the Cairns Cup, the inaugural event took place at Seve Ballesteros-designed The Shire London golf course between 7 and 13 May. The tournament – which pits Europe versus the USA over three days across various formats – has the backing of the “Ryder family” with Tom Ryder Smith, grandson of Samuel Ryder, who founded the 18

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Ryder Cup, committing his full support to the Cairns Cup. Each team consists of 16 players, who represent six different disabilities. With World Handicap System handicaps ranging from scratch to 54, it makes the event truly inclusive.

Purpose Media created branding for the UK event – managing social media, filming the event and creating promotional videos as part of its contribution towards ensuring the inaugural event receives the support it deserves.

Managing director Matt Wheatcroft said: “We have an established reputation for helping sports clubs and associations maximise the power of digital marketing. We are delighted to

From left: Ian Halliwell, CEO of the Cairns Cup; Kris Aves, of Team Europe; Kevin Booth, of Cairns Cup; and Matt Wheatcroft, managing director of Purpose Media

have been asked to support the launch of this inaugural event and

look forward to playing a key role in the future.”

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Martin to speak at top marketing event Martin Broadhurst (pictured) has been announced as a speaker at the Marketing Artificial Intelligence Conference (MAICON) in Cleveland, USA, this summer.

The MAICON is the world’s largest conference on marketing and artificial intelligence, driving the next frontier of digital marketing.

This year’s conference will take place in Cleveland, USA, from 3 to 5 August.

The conference is designed to help marketing leaders understand AI, educate their teams, win executive backing, pilot priority AI use cases and develop a near-term strategy for successfully scaling AI. Martin is managing director of Derby-based Broadhurst Digital. He said: “I am excited to be speaking at MAICON this year. The conference provides a great opportunity to learn about the latest advances in marketing and artificial intelligence, and I look forward to sharing my insights on how these technologies can help businesses grow.”

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Nowcomm directors Mark Lamont (left) and James Baly

Sponsorship deal helps keep GT Cup on track Two Derbyshire-based companies have announced a joint sponsorship deal in time for the start of the new GT Cup race season, which commenced at Donington Park in April.

Connectivity, collaboration and cyber security services firm Nowcomm and Tecserv UK, which specialises in the installation and maintenance of fire and security systems, will back the competition.

The sponsorship arrangement will see Nowcomm branding prominently displayed on racewear clothing at the sports car event, and on the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT3 driven by Tecserv UK CEO Graham Tilley.

He said: “I am delighted to welcome Nowcomm as a team Tecserv UK sponsor for the 2022 season.

“As amateur drivers, we very much appreciate all sponsorship support as it helps to ensure the GT Cup

attracts competitive racing drivers which in turn helps to attract large audiences of spectators.”

There will also be several opportunities for Nowcomm to invite valued clients to enjoy race day corporate hospitality at leading race venues including Silverstone, Snetterton, Oulton Park, and Brands Hatch.

The season started at Donington Park in April and there are a further seven race fixtures planned for 2022.

Nowcomm partnership manager Scott Bradley added: “As a motorsport enthusiast, I am delighted that the company can support the GT Cup. “The series has a huge following of spectators and having our branding so prominently displayed will help raise awareness of the importance of IT network and cyber security and increase our brand profile across the UK.”

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Brewery raises a glass to new case coding system

London’s Fourpure Brewing Company has installed a flexible and moveable case coding system from Nottingham-based Clearmark Solutions to support a £2.5m expansion of the business.

Replacing a legacy ink coder on the case packing line, Clearmark has installed the ICE Vulcan print and apply labelling system, which satisfies supermarket GS1 barcoding requirements and fully automates the brewery’s canning line.

In 2021, Bermondsey-based Fourpure, established by two brothers inspired by the US West Coast brewing scene just eight years previously, doubled demand for its canned beer, prompting an investment of £2.5m to upgrade its canning line.

Clearmark designed, built and

‘The physical application is seamless and places the label in the same spot every time’ delivered the system to accommodate multiple pack formats in less than 10 weeks.

Kurt Fletcher, packaging manager at Fourpure, said: “Before the Vulcan, we were hand-labelling boxes for a good percentage of our production runs. It was hard – either we printed too many labels, which meant lots of excess, or too few labels and were running around to source more.”

“The Vulcan on-cue printing is great for us and reduces our wastage. The physical application is

seamless and places the label in the same spot every time, keeping up with our 30 packs per minute.

This would be a tiring and repetitive job for staff to perform.”

Three-times faster than conventional print and apply labellers, its ICE Vulcan was customised to streamline the labelling of packaged cans certified for British supermarkets, while not compromising Fourpure’s brand appeal.

Steve Hancock, technical sales engineer at Clearmark, added: “The ICE Vulcan is capable of four-times the current line speed, which gives huge future-proofing. Additionally, its maintenance-free design reduces the printer’s total cost of ownership, equating to incredibly small ongoing operation and maintenance costs.”

Penny Hydraulics in expansion deal Penny Hydraulics has acquired a fellow Chesterfield-based company in a deal that will enhance its future product line.

Sidetracker Engineering designs and manufactures multi-directional forklift trucks with narrow aisle and long load capabilities.

Its bespoke product fits with the nature of Penny Hydraulics’ strategy of developing niche markets with unique material handling products.

The two companies, both based in Station Road Industrial Estate, already have strong links, with Sidetracker’s founder Peter Dobson a contemporary of Penny Hydraulics’ founder John Penny Snr — with the duo developing their businesses alongside one another in the 1970s.

Robin Penny, managing director of Penny Hydraulics, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for both companies and we are delighted to have Sam Dobson join to help maximise the potential of the extra capacity for both businesses.

“We have outgrown our current site and this new venture will allow us to keep more work in-house and to tender for more nuclear decommissioning contracts.

Staff at Sidetracker have excellent skills and I am sure they will all be welcomed into the Penny Hydraulics family.”

Awards celebrate digital and creative skills Two graduates and a lecturer from the University of Derby have each won accolades for their digital creativity at the Mainframe Awards 2022.

Mainframe, based at Derby QUAD, is an initiative that aims to bring together a community of digital and creative business across Derbyshire.

The Mainframe Awards were launched to highlight and celebrate the talented digital and creative businesses within the county.

BA (Hons) animation and MA visual communication graduate Nathan Addai was named Emerging Digital/Creative Star (under 25) for his Mental Roots podcast, addressing black British men’s mental health.

He said: “I am so pleased to have won this award and hope that the Mental Roots animations and

The Mainframe Awards winners

podcast will inspire other young content creators, especially minority ethnic creatives, to see that age does not have to be a barrier and that you can boldly tell your authentic story within your work, tackling difficult topics.”

Rachel Hayward, who graduated in 1998 with a Chartered Institute of

Personnel and Development (CIPD) qualification, and again in 2018 with a PGCE in higher education, also won the Best Local Network award – alongside Lee Marples for Derby Swap Shop, which helps connect and build relationships via a free services and goods-swapping website.

Meanwhile, senior lecturer and

MA applied theatre and education programme leader Ava Hunt won the Creativity for Good category for the Destinies theatre and music production. The project celebrates the stories and creativity of young refugees and asylum seekers living in Derbyshire.

Ava added: “Winning this award is so important. The journey that the young people went on was enormous. The artists, young people with care experience and unaccompanied asylum seekers had never worked together before.

In the end, we all felt part of a family and had created a film with music and animation that we feel so proud of.

“For those young people to stand on stage and receive the award with me was a huge acknowledgement of their hard work, learning and creativity.”

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MEMBER FOCUS: LANDMARKS COLLEGE Brian Harrison

Location: Eckington, Nottingham and Rotherham Number of employees: 100-plus Spokesperson: Brian Harrison, employer engagement manager

Tell us what your company does and a brief overview of its history?

Landmarks started to offer day services and post-16 education in March 1995, where the curriculum was largely practical and land-based, working in farm buildings in Creswell, Derbyshire.

Since that time, Landmarks has grown and developed its educational offer so that by the time of writing, Landmarks supports more than 150 post-16 and day service learners, who receive a variety of essential life skills from our five sites located across the East Midlands and South Yorkshire.

We have changed our curriculum from purely land and animal-based to include several vocational subjects, such as hospitality, catering, cookery, retail, administration and labouring. These additional subjects support our learners to make informed choices about the type of vocations they would like to follow. College life at Landmarks involves being taught in practical, real-life situations, while being supported by highly trained and experienced staff who are experts in working with learners with additional needs.

Who are your main customers and what is your USP to them?

Adults aged between 16 and 25 with additional needs and who want to gain experience in the world of work. WayFinder Specialist Employment Service is dedicated to supporting people with learning difficulties and disabilities into employment, and plays a key role in assisting people on the employment pathway to develop the skills needed to secure work.

What is your position in the business and what does your dayto-day role involve?

My role is to lead the Wayfinder Specialist Employment Service team to support the development of Landmarks’ employer engagement strategy, in providing a meaningful and relevant experience of work for our interns. I maintain strong links with both new and existing employers to ensure successful placements. I also offer a variety of training packages to employers, both face-to-face or via online training modules.

What challenges have you faced in recent times and how have you tried to overcome them?

Establishing partnerships with national companies. Many will not take

Auction house opens new salesroom in Nottingham National auction house network John Pye Auctions has opened another salesroom at its Nottingham headquarters to help supply growing market demand.

The new 14,450 sq ft auction room, located at its Radford Road base, will be the company’s largest in the East Midlands as it continues to scale its network at both a local and national level.

The first sale included a huge selection of crockery, cookware and glassware from sought-after brands including Le Creuset after it opened in late April.

The expansion comes off the back of a successful past year in which a burgeoning post-pandemic sales period helped it to make an 18% increase in turnover.

Mike Vitale, associate director and Nottingham site manager, said: “We’re pleased to be adding 24

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further sales capacity and space for our dedicated customers. This new space will be underground allowing us to store even more stock to keep up with the ever-growing demand for our auctions.”

John Pye Auctions is the UK’s biggest general auction network, holding more than 2,000 auctions annually. It has been named as the fastest-growing auction company in the UK over the past 10 years and judged the UK’s Asset Valuer and Auctioneers of the Year in five of the past six years.

supported interns for more than 80 hours, despite this being funded by local authorities.

We have had meetings with HR departments within these companies and explained the programme, how it can benefit their organisation and support them to amend their policies.

What are the company’s plans for the future?

To be recognised nationally for transforming the lives of our learners, and to deliver high-quality education and support that maximises life opportunities for our learners How long have you been a member of East Midlands Chamber, and how have you engaged with the membership benefits to support your business activity?

We have been a member for three years, during which time we have attended business networking events.

NEW MEMBERS In April, the Chamber welcomed 43 new members: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Shooz 4 Kidz The Amber Room Bear Coffee Company Limited Bustler Market Ltd Carbon Point Ltd Castle Blinds Derby Ltd CQual Ltd Critical Shipments Ltd C9VT Pace Financial Direction Ltd Dogland Ltd Dressed4U FILTERTECHNIK LTD From The Heart Charity Go Electric Ltd Heathland Grove The Home Industry Company Ltd KJAR LTD JD.com International UK Ltd The Leprosy Mission Lilly & Grace Love It Fashion UK

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

L.T. VA Services Martins Fruits Limited The Olive Tree Cafe Ottr The Peacock Lounge Peak Venues (Derwent Venues Ltd) Peak Fable PlastikCity Limited Rudolph & Hellmann Automotive Ltd Richard Lang & Son Limited Santino’s Gym Shrinker Digital The Simulator Company Ltd The Spark Arts for Children Taste of Kenya Tonic Weight Loss Surgery Ltd Tree of Life Counselling UpStripe AJ Innova The Wellness Brand Ltd Your Travel Stop Ltd

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MEMBER NEWS

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APPOINTMENTS

From left: Andrew Bull, Justin Ziegler and Kevin Smith

Baz Keshwala and Aneta Kowacka

Duo stamp their mark at bootcamp Anicca Digital has appointed two new team members to support new client wins and ongoing growth following a recruitment bootcamp at its Leicester office.

The digital marketing agency has welcomed Aneta Kowacka and Baz Keshwala, who have joined as paid media executives, following a fiveday digital marketing bootcamp.

Aneta joins after graduating from De Montfort University with a first-class honours in marketing management, while Baz, from Leicester, has made a career switch from the fashion industry.

The bootcamp is designed to help train the digital marketing experts of the future by providing first-hand experience of paid media tactics, including Google Ads and Bing Ads. Candidates are then tasked with developing a paid media campaign for a real-world brief.

Ann Stanley, CEO and digital marketing consultant at Anicca Digital, said: “Our digital marketing bootcamps have proved to be an essential recruitment tool for Anicca as an agency, but they also provide candidates with the opportunity to put their skills to the test and learn from our in-house experts.”

Directors aim to build on architect practice’s success An award-winning architecture practice has added a trio of directors as it looks to capitalise on two decades of continued success.

Marchini Curran Associates – which is based in Nottingham’s Lace Market – has appointed Kevin Smith, Justin Ziegler and Andrew Bull as directors, placing them alongside company founders Nick Marchini and Des Curran.

The trio has a combined 35 years’ service at Marchini Curran and all previously served as part of its leadership team for a number of years before moving into the director role.

Des Curran, director of Marchini Curran Associates, said: “We’re delighted to add Kevin, Justin and Andrew to our board of directors. They are all longserving members of the team and have already added enormously to what we offer, with their

industry knowledge and experience across all of our core areas.

“Most importantly, they bring a real energy and passion to continue the hard work that has set this company in good stead over the past 20 years. This is a hugely positive transition for the business and sets the tone as we set out on our next chapter.”

Andrew added: “As one of the longest-serving members of the team, it’s been great to see the company expand and develop into new and exciting sectors. Expanding the team of directors is key in developing the roadmap for the future of the practice.”

“We see Marchini Curran as a ‘destination employer’ – somewhere where architects and designers aspire to work – and we’re excited for what the next chapter will bring.”

Ketchup sources four more staff

Events specialist appoints new CFO

A recruitment drive by Ketchup Marketing has added four new members to its team of marketers, copywriters and web developers.

After opening a second Nottingham city centrebased office earlier this year, Ketchup has welcomed three of the newest team members to the Dryden Enterprise Centre, as well as adding a new recruit to its office in Buckminster, Leicestershire.

Sam Clay has been appointed as brand manager to aid the development of new and existing client relationships. As well as bringing her expertise from over a decade of marketing management across the FMCG, retail and B2B industries, Sam will also design creative digital campaigns and oversee key client email marketing and social media channels.

Emily Bicknell’s role as in-house copywriter will entail telling the unique stories of each of Ketchup’s clients through blogs, engaging social posts and web copy, as well as authoring press releases and case studies.

Joining Ketchup as a new account executive is Ella Suchoruczka, whose local expertise from previously working as a marketing and events intern at Belvoir Castle makes her an enriching addition to the team.

Appointed as full-stack developer to create fully comprehensive websites for a range of clients, Bikash Limbu will manage and maintain web traffic and engagement.

One of the UK’s biggest travel, meeting and event specialists Agiito has appointed a new chief financial officer (CFO).

Geoff Broad (pictured) joined Agiito’s executive team in April and brings more than 25 years’ experience as a commercial chartered accountant to the company. He will head up the senior finance team and work alongside the wider leadership team.

Agiito CEO James Parkhouse said: “We are pleased that Geoff Broad has joined our executive team as our new CFO. With his extensive credentials and experience working across travel and events businesses, we are excited to have Geoff on board.”

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Clockwise from top left: Emily Bicknell, Sam Clay, Ella Suchoruckza and Bikash Limbu

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APPOINTMENTS

Former BBC journalist makes the march to Arch Former journalist Simon Ford has joined Nottinghamshire public relations agency Arch Communications.

Simon’s arrival signals a further strengthening of the Arch team – raising its combined experienced across journalism and PR to more than 120 years.

Based in the Rushcliffe village of East Leake, the company was set up in 2011 by Matt Youdale.

He said: “Simon has a fantastic track record in journalism, digital technology and training. We’re excited about seeing those skills benefit both our clients and Arch Communications.”

Simon Ford is a specialist in creating text, video and audio for the web and social media. After working for BBC local radio news stations in Leeds, Nottingham and Leicester, he helped to train a new generation of digital journalists at the BBC College of Journalism and BBC Academy.

He added: “I’ve been fascinated by wordcraft and storytelling for as long as I can remember. Arch Communications has a powerful reputation for quality, creativity and integrity. I know I’m joining a great team and I look forward to playing my part in the company’s continuing success.”

University names new finance head Loughborough University has appointed Alexandra Owen FCA (pictured) as its new chief financial officer (CFO).

Previously the CFO and trustee at St Andrew’s Healthcare, Alexandra has a wealth of experience in financial leadership and joined the university in April.

Prior to her role at St Andrew’s, she was the finance director at both Maximus People Services and Remploy, organisations within the health and employment services sector that provide skills, training, employment support, and workplace wellbeing for disabled and disadvantaged people.

The university’s vicechancellor professor Nick Jennings said: “Alexandra’s appointment is a key step in the delivery of the forthcoming new strategy and broadening the role to encompass the strategic oversight of our commercial activity, including the Science and Enterprise Park, will be a real game changer to the university.”

Denise promoted to dean position

Simon Ford

Geldards’ partner takes up role as High Sheriff Geldards’ dispute and resolution partner Paul Southby has been installed as the 458th High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.

The role of High Sheriff is a royal appointment for 12 months, and is made by the Queen on the recommendation of the Privy Council.

Paul has played an active role in Nottinghamshire’s business community for many years. He recently stood down as chair of Marketing Nottingham but remains on its board.

He is chair of Nottingham Partners, chair of Broadway Cinema and a member of the Nottingham Growth Board.

Paul has chosen to support Nottingham Partners‘ chosen charity of the year Switch Up, a programme to empower children and young people in Nottingham to break the cycle of offending and reoffending.

He said: “My main focus will be on supporting local community crime prevention projects and on supporting the work of our county police force and court services. In addition, I intend to do what I can to support our local arts and cultural venues and projects in their recovery post-pandemic.”

The 55 High Sheriffs across England and Wales lend their support to crime prevention

Paul Southby

agencies, community groups, charities and voluntary organisations.

A declaration ceremony at which Paul commenced his duties as High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire was held at Broadway in April.

The University of Derby has appointed a new pro vicechancellor dean to lead the College of Health, Psychology and Social Care.

Dr Denise Baker, a registered diagnostic radiographer who joined the University of Derby in 2013, will be responsible for delivering on priorities including working in partnership with students to improve their learning experiences and outcomes, supporting staff with research opportunities, and collaborating with organisations across the region to support the new integrated care system.

Denise has held several roles at the college, most recently as interim pro vice-chancellor dean before securing the permanent position.

Professional highlights have included introducing the nursing associate role, as well as some of the first online apprenticeships leading to professional registration.

Denise said: “It is an honour to take on such a key role at the university and to be continuing my work within the college and wider university, building enduring links with regional and national partners, and raising the university’s national and international profile through new partnership opportunities.

“Looking ahead, I am very excited about our future and working with colleagues and stakeholders to not only meet the health and social care needs of the region, and further afield, but supporting our students to realise their potential and achieve their ambitions.”

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of Derby, added: “Denise’s knowledge, expertise and professional connections within the sector are pivotal in continuing to drive forward the ambitions of the college, and we wish her every success in the position.”

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Why Cosy values being a socially useful businesss From creating sustainable playground equipment to donating 10% of profits to charities, the environmental, social and governance (ESG) agenda is at the core of Cosy’s business.

After the Derbyshire company won a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development to sit alongside recent recognition from the Chamber, founder and CEO Peter Ellse DL caught up with Dan Robinson to tell his story.

‘I’ve always found that whatever you give will come back twice’ ot that this is a primary motivator for just over a decade’s work in creating a socially-conscious business with an objective to share success with its community, but Peter Ellse DL is in the middle of explaining the wide range of benefits he has identified in doing so.

It might also help businesses better understand why they ought to place a greater emphasis on having an ESG strategy.

An acronym for the three broad areas of environmental, social and governance, ESG is a set of standards for a company’s operations that measure its impact beyond the bottom line – on society, the environment, and how transparent and accountable it is. These are increasingly of interest to investors, employees and other stakeholders.

For Cosy, the business Peter and his wife Amanda set up 11 years ago to create outdoor educational resources for children, ESG is at the centre of everything it does.

Its products, which include climbing frames, reading shelters and story chairs that aim to inspire and engage youngsters, are sustainably sourced – often from local suppliers, which are mainly microbusinesses receiving a range of business support from the Cosy team.

The company’s employees, which include apprentices and ex-offenders, are given time off for volunteering days, while a tenth of profits are given to charities via its Cosy Foundation, which has donated £250,000 to more than 80 organisations in Derbyshire and Africa since the firm’s inception.

This just scratches the surface but illustrates why Cosy followed up an Excellence in Equality Award for its Foundation at the Chamber’s Celebration of Culture and Communities event in March with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development a month later – evidence of the rewards Peter identifies in giving back.

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MAKING SUPPLIERS PART OF THE SUCCESS STORY

From left: Cosy COO David Hook, MD Nick Walker and CEO Peter Ellse in front of the ‘communities wall of friends’ showcasing CSR activities

“Sustainability and an ethical approach to business is important to us, and we’re proud to support charities and grassroots projects around the world – including right here in the Midlands,” says Peter.

“As CEO, I try to create elevated aims with the Cosy board to integrate into the organisation because we enjoy being a socially useful business, with socially useful people.”

COSY IS NOT the only successful venture Peter, 51, has built but it is perhaps the first time he has been able to mould an organisation exactly around his own vision and values.

Previously, he was managing director of Hucknall-based TTS Group, which also supplies educational resources for schools and won the contract to supply Tesco with equipment for the supermarket’s Sport for Schools scheme.

Helping suppliers grow with Cosy is an important strand of the company’s ESG strategy – but is a good example of a social investment paying dividends.

It hosts business development groups on-site at its headquarters and often offers loans as part of its support package for a wide range of small firms, which are integral in bringing about 500 new products to market each year.

About half of the 200 SMEs in Cosy’s supply chain are based in England, with the remainder in Europe.

Peter admits it probably works with twice as many companies as it could but his organisation feels a responsibility towards them.

“We spend a huge amount of time and money on our supplier base,” he says. “We have a lot of businesses with five to 10 employees, and about 30 to 40 of these rely entirely on us so we want to support them by making sure the demand is strong “Giving them the confidence to grow is crucial – as we’re growing fast, we need them to grow with us.

“They supply more than £7m of products so their success is important for our business too.

“As our exclusive co-developers, they’re also a big part of the innovation that’s very important to us.”

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Cosy’s outdoor equipment is aimed at encouraging children to learn and play

Peter in the Cosy warehouse

He joined as a London School of Economics (LSE) geography graduate in 1991 and, after completing an MBA, grew into marketing manager and director roles before leading a management buyout in 2003.

After steering it from a £4m to £40m turnover company, he stepped down to spend more time with the first two of his children he now has three aged 12, 14 and 15 – in 2011.

The plan was to spend a year out but, within three months, realised there was an itch that needed scratching. Having carved out a successful career as businessman, he felt something he calls a “second life, working-class guilt”.

He had set up a corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme at TTS but, having acknowledged its activities had become “thinner” after his departure without being part of an overall strategy, he was compelled to rectify this.

“By starting again, we decided to put 10% of profits into a foundation from the beginning,” says Peter, who grew up in Holbrook and Belper, spending his early childhood in a single-parent working family where he was the first member to go to university.

“Having a CSR programme can become ‘community wash’ so I wanted it to be embedded, and identified a board and team whose values aligned with this approach to make sure we could go take the concept of ‘private for public’ further.”

Underpinning this must be a successful business and Peter has created “one of the UK’s most exciting prospects when it comes to the educational resources industry”.

Alongside being community-minded, the other key pillars of its ethos are reflected by its parent company’s name Collaborate and Innovate Ltd. Staff work alongside teachers and educators to develop ethical, imaginative play equipment that encourages outdoor learning.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

Products are given away for free to contributors, and include dens and shelters that double up as reading rooms, kitchen huts and shopping stalls for role play, a “curriculum cabin” and “writer’s retreat shed”.

Its catalogue now has more than 4,000 items, which are made using low-carbon methods to a robust standard to support the company’s sustainability credentials.

Peter says: “The Tesco for Schools programme at TTS had been very successful in putting £50m of sports equipment into schools, but we had to source from China to win the contract. As an LSE geographer, I wanted to redress the balance by making Cosy lower carbon with shorter supply chains, while also bringing more innovation to market.

‘I’d realised from having young children there wasn’t enough for kids to get out and be active’ “I also hadn’t started a business before, even though I’d run one, so I also didn’t feel like a proper entrepreneur – now fashionably called imposter syndrome.

“I’d realised from having young children there wasn’t enough for kids to get out and be active, so there was a great need for outdoor playbased equipment at schools and nurseries to help them learn.

“We have dens for children to sit in and learn, as well as loose parts to get them thinking creatively. There’s also outdoor storage for toys because it helps adults to stay outside longer and children to be self-sufficient.”

The company, originally based in Derby city centre, has more than doubled in size over the past three years, now employing 100 people and turning over a healthy eight-figure sum.

It is backed by 100,000 social media followers and moved into a new 70,000 sq ft speciallyadapted warehouse in the village of Fauld, near Tutbury on the Derbyshire-Staffordshire border, last year.

A growing six-figure turnover of products, manufactured by craft-based suppliers across the UK and Europe, are exported to markets including Europe, the Middle East, Australia, Canada, Chile and Singapore.

“Exports are our fastest-growing area and that’s been driven by social media content and the call to nature as much as anything,” adds Peter.

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Peter opens a campsite in the Peak District to be used as a Derby Kids’ Camp

ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL ADDS TO CREDIBILITY Picking up one of the most prestigious business awards in Britain gives Cosy another lift on its quest to embed ESG into every part of the organisation.

The company was among 232 UK businesses to be recognised in the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise 2022, and one of 31 firms in the Sustainable Development category.

Winners, who will be presented with their award by one of Her Majesty’s representatives, a Lord-Lieutenant, are able to use the Queen’s Awards emblem in marketing materials and fly the flag at their main office for five years.

Peter, a Deputy Lieutenant of Derbyshire, says: “It’s great to be able to promote the objectives we’re trying to accomplish as an organisation with a wider purpose.

“By using it externally and internally, it will help us to embed everything better because no-one is a finished article in ESG.” The honour was announced in April, a month after the Chamber named Cosy Foundation as the inaugural winner of its Excellence in Equality Award the Celebrating Culture and Communities event.

“This was the start of the regional recognition and we were delighted with that

ADORNED ON A wall in Cosy’s office reception is a collage of logos for every charity it has worked with. On the opposite side is a bank of images showcasing employees and their activities to support these organisations.

“It’s about trying to get to the heart of the business,” says Peter. “We have graduates who are purpose-led, as well as senior managers and directors who can appreciate the central value of this different stance. So now we have three levels of people to elevate their thinking and we want to sell back to them these ideas. It’s a form of distributed leadership.”

At an organisational level, Cosy Foundation’s £250,000 worth of support has been used to fund

Cosy staff celebrate winning the Queen’s Award for Enterprise

award because it’s like an MBE for business,” adds Peter.

“To then get something as dramatic as the Queen’s Awards was off the scale. Within an hour, a nursery chain rang us to say it wanted to link up strategically with us and the interest continued ever since.”

anything from children’s outdoor activities to museum education programmes across Derbyshire.

It also works with schools to share ideas on implementing the “Birth to 5 Matters” education guidance in early years curriculum development, provides PhD bursaries to aid research into early education and funds local projects such as Derby Book Festival.

Meanwhile, in developing countries such as Kenya, Tanzania and The Gambia, it has built classrooms, provided fresh water in schools, delivered food to students, supported teachers and developed sports coaches in schools.

It is actively involved in the Langalanga Scholarship Fund, which supports the education

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

ESG MUST ALWAYS BE PART OF WIDER BUSINESS PLAN

Cosy MD Nick Walker (left) and Peter survey their export market

reception wall and team WhatsApp groups are great for their internal profile.”

of bright children from the impoverished area of the Rift Valley in Kenya – and has helped to create doctors, teachers and even a DJ. Among the 80-plus organisations it works with is Derby Kids’ Camp, which provides free holidays to local children most in need of a break. Every summer, more than 300 youngsters – many nominated by headteachers at schools – take part in a week-long, adventure-packed trip in the Peak District and create memories lasting a lifetime.

In 2006, Cosy ensured the long-term survival of the scheme by purchasing a campsite in the heart of the Peak District, naming it Cosycamp.

He says: “Over the past 49 years, it’s taken 30,000 children on camping trips so it’s a hugely important part of the Derbyshire community that gives beneficiaries an injection of childhood. A lot of them end up back at the Kids’ Camp as volunteers when they’re older.

“Having started with providing storage, we’ve bought a minibus and mattresses for the beds, but we’ve also tried to be a business partner. I’m currently helping the camp to recruit volunteers so that children don’t lose the opportunity, including by funding press releases by Penguin PR. “It’s about offering brains, as well as brawn.”

Employees are encouraged to use the equivalent of two working days for voluntary activities – managing director Nick Walker is leading by example in pledging to 16 hours for each employee this year – and there’s an ambition to raise this to five days once the company has grown sufficiently.

“In my last business, we gave away a day’s volunteering to all 250 staff but when I was doing my MBA, it made me think more about what I should be doing, and that’s when I started volunteering for Derby Kids’ Camp,” says Peter, who has recruited fellow volunteers into warehouse jobs after they were impressed by his company’s ethos.

“I always wanted to do something but didn’t know where to start. It’s the same for a lot of people who have an itch but it can’t be scratched, so offering volunteering days will give people a start, while the recognition on our

ONE OF COSY’S latest projects involves employing ex-offenders, helping with their reintegration into society.

It has already hired two employees who were inmates at Drake Hall, a women’s and young offenders’ prison in Eccleshall, Staffordshire.

Peter says they are “brilliant people” and is keen to work with more institutions to identify others who would benefit from opportunities while also offering something to the company.

Cosy also offers “carer-friendly” working hours by moulding shifts around child and family care, an attractive recruitment tool.

Peter, who offers a “part-timer of the month” award, says: “We’ve got 12 people working 9.30am to 2.30pm now, and those jobs are so valuable. You just need to go to the school gates and there will be so many people who want them – not just mums and dads, but grandparents too.

“You’re getting the quality of talent and people who really want to be here. You aren’t any less committed because you’re here for 20 hours rather than 40 hours a week.”

Six apprentices are currently enrolled at Cosy, gaining practical experience in areas such as digital marketing and computer-aided design, while a Nottingham Trent University intern who designed 100 products in a year will return fulltime after graduation.

Degree apprenticeships, which allow people to gain work experience alongside university study, are also on the cards in areas such as data analysis.

“We’re starting to see flexibility in employment can be a good social tool alongside our charity funding projects.

“HR has an enormous role and should be part of an organisation’s fabric – rather than a supporting department, the managing director or CEO should be the ultimate head of HR.” With roles across the Cosy warehouse, sales office, design studio, research team and social network, there are plenty of opportunities to create what he calls “social useful jobs” – which he wants to account for a quarter of all positions eventually, reflecting a drive to make business go beyond profits.

He adds: “We have a community of charities we work with, a community of suppliers, a community of schools and a community of people.

“It’s about bringing all these together and as an organism, our company can serve a socially useful purpose.”

Integrating ESG into the wider business plan is essential for it to be effective, says Peter.

He believes medium-sized businesses are well-placed to make a meaningful difference because they can often call on strong resources but are small enough to be in touch with their communities.

“A lot of organisations have a CSR programme but it’s often an extra rather than being strategically entwined,” he says.

“ESG should work within the machinery of the business and, if it’s done well, at the tip of the tongue for senior leaders.

“It shouldn’t be viewed as a cost but very much party to what you’re already doing.”

Bringing people along on the journey will also determine its success, admits Peter, whose company holds monthly talks for staff to share their community work and enable a “grassroots-up” approach.

He says: “People have what they consider to be their day job at work, and we want every part of their creative being engaged.

“I’m very aware that we’re asking people to do things that are extra to this, so we have to think about how to tie it into something they’re already interested in or not have to go too far out of their way.

‘We’ve recently signed up to be a real living wage employer’ “We try to work and fix things in our own area first, so it might be where you’re able to help in some way as you’re passing by.”

Cosy’s sustainability mission includes an ambition to be carbon-neutral by 2023 and its headquarters will soon be equipped with solar panels and sensor technology to help measure, and offset, carbon emissions – including for scope three via unique reportage software.

Senior leaders also drive electric vehicles, plastic is being replaced by greener alternatives in packaging, more than 90% of products are “near-sourced” and transported by road, and items including cable drum tables, stools and barrel rockers are upcycled.

But Peter admits such commitments are only a small part of the ESG journey, which requires “pragmatic” thinking.

“The key is sustained pursuit, so measuring and publicly reporting what you’re doing is important, as is being honest with yourselves,” he says. “There’s always going to be trade-offs and you need to work out what’s feasible at any given point in time.

“We’ve recently signed up to be a real living wage employer only because we’re in a position to do that now – but I know of many businesses that can’t yet support this and it doesn’t make them any less ethical.

“Exporting obviously has an impact on our carbon footprint so our ambition is to eventually have a presence in those countries or licence locally, but pragmatically we need to have the quantities in those countries before we can do that.”

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STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

Nik Hardy visits the Signs and Print Academy

Academy is sign of skills investment Six years ago, Hardy Signs established a Sign and Print Academy in partnership with Burton and South Derbyshire College to develop skills in its community while training its potential future workforce.

Nik Hardy, founder and managing director of the Burton-based physical and digital signage firm, tells Business Network why it’s an important part of its ESG strategy.

What does the Hardy Signs Academy involve and how did it start?

I have always been a big supporter of giving young people a chance. The same ethos has been transmitted to the company I started back in 1993. Hardy Signs’ Sign and Print Academy was founded in 2016 in partnership with Burton and South Derbyshire College. We created this initiative to bridge the skills gap in our industry and train the sign makers of the future.

As we moved to Hardy Place in 2011, we started thinking about how to match the increased demand through new sustainable machinery and a talented workforce. After initial talks with the college and internally, we decided to commit to training young apprentice sign makers alongside the existing experienced crew. Influential regional leaders supported the idea. One of them

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who attended the opening ceremony was Andy Street CBE. How successful has it been and what are the benefits for your business?

Investing in the workforce and the latest machinery has always been part of our core values and growth strategies. Years of experience have proven that great things happen when you invest in your core values.

The academy has graduated six generations of students now. Ten college students have taken apprenticeships at Hardy Signs and eventually full-time employment in different roles in graphic design, accountancy, workshop operatives, sign making and sign fitting.

The success of the academy has helped us strengthen the relationship with the local community, improved our team spirit and youthful energy, and helped us stay competitive in the

unstable times we have faced.

In 2019, a separate project between the college and BE Together brought an innovative and creative approach to teaching STEM subjects with the launch of a new Lego Education Innovation Studio. Our team of current and former academy apprentices worked together to complete the full wrapping of the walls. From the academy's point of view, this was another success story.

Why is it important for organisations to prioritise training and development?

As part of our development strategy at Hardy Signs, we have enrolled staff in leadership and management courses, Chartered

Institute of Marketing qualifications, and many others dedicated to our sign makers and workshop team. I firmly believe that for an SME to grow organically and deliver big contracts while maintaining excellent customer support, you need to train people continually.

Where does this programme sit within your ESG strategy?

Understanding and demonstrating ESG commitments is vital for our sector. The vast majority of our clients require manufacturers to have taken steps to protect the environment, be involved with the local community, and obtain the relevant governance certifications.

A few years back, we became members of the 5% Club, a nationwide initiative that encourages companies to have 5% of their staff earn and learn opportunities. In line with promoting young talents, we became a partner of Generation Next in 2021 – I'm very proud of that. We will continue to work with young people and support their futures.

‘The success of the academy has helped us strengthen the relationship with the local community’

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STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

Financial services firm forges link with Chamber Mattioli Woods, a national provider of wealth management services, has joined forces with the Chamber as a strategic partner.

The company, which has strong roots in the East Midlands, believes its financial services experience will help serve the region’s business community and its employees.

It was founded more than 30 years ago in Leicester and has been involved with the Chamber at different stages since then as it continues to grow new and existing relationships with sole traders, SMEs and larger corporations across the county.

Mattioli Woods’ services include: • Wealth management – pensions, investments, financial planning and protection • Employee benefits – pensions, flexible benefits, healthcare and financial education • Asset management – portfolio management, individual structured products, cash ISAs, EIS, SEIS, VCTs and OEICs • Property fund management – Real Estate Investment Trust and syndicated property

Mattioli Woods' office in New Walk, Leicester

Mattioli Woods founders Bob Wood and Ian Mattioli • Professional adviser services – SIPP, SSAS and trustee services Doug Ryan, wealth management director at Mattioli Woods, said: “We are looking forward to connecting with members, patrons and other

strategic partners, whether in person at any of the incredible events throughout the calendar, through publications or even social media.

“If you would like an introduction to hear how we can assist you or your business, one of our qualified specialist consultants will be on hand to provide in-person, bespoke and considered advice.”

Scott Knowles, chief executive of the Chamber, added: “After developing a close working relationship with Mattioli Woods in recent years, we are very excited to bring the firm on board as our latest strategic partner, and look forward to exploring projects and workstreams on which we can collaborate in the near future.”

Uni campus gets blue plaque recognition A blue plaque has been unveiled at the University of Derby’s Chesterfield campus to commemorate the building and its significance as a prominent former girls’ school in the area.

The plaque was unveiled at the Grade II-listed building St Helena – formerly Chesterfield Girls’ High School – by Dr Maureen Strelley, a former pupil and Bolsover GP, at an event hosted in collaboration with the Chesterfield Civic Society in March.

The building was originally designed by GH Widdows, one of the outstanding school architects of his day, and was his first major project for Derbyshire County Council.

Opened as a new secondary

Picture courtesy of Richard Richards Photography L-R: Frank Gorman, Professor Keith McLay, Dr Maureen Strelley and Philip Riden

school in 1911 by the Duchess of Devonshire, the school provided transformative education for many

pupils before it closed in 1991.

In 2016, the University of Derby fully transformed the building,

which is now regarded as a centre of excellence for health, providing some of the best teaching facilities in the UK for nursing courses.

Professor Keith McLay, provost for learning and teaching at the university, said: “We are delighted that a blue plaque has been unveiled at our St Helena building in recognition of its historic significance.

“The university sympathetically restored the building, retaining most of its original features, and is now a teaching and learning environment for students who are going into valuable careers in the healthcare profession.

“We are proud of the building and its heritage as a pioneering educational establishment.”

THE CHAMBER IS HONOURED BY THE SUPPORT OF ITS STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

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CHAMBER NEWS

Nominated charities all offer a chance to give something back Every year, the Chamber’s president nominates three charities to benefit from fundraising activities hosted by the business representation group. Business Network speaks to leaders from the 2022 cohort.

FOCUS, LEICESTER Matt Lilley, chief executive

Who do you support?

Since being founded in 1988, we have strived to provide the inspiration, support, encouragement and self-belief in young people so they can take control of their lives, and improve the lives of those around them.

Focus supports young people aged 13 to 25 in Leicester and the surrounding area. We are open to everyone, but specifically target our support at those from disadvantaged backgrounds, who are socially isolated, experiencing mental ill-health and with additional support needs.

About half the young people we work with are referred to us by professionals, such as teachers and social workers. The other half either self-refer or are introduced by word of mouth.

What are the biggest recent challenges you’ve had to overcome?

During the pandemic, there has been an increased demand for support from young people, whose mental health, self-esteem and self-confidence have taken a battering. The trust’s funds and foundations we usually rely on for grants are also reporting a huge drop in their available resources. We have been forced to reduce our team to protect our financial resources, while striving to maintain our commitment to never turn young people away.

How important a role do businesses have to play in supporting your charity?

Businesses are playing an increasingly important role in supporting us.

Employee volunteering helps us to meet the needs of young people, and corporate and individual fundraising ensure we can keep the doors open.

We also benefit from the in-kind and pro-bono advice and services that many businesses have offered. Without the business community, we would struggle to support young people at this vital time.

What does the future hold for your organisation?

In the short term, our main priority is to restabilise our finances and to rebuild our team. Beyond that, we are proud of our reputation for providing powerful and life-changing projects, and we have exciting plans to develop our work and to reach more young people.

EXAMPLES OF HOW FUNDRAISING HELPS A £5 monthly donation can provide eight weeks of mentoring support for a socially-isolated young person to help them re-engage with education. Raising £1,000 via a team challenge provides an intensive package of support, including mentoring, employment advice and workshops for at least 12 weeks.

Visit www.focus-charity.co.uk

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST Paul Wilkinson, chief executive Who do you support?

We are rooted in the communities we support. Protecting and caring for sites is in our DNA and we now care for 1,300 hectares of nature reserves across Nottinghamshire. We still fight damaging developments and work with landowners to create more space for nature, but a big part of what we are about is ensuring people of all ages, and from all parts of the community, can connect with nature and be inspired to take action to protect it. .

What are the biggest recent challenges you’ve had to overcome?

The demand for access to nature during lockdowns really rammed home that it is essential we help more people lead wilder lives. Those with a garden or nearby park had a very different lockdown experience to people living in flats or where greenspace has been squeezed out. Sadly, access to nature and its wellbeing benefits is not equal across society, and we’re fighting to put this right.

How important a role do businesses have to play in supporting your charity?

Businesses are central to society’s ability to respond to the climate and nature crises, and our most effective partnerships are based on shared values. We’re currently delivering large-scale habitat programmes with Severn Trent Water – driven by our joint commitment to harnessing natural solutions to problems such as preventing water pollution and protecting our soils.

What does the future hold for your charity?

Awareness of environmental issues is high and the support we continue to receive is inspiring, but our collective action for the environment doesn’t yet match the scale and urgency required. We can’t do everything on our own but we’re determined to be an effective campaigner for, and deliverer of, nature’s recovery. As we head into our 60th anniversary in 2023, our ambition now is to trigger a people-powered nature recovery – with thousands more people taking action to help nature and climate in their everyday lives.

EXAMPLES OF HOW FUNDRAISING HELPS A £25 donation helps the Trust to plant and nurture a native tree sapling; £250 provides tools for volunteers to undertake vital reserve management work; and £1,000 support an engagement programme to educate, inspire and connect communities with nature and wildlife across Nottinghamshire.

Visit www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org/support-us/businesspartnerships

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CHAMBER NEWS

TREETOPS HOSPICE, RISLEY, DERBYSHIRE Julie Heath, CEO

Who do you support?

Local people have been at the heart of everything we do since Cally Cheetham and a group of close supporters founded Treetops in 1983 to give everyone in our community access to end-of-life care of the highest quality. Our caring and dedicated team of 47 hospice-at-home nurses and carers, and 45 compassionate bereavement counsellors and wellbeing professionals, work day and night for the people in our catchment area of Derbyshire and parts of Nottinghamshire. We’re so proud of the 34,000 hours of care they give each and every year. The work we do to give our bereaved children a shoulder to lean on is important. With help, we’ll carry on giving them over 1,000 counselling sessions a year.

How important a role do businesses have to play in supporting your charity?

The support of our local business community is vital to keep our nurses nursing. You can help us to always be there at the most emotional and difficult time of someone’s life. There is a greater demand for Treetops and we desperately need business donations, products and services.

We have to fundraise to meet 70% of our costs. This means we must raise £108 towards a single nursing shift, which is £7,000 for each week. Local companies like Birds and Toyota have sponsored one or more weeks of nursing care, and received a special framed nurses’ tunic.

But we’re grateful for anything you can offer and your involvement can be as simple as taking a collection tin, holding a staff event or asking your customers to help Treetops. We know every business is different and take care to create a partnership helps to meet your CSR objective. We also offer our business partners support through a compassionate business

scheme that advises you on how to support staff with a terminal illness, and a workforce experiencing the death of a colleague.

What does the future hold for your organisation?

Treetops will feel the impact of the pandemic for many years. Of course, generating the donations we need is vital, but our community will always come first. Our patients’ medical conditions mean many continue to selfisolate and more people are choosing end-of-life care at home, fearful of dying in a hospital setting. An increasing number of adults and children need counselling after experiencing traumatic deaths.

We are introducing new services, and strengthening existing programmes, to meet these demands. We are launching drop-ins across Derbyshire, taking specialist knowledge and advice into the local community. We have upskilled counsellors to deal with sudden and traumatic bereavements and training primary school staff to better support grieving pupils and families.

EXAMPLES OF HOW FUNDRAISING HELPS Treetops needs to raise £8,650 per day to fund its services. A £38 donation pays for a counselling session for a bereaved person, £68 funds roaming nurses to visit a patient, and £108 helps to pay for a terminally ill patient and their family to have one night of hospice-athome nursing care.

Visit www.treetopshospice.org.uk/get-involved

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CHAMBER NEWS

generationnextemc.co.uk

GENERATION NEXT AWARDS 2022 SHORTLIST Future Leader Award (sponsored by University of Derby) • Craig Evans – UKATA • Matilda Swanson – Loates HR • Mir Patel – Unique Window Systems • Theo Kirk – Express Recruitment • Emma Roberts – Derby Community Parent Programme CIC • Dan Heffernan – D2N2 LEP (now Faithful & Gould) • David Maran – MP Digital Limited • Rob Spence – Paragon Sales Solutions • Umar Razah – Mauricare Homes Breakthrough Award (sponsored by Nottingham University Business School) • Art Lindop, Kieran Flynn and Alex Mills – Alphageek • Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative • Kate Johnson – Rate Social • Sophie Redman - Linford Grey Associates • Kevin Kapezi & Leo Worsley – Growthack Ltd

The awards ceremony will be held at Bustler Market in Derby

Finalists confirmed for Generation Next Awards 2022 Some of the most promising young talent across businesses in the region has been recognised among the finalists of the Chamber’s Generation Next Awards 2022.

The second instalment of the awards, held in conjunction with headline partner the University of Derby, recognise young professionals and business leaders aged under 35, as well as organisations led by people in this demographic.

‘A celebration of the rising stars of business who make outstanding contributions to their communities’ A shortlist has now been revealed across the 10 categories, ranging from a Breakthrough Award and Customer Service Award through to marking Excellence in Innovation and Technology and the Generation Next Future Leader.

New prizes for this year recognise outstanding contributions in diversity and inclusion, arts and culture, corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

A virtual judging day will take place on 8 and 9 June, in which finalists will be interviewed by members of the chamber of commerce’s senior management team, Generation Next board and representative of the sponsor.

Winners will be crowned at an 36

business network June 2022

Customer Service Award • Danielle Harkness – Plastek UK • James Hardwick – Future Life Wealth Management • Anxhela Agaci – Gents of Notts • Arran Gessey – Bam Boom Cloud • Ben Wilkinson – MHA Macintyre Hudson Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Loughborough College) • Emily Jacob – emh group • Frank Hemmingway – Plastek UK • Polly Oakes – Express Recruitment • Rebecca Houlston – Cross Productions • Ruby Birks – Purpose Media Diversity & Inclusion Award • Fred Gough – University of Derby • Jake Wood – Jake Wood PT • Martin Croft – Barrister Link • Rob Spence – Paragon Sales Solutions

awards ceremony with a twist – featuring street food, cocktails and live music – held at Bustler Market, in Derby, on 14 July.

Lucy Robinson, the Chamber’s director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “We received some brilliant applications from a diverse breadth of individuals, and our shortlist of finalists offers a glimpse into the amazing young talent that exists here in the East Midlands.”

Finalists were announced at an event held at Cosy Club, in Nottingham, on 25 May in which two of the three founders of Derbybased doughnut delivery service Project D – who won the Entrepreneur of the Year category at the inaugural Generation Next Awards – gave a speech.

Winners will be crowned at an awards ceremony with a twist – featuring street food, cocktails and live music – held at Bustler Market, in Derby, on 14 July.

Tickets cost £65 + VAT for Generation Next members and £75 + VAT for non-members. Early-bird tickets are available at bit.ly/GenNextAwards

Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Fraser Stretton Property Group) • Adam Bamford – Colleague Box • Art Lindop, Kieran Flynn and Alex Mills – Alphageek • Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative • Kate Johnson – Rate Social • Katie Gilbert – TTK Confectionery Excellence in Innovation and Technology Award (sponsored by Hardy Signs) • David Maran – MP Digital • Harsh Shah – De Montfort University • Jack Hall – Scenariio • Nicola Ciaessen – RSM UK • Rachel Sanders – Duncan & Toplis Sustainability Award (sponsored by MHA MacIntyre Hudson) • Carys Tetlaw – RSM UK • Daniel Kelk – Plastek UK • Jack Hall – Scenariio Creative Award (sponsored by PPL PRS) • Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative • Yudan Deng – Follow the Orient • Joey Lever – Another World Media • Katie Brennan – Cross Productions • Sophie Price & Tom Dennis – My Town Vision Volunteer Award (sponsored by RSM UK) • George Hanvere – Paragon Law • Izzy Plummer – TTK Confectionery • Taylor Gee – 360 Autoleasing East Midlands

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generationnextemc.co.uk

CHAMBER NEWS

ESG activities mean we can be Here for Good Paragon Law trainee solicitor and Generation Next member George Hanvere, 23 (pictured), a finalist in this year's Volunteer Award category, tells Jasmine Thompson what ESG means to him.

What is your role?

I am currently a trainee solicitor in the personal and family immigration team. I actively manage and run a full caseload to assist individuals to apply to enter the UK, remain in the UK and apply for British citizenship.

Which CSR and ESG activities have you been involved in?

As part of my current role, I am the lead team member of our partnership with Here for Good, which provides pro bono legal aid to vulnerable EU, EEA and Swiss nationals in relation to the EU settlement scheme. I provided pro bono advice to clients by email, a free telephone helpline, and by taking on complex case referrals from charities and support organisations.

The project commenced with telephone support in March 2020 and will continue until at least the end of July 2022. To date we have provided support to over 500 callers, handled more than 300 email queries and provided legal representation to over 120 applicants.

What were the outcomes of the activities?

Here for Good requests clients share post-advice evaluations. These are overwhelmingly positive, with caseworkers consistently scoring 10/10 across a range of areas – overall satisfaction, caseworker competency, satisfaction with issues addressed, and likelihood of recommendation.

How have your activities positively impacted your business and career?

One of the main reasons, I wanted to pursue a career in law was because of a personal belief that every individual should have access to justice no matter of age, gender, race, class or nationality. My activities have allowed me to help assist vulnerable individuals to obtain legal status in the UK who, without the pro bono assistance of Here for Good, would have been unrepresented and may not have secured legal status in the UK. This has led to great amount of personal pride.

The Here for Good team consists of lawyers from Paragon Law, South West London Law Centres, Bindmans LLP and Wilson Solicitors, who meet weekly to share knowledge and discuss specific issues in relation to the EU settlement scheme. These discussions have led to successful challenges in relation to Home Office policy regarding late applications to the scheme, which will provide a wide-ranging benefit to a large number of individuals in the UK. As a firm, we take CSR seriously and offer a range of support to charities. We also have close links to local universities and will shortly be funding a PHD to investigate the relationship between climate change and refugee law.

Why should more young professionals and entrepreneurs engage with CSR/ESG activity?

CSR can be beneficial to young professionals and entrepreneurs in several ways. The first is by improving your own and your company’s image. When customers or clients see evidence that a business or individual is socially responsible, they tend to respond positively.

The second benefit is improving the morale of employees. Morale tends to be higher at companies that invest effort and resources into ethical and socially responsible behaviour. The third benefit involves appealing to new talent. Modern employees often choose purpose-driven and environmentally-conscious companies over financial benefits.

Lastly, CSR-active companies attract investors and partners. A company willing to invest in long-term policies and improvements offers security to potential investors.

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CHAMBER NEWS

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“The first challenge a lot of businesses have is identifying change” 38

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CHAMBER NEWS

Inflation must not lead to a recession

Queen’s Speech was right to focus on economy but businesses must see benefits Putting the economy front and centre of the legislative agenda in the Queen’s Speech is “absolutely right” given the “huge financial challenges” facing people and businesses, says East Midlands Chamber’s chief executive.

But Scott Knowles stresses that action is needed now rather than just in the long term, given the impact of surging inflation on firms’ margins.

He said: “We must focus on bringing in policies that will help to drive economic growth, and supports crises in both the cost of living and cost of doing business – the latter of which provides a very real threat to many companies of all shapes and sizes.

“An Energy Security Bill that supports the transition to cleaner and cheaper energy will be an important part of this agenda, but while long-term structural changes are required, small firms desperately need support in the short-term.

“Other commitments will play a

Scott Knowles

‘If we ever want to start delivering on the benefits of Brexit, then action needs to begin now’ vital role in this mix – including continued education reform, as long as it heavily involves businesses, and the simplification

of public sector procurement for SMEs, which will drive a more competitive and innovative landscape.”

He said there had been “a lot of hype” in Westminster about the Brexit Freedoms Bill. But 18 months since the end of the UK-EU transition period, he said “many businesses are yet to see any meaningful benefits from leaving the EU”, with exporters and importers instead facing “increased obstacles and confusion”.

Scott added: “If we ever want to start delivering on the benefits of Brexit, then action needs to begin now.”

Close attention will be paid to both the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, and Transport Bill, given the East Midlands receives the lowest infrastructure investment per head in Britain.

“We have heard lots of talk about levelling up during the lifetime of this Government, so now is the time to puts its money where its mouth is,” he said.

Unemployment rate remains low The East Midlands’ unemployment rate remains the second-lowest in the country after falling for the fifth consecutive month.

It was 2.7% for the period between January and March 2022 – a full percentage point below the national average, which was the lowest since 1974, and only higher than Northern Ireland (2.3%), according to the Office for National Statistics’ (ONS) regional labour market figures.

However, the region’s economic inactivity rate – which measures the proportion of 16 to 64-year-

olds who have exited the labour market for reasons such as retirement, caring duties, long-term ill health or studying – continues to climb to 21.9%, up by 0.8 percentage points from a year earlier and above the 21.4% national average.

Scott Knowles said: “At first glance, the unemployment rate falling for the fifth month in succession to hit yet another record low is hugely positive for the region’s labour force. It is largely testament to the success of our businesses in steering a strong

rebound for our local economy as they got back to what they do best once Covid-19 restrictions were repealed.

“However, these figures disguise a historic hiring crunch facing many of our companies. Recent increases in economic inactivity have been driven by those aged 50 to 64 leaving the workforce, according to the ONS, so it’s clear we need to find pathways to get younger people into industries including manufacturing, construction and engineering, which are among those struggling the most in recruitment.”

Britain must avoid sleepwalking into a recession as inflation continues to spiral, says Scott Knowles.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed inflation was 9% in the 12 months to April, up from 7% in March, Scott called it an “eyewatering” jump that “underscores the growing cost of living crisis facing households, and the damaging squeeze on firms' ability to invest and operate at full capacity”.

He said: “The marked acceleration in the headline rate in April reflected the energy price cap rise, increase in national insurance contributions and the reversal of the VAT reduction for hospitality in the month.

“These added to the already-escalating cost increases for energy, people and raw materials, which resulted in two-thirds of East Midlands businesses telling us in our Quarterly Economic Survey for Q1 2022 that they expected being forced to increase their own prices in the following three months.

“The scale at which inflation is damaging key drivers of UK output, including consumer spending and business investment decisions – with cashflow falling for a net 3% of our region’s firms, it led to a 2% decline in investment intentions for plant and machinery in the first quarter of this year – is unprecedented.

“After confirmation that GDP shrank by 0.1% in March, this means there is a chance the UK will be in recession by the third quarter of the year – unless Government pulls all the levers available to it in order to alleviate the cost of doing business and the cost of living crises, which are essentially two sides of the same coin.”

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CHAMBER NEWS

Giving future leaders opportunities to grow This month, the first cohort of six people joins the Future Leaders Academy, a new initiative launched by the Chamber to upskill members of its team while succession planning for senior leadership roles. Director of resources Lucy Robinson (pictured), explains how the programme came about and what it involves.

At a time when hiring staff has never been more difficult, attentions are increasingly turning to staff retention.

Alongside flexibility and other benefits, continuous personal development (CPD) has become an important ingredient for what makes a good employer as people want to feel valued and know there is a pathway to progression.

The Chamber has a good track record for promoting from within our ranks and – following feedback from staff surveys that indicated our employees wanted more opportunities to grow, develop and take on more responsibilities within the wider organisation – we have launched the Future Leaders Academy to develop management and leadership skills, as well as career roadmaps.

I have witnessed similar programmes be implemented at other businesses to great success.

Some larger organisations have their own training and development departments that run training

academies and succession plans – for example, the management academies at McDonald’s have been fantastically received.

Smaller firms have also tried to adopt their own leadership programmes as a means of offering CPD while also enabling their staff to grow at the same time as the business, so there are ready-made candidates to step into newlycreated leadership positions.

WHAT THE FUTURE LEADERS ACADEMY INVOLVES Our first Future Leaders Academy involves six delegates, who will work with Chamber member PDW Group, a Nottingham-based performance improvement company, throughout the programme.

The year-long programme begins with a “360-degree” feedback initiative to get a baseline of each individual’s most relevant behaviours, skills and needs, and then commit them to a tailored robust action plan. Following this are a series of sessions on aspects

such as mental resilience, team psychology, and key leadership and management behaviours.

A monthly internal peer group will be chaired on a rotational basis by academy participants and include guest speakers, as well as Q&A sessions with senior leadership team members.

WHAT NEXT? The skills our delegates learn will diversify their knowledge, but also help them take on new responsibilities and understand what career progression might look like.

Ultimately, the hope is that some of our academy graduates will be wellpositioned to step into senior leadership roles as and when they become available as part of our succession planning, an important people investment for businesses set up to continue looking into the future.

Any successful organisation should be able to call on a wide pool of people for inspiration, and these individuals can also feed new ideas into what we’re doing at the

RECRUITMENT STRUGGLES The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey found that 63% of East Midlands organisations tried to recruit in Q1 2022 but four in five of these struggled to fill roles – with 44% also highlighting access to skilled labour was a greater concern than three months earlier.

Chamber and the services we offer members.

We recognise there’s always a possibility that someone who we upskill will move on to another job, but then we know they’ve been on a rewarding journey and will be an advocate for us as a result. As an organisation representing businesses and communities in the East Midlands, we’re doing our bit to upskill and retain talent in the region, which is hugely encouraging.

Summit to tackle issues of recruitment and retention Exploring the future of work will be at the heart of the Chamber’s annual People and Skills Summit next month.

A series of keynote presentations, panel discussions and workshops will explore how East Midlands businesses can attract and retain employees, as well as how to create a local skills and employment framework that delivers on behalf of both providers and employers.

It follows the much-publicised 40

business network June 2022

“Great Resignation” in which record numbers of workers moved jobs in 2021, and recruitment challenges encountered by firms.

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Access to a skilled workforce continues to be a concern for the business community – a perennial barrier to growth and an issue that has recently intensified.

“The People and Skills Summit will explore a range of solutions to support and improve the

recruitment, retention and productivity challenges.”

Confirmed speakers include Danny Kalman, former global head of talent at Panasonic who is CEO of ella Forums, which promotes effective leadership in the voluntary sector, as well as representatives from Freeths, D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership and Nottinghamshire Carers.

Chris Hobson, director of policy and external affairs at the Chamber, will give an overview of the

findings from the Local Skills Improvement Plan trailblazer pilot that was recently completed in Leicestershire.

The People and Skills Summit, held in partnership with the University of Nottingham and Morningside Pharmaceuticals, takes place on Thursday 7 July from 8.30am to 1pm at the Jubilee Conference Centre, in Nottingham.

To register for free, visit bit.ly/PeopleandSkillsSummit22

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CHAMBER NEWS

Investing in staff training is the key New thinking from both businesses and Government is required to plug gaping staff shortages, says the Chamber’s HR lead as new research shows recruitment pressures are now at record levels.

Director of resources Lucy Robinson wants policymakers to support firms with training incentives and more visas for skilled workers in certain sectors where employers are struggling to find staff.

But she also believes there are actions businesses can take to open themselves up to new sections of the labour market by offering greater flexibility, as well as creating an equality, diversity and inclusion policy.

It comes as the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) published its Quarterly Recruitment Outlook for Q1 2022, which showed almost four in five (78%) organisations that attempted to recruit reported difficulties in filling roles.

The survey of 5,500 businesses was drawn from chambers of commerce nationally, including East Midlands Chamber.

Lucy said: “In an increasingly tight labour market, competition for skills is ramping up wage costs, leaving many firms unable to recruit the people they need.

“When combined with the escalating price of energy, shipping, raw materials and other costs, it is a precarious situation for businesses. Inevitably, it is the smaller firms, with little in the way of cash reserves after two years of pandemic, that are most exposed to the risk all this presents.”

‘It’s clear we need to bring more skilled foreign labour to plug skills gaps’ The BCC’s research showed the hospitality sector faced the most challenging recruitment issues with 85% reporting difficulties, up from 83% in Q4 2021. This was closely followed by construction on 83%, logistics on 81% and manufacturing at 80%. Retail and wholesale firms were the least likely to report

The hospitality sector has faced major recruitment challenges

difficulties at 69% but the proportions of firms unable to find the staff they need remains worryingly high.

Lucy said: “It’s clear we need to bring more skilled foreign labour to plug skills gaps in certain sectors, so we’d like to see the Government coming up with visas that will make it easier for businesses that are now at capacity to recruit these people.

“Incentives for employers to invest in training people would also assist businesses to offer career progression opportunities they’d love to create, but are currently hamstrung by the escalating cost of doing business crisis.”

While she acknowledged the most affected sectors would

struggle to offer the same flexibility as office-based businesses, she suggested other tweaks they could make such as offering part-time working.

“This would also help industries that traditionally have a high proportion of male workers to become more attractive to women, whose dormant potential could be a key driver to plugging some of these skills gaps,” she added.

“Providing greater accessibility for employees with a wide range of disabilities is another important area, and creating an equality, diversity and inclusion strategy that encompasses all these aspects would be a good starting point for any business struggling with recruitment.”

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CHAMBER NEWS

From CSR to ESG: What does it mean and why should we care?

By Chris Hobson (pictured), director of policy and external affairs The world is full of convenient acronyms and initialisms. Some people love these, saving them time tripping over long-winded phrases, while others find them frustrating and would rather focus on the actual meaning.

CSR and ESG probably fall into this latter camp, which is a shame as both are incredibly important.

So let’s try and unpack the two terms and explain why businesses need to put the time aside to engage.

Corporate social responsibility, and environmental, social and governance. Lots of crossover but a different – and important – emphasis between the two.

At their heart, both are about businesses engaging with wider communities in a way whereby profit is not the primary driver.

They describe businesses giving back and taking account of the wellbeing of the wider environment in which they operate.

Supporting a local school, donating to a community group, fundraising for a good cause – all these can be examples of the private sector giving something back and, when looking at it from an organisational perspective, can form part of a CSR or ESG strategy.

‘Regardless of scale, the emphasis within CSR discussions is often on the activity taking place’ SO WHERE DOES one end and the other begin – and why does this distinction matter?

One helpful way to think about the difference is to consider activity in terms of actions and impacts.

CSR has been in the business lexicon for longer and is often used as a catch-all term for delivering community or charity activity.

This could range from something as simple as a bake sale through to full volunteering programmes, or even charitable funds set up by a business. Regardless of scale, the emphasis within CSR discussions is often on the activity taking place.

The components of ESG can include all those things that might constitute part of a company’s CSR activity. However, there’s more of an emphasis on how companies capture, and ideally measure the impact of, this activity.

Demonstrating to an external audience – investors, customers, suppliers and, increasingly, staff – the value they’re able to add and giving a rationale for why they do it.

This is where the “governance” element of ESG really comes in to play. This isn’t always straightforward and often requires a more structured approach within an organisation. Fortunately, there are useful tools and templates available for support, including work the Chamber is doing with our strategic partner RSM. ESG MAY SOUND more “stuffy” and corporate, and some may feel it’s getting away from the spirit of why many engage in CSR – to “do the

right thing” and “give back”.

However, businesses of all sizes should take note. By applying an ESG lens to CSR activity, you can give yourself a framework to better understand why you may be doing what you are, and capture the impact and value of that.

This not only makes your efforts more effective and targeted, but also, in a competitive world, better demonstrates the impact you are having.

And for those still worrying this takes the heart out of CSR, remember we all go into business to have an impact and be as effective as we possibly can.

There’s no reason those same principles shouldn’t also apply to the community and charity work we do.

CSR Summit to help businesses get fit for ESG University of Derby Enterprise Centre

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Unwrapping the confusion between CSR and ESG is the aim of the Chamber’s upcoming Corporate Social Responsibility Summit.

The free event, titled From CSR to ESG: Delivering social responsibilities with impact, takes place on Tuesday 7 June at the University of Derby’s Enterprise Centre, from 9.30am to 12pm.

It will feature a series of presentations and discussions that compare CSR and ESG, plus why businesses should be creating an overarching strategy. The agenda includes: • Welcome from Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles • Current stage of play for CSR in the East Midlands: Chamber president and Futures Housing Group chief executive Lindsey Williams

• How to get my organisation fit for ESG: RSM associate director for risk assessment and ESG Paul Callum • Case study: YMCA Derbyshire CEO Gillian Sewell and retired Toyota director Tony Walker • What it means to be a civic organisation: University of Derby associate professor Dr Rhiannon Jones There will also be a panel discussion involving Gillian from Derbyshire YMCA alongside Morningside Pharmaceuticals chair Dr Nik Kotecha OBE, Nottingham Community Housing Association CEO Paul Moat, Cosy CEO Peter Ellse and Loates HR Consultancy managing director Sarah Loates.

To register, visit bit.ly/CSRSummit22

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CHAMBER NEWS

Co-working space comes to Belper The first flexible co-working space has been set up in Belper by a businesswoman who attended the Chamber-run D2 Business Starter Programme.

Jo Black established Reunion @ Hub Space, based at The Old School House, to bring small businesses closer together.

The founder of Reunion, a start-up that provides co-working spaces, partnered with Tracey and Ashley Sowerby, who renovated the building in 2012 to make it home to their two businesses Creative Holistic Space and Chevin Fleet Solutions.

It can accommodate 60 people but after working from home became a popular trend, they had been looking for an opportunity to rethink its use. It will now be used as a flexible office space for remote workers, entrepreneurs, small business owners and freelancers – the first of its kind in Belper.

Jo said: “It is truly a wonderful heritage building that’s a real asset to Belper, combined with all the facilities that you’d expect in a modern office.”

The venture launches after she received support from the D2 Business Starter Programme, which helps people across Derbyshire to

‘It is truly a wonderful heritage building that’s a real asset to Belper’ start their own business by developing ideas into commercially viable enterprises.

It is funded by Derby City Council and Derbyshire County Council, and delivered by the Chamber, which offers one-to-one mentor support and a series of workshops on subjects such as an introduction to self-employment, marketing, business planning, book-keeping and social media Jo enrolled in the course last autumn because she wanted to learn about the local regulations she needed to consider, while meeting fellow business owners at the same time.

She said: “This course is really great for those who are thinking about starting a business and don't know how to go about it. The course is intuitive, and the instructors and support you receive are really great. I'd really recommend this course if you’re thinking of stepping out for yourself.”

Tracey Sowerby (left) and Jo Black in the co-working space at The Old School House in Belper

The D2 Business Starter Programme’s summer bootcamp will run daily from Monday 20 June to Friday 24 June between 4pm and 6pm. Across the five days, delegates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to take their business idea to the next stage. To take part, complete an enrolment form at bit.ly/D2SummerBootcamp and email to derbyshirestartup@emc-dnl.co.uk with “Summer Bootcamp” in the subject line.

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CHAMBER NEWS

Businesses support scheme extended Businesses in areas of the East Midlands considered by Government to be most in need now have longer to benefit from a fully-subsidised programme of training, events and consultancy – after an extension was granted to the East Midlands Accelerator project.

The £5.27m programme, which is being led by the Chamber, is partfunded by Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund (UKCRF), and delivered in the seven areas of the East Midlands chosen by Government for UKCRF support: Bassetlaw, Derbyshire Dales, High Peak, Leicester city, Mansfield, Newark and Sherwood, and Nottingham city.

Support, which was due to be available until the end of June but will now run until the autumn, is being offered at every step of a company’s journey – whether it be setting up a new venture, improving products and processes, upskilling staff, digital transformation or taking the first steps to decarbonise business operations and develop sustainability plans.

There is a firm focus on supporting post-Covid recovery, rebooting and growth – particularly in those sectors that have been hit hardest by the pandemic and considered to be vital to the acceleration of the region, such as manufacturing, the visitor economy, retail and wholesale.

The Chamber’s deputy chief executive Diane Beresford (pictured) said: “Our consortium partners of universities and business support agencies have invested great efforts in creating a wide-reaching programme of support, but the biggest challenge was always going to be delivering 44

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our ambitions by the original June deadline.

“Many businesses – particularly those in the visitor economy – continue to face the effects of Covid, whether that be ongoing recruitment issues or staff shortages owing to required isolation.

‘This extension affords businesses more time in meeting the requirements of any grants or growth vouchers they have received’ “This extension affords businesses more time in meeting the requirements of any grants or growth vouchers they have received. It also offers greater choice in when they might participate in training, and take advantage of recruitment opportunities offered by the Kickstart Accelerator or graduate and post-graduate placements in net zero and digital.”

The project aims to pilot new approaches ahead of the launch of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which is expected to match the levels of funding previously enjoyed by the UK under the European Social Fund and European Regional Development Fund. It features five strands – a Net Zero Accelerator, Digital Transformation Accelerator, Start Up to Scale Up Accelerator, Kickstart Accelerator and Financial Accelerator.

Businesses can access the full range of East Midlands Accelerator support at www.emc-dnl.co.uk/ ema

Making sustainability easier for small firms The rising prices of energy and raw materials has brought into sharp focus the need for SMEs to find and apply greater efficiencies across their operations. Help is at hand for business in UKCRF areas from the Zellar sustainability platform, empowering them to rise to the challenge of climate change by making sustainability simple and actionable. Founder Gary Styles (pictured), explains to Business Network how it works.

Who’s already signed up to Zellar?

As a Leicestershire resident, I’m proud to see local engagement in committing to sustainability journeys with Zellar. From a sole trader delivering keyless smart technology in Nottingham to an equestrian facility in Matlock, it’s encouraging to see businesses across the East Midlands taking action to become greener and accelerate change.

What are the business benefits?

Put simply, reducing emissions – energy consumption – helps a business save money. On average, a Zellar user’s energy usage is 57% lower than the average for their size and sector, as the platform provides a clear set of actions to take.

It’s also a myth that transitioning to green energy costs more. With Zellar having no added broker fees on energy, a business could save hundreds of pounds in a year. Sustainable businesses are also more like to attract and retain suppliers and customers, making them more profitable in the medium to long term.

Why should SMEs care?

From Sir David Attenborough’s documentaries to COP26, it’s clear our planet needs our help. We often think it’s the big corporates that wield the most power in making a difference. However, small businesses can also influence real change. SMEs account for 99.9% of UK businesses and research suggests between 43% and 53% of UK business emissions come from companies with fewer than 249 employees, making up to 36% of total UK emissions.

SMEs are vital in reducing emissions, driving climate action and creating a sustainable community. And that’s why I created Zellar to help make sustainability simple, actionable and affordable for businesses, so together we can leave behind a better planet.

As part of East Midlands Accelerator, the Chamber is subsidising the cost of 400 one-year Zellar licences worth up to £600. To qualify, businesses must be based in the Derbyshire Dales, High Peak, Mansfield, Bassetlaw, Newark & Sherwood, Nottingham city or Leicester city.

Sign up at welcome.zellar.com/east-midlands

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CHAMBER NEWS

Chamber named one of region’s best places to work Bringing separate teams together on a weekly basis and empowering staff to organise internal social events has helped the Chamber to be recognised as one of the top organisations to work for in the region.

The organisation features in three categories of the Best Companies to Work For lists for Q2 2022. It ranked 76th in the East Midlands’ 100 Best Companies to Work For, 15th in the national Business Services’ 25 Best Companies to Work For and 34th in the 50 Best Mid-Sized Company to Work for list.

The achievement follows indepth staff surveys by the industryleading employee engagement specialist, which asks questions about their wellbeing, pay and benefits, personal growth, team, the leadership and other aspects.

Judges commended the Chamber for ensuring “staff understand how the organisation works and how they fit in”,

highlighting how a different area of the business leads a weekly internal meeting to explain what its team does and how it contributes to the business plan objectives.

‘The past couple of years have really emphasised the importance of looking after our people’ A social committee that organises events for staff across the organisation to get together informally – one of several internal working groups, with others designed for mental wellbeing, as well as equality, diversity and inclusion – was also praised.

The Chamber’s director of resources Lucy Robinson said: “The experiences of the past couple of years have really emphasised the importance of looking after our people, who are the most

Members of the Chamber’s marketing and events teams at the Enterprising Women Awards 2021

important resource for any business. We have done a lot of work to ensure we can be a great employer by creating the conditions and environment that empowers our people to come to work as their best possible selves.

A thriving workforce enables us to drive our organisation forward and provide the best services for our 4,000-plus members.

“As well as offering flexibility via a hybrid remote-office working model to our staff and a wide range of benefits such as two days’ additional annual leave for

volunteering, we have sought to improve our transparency by holding weekly all-staff meetings to give everyone a detailed insight into the business.

“Continuous personal development is rapidly rising up the agenda and we are always keen to offer training and growth opportunities to people across all levels, with the latest initiative being a Future Leaders Academy that seeks to give a small cohort of people the chance to learn key skills and knowledge to take the next step in their career journey.”

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CHAMBER NEWS

Extension for Chamber Business Awards deadline The deadline for entering this year’s East Midlands Chamber Business Awards has been extended by a week.

Organisations now have until Friday 10 June at 5pm to put forward their case for recognition across 13 categories in a programme designed to give all organisation, of varying shapes and sizes, the opportunity to showcase their skills and achievements.

There are separate awards ceremonies for each county, held in partnership with Mazars. The Leicestershire Business Awards takes place on 4 November, Derbyshire Business Awards on 11 November and Nottinghamshire Business Awards on 18 November.

The categories are: • Business Improvement through Technology • Community Impact • Outstanding Growth • Excellence in Collaboration • Environmental Impact • Commitment to People Development • Apprentice of the Year • Entrepreneur of the Year • Education and Business Partnership • Excellence in Customer Service • Excellence in International Trade • Small Business of the Year • Excellence in Innovation A Business of the Year for each county will also be chosen by judges from the winners of these categories – awarded to an organisation that has shown excellence in its field and is an exemplar for others.

Selected businesses will also be put forward to the regional and national British Chambers of Commerce Awards.

To enter this year’s Business Awards, visit www.emcdnl.co.uk/connectingyou/business-awards

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Next size up for growing fashion business After just 18 months in its premises, the Leicester Fashion and Textiles Academy (LFTA) has outgrown the space and is on the move again – with support from the Business Gateway Growth Hub. Its unique mix of services, including fashion design, manufacture and consultancy, have proven to be a winning formula as the business goes from strength to strength.

The academy was started in 2015 by fashion designer Janie MorganWood, whose experience includes designing for household brands such as Next, Matalan and Marks & Spencer.

For several years, Janie used design rooms owned by other companies at weekends to develop her business. Her core service was supporting manufacturers with their technical skills and she also began helping start-up companies that wanted to get a foothold in the industry. The business was doing well until she lost access to these design rooms during the pandemic.

Janie said: “As I sat at home during lockdown, I realised I needed to adapt. I needed my own physical space and machinery.”

With the help of the Business Gateway Growth Hub, she applied for a Leicestershire Covid Recovery Grant and was awarded £5,500.

Janie Morgan-Wood of LFTA

Together with her own funds, she invested in machinery and premises in Wigston.

A Small Business Recovery grant of £3,000 from Leicester City Council also meant she was able to set up a design room with new machinery to create premium samples.

‘Our staff have a high level of skill, every piece is quality checked and it’s quite artisan’ This space in Wigston started as a design hub but today her business also manufactures small runs of 100 to 300 garments for niche, highend customers. Products include ladieswear such as dresses, T-shirts, hoodies, cycling shorts, swimwear, yoga clothing and lingerie, and latterly dog hoodies. It also makes men’s leisurewear, including sweatshirts.

After the business started to build, Janie’s husband Roy gave up his lecturing job and joined her full time. She’s also taken on three machinists and a part-time fashion designer. The company has outgrown its current location so recently moved to a 3,500 sq ft building in Linden Street, Leicester.

Shobhana Jobanputra, one of LFTA’s skilled machinists

Janie added: “We’re helping new brands move forward with quality products made in the UK, and that’s something we are very proud of.

With more than 35 years’ experience, I’m able to support these brands to make better decisions for fabric and trims. It’s about focusing on what they really want.

“We’ve seen lots of textile manufacturing in Leicester that is cheap, fast-fashion, mass production for high street or online retailers but very few places make better quality garments. Our staff have a high level of skill, every piece is quality checked and it’s quite artisan.”

To find out more about support and grants from the Business Gateway Growth Hub, visit www.bizgateway.org.uk or email growthhub@bizgateway.org.uk

Expert advice on how to recruit talent Businesses in North Derbyshire can learn how to improve their chances of recruiting the right people at an event next month.

The D2N2 Recruiting Talent series, which has held events in Derby city and Nottinghamshire since 2019, is expanding into a new area for organisations in Chesterfield, Bolsover and North East Derbyshire.

It will help employers to understand the current landscape

around employment and skills in North Derbyshire with a keynote address, act as a catalyst for positive change to help firms adapt to better prepare for their future recruitment needs, showcase the benefits of inclusive recruitment with case studies, and adapt recruitment practices to encourage more local people to work for their business.

The series brings together local businesses and experts, with

partners including the Chamber, D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, Building Better Opportunities stakeholder managers, local authorities and employment support agencies.

The Recruiting Talent in North Derbyshire event takes place at Chesterfield College on 19 July from 8.15am to 12pm. To register, visit bbo-d2n2.org.uk/events/ rtnderbys

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CHAMBER NEWS

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SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

www.emc-dnl.co.uk/sustainability

Why businesses should adopt an ESG strategy From left: Drax innovation engineer Dr Theo Chronopoulos, Promethean Particles chief executive James Stephenson and Professor Ed Lester, of the University of Nottingham

Partnership to pilot carbon capture tech Renewable energy pioneer Drax has partnered with the University of Nottingham and Promethean Particles to trial a new carbon capture and storage (CCS) process at its North Yorkshire power station.

The company, which converted Drax Power Station to use sustainable biomass instead of coal to become the UK’s largest renewable generator, wants to test out the bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), known as a negative emissions technology because it removes greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.

Unlike other CCS processes that typically use liquid solvents, this uses a type of solid sorbent called metal-organic frameworks to capture CO2 released when biomass – a plant-based material used as fuel to produce heat or electricity – is used to generate electricity.

The pilot will last for two months and allow the three organisations to understand if the new method performs well in real conditions on large-scale projects.

Professor Ed Lester, project lead from the University of Nottingham, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase how these solid adsorbents perform in an industrial setting.”

Meanwhile, the university is leading an international consortium aiming to accelerate the development of CCS, receiving a share of £5m grant funding from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

A project aims to develop a cheaper alternative to the current process of amine scrubber – the most mature technology that separates CO2 from natural gas but one that is expensive and requires a high amount of energy.

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ESG is fast becoming business-critical and a licence to operate for all businesses with leadership responsibility at its heart.

Paul Callum (pictured), associate director in the ESG consultancy team at RSM UK, explains what it means and how organisations can implement an ESG strategy.

At its most simple, ESG refers to three core pillars used as a lens to view business performance: E How a business interacts with and impacts the environment S How a business interacts with society creating value generation

important to your company can help direct efforts to the areas you can have the most impact.

My top tips are: 1. Create a baseline assessment: Really understand what your organisation already does – you may be surprised by what you find out

G How an organisation is governed

2. Identify the gaps: Establish what is missing in your current arrangements for ESG

STAKEHOLDERS

3. Develop a continuous improvement mindset: It is a “journey”, not a tick-box exercise.

Putting sustainable and responsible practices at the heart of your business is fast becoming a requirement and expectation for customers, clients, regulators, investors and other stakeholders.

ESG extends past an organisation’s direct impact, and considers where the environmental and social issues are across the whole value chain.

Some financial services have started to offer ESG products and discounts on interest rates if you meet certain targets, such as greenhouse gas reductions or increase staff diversity. Many will not invest in a company that doesn’t have an ESG strategy.

Many private equity investors are signed up to Principles of Responsible Investment, a UN-sponsored network that promotes sustainable investment, and we are seeing downward pressure for their clients to embrace the same standards.

Recent studies have also shown the relationship between ESG performance and workplace sentiment – a key area of focus for many businesses during a period of increased turnover.

KEY FOCUS FOR SMES ESG can be broad and businesses often ask us “where do we start?”

Understanding the key topics that are most

CHAMBER BEGINS ESG JOURNEY Scott Knowles, chief executive of the Chamber, has recognised the exponential growth in pressure for businesses in the East Midlands to develop an ESG strategy, for example when bidding for public sector contracts as “there is a hardening of prerequisites for bids especially around sustainability and low carbon”.

The Chamber has recently undergone an ESG maturity assessment with RSM UK. The assessment, which includes interviews, document reviews, data collection, benchmarking and workshops with staff, assesses an organisation using appropriate industry standards, looking at its response to environmental, social, governance, culture, strategy, monitoring and reporting.

It has helped the Chamber to establish an ESG roadmap for the next few years, and our organisations have now collaborated to create an online set of tools, including self-assessments, materiality assessments and guidance documents, all of which will be free for members to access.

The ESG tools will be launched at the CSR Summit, held at the University of Derby’s Enterprise Centre, on 7 June. To register for the free event, visit bit.ly/CSRSummit22

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The Far-UK team with the Nobe 100 GT car

Lightweight electric vehicle unveiled Design engineering firm Far-UK has collaborated with a classic car manufacturer to produce an innovative lightweight electric vehicle.

The West Bridgford-based company worked with Nobe Cars USA to create the 100 GT and Van Dyke, which are made from carbon fibre composite. They wanted to combine the growing environmental need for sustainable mobility with the beauty of a classic car.

The exterior design was unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in 2019 and the vehicle has now been developed for

production using Far-UK’s “lightweighting” technology.

Co-director Kevin Lindsey said: “Implementing lightweight innovation for production is what Far does best. Developing a lightweight vehicle that offers a more sustainable transport alternative aligns well with our roadmap, so we are really pleased to be working with Nobe on this.”

Far-UK works with manufacturers to solve engineering challenges with demanding performance specifications across a range of projects, from components to full vehicle design.

It adds innovation to the development process

by combining cutting-edge design techniques with expertise in materials and manufacturing.

For the Nobe Cars project, it drew on a wealth of experience from several automotive specialists to provide specific components and systems for the carbon-fibre vehicle, which was unveiled at clean energy and EV show Fully Charged Live in April.

Nobe Cars founder and CEO Roman Muljar said: “We have created a vehicle that makes people happy when they see it. It looks beautiful and classic, but also fun. All the innovation in sustainable design that has gone into it means that it fits perfectly into the modern world.”

Planet Mark certification boosts HSG’s eco credentials

Joe Rice, from HSG, with the Planet Mark certificate

Derby-based washroom conservation specialist HSG has further strengthened its sustainability credentials by becoming the latest member of the Planet Mark global community.

The company, located in Pride Park, achieved the sustainability certification in recognition of the reductions it has already made to its carbon footprint, alongside a commitment and plans for future improvements.

It will now work with Planet Mark to achieve its ambitious sustainability targets across its operations, including fleet management, energy consumption and waste.

HSG’s water conservation system Ureco, which is fitted in urinals and features a water manager that reduces flushes from about 96 times to just four times a day, saving money and reducing water consumption by up to 96%, is installed in washrooms at hundreds of venues across the UK, ranging from single-site pubs to the NEC in Birmingham.

Its positive impact on businesses led to the firm winning a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation in 2018.

HSG managing director Simon Rice said: “We have already made significant improvements to our carbon footprint but, like the vast majority of businesses, recognise that we too still have a long way to go.

“Being part of the global Planet Mark community will enable us to work with the organisation and other companies who share our passion to make a world of difference in a wide range of industries to share good practice and scrutinise all aspects of our business.”

Planet Mark’s certification recognises continuous improvement and helps businesses to strengthen their ESG strategy, while contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and setting credible net zero carbon targets.

Planet Mark CEO Steve Malkin added: “I’m thrilled to welcome HSG to the Planet Mark community, and am inspired by their commitment to continuous improvement in this ‘decade of action’. The company is already making great strides in terms of its sustainability, and I am proud to be supporting HSG on this next step of its journey.”

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Historic trading firm wins prestigious award Among the list of winners in the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise 2022, regarded as the UK’s most prestigious honour for businesses, were eight Chamber members, including five recipients of the International Trade Award. A senior leader from one of the winners tells Business Network his company’s story.

PR MARRIOTT DRILLING (MARRIOTT DRILLING GROUP) Location: Danesmoor, near Chesterfield Spokesperson: John Beswick, director

What does your company do?

Marriott Drilling was originally formed in 1947 by the late Richard Marriott, grandfather of the two current owners, and so the business celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. It was established as a limited company in 1991 after developing from a small family business focused on local water resources with self-built drilling rigs to a highly respected specialist company that provides onshore deep drilling and associated services to the domestic and international oil and gas, gas storage, geothermal, geoscience, mining, geotechnical and water industries.

Marriott offers a wide range of services, from

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contract drilling to integrated and management services for projects, and is a leader in safety, innovation and technology. The company has an experienced and versatile team comprising some of the best in the industry with a commitment to project and customer success.

This is underpinned by comprehensive quality, health, safety and environmental programmes together with personnel training to ensure competence and service excellence. Marriott is accredited by Lloyds Register for safety, quality and environmental management.

What does your international trade operation involve?

The current business operations extend across the UK, Ireland, Switzerland, Albania, Kenya, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Belize, Guatemala, Bolivia and Kuwait.

Our operation involves drilling and associated services for the oil, gas and geothermal industries.

ABOVE: PR Marriott Drilling is involved in geothermal exploration INSET: John Beswick

In our international projects, we manage a range of suppliers, service providers and highquality camp facilities.

Which are your biggest markets?

Our principal markets are Switzerland, Bolivia, Kenya, Mozambique and Ethiopia. All have different challenges with recruitment and training of local personnel key to success in Africa and South America.

How have the events of the past couple of years affected your importing and exporting activity?

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE UPCOMING INTERNATIONAL TRADE TRAINING COURSES 14 June, 9-12: Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) (£150 + VAT) Introduction to AEO, the “trusted trader” status and an internationally recognised quality mark for the international supply chain

Drilling projects are undertaken in Europe, Central America and East Africa

The past few years have seen the collapse of the UK business due to the sudden Government ban on the investigation of shale gas, a collapse in the oil price (although it has now recovered) and Covid-19. The lack of domestic business forced a change in strategy to focus on international opportunities. Notwithstanding the restrictions and quarantine requirements, the company has managed to continue to work in all the international operational theatres.

How has the Chamber supported your international trade operation?

Mainly assistance with documentation, which was attended to quickly and was much appreciated.

What led to you securing a Queen’s Award for Enterprise and how will this recognition boost your organisation’s objectives?

We applied for the Queen’s Award twice, but

dips in overseas trading precluded entry until this year. The award is a result of an increase year-on-year of overseas trading (exports grew by 3,294% in the three years to December 2020, now representing 70% of all sales) and recognition in the international market related to the services Marriott provide, as well as the excellent performance of the company against strong international competition.

The achievement is testament to the commitment and hard work of the whole of the Marriott Group team both in the UK and overseas.

The award is also due to the excellent working relationships with many clients, rig crews, support staff, suppliers and service providers that have all contributed to successful international operations.

It helps to market the services of the company and gives greater recognition by international customers and governments, as well as helping to expand the business.

14 June, 1-4.30: Customs special procedures – how to save time and money (£150 + VAT) Introduction to the facilitations offered on customs requirements by HMRC to help speed up the movement of goods

16 June, 9-12.30: Rules of origin (£150 + VAT) Learn about the certifications required by customs officials around the world to demonstrate the origin of a product, which determines how tariffs are decided

20 June, 9-4: ITOPS – International Trade Operations and Procedures (£1,750 + VAT) Four-day course resulting in the ITOPS qualification, which is designed to prove that candidates have the necessary skills to accurately operate the administration procedures in international trade

28 June, 9-2: Customs declarations (£280 + VAT) Learn how to produce a customs declaration or check one being produced for your company by a customs agent

6 July, 9-12: Inward/outward processing (£150 + VAT)

Queen’s Awards for Enterprise winners in International Trade Ampetronic Limited Trading since 1987, Ampetronic’s mission is to bring intelligible sound back into the lives of people with hearing loss by improving the quality of installed hearing access equipment.

The Newark-based company produces a wide range of electronic products for hearing accessibility, primarily audio induction loop systems that can deliver sound direct to hearing aid users. Overseas sales grew by 110% between 2014, when it also won the International Trade Award, and 2020.

Donald Ward Limited (Ward Recycling) A national recycling company with roots stretching back to the 1940s, Ward Recycling processes a million tonnes of materials annually – often from end-of-life vehicles and demolition projects – at 11 sites, including its Ilkeston headquarters. Over the three years to March 2019, overseas sales grew by 84%, a growth rate of 36% per year. Its five largest markets were Pakistan, Turkey, India, Hong Kong and Belgium.

Oncimmune Holdings plc The Nottingham-based biotech company, based in Nottingham, has developed innovative autoantibody profiling technologies, which have enabled it to become a leading immunodiagnostics

Introduction to methods of obtaining inward and outward processing relief from customs duty and VAT on international transactions

7 July, 9-3.30: Customs procedures and documentation (£270 + VAT) Learn about details such as the critical data required for a customs declaration or the legal responsibilities of the importer and exporter

12 July, 9-3.30: Import procedures (£270 + VAT) Learn about the import process from initial contact with a potential supplier through to completing the import customs clearance and ensuring goods are received in time and within budget Oncimmune has created biomarker technologies to help the healthcare industry

developer and pharma services provider.

Oncimmune’s primary focus is on the growing fields of immuno-oncology, autoimmune disease and infectious diseases, and its pioneering work has created a portfolio of nearly 200 granted and pending patents.

Unimed Procurement Services Limited Healthcare equality is at the core of this Leicester-based company, founded in 2018 to act as a procurement agent for humanitarian relief organisations, NGOs and charities. It collaborates with partners to procure quality healthcare supplies and deliver them to global locations, including Europe, Africa, South America, Asia and Oceania. Trading has grown by 1,796% over three years.

13 July, 9-4: Export documentation (£270 + VAT) Practical programme equipping delegates with necessary skills and knowledge to prepare and process documents when exporting goods overseas

14 July, 9-12.30: CHIEF TO CDS (£150 + VAT or £100 + VAT if taken alongside customs declaration course) With the CHIEF (customs handling of import and export freight) electronic system soon to be replaced with CDS (customs declaration service), find out about the key changes and how to prepare *Prices listed are exclusively for East Midlands Chamber members For a full list of courses, visit bit.ly/EMCInternationalTraining

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POLITICS

Plan to boost skills in the region is vital for growth The way in which skills provision is delivered is set to change after new legislation was recently passed following a trailblazer pilot involving the Chamber. Chris Hobson, director of policy and external affairs, explains all about Local Skills Improvement Plans and why they matter for businesses.

idden behind various political shenanigans in the run up to the local election, an important parliamentary event happened on 29 April, with royal assent being granted to the Skills and Post-16 Education Act. The Act includes a number of measures and is worth a read for all those interested in the evolving education landscape.

One of the main measures of particular interest for the business community was the confirmation in law of the requirement to develop Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) across England.

The national rollout of LSIPs builds upon eight trailblazers run across the country between September 2021 and March 2022, one of which was led by this Chamber in Leicester and Leicestershire.

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A NEW APPROACH TO ADDRESSING BUSINESSES’ PEOPLE NEEDS At their heart, LSIPs are testing the belief that local business communities, represented by an employer representative body (in this case the Chamber), are better placed than what’s come before at understanding and then communicating the people needs of local businesses.

The audience for these are educators – primarily further education providers – which are required in the new Act to respond to the recommendations within the LSIP, with further funding being made available in due course via a Local Skills Improvement Fund to do this.

LSIPs have crept up on many people.

However, their introduction presents a significant opportunity to try and “do something different” when it comes to representing the people needs of businesses at a local level.

With a couple of exceptions, mainly in the South, LSIPs will exist at either the local enterprise partnership or combined authority (where one exists) level.

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asking for initial expressions of interest to be delivered by early June.

RESEARCH IN LEICESTERSHIRE HELPS TO IDENTIFY WHERE CHANGE IS NEEDED So what is new about LSIPs and how can we avoid them being a rehash of what’s gone before under a new name?

As a Chamber, we believe this is a genuine opportunity to do things differently, and perhaps the best way to explain this is to review our experience of delivering the trailblazer in Leicester and Leicestershire.

Taking to heart the principle that, if you put the same things in, you get the same things out, across Leicester and Leicestershire we took a different approach that took into account the following ideas: • We need a new approach to understanding and presenting data – taking interesting information and making it useful • Things change and the pace of this change is rapid. As far as possible, we should explore automation and AI to support forward projections and identify patterns • “Skills” is often a catch-all consideration for businesses. Educators talk in terms of knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs). If we break down business needs in terms of KSBs as opposed to roles, then could this support an education system that can be more responsive?

• The way we engage with businesses on this issue is not always effective – we need to reach a diverse group of businesses and keep them engaged with relevant and responsive questions

CREATING A DATA-DRIVEN SKILLS OBSERVATORY This approach is much more data-driven than much of what has gone before and, as a Chamber, we were fortunate in our trailblazer to

Chris Hobson

be supported by our strategic partnership with De Montfort University (DMU) and an associated knowledge transfer partnership.

The result of this was the creation of a new Collective Intelligence Skills Observatory (CISO) – for those interested, you can explore more by visiting www.insight-unlocked.co.uk.

The LSIP itself is embedded in the CISO, and users are encouraged to explore the findings via tailored journeys depending on where they are coming from – for example educators, awarding bodies, businesses or citizens. This reflects the principle that data needs to be useful as opposed to just dumped down for people to get lost in.

Through our relationship with DMU, we’ve developed scripts that scrape the relevant data from different sources and create the dashboards.

These scripts run in the background and automatically create a new dashboard as datasets are refreshed.

And in working with businesses, we focused in on the KSBs that are important to them and their relative importance.

We also trialled a new approach to gathering data – creating a panel of 121 businesses and utilising a mobile phone app to conduct daily short surveys, giving us different and deeper insight than if we had run another broad survey or held a series of focus groups. Again, you put something different in, you get something different out.

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POLITICS

From left: Simon Bee, of Benoy; Rob Tincknell, of Areli Developments; David Twohig, of Murray Twohig; and Simon Davis, of Urban Delivery

IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT DATA – RELATIONSHIPS KEY TO SUCCESSFUL SKILLS PROVISION The resulting Leicester and Leicestershire LSIP report is only 27 pages long, driving people towards the CISO. The 10 recommendations it makes are focused on the structures locally that are required to deliver on the needs of businesses as opposed to being too prescriptive.

In many ways, while the plan is of course essential, it’s getting the process right, as opposed to the end product itself, that we feel will be a big marker of a successful LSIP. As much resource went into building the partnerships between businesses and educators as went into creating the actual LSIP. The Leicester and Leicestershire LSIP isn’t perfect – it was designed as a pilot and there are lessons that can be learned.

But it has allowed us to prove the concept that taking a different approach might be able to support better outcomes.

As with all things in education, the path to improvements won’t run smooth. But LSIPs do give a new opportunity to think differently about how we crack the nut of having an education system locally that is responsive to the needs of business.

And regardless of how many scars people may have from what’s come before, with the Act now in place, LSIPs are here to stay and will be an important part of the education landscape over the coming years.

Chris Hobson will give an overview of the findings from the LSIP trailblazer pilot in Leicester and Leicestershire at the Chamber's People and Skills Summit on Thursday 7 July. Register for free at bit.ly/PeopleandSkillsSummit22

Development partner to lead key opportunity The team behind high-profile regeneration projects including Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth and London’s Battersea Power Station has become a commercial partner for the biggest development opportunity in the Midlands.

Areli Developments, founded by Rob Tincknell, will develop the commercial strategy for three major sites being promoted by the East Midlands Development Company (EM DevCo), a public-private partnership backed by a consortium of local authorities and Government.

Areli has brought together a professional team to support a long-term programme that centres on the development of hundreds of hectares of land around East Midlands Airport, Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station and the Toton-Chetwynd corridor.

‘Our three sites represent one of the biggest and most ambitious development opportunities in the UK’s regions’ Each site is the size of London’s Olympic Park, and it’s hoped they will collectively generate 84,000 jobs and add more than £4bn to the output of the East Midlands economy in the decades ahead.

Some of the sites sit within the boundary of the proposed East Midlands Freeport, while the Government has confirmed that HS2 trains will also come into the area.

Areli has a global track record for the delivery of transformational projects, and its professional team in the East Midlands will also include architect Benoy, regeneration

consultant Urban Delivery and placemaking expert MurrayTwohig.

Richard Carr, managing director of EM DevCo, said: “Our three sites represent one of the biggest and most ambitious development opportunities in the UK’s regions, and we expect them to have an impact at macroeconomic level. Our ambitions run deep into the quality and nature of the development we’re looking to enable, and bringing on board a partner of Areli’s calibre is a mark of how high we’re aiming.”

Rob Tincknell, whose current development portfolio includes over eight million sq ft of mixed-use regeneration projects, said: “Our team includes some of the leading real estate strategy specialists in the UK, all of whom are extremely excited to work with EM DevCo to help create a robust and compelling vision for the future of three extraordinary projects.

“One of the key workstreams we’ll be commencing over the next 12 months will be to actively engage with local communities and stakeholders to hear their views, and build them into the DevCo’s ambitious plans.”

EM DevCo has already been appointed a design code pilot by Government, with a remit to work with partners to ensure the development of beautiful places.

Its sites will include the development of a new innovation campus, major residential development, large-scale demonstrators aimed at taking net zero technologies to market-ready status, and supporting infrastructure.

The organisation is also working in partnership with the East Midlands Freeport, which seeks to build on the area’s status as a major trade gateway. East Midlands Airport is the biggest pure freight airport in the UK and sits alongside the SEGRO road-rail logistics site.

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FEATURE

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CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION & PARTNERSHIP

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CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION & PARTNERSHIP

FEATURE

A day in the life of a charity worker

By David Hamilton (pictured), psychological and bereavement lead at Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People s the East Midlands’ only children’s hospice, Rainbows cares for hundreds of families every year who have a child or young person with a serious or terminal illness that means that their lives will be shorter than most.

To lose a child, however short or long their relationship has been, can leave families feeling incomplete and unable to face the future.

Our bereavement team are here to lead conversations around death and dying, providing long-term support to the whole family and across the hospice more generally.

As a charity, our care can only happen with the support of our local communities, including business support.

Without our corporate supporters, the work I detail below would simply not be possible.

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8.30am At my desk, I briefly check emails and prioritise who I need to respond to first. While waiting for the handover meeting to start at 9am, I look at what’s in my diary. Three counselling sessions. A meeting with a colleague and delivering training are the main entries for today.

9am I attend the handover meeting from the care team. A child has died overnight. This was expected. My focus is usually on the parents and their needs. I ask if the parents were present, did they have time to say goodbye? I ask these questions because they will be important when this family looks back as they wade through the depths of grief. The child who died is staying in the hospice bereavement suite – there is a concern about the cooling equipment. After handover, I meet the care team member and we go into the bereavement suite to check the equipment together.

10am I meet a counselling client via zoom. This is our seventh session. His child died nine months ago and still feels very guilty. Most parents feel guilt when their children die. We explore the guilt and look at what might be going on. His feelings and emotions move from anger and rage to tears of sadness, and then stillness. I ask him how the session went today. “This is the only space I can be me,” he says.

11am Back at my desk. I make a few confidential notes on the client and respond to some emails. Receptions calls and puts through a nurse from a local hospital, who is seeking advice about how best to support a family not known to us.

I give some advice, reassurance and signpost to adult cancer services.

11.15am I sit down with one of my family support worker colleagues to review the work she is doing for bereaved families. The majority of families don’t need counselling – most need good support pre and post the death of a child or young person. The family support team is excellent at delivering this support. My colleague raises concerns about the vulnerability of a bereaved mother. We agree a plan of care and safety, and agree I will meet her to discuss counselling.

12pm I’m in the conference room delivering bereavement training to the care team and a student on placement at Rainbows. At the start, I acknowledge that many in the room will have their own stories of loss and bereavement – that we all need to be aware of ourselves and support each other. I move from the PowerPoint slide to the student nurse who is crying – she talks of her loss and the group listens with support. Much of my work is about holding the space for individual and groups to explore who they are, and how do we work at Rainbows.

1pm Lunch, emails and a phone call .

1.30pm A second counselling client. This time, a mother whose daughter is receiving end-of-life care at the hospice.

We talk openly about her child dying – what this might be like, how she might survive the loss and how she might sooth her deep dread of that day. She tells me it’s only in our session that she talks about her child dying – her family and friends are unable to hear this from her. She does not need to protect me and therefore says what is taboo in the external world.

2.30pm My next client is receiving a specific therapy for protracted grief disorder, a condition where individuals get stuck in grief and are unable to find ways to manage the pain of the loss. Research has shown that conventional counselling does not improve this condition. There is a specific therapy which does, so I am now providing this for the client. She is now able to talk about her daughter’s death without being overwhelmed and is imagining a hopeful future.

3.30pm Some admin time. I plan for next week’s bereaved parents group, with more than 20 parents attending this year. The group allows parents to experience being in a room where the majority really do understand what it is like. As the sun is shining, I pop down to the remembrance garden, of which I have oversight. I speak to the gardener and say “hello” to a bereaved family visiting the garden.

4.30pm Last look at emails and then home.

‘To lose a child, however short or long their relationship has been, can leave families feeling incomplete and unable to face the future’

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FEATURE

CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION & PARTNERSHIP

Animal instinct How businesses can support vulnerable pet owners and their animals

By Helen Wilber, fundraising manager, Leicester & Leicestershire Animal Aid Association t’s been well documented that animals play an important role in our wellbeing, and with everything that’s happened over the last few years, the ability of our pets to provide comfort and support has never been more prescient.

But did you know there is a project in Leicestershire that helps elderly, disabled and housebound pet owners care for their companion animals at home?

Leicester Animal Aid’s (LAA) Community Pet Support Scheme (CPSS) was launched in 2016. It provides practical support to enable elderly, physically disabled and housebound pet owners, and those living with mental heath conditions, to care for their companion cats and dogs at home. This has three main benefits: • Isolated and lonely people can continue living with their best friend and do not have to consider rehoming • Clients receive support, human companionship, and the chance to make new friends through the regular contact with animal care assistants and other clients • Clients benefit from a listening ear and the chance to access other services such as food banks through the scheme’s network

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Clients on the scheme are members of the community who, for a variety of reasons, are experiencing challenges in caring for their pets at home in three areas of Leicestershire.

LAA believes that, for pet lovers, the love and companionship of animals is a vital and sustaining part of everyday life. Our clients’ pets are their friends, a source of comfort and support, a confidante, a conversation-starter and in some cases, a link to the outside world.

A client on the CPSS says: “Sometimes the animal care assistants are the only people I get to see during the whole day, and the fact that they sit and talk to me about my babies after their walk means the world to me.”

“It’s been a godsend because I have chest problems and can’t walk far, and to be able to get my dogs the exercise 56

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they so much deserve, which I used to love to do with them, is brilliant. It gives me the relief to know that the girls are getting the exercise that they need, and my animal care assistant is my lifeline.”

Recently, LAA’s Community Pet Support Scheme was awarded a grant from the National Lottery Community Fund to help with running costs over the next three years. We’re very grateful and grant givers such as this are interested in projects that are on the journey towards self-sufficiency.

This means that, over the next few years, LAA will be seeking help from a variety of partners and sources to help us continue assisting vulnerable people and their pets.

HOW CAN BUSINESSES HELP? We would love to work in partnership with local businesses to sustain the project for the next generation of vulnerable pet owners and their companion animals. Have you ever thought of working with a charity that supports both people and animals?

We would love to hear from anyone who can help sponsor a client on the scheme. Our newsletters, website and social media are as popular as you would expect from an animal charity. We would love to shout about local community-minded businesses that are making a difference locally.

Business and charities have much in common, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) brings benefits to both. Sometimes, a charity’s mission and core values are such a close fit with businesses that joining forces makes perfect sense.

For businesses, working with a charity can also be a wonderful way to share skills and expertise, improve brand awareness, engage with your local community and network with new people. In addition, CSR programmes have been proven to have a positive impact on a company’s morale and staff team. What is more bonding than working together for a good cause?

‘Our clients’ pets are their friends, a source of comfort and support, a confidante, a conversationstarter and in some cases, a link to the outside world’

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ESG IN ACTION

Leading by example:

The firms that put ESG first Moving beyond one-off corporate social responsibility (CSR) policies to embrace a more holistic environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy is no easy task, but there are some businesses in the East Midlands already making an impact, as Jasmine Thompson finds out.

TTK CONFECTIONERY Customers at Sainsbury’s and Matalan may have noticed TTK Confectionery’s diverse range of food gifting products stocked on shelves as the Nottingham-based company makes its mark with major retailers.

But more recently, it was making waves on LinkedIn, where it engineered a “Base 51 Week” campaign in March for the youth charity after its funding was cut by Nottingham City Council.

The company has been a long-standing supporter of Base 51, which helps vulnerable young people in Nottingham to build skills and resilience to prepare them for adulthood. After discovering the charity through networking, CEO Martin Barnett became a trustee, and he and wife Jess have since offered the support of their marketing team.

Brand director Jess says: “When Base 51’s funding was cut, it left ‘Being able to the charity in a very vulnerable access streams of position because the need for the team’s support for 11 to 25-yearincome is really olds was even more important positive for Base 51’ following the pandemic.

“When we saw it was under threat, we didn’t think it had a strong enough presence within the city and wider region, so we wanted to do something about that.”

During the week, TTK’s marketing team created Base 51-branded content to spread the word across social media, and members of the senior team equipped their contacts with toolkits to help promote the charity.

It also ran open days at the organisation’s headquarters in Castle Gate, where it welcomed more than 50 people to find out more about its work.

The campaign resulted in more than £10,000 being raised for the charity and led to it forming partnerships with other businesses including Express Recruitment, Training for Business and Nottingham City Transport.

It is testament to Jess and Martin’s belief that time spent in exchanging skills and expertise is just as valuable as monetary donations when it comes to planning an ESG strategy – an important facet of the company, founded in 2017 with a goal to forge connections with the local community while being a successful business.

Jess adds: “Being able to access streams of income is really positive for Base 51 as it's much more sustainable than relying on council funding. We’re hoping the week gave it a massive boost, and it’s shown what can be achieved when the business community comes together and works as a team.

“That’s what CSR is all about. It’s not just about doing a raffle, or a sponsored walk – which are still important and hugely beneficial – but making some lasting connections with your community Base 51 was promoted on the back of really puts you in touch with the a Nottingham City Transport bus 58

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TTK Confectionery owners Jess and Martin Barnett

issues out there. It was great to see first-hand the difference we were making as Base 51’s connections grew substantially.”

Jess discovered one of her firm’s first charities when searching for a quiet place to spend time while on maternity leave. She found Café Sobar, in Friar Lane, an alcohol-free social space for people in recovery run by addiction recovery charity Double Impact.

Six years on, TTK has offered 20 work placements in warehouse positions for Double Impact’s service users.

“You can sometimes miss out on good talent through traditional recruitment methods,” says Jess.

“Those we employ can be more invested because you’ve given them a chance, and it adds an extra level of trust.”

Many businesses struggle to know where to start with creating a ESG strategy – but for Jess, it was as simple as walking around her area.

She adds: “You might see a school, church, youth centre or a playground that looks like it needs your help.

“Find out what the needs of your local community are and see how you might be able to fit in. Even if you're just a one-person band and work from home, there's still ways you can help through your time and expertise – it doesn’t need to be financial.”

After all, looking at the benefits reaped by TTK – including a diverse workforce, motivated teams and region-wide recognition, it makes spending a proportion of time helping others a no-brainer.

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ESG IN ACTION

TIDYCO Getting young people interested in engineering – and equipping them with the necessary skills – is at the forefront of Tidyco’s ESG ambitions.

The Derby-based company, which supplies hydraulic and pneumatic products for the UK rail industry, created its Toolbox Challenge scheme for secondary school design technology (DT) pupils, who are Philip Mason making toolboxes at encouraged to build a toolbox while Littleover Community School simultaneously learning how to use in 2019 the tools.

The project aims to develop young people’s engineering skills, such as measuring in millimetres, reading drawings, marking out and drilling, so they are more prepared for a potential career in the industry.

It is the brainchild of Tidyco production director Philip Mason and followed a visit to Littleover Community School in 2019 as part of the Enterprise for Education scheme, in which businesspeople visited schools in Derby to expand children’s ambitions about potential career pathways.

“During the visit, I realised pupils did very little in the way of practical engineering or metalwork,” he says.

“We thought ‘what better a way for kids to become interested in engineering than getting them to build a toolbox they can take home with them?’”

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“Some schools I’ve visited have had the correct machinery, for example, but it will go unused because they don’t have the money to buy the materials to make something.”

One of the main goals of the Tidyco Toolbox Challenge is to spark a greater interest in engineering among young girls – a challenge Philip believes to be partially rooted in the industrial heritage of the region.

“Locally, we are surrounded by huge engineering names like RollsRoyce, Bombardier and JCB,” he says. “Because of the way the DT curriculum was structured 40-plus years ago, you see the majority of children have grown up seeing their grandads, dads and brothers working at these types of companies.

“So when it comes to getting more girls into engineering, we have to be careful not to filter them out from a young age – and try to build a connection as they move into year nine, before they choose their GCSE options.”

Despite initial struggles to engage the community in boosting interest in the project, Philip has been pleased with its success and wants to take the Tidyco Toolbox Challenge across 13 of Derby’s schools – also offering local companies an in-road into developing local talent from the early years.

He adds: “For 13 schools in Derby, 1,300 toolboxes would be needed.

We want companies to not just offer one-off support, but to sponsor a school for the length of the project, to build more of a connection with the pupils and staff.

“It’s about looking at the bigger picture – if even a small percentage of the pupils we help get into engineering, maybe one day some of those students could work for us.”

‘When it comes to getting more girls into engineering, we have to be careful not to filter them out from a young age’ After being trialled at the school’s engineering club, Tidyco commissioned local companies to provide the steelwork, fixings and workbooks, while it supplied tools and jigs for about 100 toolboxes.

It was then integrated into the school’s GCSE curriculum from 2020 and others have been added to the scheme, including Lees Brook Community School.

Like many companies in the engineering industry, Tidyco places skills of the future workforce high on its agenda, but Philip recognises many schools struggle to create fruitful experiences in DT classrooms.

“There are a lot of elements that contribute to the difficulty with skills development in DT within schools, but it mainly comes down to skills, tools and money,” he says.

Philip (centre) with an engineering club at Lees Brook Community School

EGGLESTON STEEL Turning a Derby resident’s Facebook fundraising campaign to provide benches for exhausted NHS staff into a reality offered Eggleston Steel an ideal route to help its community.

The 213-year-old family company’s managing director Richard Hewitt saw Maria White’s appeal to raise £1,200 for a bench outside Derby Royal Hospital.

Instead of providing the funds, he instructed operations director John Ready to use his team’s expertise by leading the design and manufacture of a “keyworker bench”.

“We originally planned on producing one bench – but my grandad Tony Hewitt, who is the chairman of the company, said it would be great if we could extend the reach of the project,” says HR advisor Becky Hewitt.

“My uncle Andrew Hewitt works at another hospital in our area and after seeing the bench at Derby Royal Hospital, thought it would be great for the workers at his workplace.

“So we decided to produce the benches for nine hospitals within our delivery area, from Chesterfield to Loughborough, to act as a memory for everything the keyworkers have done during the pandemic.”

Maria White and Richard Hewitt (centre) with the Eggleston Steel directors and family sat on the NHS benches

Eggleston Steel, established in 1809, is a steel stockholder and processor. To make the nine benches, the firm used its own steel, laser machinery and funds to create the design, which depicted the iconic “NHS rainbow” along with images of emergency vehicles and messages of support.

Richard adds: “It was a privilege to provide a lasting monument to many of the hospitals in

our community. We hope the benches continue to allow patients and staff to have a muchneeded rest in hospital grounds.

“After helping to get the first bench fabricated and painted, it just seemed the right thing to do to provide more of them to our hospitals. I’m proud and grateful that our team at Eggleston Steel and our suppliers have come together to make this happen.”

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ESG IN ACTION

ESG IN BUSINESS PROFILE: Sarah Loates Founder and director of Loates HR Consultancy, based in Derby (six employees) Which CSR activities do you undertake in your business?

The most valuable thing available to Loates HR team members is time. In our last financial year, we provided more than 200 hours of pro bono HR and training support.

This notional fee earning work equates to about 10% of our turnover.

Each consultant is given autonomy to choose an organisation close to their heart, and to freely contribute their time and skills.

Our community engagement is underpinned by our ethos of paying it forward, and supporting people needing help lies at the very heart of what and who Loates HR is.

As a result of our CSR, we have formed some amazing relationships, connections and friends, which have all become ambassadors for our business.

ESG IN BUSINESS PROFILE: Martin Lenton Managing director at DNS Corporate, based in Derby (20 employees) Which CSR activities do you undertake in your business?

Being a part of the East Midlands community since 1996, we are very keen to ensure we give back and support others.

We are proud to be diamond sponsor for me&dee and have participated in a variety of fundraising activities for the charity, which gifts memories to treasure for families going through difficult times.

Last year, the business walked, ran, jogged and cycled 2,500km within a month and raised over £3,000, while we attended and donated auction prizes for its annual ball and golf days.

Likewise, we work with Derby County Community Trust, recently sponsoring the Derby 10k and its annual awards evening.

We continue to partner with Nottingham Forest on community projects, as well as Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice by donating equipment and trying to support it whenever we can. We want to ensure we are working with as many of the region’s community hubs and charities as possible and are always looking at additional ways to support.

Being in the print industry for 26 years, we understand printing is a huge contributor to environmental wastage.

Therefore, working alongside East Midlands-based tree planting charity CoTreetment, we are proud to have become a carbon-neutral business.

The DNS building has recently had electric charging points installed to help make the switch to hybrid and electric cars smoother for employees and visitors.

What has your business also gained from these activities?

Being able to not only work closely with local charities but to also see the

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difference it makes is extremely rewarding. Being involved in charity and environmental work gives the team the chance to switch off from the everyday workload for a short while and make a difference.

Our business advisory services also help identify the new issues the postCovid world is causing organisations.

Knowing the pitfalls is integral to proactive resolve, and our increasing knowledge base drives and enhances our service development.

The world is changing and only by embracing that change will companies continue to survive and evolve. We not only want to practise that philosophy ourselves but assist others with our sector expertise.

How does your organisation incorporate CSR within a wider ESG strategy?

We are working on our ESG strategy constantly, with our environmental focus predominantly on waste and recycling, including measuring our emissions footprint.

Social focus is mainly on working conditions for our employees while ensuring diversity, inclusion and their welfare, particularly around mental health.

We continue to monitor our impact on the local community and hope with our CSR interactions, we are a positive force.

We practise entry level staffing above living wage and try to ensure our supply chain relationships follow the same codes of practise.

Accountability and transparency are at the forefront of our advisory philosophy.

We are constantly assessing our processes and relationships to improve all aspects of our business, and hope this is echoed by our customers, employees, and business partners.

What has your business also gained from these activities?

We are often found through word-of-mouth recommendations, which we believe is due in no small part to the pro bono support we provide in our community.

Many not-for-profits that can pay for HR support contact us as a result of a recommendation, and account for about 5% of our client portfolio. These include high-profile, London-based organisations such as Women on Boards and the Centre for Social Justice think-tank.

In a microbusiness, providing support for not-for-profits can be a win-win as a cost-effective way of developing your people and providing them with experiences they would not get otherwise.

In 2021, we were awarded the DerbyshireLive Commitment to the Community Award, recognising the team’s work within our local community.

How does your organisation incorporate CSR within a wider ESG strategy?

As a microbusiness, we haven’t as of yet, but I believe that CSR can be translated into quantitative measurables, which in turn will support employees being aligned with an organisation’s purpose.

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ESG IN ACTION

Supporting our communities makes good business sense

By Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, founder and chair of Morningside Pharmaceuticals and the Randal Charitable Foundation hroughout my working life, I’ve always been passionate about businesses giving back to the communities they work in and serve via their CSR endeavours.

In particular, I’m a firm believer that businesses and charities can benefit from each other, and I am an advocate of investing in CSR and ensuring my companies are good corporate citizens.

Businesses can help charities improve the skills of their people, and provide essential entrepreneurial and business knowledge to help them build their own sustainable incomegenerating models.

Meanwhile, charities offer businesses wider benefits associated with enhancing brand and engaging their people.

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THE BUSINESS-CHARITY PERSPECTIVE My company Morningside Pharmaceuticals has been investing in CSR for many years.

We have also, for more than three decades, been supplying a wide range of quality UK medicines via international aid organisations to the developing world.

So I have seen first-hand the importance of private and third sector collaborations to ensure that people living in lower and middleincome countries receive highly-regulated quality medicines.

For us, CSR is about the culture, ethos and identity of our business, which has been built

around our mission of “making quality healthcare an affordable and accessible reality throughout the world”.

To this end, we feel it’s important our CSR activity lives and breathes our corporate values.

It’s also important that senior management teams lead on CSR activity and view it as part of a package connected to raising brand awareness, engaging people, motivating employees and recruitment. These activities then feed into raising the whole image of the organisation and feed into KPIs, which will involve colleagues throughout the organisation.

‘By thoughtful investment in certain strategic campaigns, we can leverage activity so it moves from charities and NGOs to governments’ Supporting charities also chimes with people’s personal values, which act as a motivating factor for a company’s employees, while making a positive contribution to society and the wider world.

Another key area where charities add real value is recruitment of talent. People become aware of a business’ charitable activities and see those organisations as great places to work. This is particularly important in the East Midlands, where there is a well-publicised skills shortage, particularly in high-level manufacturing.

Working with charities also involves people in a “common cause”, which is great for team

FOCUS FEATURE

Dr Nik in Morningside Pharmaceuticals’ warehouse

building and bringing your people together under a shared mission.

THE IMPACT OF COLLABORATIONS Alongside my business journey, I have also been fortunate to see the importance of collaborations from the other side via my work with the Randal Charitable Foundation, which I founded with my wife Moni in 2017.

The Foundation provides grant funding to directly save lives and significantly improve the quality of life of people living in the UK and globally, with an aspiration to directly save one million lives globally. Our core focus areas are addiction, health, mental health, poverty and education for the vulnerable.

In 2019, we moved towards public affairs activity by funding research via the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) to lobby Government around the challenges of addiction in the UK. Through our work with the CSJ and Dame Carol Black, we helped secure almost £900m in additional Government funding for drug treatment services in England.

It was the biggest increase in funding for drug treatment services in 15 years and was, in large part, made possible through research and lobbying partly funded by the Randal Charitable Foundation.

What our experience with the CSJ showed us is that, by thoughtful investment in certain strategic campaigns, we can leverage activity so it moves from charities and NGOs to governments.

This benefits not just the individuals themselves but their families, their communities, the businesses they work for and society as a whole.

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BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

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BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

FEATURE

Protecting your business from cyber criminals

By Simon Brittan (pictured), CTO of Cloud Central yber crime against businesses is predicted to rise again in 2022. Eyewatering statistics such as how more than 85% of UK organisations experience a successful attack mean businesses must ensure they are protected.

We have created a guide to protect your business from the most common threats and best practices to ensure your organisation can be vigilant from increasingly sophisticated attacks.

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CHOOSE THE RIGHT MANAGED SERVICE PARTNER If you are looking to outsource your IT infrastructure fully or in a comanaged partnership, it is important to pick the right managed service provider (MSP).

Ensure the MSP is Cyber Essentialscertified. This certification means the outsourced service provider has proven they can guard against the most common cyber threats and demonstrated a commitment to cyber security.

Nearly three in four businesses experienced a phishing attack in 2020.

According to the FBI, 6.95 million new phishing and scam pages were created in 2020 – making it the most common type of cyberattack.

Using multiple social engineering techniques, the attackers try to get users to reveal sensitive information to be able to access critical information such as passwords or funds.

Spoof emails are becoming increasingly common Spoof email addresses similar to trusted organisations are commonly used by cyber-criminals.

An attacker may use a domain such as Shop.co.uk to gain trust and access to vital information. Tessian reported an employee will receive on average 14 malicious emails per year.

HOW TO PREVENT PHISHING ATTACKS Educating your staff Education and vigilance are key to ensuring your organisation remains on top of scammers. Keeping up to date with the latest phishing techniques is core to ensuring your business stays safe.

could attack is important. We recommend auditing your IT infrastructure regularly to ensure your security is up to date. We also recommend penetration testing (pen testing) your environment to ensure all devices and the network are free from the latest vulnerabilities.

Enable multi-factor authentication Multi-factor authentication is core to ensuring your business stays secure in the off-chance your business does give out vital information such as a password.

Multi-factor authentication further protects your cloud-based services and can alert you to unauthorised access requests to ensure only valid requests are granted.

measures in place, your business should be back up within hours.

Ensure your organisation invests in the right security solutions and aim to push for regular penetration testing Investing in security solutions to cover your organisation in terms of the many ways cyber-criminals

Monitor threat intelligence Threat intelligence feeds provide valuable, real-time information on emerging cyber security threats and allows for a collaborative approach to incident response.

Year-on-year we are seeing a significant increase in activity from cyber-criminals trying to access vital data from organisations in the UK. It is important more than ever to ensure your organisation takes the right steps to ensure it is protected and there is a contingency plan in place in an event of a breach.

Double-extortion ransomware attacks grew by 935% in 2021 compared to 2020 According to data from Atlas VPN, ransomware grew dramatically in the first half of 2021 by 151% alone.

In the UK alone, ransomware encounters totalled 14.6 million in 2021, making it one of the most common ways for cyber-criminals to target users.

A ransomware attack uses phishing techniques to get users to trust attached files or directed links, which trigger a takeover of your device. Once the attack has begun, the cyber-criminals usually demand payment in crypto to unlock your computer. Unfortunately, those who do pay the ransom may not retrieve their files back and in most cases are targeted again for more ransom.

HOW TO PREVENT RANSOMWARE ATTACKS It’s important to be proactive when it comes to preventing data-loss and downtime within your organisation if an attack occurs.

Backup data regularly with platforms that use advance ransomware detection Regular data back-ups are critical to ensure that data loss, and loss in productivity, are prevented when an attack occurs. With the right June 2022 business network

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FEATURE

BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

The smart way to protect your vehicle fleet

By Will Sissons, director at iTrack here were more than 89,000 motor vehicle thefts in England and Wales last year. Unfortunately, vehicle theft is a trend that doesn’t seem to be slowing any time soon, which is why it’s imperative that we do our upmost to prevent crime where we can.

Not only can GPS trackers help prevent vehicle theft, but the presence of a tracker on your vehicle will significantly increase the likelihood of recovery if the unthinkable happens.

As technology moves at an incredible pace, so do the innovative techniques that criminals are using, such as relay theft, where vehicles with keyless entry are targeted and driven away with the owner blissfully unaware – gone are the days of crow bars and brute force!

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SO HOW CAN ITRACK HELP? Tracking devices not only track your vehicle 24/7 but also boast many clever features that will help get one over on the criminals.

For example, ignition detection will alert you if your vehicle is started without your authority and some trackers have RECO (remote engine cut-out) technology, which allows you to immobilise your vehicle when parked and even cut the engine while it is moving in the event of theft.

CREATE VIRTUAL BOUNDARIES FOR YOUR ASSETS It is possible to use our software to create virtual boundaries, or “geofences” – the user can then be instantly alerted if a vehicle was to leave or enter this zone, allowing you to alert the police immediately. You can then provide them with a link that can be used to track the vehicle in real-time and hopefully catch the criminals redhanded.

It is also possible to be alerted to events such as speeding, harsh braking, low fuel and excessive idling – particularly useful for fleet operators.

A good example where this could be useful is for caravan owners, where their asset may be stored at a remote location. The owner would simply create a geofence around the caravan and be alerted if it was to move out of that zone – the ultimate peace of mind.

RECOVER YOUR ASSET AND AVOID INSURANCE PREMIUM HIKES Obviously, it’s not always possible to prevent vehicle theft – there were 89,000 instances last year alone.

However, having a GPS tracker installed on your vehicle means you can be proactive and take immediate steps to recover your asset before too much damage has been caused to your pride and joy.

In most cases, our customers recover their assets in less than 12 hours and eliminate the stress involved with replacing the vehicle, not to mention avoiding the financial implications that insurance claims bring in the form of excess and future premium hikes.

BESPOKE SOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESS Different businesses have different needs when it comes to tracking.

For example, a company may need a simple tracking solution for their vehicle fleet, whereas another company may have a more unique requirement where assets don’t have a power supply such as trailers or light plant.

Companies should look for services where they can receive a fully bespoke package that includes features such as Bluetooth driver identification, or even cabin temperature monitoring for food and medicine transportation on request.

The bottom line is that we will never stop vehicle theft but there are certainly steps we can take to help prevent it or quickly recover stolen assets using GPS tracking technology.

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FEATURE

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TRAINING & EVENTS

Peer networking for senior leaders Senior leaders in SMEs across UK Community Renewal Fund areas are being invited to join a peer-to-peer networking programme that launches this month.

Delivered by the Chamber, Peer Networks gives directors and senior managers the opportunity to share common business challenges and objectives. Regular sessions take place over several months and are facilitated by experts in the field and supported by specialist guest speakers.

Sector-based networks such as manufacturing and the visitor economy – as well as specialist groups for high-growth, female-owned businesses and Generation Next – began in May and continue throughout this month.

The Chamber’s deputy chief executive Diane Beresford, who heads up the Peer Networks delivery, said: “Peer networks are quite different to a traditional classroom development programme. They are more informal in nature, and the agenda is set by the group members.

“Challenges are addressed through conversational peer support and, since group members bring along real-life scenarios, the advice received has immediate relevance.

“Particularly valuable is that members develop support channels in the peer-to-peer network that continue outside the group, and often for the long term. Bringing together businesses in this way to learn from and support one another, is an area the Chamber is particularly well placed to lead on.”

A number of the Peer Networks are being delivered under East Midlands Accelerator, a £5.27m project part-funded by the Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund (UKCRF), and which has received an additional £471,000 of match funding from the Chamber and its partners.

Qualifying businesses must meet a number of criteria. They must be based in either Bassetlaw, Derbyshire Dales, High Peak, Leicester city, Mansfield, Newark and Sherwood, or Nottingham

city; have operated for at least one year; employ at least three people; and record a turnover exceeding £100,000. In addition, they must have an aspiration to improve and the potential to scale up or export – or be exporting already.

Up to 11 individuals are involved in each cohort and are required to give a time commitment of about 18 hours across the entire duration of the fully-subsidised programme.

The upcoming Peer Networks are: • High growth: 7 June, 9am; 10 June, 9.30am; 16 June, 9am and 2pm • Derbyshire Dales & High Peak Manufacturing Network: 9 June, 8am • Generation Next: 1 September, 8am • Women in business: 20 June, 10am; 20 September, 9am Anyone interested in taking part in the Peer Networks may book their place at: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/peernetworks

Dedicated forum for manufacturing industry The inaugural meetings of the East Midlands Manufacturing Network, held across the region in April and May, have attracted a broad range of both sectors and debate.

Some 25 business leaders and senior managers have so far joined each of the five local networks, with more than 40 in attendance at the North Nottinghamshire event, held at NTU University Centre, based at West Nottinghamshire College in Mansfield.

It is led by the Chamber and part-funded by the Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund (UKCRF) in areas considered by Government to be most in need. The local networks are: • Derbyshire Dales and High Peak Manufacturing Network • Derbyshire Manufacturing Network • Leicestershire Manufacturing Network • North Nottinghamshire Manufacturing Network • Nottinghamshire Manufacturing Network Of particular appeal to those attending is that the forum is designed exclusively for the manufacturing industry, allowing group members to quickly drill down to those topics of direct relevance to them.

Key topics for debates so far have been how to address the spiralling cost of materials, fuel and energy, as well as overcoming recruitment challenges, and improving staff mental health and wellbeing.

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North Nottinghamshire Manufacturing Network’s inaugural event

heavy engineering and integral machine manufacturing. Other participating sectors include novel food and organic producers, as well as the chemical and water treatment sectors.

The East Midlands Manufacturing Network aims to help members share best practices and experience in a trusted peer environment, focus on priority issues and challenges, better understand the financial support available to them, tap into specialist consultancy and advice on regulation and compliance, identify collaboration opportunities and gain peer support and education.

Any business, of any size, and in any area of manufacturing is eligible to join the local networks and can sign up at www.emc-dnl.co.uk/emmn. For more information, contact manufacturing networks co-ordinator Amy Kopyrko on 07879 350140 or Amy.Kopyrko@emc-dnl.co.uk

Book now for ILM course this autumn The Chamber is now taking bookings for its Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) courses starting this autumn. These include: • ILM Level 3 certificate or award in leadership and management – commencing 6 September • ILM Level 7 certificate in leadership and management – commencing 15 September • ILM Level 5 certificate in leadership and management – commencing 29 September Full course details can be found at bit.ly/EMCAccreditedCourses

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TRAINING & EVENTS

Pandemic expert to speak at dinner Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam

Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam, who became a fixture on our TV screens during the height of the pandemic, is the keynote speaker at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner 2022.

As deputy chief medical officer for England for four-and-a-half years until March this year, he became a household name for his leadership role in the UK’s response to Covid-19, particularly the acquisition and rollout of vaccines and antiviral drugs.

Now pro vice-chancellor for the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at the University of Nottingham, his speech will be the headline attraction for attendees at the Chamber’s blacktie summer dinner.

The event, which provides an opportunity for networking among members, takes place on Thursday 30 June from 6.30pm to 11.30pm at Heathland Grove, in Derbyshire.

It will also raise funds for the three charities chosen by Lindsey Williams during her year as Chamber president – Focus, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Treetops Hospice Care.

Futures Housing Group chief executive Lindsey, who will make a speech on the night, said: “The Annual Dinner is a fabulous opportunity for businesses and leaders to get together to recognise and celebrate the things we do that help to make the East Midlands great.

“People are fundamental to all our success – this event helps fuel connections and joins us together in a relaxed and really enjoyable setting. I’m also looking forward to showcasing

A night at the races to support charities A night at the races this month will raise money for the Chamber’s three selected charities – Treetops Hospice, Focus and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.

The Charity Race Night takes place at Best Western Premier EMA Yew Lodge Hotel & Conference Centre, in Kegworth, on Thursday 23 June from 7pm to 10pm.

There will be eight fun virtual horse races to place a small wager on and cheer along on a big screen, as well as a buffet dinner.

Tickets cost £25 + VAT and are available from bitly.com/EMCRaceNight Businesses can sponsor a race for £50 each. Contact Lauren Moore on lauren.moore@emc-dnl.co.uk

Enterprising Women Awards tickets on sale

By Eileen Perry MBE DL and Jean Mountain

‘This event helps fuel connections and joins us together in a relaxed and really enjoyable setting’ the great work that my nominated charities do to support our communities.”

Sir Jonathan, born in Boston, Lincolnshire, with Vietnamese heritage, trained as a physician in Nottingham. The 58-year-old’s career has involved roles in academia, Public Health England, the World Health Organisation, and the pharmaceutical and vaccine sectors.

After working as professor of health protection in the University of Nottingham’s School of Medicine, he was seconded to the Department of Health and Social Care in October 2017.

Working alongside chief medical officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty, he eventually acquired public recognition for his direct and nononsense communication style at the podium of No 10 Downing Street, often using football analogies to describe the Covid-19 situation in England.

Mattioli Woods is the headline partner for the Annual Dinner, with Fraser Stretton Property Group and Pattersons Commercial Law also partners.

Individual tickets cost £95 + VAT and tables of 10 cost £900 + VAT for members. Visit bit.ly/EMCAnnualDinner22

Our upcoming 25th Enterprising Women Awards gala dinner is fast approaching and following a huge number of quality applications submitted for the awards, we are set to celebrate among the East Midlands’ most talented and deserving professionals.

As an awards ceremony created to celebrate female talent, this year we are incredibly excited to have introduced a brand-new Diversity Champion award, which will recognise all genders for their support of women in business.

Alongside this new category, we have also received a fantastic response to our new Rising Star and Lifetime Achievement categories. Between now and our summer networking barbecue event on 9 June, our wonderful sponsors have the difficult task of shortlisting finalists within their categories which will be revealed on the day.

Tickets for the finalists announcement event are now available. It is open to both members and non-members to celebrate and show support for the final line-up in the Enterprising Women Awards 2022.

Finalists will be announced at an event held at Winstanley House, in Leicester, on Thursday 9 June from 1pm to 4.30pm. It costs £35 + VAT for members and £60 + VAT for non-members. To book a place, visit bit.ly/EWSummerBBQ22

Learn how to tender for work Businesses can learn about a range of procurement opportunities at an upcoming seminar hosted by the Chamber.

Titled Developing New Business Opportunities, it seeks to boost the confidence of small organisations to tender for locallyavailable work.

It is delivered in partnership with the University of Nottingham and forms part of the Power of Partnerships: Driving Change in the East Midlands Conference.

The free event is held at East Midlands Conference Centre (pictured) in Nottingham on Friday 17 June from 8.30am to 10.30am. It aims to clarify processes involved, showcase where the opportunities are to be found, the type of requirements and eligibility criteria required, and

share some examples of best-practice.

It offers an informal opportunity to raise any questions or concerns about existing processes to the speakers, and provides potential suppliers with the know-how to identify and tender for contract opportunities.

Kaj Ghattaora, head of procurement at Nottinghamshire County Council, will explain the types of tender opportunities the local authority offers, where to find them and what criteria is important to them. There will then be details about tender opportunities and processes within the NHS. To book a place, visit bit.ly/ EMCProcurementSeminar June 2022 business network

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DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

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DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

Get help with digital challenges The Digital Upscaler project supports high-growth businesses looking to invest in new technologies or facing barriers to growth due to a lack of understanding of the digital landscape. One of the Chamber’s digital technology advisers Jason Roper explains his role and offers advice to businesses.

What does your role involve and who do you support?

Working with senior leadership teams of SMEs by supporting, mentoring and advising digital transformation, technology strategy and investment opportunities.

How has the support you provide businesses evolved in recent years?

Growth opportunities have evolved from simple “business transformation” to be focused on maximising the benefit and capability of technology – including to help change culture, improve technology integration, digital adoption and long-term strategic value.

Why should businesses turn to the Digital Upscaler?

Relying on external IT expertise has proven challenging to many SMEs. The Digital Upscaler programme has been developed to support SMEs that lacked trust in the digital products and services they were being provided, and offers access to impartial, transparent expertise across a massive range of technical needs. This helps business leaders make informed and considered decisions about investment in technology.

The Digital Upscaler team can support businesses in any industry with any digital-related challenge.

With many years of supporting SMEs – understanding the challenges they face in accessing funding and support through the local business community, as well as universities and local authority services – we help to make informed and considered decisions.

Jason Roper (far right) and the Digital Upscaler team

I specialise in working with businesses challenged by technology implementation, whether it be internet of things, artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, robotics, Manufacturing 4.0, or cloud XaaS application development, deployment or implementation to name a few. I have experience in using the agile, waterfall, SCRUM and PRINCE2 project management methods to integrating web and app technologies into business success.

Why is technology important to businesses today?

The complexities of implementing technology into an organisation, and the process change and culture challenges that arise within the workforce, can be debilitating and often the biggest barrier to success. Taking a top-down approach to technology adoption, with people at the forefront of the business, allows technology to drive efficiency, quality and effective processes that create a frictionless environment for both customer and workforce, drive growth and empower success.

Which area of the digital agenda do you believe is going to be a priority for business adoption in the coming years?

Technology should enable humans to step away from screens, have more informed conversations and build better human-to-human relationships. To do this will require exhaustive use of automation opportunities, as well as adoption of alternative means of interacting with systems and processes.

The “metaverse” will play an important role in this. Being able to manage or operate a fully digital manufacturing plant from across the world, or sell real and virtual products to consumers for their human and avatar lives, will drive a digital and physical economy in tandem.

What is your area of specialism and why is this important for businesses?

How should a business start with their digital transformation journey?

The Digital Upscaler Project can help businesses have a better understanding of the state of digital maturity. In doing so, it will help inform the business what expertise it needs to not only deliver new technology investment but drive digital skilled recruitment and training.

Which challenges are business facing when embracing digital transformation?

The biggest challenge business faces today are a lack of digital skills. Even digital-centric businesses often struggle with growth as the focus is on “filling a

gap” or as a knee-jerk reaction to a need. Formulating a long-term digital strategy, identifying future digital plans and aspirations, will help inform on skills needed to drive that digital aspiration.

And just as a development agency needs to have programmers capable of coding, a joinery business needs joiners with digital skills to be able to work with laser cutters or lathes. Investing in a new CRM (customer relationship management) or ERP (enterprise resource planning) system requires staff to have digital skills to be able to maximise the benefits of the investment.

How to access digital business support Are you a high-growth business looking to invest in new technologies to propel your business? Is your business facing barriers to growth due to a lack of understanding of new technologies? If so, then get on board with the Digital Upscaler project.

Part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber, it aims to provide highgrowth businesses in Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire with the knowledge, investment and capacity to scale up through embracing new technologies.

Visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/digitalupscaler

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DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY Ann Stanley

Register now for digital conference Some of the world’s leading experts in e-commerce, lead generation, social media, paid search and SEO will be among the keynote speakers at Leicester Digital Live.

Organised by Anicca Digital, the digital marketing conference first launched in 2015 takes place at Winstanley House, in Leicester, on Tuesday 7 June from 9am to 5pm.

It aims to give delegates practical advice and interesting digital content that can be implemented within their own businesses.

Two streams of talks will provide technical and practical support, with sessions aimed at a range of people from the most experienced to those just entering the world of digital marketing.

Ann Stanley, founder and CEO at Anicca Digital, said: “The world of digital is evolving at pace and when you factor in outside influences from the last few months, there are techniques that all levels of marketeers and business can benefit from.

“Mindful that not everyone is able to attend the live event, we have created a catch-up conference to enable people to avoid missing out on what promises to be an engaging and insightful day.”

Confirmed speakers include Amit Sinha, chief technology officer for private equity at Microsoft UK, and internationallyrenowned experts including Greg Clifford from Search Labs, Ariel Sumeruk from Conversion Science. Global tech suppliers including Yoast, Ahrefs, Semrush and InLink are also represented, while East Midlands-based speakers include Martin Broadhurst from Broadhurst Digital and Callum McKeefery from Reviews.io.

Tickets cost £60, including a hot buffet and refreshments.

To register, visit anicca.co.uk/ leicester-digital-live-2022

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Are you ready to make the switch from PSTN? The UK’s analogue telephone network (PSTN) has been used for more than 100 years, but will be switched off between now and 2025. Awareness of the consequences are low and the impact to businesses could be significant. However, for those wanting to embrace the move to digital, the benefits can be transformational. Damian Fisher (pictured), managing director of telecoms and transformation at Hexagon Consultants, explains what’s happening and what businesses need to do.

What’s happening?

You may remember about 10 years ago when the whole country moved from analogue to digital TV. Now there is another nationwide switchover taking place as the old telephone network is being replaced by a new digital one, so everything needs to move in just three-and-a-half years. It’s not only voice services affected as many others use the PSTN to communicate critical information, such as intruder and healthcare alarms, CCTV, monitoring systems, point-of-sale machines, door entry systems and emergency phones in lifts and faxes.

Why is it happening?

The PSTN has powered the phone network since the late 1800s, but we’ve all seen the dramatic changes in technology over the past few years and the need to be constantly connected wherever we are. What isn’t obvious is the complex infrastructure that makes it all work – the copper cables under the pavement and telephone wires coming into homes and offices. The fact is that analogue systems are now incapable of satisfying our demands, are at the end of service life and, like many old technologies, need to be retired and make way for the infinite possibilities of digital.

Why are we talking about this now?

There are an estimated 2.4 million businesses using PSTN-based services and they all need to migrate by 2025. However, the more pressing date is September 2023 when analogue products are withdrawn from sale – meaning customers can no longer order, change or upgrade their service, move provider or increase capacity.

Organisations will face complex migration programmes, risk noncompliant insurance policies and may be unable to upgrade kit due to global supply chain issues.

Is digital better?

In short yes, as with digital you can make calls on any device from wherever you are. Business applications and systems link with video chat, calls and collaboration services, so you can work virtually and as effectively as ever.

Contact centres integrate seamlessly with wider business services, allowing you to improve user experience. Research shows SMEs that switched have saved about 31% of total telephony costs, so there’s no need to wait until the last moment and risk being switched off.

What do I do next?

If you haven’t already, I urge you to review your telecommunications infrastructure, understand how the switch-off will affect you and ideally seek professional advice. We are here to help Chamber members and as part of our relationship, we are providing a free consultation.

Damian will explain the telephony network switch-off in more detail during a free Chamber webinar, also featuring Aston Lark covering the insurance implications, on 13 July from 10-11am. To register, visit bit.ly/EMCtelephony

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DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

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BUSINESS NETWORK

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LEGAL

Where there’s a will, there’s a way: Demystifying intestacy rules The current intestacy rules were prescribed in 1925 and have not been comprehensively reviewed for more than 20 years. With fewer than four in 10 UK adults having made a will, it could be presumed the implications are widely understood. However, Jak Ward (pictured), partner at Roythornes Solicitors, believes this is not the case and the rules need to be more widely recognised in order to avoid the loss of a loved one becoming a financial tragedy too.

When a person dies leaving no will, they are said to have died intestate. As they have not provided directions on how they wish their assets to be dealt with, their estate is shared out in accordance with a set of legal principles known as “the intestacy rules”.

This is set out in legislation at section 46 of the Administration of Estates Act 1925, which has not been comprehensively reviewed for more than 20 years. A slight adjustment to the spousal legacy was made in 2020.

With fewer than four in 10 UK adults having made a will, the intestacy rules are becoming more and more prevalent. In 2021, the wills, trust and probate market proved this as it passed the £2bn mark for the first time.

The ever-changing scope of modern-day families mean the intestacy rules have been subject to scrutiny for not reflecting modernday circumstances and being inflexible – causing inter-family disputes involving half-siblings, illegitimate children, cohabitant or

Sarah WalkerSmith

concubine relationships, and separations without divorce.

That said, they are arguably the fairest resolution in a typical family scenario.

Where a family is so far against the grain of a typical family, they are urged to make a will to rectify any unwanted devolution of their wealth after death.

TO FURTHER COMPLICATE matters, they are not a hard and fast set of principles for every scenario. The rules differ depending upon the value of the estate, and who survives them. For many, they are quite difficult to navigate, so there is a small number of likely scenarios that are worthy of extra attention.

• Where the estate is worth less than £270,000 (the current applicable spousal legacy figure) and the deceased dies leaving a surviving spouse, the surviving spouse shall take everything absolutely • Where the estate is worth more than £270,000 and the deceased

dies, leaving a spouse and no children, the surviving spouse shall take everything absolutely • Where the estate is worth more than £270,000 and the deceased dies, leaving a surviving spouse and children, then the surviving spouse will inherit the first £270,000 plus personal possessions, with a trust created for the remainder – which is split equally between the spouse and children. If a child pre-deceased the deceased, then the deceased’s grandchildren will take their parent’s share • If the deceased had no spouse but was survived by their children, then their children will inherit the entire estate absolutely and in equal shares, with it being passed on to grandchildren where a child has pre-deceased the deceased • If the deceased had no spouse, and no children, then the

deceased’s surviving relatives will inherit in the following order: Parents, siblings (or siblings’ children), half-siblings (or half siblings’ children), grandparents, uncles and aunts, cousins, siblings of the half-blood of a parent or their children. If a person dies without leaving any of the above surviving relatives, then the entire estate will go to the Crown bona vacantia.

It is important to remember the intestacy rules do not recognise unmarried “common law” partners.

As I’ve suggested already, the rules can be inequitable or unfair.

However, surviving dependents of the deceased may be able to bring a claim against the estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 – under which a contentious trusts and probate team can help with making claims.

Professional services group in merger The parent company of East Midlands-based law firm Shakespeare Martineau has completed its merger with a company based in Sussex.

Ampa has joined forces with Mayo Wynne Baxter, making it the national legal and professional services group’s South East legal anchor brand.

It brings the group to a turnover above £100m in the next financial year and takes headcount to more than 1,200 people.

There have been no redundancies and no money was exchanged in the merger. Mayo Wynne Baxter’s equity partners are now part of Ampa’s membership but the firm will

continue to operate as a separate LLP with its own brand.

Ampa CEO Sarah Walker-Smith said: “Transition for clients will be seamless as Mayo Wynne Baxter remains a standalone LLP in the group. However, clients will benefit from access to experts from our other brands including legal and non-legal teams.”

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FINANCE

David Ryley

Financial adviser secures acquisition Ryley Wealth Management has continued to expand its business with the successful acquisition of Lincolnshirebased Whitelock Financial Planning.

The Nottingham-based financial adviser will retain three members of the Whitelock team – Mandy Coote, Mel Flear, and Emma Smyth, who will continue to work from their current office in Kirton in Lindsey.

Established by director Julie Whitelock in 2012 as a partner practice of St James’ Place, Whitelock Financial Planning holds a strong reputation across its local area for a personal and bespoke approach to financial planning.

With the acquisition, Ryley Wealth Management will take over servicing for all its existing clients.

This follows on from Ryley Wealth Management previously merging the assets of Bentley Park Associates in 2021.

David Ryley, chief executive of Ryley Wealth Management, said: “Julie and I have known each other for years, and we have a very similar ethos when it comes to offering friendly, appropriate and bespoke advice for all our clients.

“She ran a tight ship, and I am delighted that we can now take over servicing for her clients as she enjoys a wellearned retirement. We’re also looking forward to continuing the relationship which Whitelock Financial Planning previously built with charities, sports teams, and arts initiatives in the area, as we support and champion important local causes across our shared community.”

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EOTs are going from strength to strength

By Andy Ryder (pictured), corporate finance partner at Shorts Chartered Accountants Employee ownership brings several unique benefits to a company, its previous owners and staff.

Independent research has demonstrated that employee-owned companies are highly resilient, sustainable and more profitable in the long run.

This is because staff at all levels directly benefit from its success, resulting in greater motivation, a more entrepreneurial mindset and greater long-term commitment.

Employees who jointly own their business get a meaningful say in how it operates. The generous incentives available can also help raise employment standards.

An employee ownership trust (EOT) is the most popular employee ownership model, and it combines distinctive benefits for all parties involved.

For starters, in appropriate circumstances, an EOT is the most tax-efficient way to sell a company, with zero capital gains tax. The selling shareholders benefit from certainty of exit in a clear timeframe, and a guarantee they will receive the full market value for the shares.

Succession can be implemented over a longer period to facilitate a smooth transition, and give assurances that employees are being taken care of.

As for the employees, they can receive tax-free annual bonuses of up to £3,600 once the previous shareholders have been fully remunerated. This gives them a tangible reward for their contribution to the company.

Where a trade sale by a hostile

‘Employee-owned companies are highly resilient, sustainable and more profitable in the long run’ purchaser may put staff at risk longer term, an EOT allows the exiting shareholder to protect their staff, as well as their personal legacy.

The Employee Ownership Association’s annual report on the 50 largest employee-owned companies in the UK highlighted a combined £21.1bn in combined sales in 2021, up 6.7% on a like-for-like basis.

BENEFITS OF EOTS The benefits of an EOT are widely reported, but due to its relatively recent emergence, less is widely known about what happens after the transaction. Shorts has helped several businesses transition to an EOT, and along the way we have learned what it means to companies, staff and the seller afterwards.

One client noted the experience was very positive and, importantly, it was business as usual for the staff and its clients, who were all very enthusiastic about the move.

Succession planning, ensuring the right people take on the responsibilities at the top of the business, is crucial. Communication is key and assuring the team and clients that the change of ownership is both financially and operationally beneficial, goes a long way to ensuring a smooth transition.

Another client noted an

immediate positive shift in attitude among their staff, who realised the scale of the opportunity that employee ownership presented them with and grasped it with both hands.

There are some important considerations that must be made.

Potential sellers will need to ensure they understand deferred consideration, and the team must understand it might take a little while to be paid off, but the employees will collectively benefit long-term through bonuses.

It is also important to note that if the owner is getting a deferred payment over a period of time, and their personal circumstances change (such as through ill health), they may look to refinance that deferred.

Our clients are yet to report on any negative outcomes from selling to an EOT, and we expect the soaring popularity of EOT to continue growing as more retiring and exiting shareholders understand its unique benefits.

An EOT may not be appropriate for every company, but if you are looking for an exit strategy that is tax-efficient and safeguards the future success of your business, we encourage you to speak to the Shorts team for advice.

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FINANCE

AI solution for digital documents Loughborough University has worked with Xceptor to develop an AI-based software solution for analysing digital documents – which will simplify and speed up complex tasks within the banking, financial and insurance industries.

The 18-month knowledge transfer partnership (KTP) has delivered an innovative deep learning model based on natural language processing (NLP).

The software analyses the content and structure of a range of digital documents, including invoices and tax forms, sorting the information into categories for ease of use.

This improved system will be applied to a variety of financial practices for Londonbased Xceptor’s customers worldwide – streamlining processes for opening bank accounts, approving mortgages, responding to customer queries and managing insurance claims.

In addition to the new software product line, the KTP has also enhanced the organisation’s project management, people management and technical leadership skills – supporting further R&D pipelines

and innovation.

The academic lead Professor Baihua Li (pictured), from Loughborough’s School of Science, said: “Extracting required information from a large number of documents is currently a very timeconsuming manual process.

“Developing AI solutions to learn contextual meaning and correlation presented in complexly structured documents is extremely challenging.

“We are pleased that

Loughborough University's specialists in NLP and machine learning are working with Xceptor on this game-changing innovation, and can successfully integrate the AI automation function into the company’s smart document analysis platform for improved speed and accuracy.”

Chris Smith, AI technical lead at Xceptor, added: “As well as the technical achievements of the KTP – which have created significant new commercial opportunities for

Xceptor – working with the academic team has allowed us to build the skills we need to develop robust and innovative AI capabilities independently. We’ve also found a fantastic partnership with the university, which we hope to continue long after the KTP.” Discussions are already underway to uncover further areas for collaborative research. Several topics with wide application impacts have been identified – including rapid automated data extraction to accelerate checks of fraudulent activity.

The KTP has delivered several other benefits for the university – spanning new learning materials for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, extensive industry experience for the academic team, a paper for submission to a high-impact research journal, and a valuable recruitment pipeline for graduates.

Dr Matt Hogan, knowledge transfer adviser at the Knowledge Transfer Network, added: “This has been a highly successful KTP. The team have delivered commercially relevant outputs that enhance Xceptor’s offering whilst advancing the academic research agenda.”

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SKILLS

College awarded further education chartered status North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC) has been awarded chartered status in recognition of the high quality of its further and higher education skills provision.

It was awarded by the Chartered Institution for Further Education, the only organisation in the UK with royal assent to provide chartered status to further education providers.

‘Chartered status will enable us to take advantage of the latest developments’ The college’s specialisms include engineering, digital, logistics and supply chain, health and life sciences, and creative art. It has multiple partnerships with stakeholders including the Leicester and Leicestershire Local Enterprise Partnership and WorldSkills UK. Principal and chief executive Marion Plant OBE FCGI said: “NWSLC has a long history of engagement with its local community, serving the skills requirements of employers, and working with our partners to develop high standards of further and higher education across our region.

“We hope chartered status will enable us to take advantage of the latest developments in further and education skills delivery and look forward to working with our peers within the Institution in the future.”

NWSLC has been rated as a “good” college with outstanding features since 2019 and has recorded high levels of satisfaction among students through FE Choices and National Student Survey research.

It works with more than 500 employers providing skills training, apprenticeships and work experience, and is building its portfolio of industry placements, a key feature of the new T levels.

Examples of its strong track record in working collaboratively with industry include leading the launch of the MIRA Technology Institute, which provides in-demand skills to the automotive industry in areas such as electric and autonomous vehicles; establishing a partnership of logistics and supply chain organisations for the Centre for Logistics and Research at Magna Park in Lutterworth; and operating a Digital Skills Academy with Coventry University to create a supply of skilled individuals to this growing sector.

Event highlighted careers in creative and IT sectors Bringing the best of digital, creative and IT careers into the spotlight was the theme for West Nottinghamshire College computer scientists.

A specialist employability event was organised by tutors and support staff in the lead-up to the half-term break in March.

It was designed to enable those studying on programmes such as IT networking and architecture, digital technician, interactive media, coding and logic to discover more about the various roles in the sector and learn more about the content of such jobs.

Ex-students were among the speakers, including Brandon Louth, who completed his Level 3 qualifications in coding and logic, cloud services and business processes in 2021. He now works as a client support specialist at Derbybased software company Kappture 76

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Brandon Louth

IT, and gave advice to students on interview skills.

Joe Smylie, chief technology officer and Nichola Dodd, head of human resources from Farnsfieldbased Custard Technical Services hosted a Q&A session. Students were invited to ask about their roles and the opportunities at the company, which is one of the Midlands’ leading providers for managed IT support services.

The Chamber member aims to set projects and accept students for work placements in the future.

Marion Plant OBE FCGI

Student chef cooks her way onto Dubai trip Student chef Sam Watkins (pictured) is heading for a dream trip to Dubai after winning one of the UK’s toughest cookery competitions.

The 18-year-old, who studies hospitality and catering at Loughborough College, won the Back of House Student category at the Nestle Toque d’Or 2022 Grand Final after a gruelling three-day finale in London.

Her prize is an all-expenses-paid trip to the World Chefs Congress & Expo 2022 in Abu Dhabi, as well as a gastronomic weekend in Dubai.

She said: “When they called my name out as a winner, it was mindblowing. It has been an amazing week and I’ve learned so much.”

The final was a three-day experience during which judges scrutinised the finalists’ every move, team-working skill, adaptability and how well they understood each element of the tasks.

They were observed closely during educational visits to farms to learn about sustainable foods and bee pollination, animal welfare and an exploration of ingredients at the world-famous Borough Market in London.

The final challenge put competitors together in a fine-dining kitchen to produce high-quality dishes for guests.

Earlier this year, Sam finished second in the national Riso Gallo Young Risotto Chef of the Year and so impressed one of the judges that he offered her a job in his restaurant.

Darren Creed, Sam’s tutor and Loughborough College’s curriculum manager for hospitality and catering, added: “This is the icing on the cake for Sam who is having a remarkable year in competitions and in her development as a chef. We are so proud of her.”

As well as the trip abroad, the Savoy Education Trust will provide £1,000 to each college taking part in the grand finals and £2,500 for the winning colleges to be used to purchase equipment from Russums.

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BUSINESS NETWORK

Amazon teams up with Chamber for training event Amazon teamed up with the Chamber to host an innovative event aimed at plugging the skills gap for businesses in the East Midlands.

Businesses from across the region had the opportunity to learn more about Amazon’s Career Choice programme as part of an event – the first of its kind in the UK – hosted by the Chamber and Amazon at the ecommerce firm’s Kegworth fulfilment centre last month.

Last year, Amazon UK announced a £10m investment to train up to 5,000 employees in new skills via its Career Choice programme, where the company pays course fees for its employees who have expressed an interest in pursuing a career elsewhere in Amazon or outside the company.

The programme provides funding for adult education by prepaying 95% of tuition and associated fees for nationallyrecognised courses – up to £8,000

over four years. Courses available range from accountancy to HGV drivers and software developers.

‘This is a great initiative from Amazon to plug this skills gap’ The Kegworth event provided businesses with the opportunity to learn about Career Choice, meet some of the programme’s training providers and network with Amazon employees who are either taking part in the scheme or are due to take part in the future.

Celia Syme, general manager at Amazon in Kegworth, said: “Amazon is a proud member of the business community in the East Midlands and this event underlines our commitment to the region.

“We’ve enjoyed welcoming local businesses to our fulfilment centre

Amazon’s Kegworth fulfilment centre General Manager Celia Syme meets exhibitor Charlee Oldham from Futures for Business

and I hope many of them will take advantage of our Career Choice programme in the weeks and months to follow.”

The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey has highlighted a skills shortage in the region – while 63% of East Midlands businesses attempted to recruit in the first quarter of the year, four in five of these reported difficulties – and the network identifies the programme as a mechanism for assisting members looking for new recruits.

Chief executive Scott Knowles said: “This is a great initiative from Amazon to plug this skills gap within the region’s business

community and provide a boost for the economy. We’re delighted to have been the first chamber of commerce to host one of these regional events, bringing benefit to our members and to the wider East Midlands community.”

Career Choice student Ash Moosa, from Leicester, has been area manager at the Kegworth fulfilment centre for the past two years.

“One of the most amazing things about my job is to inspire others to better their own life by making use of Career Choice,” said Ash, who is part-way through a two-year HR management course.

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Photo credit: Dan Matthams

PROPERTY

New office for expanding agency A growing creative agency has taken on the lease of an office spanning more than 27,000 sq ft in a deal agreed

by FHP Property Consultants.

CCM Group, which oversees the Summit Creative brand, moved into the building in Julias Way, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, earlier this year.

It recently launched another business called We Are Fulfilment, which integrates clients’ sales channels to streamline shipping and order fulfilment.

Director Richard Ardis said: “Since launching We Are Fulfilment, we’ve been overwhelmed at the interest that successful, national businesses and brand-new start-up retailers have taken in our new fulfilment service.

“We’ve outgrown our current warehouse facility within 12 months and are excited to invest in a new location to help expand our offering and help our growing base of clients take their businesses to the next level.”

FHP director Tim Gilbertson completed the deal within 28 days of terms being agreed with the landlord and solicitors being instructed.

He added: “This is a cracking building with a big car park to the front elevation and a further large yard, in a great spot just off the A38, so it’s no surprise a deal was done so swiftly.

“My clients deserve credit as we gave the advice to completely refurbish the building and present it immaculately, which they certainly achieved and, as a result, they have been rewarded by a strong deal that suits both our investor clients and the new occupier alike.

“We wish both parties well for the future and as ever, I must reiterate that the market continues to go from strength to strength, and more space is needed for buyers and tenants across the board in terms of size and location as demand continues to far outweigh supply.”

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From left: James Coningsby, Roberto Isella, Liberato Mazza and Palbir Vadesha at Ferarri’s Trattoria in Quorn

Historic restaurant sale supported by law firm A beloved Leicestershire restaurant has been given a new lease of life following a deal supported by East Midlands law firm Nelsons.

Ferarri, a long-established Italian trattoria in Quorn, has been acquired for an undisclosed sum by Roberto Isella and Liberato Mazza following the retirement of its longtime owners, the Buttarazzi family.

The transaction involved the purchase of the restaurant business and the grant of a new lease for the building to Roberto and Liberato which has been supported

by Palbir Vadesha on the corporate aspects and James Coningsby on the commercial property elements from Nelsons.

Liberato said: “During the lockdown, my team and I were looking for a fresh challenge and came across Ferrari when searching for a restaurant with an excellent reputation.

‘We enjoy facilitating deals that we know will bring happiness to the local Leicester community’ “Quorn is a fantastic area with a healthy customer base, which we are truly excited to welcome back to the restaurant. We invited designer Pam Dasanjh Coningsby to completely redesign the interior but kept the same delicious menu that customers have come to expect from Ferrari.”

Roberto and Liberato have operated the highly regarded Timo restaurant in Stoneygate, Leicester, for many years and have worked together for more than 20 years after Roberto arrived in the UK to study restaurant management.

Roberto said: “When I bought my

first restaurant in Leicester 15 years ago, I used Nelsons for my property acquisition, and today it still demonstrates the same amazing professionalism it showed all those years ago. We have many business proposals in the pipeline, and we wouldn’t consider any other law firm for our transactions.”

Palbir Vadesha, associate and solicitor in Nelsons’ corporate services team, who led the purchase of the restaurant said: “We’re very proud to have been involved in the purchase of such an iconic Leicester restaurant and are delighted that the transaction was seamless for both parties.

“Being a Leicester-based lawfirm, we enjoy facilitating deals that we know will bring happiness to the local Leicester community, and we know that Roberto and his team will add real value to the restaurant and the community in Quorn.”

FHP snaps up remaining industrial units

Amy Howard and Anthony Barrowcliffe of FHP Property Consultants at Whyburn Business Park

The last four remaining industrial units at Whyburn Business Park, in Hucknall, have been brought to market by FHP Property Consultants.

The remaining units of the recently-completed phase one, in which nine units were developed, include a combination of 1,765 sq ft and 2,131 sq ft buildings, featuring parking and yard space alongside other amenities.

A second and third phase are scheduled for development to offer additional small and medium-sized warehouses.

FHP is marketing the site, in Wigwam Lane, on behalf of Total Aggregates and Total Reclaims.

Amy Howard, surveyor in FHP’s industrial team, said: “It is apparent there has been a shortage of small to medium-sized units and this continues to be the case, especially for new builds.

“The remaining units on this site and further phases confirmed for development shows promising opportunities for occupiers looking to secure warehouse space.”

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PROPERTY

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MOTORING

SQ5 is the

pocket rocket

By Nick Jones, motoring journalist hile diesel is not completely off the shopping list at the moment, it’s certainly pause for thought if you’re in the market for a new car. I can vouch for the previous Audi SQ5 – its diesel engine was incredibly smooth and punchy, and really struck a chord with me. But here, the new SQ5 has a new Euro 6 diesel engine with better emissions and more power.

It packs a 3.0-litre, twin-scroll turbocharged V6 under the bonnet, and stirs a whopping 350 horsepower, promising serious performance figures.

It also has an electric powered compressor (EPC) to improve the engine’s low-end response.

It runs off a 48-volt, mild hybrid electric system that has two main functions – it recovers energy during braking to power the EPC, allowing the engine to switch off altogether and coast for periods of up to 40 seconds when you lift off.

W

‘Love the mid-range torque though – it can out-accelerate virtually anything in running’ All SQ5s come with a well-appointed interior, with soft Nappa leather sports seats that are fully adjustable and extremely comfy. Visibility from them is equally good, as it has rather slender pillars and lots of glass space with front and rear sensors to help with parking.

The brilliant MMI (multimedia interface) navigation infotainment system is standard. Everything can be controlled and scrolled via a menu using a rotary dial without the need to reach out, and from the comfort of your seat.

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It’s just as roomy as any Q5, with plenty of head, leg and shoulder space, and has a decent-sized boot to fit the golf clubs in. I like the 40/20/40 split for the rear seats – more so the fact they slide and recline respectively.

Standard kit as you’d presume is quite comprehensive but, as always, the extras you can add to the price of the car seems to get longer and longer.

As you’ve probably gathered, it’s the most expensive in the range to buy and, indeed, run. The engine produces a nice throb on start-up, and you can tell this car has power. It uses an eight-speed auto gearbox, and has paddle shifts behind the steering wheel if you want to shift manually.

You can decide also which driving mood (or mode) to suit, the most soothing of which is comfort – the car seems to “chill” and soothes out any road imperfections.

It’s a great way to potter about for sure, but if you want to drive by the seat of your pants then it has to be “dynamic”. This sharpens all the car’s damper settings, accelerator response and reduces body roll if you’re pushing it on a tad, thanks to the brilliant adaptive air suspension.

So, how does it drive? Well, it’s damn quick for sure and has a real amount of thump in any gear when you bury the right foot; the engine makes a wonderful noise I must also point out. Love the midrange torque though – it can out-accelerate virtually anything in running.

So then, has the diesel (as opposed to a big, burbling V8 petrol) worked? Absolutely. It would be my choice of transport for sure.

FACTFILE MODEL Audi SQ5

PRICE OTR from £54,580

PERFORMANCE Top speed: 155mph 0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds

CO2 EMISSIONS 216g/km

COMBINED MPG 43mpg

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INFORMATION

Ways to retain staff amid ‘The Great Resignation’ One in four workers reportedly left their jobs last year in “The Great Resignation”, making employee retention a priority for SMEs. Bev Brady (pictured), operations director at Leicestershire HR consultancy Breedon Consulting, explains how businesses can make this a key focus.

1. RECRUITMENT PROCESS Retaining talent always begins with the recruitment process. It’s important to not over-promise to candidates at the first stage – setting transparent expectations of the role and their responsibilities is a must.

Although employers should remain vigilant of gaps in applicants’ knowledge, identifying candidates who exhibit research abilities will fill those gaps when the need arises. Carrying out profiling exercises is a great way to improve your likelihood of recruiting the right person who will fit your business.

2. INCENTIVES With the cost of doing business rising and some SMEs unable to compete with larger firms to increase salaries, considering

alternative incentives can ensure you are supporting your employees in a meaningful way while helping to relieve them financially.

Examples could include paying for parking permits or transport, offering remote working to save expenses or signing up to employee benefit and reward platforms such as Perkbox.

3. COMPANY CULTURE The key to retaining talent is enjoyment and satisfaction – if the employee enjoys and feels proud to be a part of your vision, they will remain engaged and feel a sense of community.

Organising opportunities for staff to interact is key for establishing a healthy and positive company culture. Lunches, after work drinks or volunteer opportunities are a great place to start.

4. WELLBEING PROGRAMMES Looking after employee mental health and wellbeing should be of paramount importance to business owners, along with open communication in the workplace to ensure workers feel supported.

The Breedon Workplace Wellbeing Programme gives SMEs access to a variety of content such as first aid for mental health awareness training, manager checkins, one-to-one coaching and workshops.

This holistic style approach can translate to reductions in sickness absence, presenteeism and staff turnover, and increases in productivity and creativity.

5. FLEXIBILITY Flexibility continues to remain crucial when retaining staff, as employees request remote working

days to remain part of their working life post-Covid.

Employers should agree what the expectations are for working from home and flexible working, while keeping in mind that the more trust and freedom you can give employees to find the right hours and right working location, the more chance you have to retain them.

6. INVEST IN UPSKILLING AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Talk to employees about how they will play their part in the company vision and how their career could develop within this plan.

By promoting continuous learning and development, and using tools such as skills gap analysis, employers can boost employees’ job satisfaction, remain competitive and bring out the full potential of its existing workforce.

Contact us now T: 01623 825516 E: nfsl@notts-fire.co.uk June 2022 business network

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COMMENT

THE LAST WORD CSR is close to Chamber president LINDSEY WILLIAMS’ heart but she feels its meaning could be broadened and realigned to have a greater impact, as the Futures Housing Group chief executive explains.

REDEFINING CSR This month’s magazine focuses on CSR. I’m a huge supporter of the idea that organisations should be actively engaged in and helping communities.

I also appreciate that some people don’t like the term CSR. Indeed I have read articles on LinkedIn suggesting changing the word “corporate” to “human”.

Now it’s far from my capabilities to change the dictionary or stop people using a well-known acronym, but “corporate social responsibility” doesn’t really cut it for me either. So I took it upon myself to redefine what CSR means to me.

EVERYTHING STARTS WITH A ‘C’ Let’s start at the beginning with “C”. I think our focus should be more around “community” than “corporate”. That puts the emphasis right from the start on the recipients of the support organisations can offer, rather than the “helper”.

And “corporate” suggests that only commercial businesses can reach out to those in need, whereas I believe every organisation, as well as the individuals within them, have a huge amount to give, not just those with profits to spare.

It also recognises that businesses are part of, and can have, a massive impact on the communities within which they work. It surely engages employees more as quite possibly they will be living within the communities they work.

SEEING ‘S’ MY WAY So what about the “S” – which traditionally stands for “social”. I prefer to think in terms of “service”. While there will always be a need for donations, it isn’t always what the community or organisation being supported may need.

To be of service, understanding what is really needed helps to make any support, whether that is financial or perhaps time and expertise, more effective. Maybe your time or expertise is what’s going to really count, helping to raise the profile of the charity or supporting lobbying for particular causes. There are so many diverse ways to help organisations or communities.

Many business leaders already understand this though. I was delighted at a recent president’s 82

business network June 2022

roundtable hosted by the Chamber, to find that every single person in the room was volunteering for the community in some capacity.

In this case, it included supporting voluntary groups, sitting on boards and taking part in fundraising – the list was inspiring.

If you haven’t already given this some thought, I’d encourage you to simply start by talking to those you want to support. Take the lead from them and you won’t go far wrong.

ROUNDING UP WITH AN ‘R’ Finally, that brings us round to “R”, which typically means “responsibility”. In my world, I prefer to think in terms of “real impact”.

Your time and resources and those of your organisations are precious. I’m sure you work hard to put them to the very best use and avoid waste as the leader, and it’s equally important to get any CSR activity to have impact.

Talking to those you wish to support will help you to understand how you, they and, crucially, the people they are helping can truly make the greatest impact.

WHY MEANING MATTERS For me, this isn’t just an academic exercise in playing with letters. I’ve had personal experience that shifted my point of view.

Some years ago, I went to Africa to help with construction projects for local communities.

Together with my peers, we built some toilets and community spaces. Along the way, we were asked to talk to local leaders about affordable

housing – how the system works here in the UK – and to advocate for change.

The feedback afterwards was that the knowledge we shared had a far bigger impact in terms of ideas and inspiration than my helping to build a wall. I actually don’t think the wall passed inspection and had to be rebuilt!

So my advice is to not be boxed in by terms, underestimate what you know or limit what you can share to financial contributions.

If this is a topic you are keen to get your teeth into more, then do join us at the CSR Summit on 7 June – more information is on p42.

And please don’t let me put you off making donations either as they are sure to be gratefully received – in fact, if that’s your thing then I hope to see you at some of our forthcoming charity fundraising events, including the charity race night at the Best Western Premier EMA Yew Lodge Hotel & Conference Centre, in Kegworth, on 23 June (see p67).

MORE CHANCES TO ENGAGE While we’re talking about events – I’m really looking forward to the Annual Dinner on 30 June.

This is one of the biggest dates in the Chamber’s calendar and, this year, our guest speaker is someone who has become a household name over the course of the pandemic.

I’m sure it’s going to be absolutely fascinating and enlightening to hear from Jonathan Van-Tam, who graced our screens regularly at the Government’s Covid-19 press conferences. Tickets are still available and I very much hope to see you there.

Finally, I must give a quick mention to the East Midlands Accelerator project. This Governmentfunded and Chamber-backed programme offers businesses access to a huge range of learning opportunities and expertise to help the region bounce back from the effects of the pandemic – to the tune of almost £6m of investment.

If you’re not involved, the project deadlines are fast approaching so now is a great time to find out more about it can help your business.

There is a lot more information on the Chamber’s website at www.emc-dnl.co.uk/ema

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