Business Connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 1

BUSINESS

PROMOTING ENTERPRISE

connect IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE

Q2 2022

Keeping the region moving Public transport and cycling - now greener and cheaper than ever before Pages 15-17

FEATURE: Communications & Marketing - Expert Advice PLUS: South Yorkshire Economic Summit - Full Report

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 2

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 3

Contents

BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

Welcome 5

Exploring the changes in South Yorkshire

Business News 7

New mayor challenges the Government ahead of levelling up deadline

9

Jobseekers supported by partnership

10 First economic summit brings together the region’s leaders 12 Jazz bar saved by Arts Council 15 Focus on Transport: A look at the improvements to public transport in the region 18 New sustainability centre planned for South Yorkshire 19 Former mayor leaves behind support fund 20 Local leaders back railway HQ bid 22 The smart way to manage your fleet

Features 26 Communications & Marketing Digital marketing for small businesses 28 Sofa, so good: the importance of brand recognition 30 Professional Services Why workplace well-being is well worth the effort 32 The value of having a strong employer brand

Sector Focus 37 Digital & Technology Digital agency targets growth 38 International Trade How has the 2020’s affected the freight industry?

40 Finance Major acquisition for accountants 42 Legal Lawyer voices his support for Barnsley 45 Skills & Training Lawyer voices his support for Barnsley 48 Corporate Hospitality A guide to restarting in-person events Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 3

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 4

Business Connect

4 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 5

Business Connect BUSINESS

connect PROMOTING ENTERPRISE IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE

Welcome ...to Business Connect

PUBLISHED BY

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 E: laura.blake@kempspublishing.co.uk DESIGNER Lloyd Hollingworth ADVERTISING T: 0121 765 4144 E: jon.jones@kempspublishing.co.uk PRINTERS Buxton Press W: www.buxtonpress.com Front cover: Improved public transport initiatives taking off in South Yorkshire See pages 15-17 The next issue of BUSINESS CONNECT will be available in August 2022 BUSINESS CONNECT by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed to businesses without charge. The publishers are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. While every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise.

Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd.

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 businesses and Kemps' customers; and • To offer marketing and promotional opportunities within this publication to businesses 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.

An exciting period of change as region continues to prosper It’s all change in South Yorkshire.

On 5 May, Oliver Coppard was elected as the new mayor of the region. He was directly elected by the electorate in the four South Yorkshire districts of Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield and will serve a four-year term. And, with 400 weeks to go until the Government’s levelling up deadline, Mr Coppard has already urged the prime minister to address the issues facing the residents of South Yorkshire (see page 7).

Some of Mr Coppard’s main priorities as mayor are to develop a clean energy strategy, to bring more investment into the region and to fix the bus system so public transport is more efficient – and public transport is a key theme of this issue of Business Connect.

On pages 15-17, in our Focus on Transport, we explore some of the exciting transport

developments in South Yorkshire, from a new cycling route that will directly connect Rotherham and Sheffield, to a plan to get zero-emission buses on the road in an effort to reduce air pollution. We also take a look at former mayor Dan Jarvis’ cheaper travel legacy, which has so far helped cut fares for over 23,000 young people.

This issue we also include a focus on Communications & Marketing and offer our top tips on digital marketing for small businesses (pages 2627). And in our Skills & Training section, we take a look at a number of exciting initiatives designed to train and upskill the next generation to help them get ready for the world of work (pages 46-47).

Change and development are certainly on the rise in South Yorkshire, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for the region.

‘Change and development is certainly on the rise’

Laura Blake EDITOR, BUSINESS CONNECT

BUSINESS CONNECT WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU! Please send your press releases and images to laura.blake@kempspublishing.co.uk for consideration for the next issue.

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 5

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 6

Business Connect

6 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 7

Business News New mayor issues a challenge to the Government liver Coppard has been elected as the new mayor of South Yorkshire. And, with 400 weeks to go until the Government’s levelling up deadline, Mr Coppard has challenged the Government to get on with delivering on their promise of improving the quality of life for millions across the country by their own deadline of 2030.

In an open letter, Oliver Coppard urged the prime minister to co-operate with him and leaders across South Yorkshire to address the disparities between the best and worst-off parts of the UK, highlighting the most pressing issues facing the communities of South Yorkshire.

The Government's ambitions in the levelling up white paper outlined their nation-wide plans to increase skills training, narrow the Healthy Life Expectancy between local areas where it is highest and lowest, and to bring public transport networks significantly closer to the standards found in London. The reality in South Yorkshire is that only 37% of residents are educated to degree level, compared to the national average of 44%. The healthy life expectancy is significantly lower in South Yorkshire's three towns for males and females (Barnsley 57.54 and Doncaster 59.08 compared to England 63.18). And in 2020, bus passenger journeys had fallen by nearly 60% across the region since privatisation in 1986.

In his letter, Oliver Coppard said: “Your Government has made clear its ambition to address the disparities between the best and worst-off parts of our country by 2030. Across the 12 missions articulated in the Levelling-Up White Paper, the evident disparities between the position in South Yorkshire and the ambitions you have so clearly articulated are all the result of political choices made over the last 40 years. If we are to overcome those disparities in just 400 weeks, then your Government must finally recognise and respond to the needs of our communities; our priorities must be your priorities. Our challenges must be your own.”

O

‘Our challenges must be your own’

Oliver Coppard

MCA chief executive Dave Smith leaves role Chief executive of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, Dr Dave Smith, has announced he is standing down from the role.

Dr Smith has led the organisation since his arrival in 2016. He worked with the mayor and Local Authority leaders to complete the region’s landmark devolution deal, acted as returning officer for the election of the South Yorkshire’s first and second mayors, and led the integration of the MCA and South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (PTE).

He will leave the post at the end of June 2022, after supporting the transition to a new mayor following the election on Thursday 5 May. Dr Smith said: “I am proud to have been part of the MCA’s journey and to have supported the mayor and LEP’s goals for South Yorkshire. It has been an immensely rewarding role to have and we have made great strides in challenging circumstances.

Dr Dave Smith

“After six years in the role I have decided the time is right for me to pursue other interests and opportunities.”

Former mayor of South Yorkshire Dan Jarvis said: “I want to thank Dave for his leadership and

commitment during my time as mayor, and the support he has provided local leaders and myself. We have faced many challenges together – getting devolution over the line Brexit transition, and a global pandemic – and we’re indebted to Dave for his expertise and endeavour during this time. I wish him all the very best for the future.”

Interim chair of the South Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership Lucy Nickson, said: “I want to commend Dave for his service to the business community in South Yorkshire.

“During his tenure, Dave has supported our efforts to make our region an even better place to live, work and invest. He has put in place strong foundations for the LEP to grow South Yorkshire’s economy at scale and pace in a way that benefits everyone.”

Arrangements for the appointment of a new chief executive will be confirmed in due course.

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 7

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 8

Business News

8 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 9

Business News

Jobseekers supported by new partnership pecialist service Aspire to Be and leading hotel brand Premier Inn have teamed up to fill job vacancies and provide practical work experience for Doncaster jobseekers.

The partnership will provide hands on, practical experience of working in a hotel for Aspire to Be service users, with the hope they will be better equipped to take on jobs within the hospitality sector.

Aspire to Be is a specialist service from Doncaster Deaf Trust that helps adults with learning disabilities and other difficulties gain life skills and employment.

Beata Gornik, hotel manager at Premier Inn Doncaster High Fishergate, Central East and Lakeside, said: “I was informed of the simulated hotel room Aspire to Be has and how their clients are given practical training on all aspects of cleaning a hotel suite to expected industry standards. I visited the site and was impressed by the set up and training given.

“It is really pleasing now to have a strong partnership in place where Aspire to Be service users are able to get the support and training from Aspire to Be and also come and get real life work experience with us at Premier Inn. Due to Aspire to Be’s level of service and training offered, some individuals who would otherwise struggle to gain employment are

S

now in work which can only be a positive thing. We are really confident in the Aspire to Be team and look forward to working with them moving forward with our recruitment needs.”

One success story from the partnership is Malgorzata Czyzewicz. The 42-year-old from Doncaster was long-term unemployed after her previous employer went bankrupt and then the Covid-19 pandemic struck – badly impacting her job search.

Malgorzata said: “I was feeling disheartened and had a very low mood. I was referred to Aspire to Be, where I met employment engagement officer Neil Keeton. Neil is a very kind person and listened to me as I talked about my past work and skills.

“He set up an interview for me for a receptionist position at Premier Inn. I was successful on my interview, and now I feel a very valued part of the team. I am very happy with my new role and appreciate the support received from Neil in obtaining the job.”

Neil said: “We are really pleased to be working with Premier Inn which is a fantastic way for our service users to learn about jobs within the hospitality sector, build their confidence and ensure that anyone who's capable of working can. Developing relationships with employers such as Premier

‘It really is a win-win situation for all involved’

Malgorzata Czyzewicz

Inn makes a real difference because our service users can get practical experience and at the same time it breaks down any stigma that may exist around employing people who face extra challenges.

“Managers in these organisations can see at first what our service users can bring to their role and to the wider company, so it really is a win-win situation for all involved.”

Can we truly operate on green energy?

By Azar Khan, director at Axiom Energy Living in the UK we find that there are a number of questions arising around the true impact and reliability of green energy, with weather conditions so sporadic, storms and constantly fluctuating temperatures. Can we rely on such an unreliable source?

Well, if we look at weather as a reason to doubt green energy then the way to make weather a constant source of energy is to use green energy. The use of green energy, whether that is using rooftop solar, wind farms or grid reliance, will make global impact while stabilising the planet as a whole.

that the way energy is generated will change.

If by chance a city doesn’t have enough sunlight or wind, then as technology advances with storage of energy becoming easily facilitated then energy can be generated in one area and moved to another. The switch will take some time however, but the sooner we all make the move the sooner these technologies can be put into gridlines. We need to emphasise here that sole dependence on green energy may not be the best way to operate, but reduction in conventional use of fossil fuels is the aim.

Renewable energy is reliable

Renewables benefit the economy

As long as there is a breeze and the sun shines, we have sources of energy. Reliance on National Grids is always going to be there, so as customers now receive energy from the grid lines this will always be a possibility. The only difference is

• Energy security Renewable energy provides reliable power supplies and fuel diversification, which enhance energy security and lower the risk of fuel spills while reducing the need for imported fuels. Renewable

energy also helps conserve the nation’s natural resources.

• Economic development The renewable energy industry is more labour intensive than its fossil fuel counterpart, meaning on average it creates more employment opportunities. The industry also creates positive ripple effects down to the renewable energy supply chain and unrelated businesses due to overall economic health and profit.

• Energy price stability Renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro, and geothermal do not incur fuel costs or require transportation. Therefore, they offer greater price stability – some electric utilities factor energy transportation costs into their retail prices. Removing the need to transport energy by road also removes this cost, greater profits, and greater saving for the end-

users. Renewable energy provides opportunities on multiple scales and, with the UK moving away from European Union, having a self-sufficient energy structure will only support the economy. Some of the positive contributions renewable energy has had are: • 72% emission reduction in the power sector since 1990 • 738,000 jobs are supported across the UK • 54% of the power is generated from low carbon sources • £13bn invested by the UK Energy sector • £95bn generated in economic activity through the supply chain • £770m spent by the sector in 2019 to support vulnerable customers through social schemes.

Visit: www.axiom-energy.co.uk Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 9

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 10

Business News

First economic summit brings together the region’s leaders rowth and economic renewal were the two key themes for the first South Yorkshire Economic Summit held in Sheffield recently, which was attended by over 160 business leaders, academics and innovators.

Keynote speakers were Andy Haldane, head of the Government’s Levelling Up Taskforce, former South Yorkshire mayor Dan Jarvis, and Lucy Nickson, chair of the South Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

The landmark summit explored the huge potential and opportunities for South Yorkshire and how the focus needs to be on building a skills and talent system that underpins economic transformation and the introduction of a new finance system that unlocks institutional, commercial, equity and community development finance in South Yorkshire.

Andy Haldane said: “This region is built on a fantastic industrial heritage and has great theatres, universities, wonderful countryside and strong connectivity. There are clusters of innovation and activity, but still the region is falling behind - South Yorkshire has a lower number of SME businesses than comparable regions in the north.

The challenge is therefore to encourage more new business start-ups across the region and to

G

Delegates heard keynote speeches

10 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

break down the barriers to finance, to enable established businesses to grow and move to the next level.”

Former mayor Dan Jarvis gave his reflections on the current opportunities in this region. He said: “The region is working well together, with strong collaborations between the private sector and the universities on some groundbreaking projects in energy, decarbonisation and digital. When businesses, innovators and academics collaborate like this, great things happen. South Yorkshire is the heartland of innovation and we have an amazing story to tell: one rooted in our proud heritage, with optimism and ambition for our future. To fully realise South Yorkshire’s potential we now need to support business growth, raise skills and mobilise finance to unlock the dazzling, brilliant potential of our people, of our enterprises, of our economy.

We can and must do so – creating a stronger, greener, fairer South Yorkshire for all.”

He also announced details of the South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre, which will bring together researchers, businesses and organisations across the region to co-design solutions to regional and global sustainability challenges and work towards net zero emissions by 2050 (see page 18).

Lucy Nickson, chair of the South Yorkshire Local Enterprise

Lucy Nickson, Dan Jarvis and Andy Haldane

UKAEA, AWRC, TES, Digital Media Partnership, focused on the Centre, AMRC and the Ultimate commitments made in the LEP’s Battery Company showcased the Strategic Economic Plan which aims many business success stories that to improve the lives of South are happening in South Yorkshire Yorkshire residents. She talked and how businesses can overcome about how the LEP is committed to barriers to continued growth and establishing a South Yorkshire prosperity.

Innovation Board to meet Delegates were given the challenges that an introduction to South Yorkshire faces ‘There are Bank North, head on. The board heralded as a new will focus on clusters of way to finance making more of innovation and business our existing assets, investment in the to grow further activity, but still North of England, the translational the region is

by Ron Emerson, research offer and falling behind’ the bank’s chairman. to develop new He said: “We’re setting business support up the first truly regional programmes to stimulate bank in what we believe is networks and collaboration 100 years. We’re creating pods in and to shift perceptions locally, different cities and communities nationally and internationally about where SMEs can approve a deal in the potential of South Yorkshire’s weeks and get better access to economy. finance.”

Following the keynote speeches, A panel discussion was held the summit consisted of a series of involving keynote speaker Ron panel discussions, covering the Emerson, Ian Stuart, CEO HSBC challenges South Yorkshire faces, British Bank, Ken Cooper, managing the opportunities and the wider director of Venture Solutions at political and economic climate.

British Business Bank and Richard South Yorkshire innovators, Taylor from the Business Growth including business leaders from ITM Fund, with roaming contributions Power, The Floow, Twinkl, TES,

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 11

Business News

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

)(&* &,"',*( ,&% +,)(,01904 360295 )$,*, $++, )('"#&*&%)( )$, %'%&,)"$, + '%&+,*&,bridgeemploymentlaw.com &),'++ ) , *(,'"!!)$&, )"$, "'%(+''

from the floor including Duncan Johnson, CEO of Northern Gritstone, Chris Iveson, CEO of Fourlaw Manufacturing and Andrew Austwick, CEO of Finance for Enterprise.

"In a year’s time I hope that the Business Growth Fund statistics are better in South Yorkshire and we have invested in more businesses in the region,” said Richard Taylor.

Ian Stuart explained how we fuel and finance across South Yorkshire, adding that it’s been a difficult time for SMEs but there is growth. He said: “I want people to feel safe to export. I want HSBC to help people do this and give oxygen to business.

“I would like new industry to be set up here in South Yorkshire.

Firstly we need to know what these industries are. Cyber security, energy, wealth transfer, Metaverse, gaming – these are the gaps we have in the UK. Can South Yorkshire close them?”

Ken Cooper said: “We are in the design and implementation phase of creating and distributing more funds for the North, at the end of the year. We have fund managers across the regions to help with this.”

Contributions also came from the creative & digital industries sector. Tracey Johnson said: “We need everyone to think about how we can encourage collaboration, creating the right spaces and opportunities for difficult conversations around investment and how we can do things better.”

Showing how South Yorkshire needs to invest in its young people, Sir Stephen Houghton, leader of Barnsley Council, said: “Enriching young people’s lives will help to enrich their family’s lives, their communities and in turn support with levelling up.

“It’s not just about infrastructure, it’s about people.”

On the skills agenda and partnerships with academia, Dame Julie Kenny DBE DL, said: “One of my biggest takeaways from today is that there is more collaboration between universities, colleges and education organisations in our region than ever before.

“That’s hugely positive – it shows the significance of collaboration.”

For details of support for business growth available in South Yorkshire, visit www.scrgrowthhub.co.uk Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 11

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 12

Business News

Trippets Lounge Bar, Sheffield

Iconic jazz bar saved by Arts Council he future of the region’s only dedicated live jazz venue has been secured thanks to a ‘lifesaving’ cash injection from the Arts Council.

The devastating affects of two years of lockdown restrictions had dealt a blow to Trippets Lounge Bar on Trippet Lane in Sheffield, with customers contributing to a crowdfunding campaign and musicians taking a 50% pay cut just to help it survive.

But a successful bid to the Arts Council’s Cultural Recovery Fund has seen it awarded £110,000 which has allowed it to become a going concern once again.

Trippets Lounge Bar, which was unveiled by

T

husband and wife Debbie and Carl Shaw in 2015, had become nationally renowned for both its live jazz and stylish dining experience prior to lockdown.

It offered a stage to jazz musicians of both local, national and international repute. It had one of the biggest gin menus in the city and provided a social hub for a vast spectrum of the local community, from students right through to its oldest customer/performer. Eighty-threeyear-old Beryl Broomhead described it as “The only place in Sheffield city centre I'm guaranteed a welcoming and safe space.”

Carl and Debbie Shaw had ploughed their life savings into Trippets Lounge Bar and the loss of

business caused by the pandemic left them near to bankruptcy.

But the grant, coupled with an upturn in business since the full lifting of restrictions, has left them with a bright future.

Debbie said: “There's no doubt this grant has saved our business and we're proud that our contribution to the cultural life of Sheffield and the wider region has been recognised by the Arts Council. But I also have to say a big thank you to our loyal customers and musicians that helped raise money to keep us afloat and took pay cuts to help us survive.”

Visit: www.trippetsloungebar.co.uk

Steel transport specialist orders MirrorCam truck South Yorkshire-based structural steel specialist MJ Hughes has added the first truck with MirrorCam to its all-MercedesBenz fleet.

Supplied by Northside Truck & Van, the vehicle has a ClassicSpace L-cab sleeper for which Auto Electrics Group, of Bradford, fitted a full complement of cameras that provide 360 degree visibility.

The Arocs is smartly finished in MJ Hughes’ recently updated silver and grey livery, with Alcoa DuraBright alloy wheels and roofmounted light bar. Its ‘cheese wedge’ beavertail plant body is the work of Sterling, of Stokesley, North Yorkshire.

As a 3245 variant the truck is powered by a 12.8-litre in-line sixcylinder engine that produces 330 kW (450 hp). Thanks to the single 12 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

drive axle it is significantly more fuel-efficient than an 8x4 32tonner.

MJ Hughes has been serving the general construction and rail sectors from its headquarters in Maltby, near Rotherham, since it was established in 2002. The company offers a comprehensive assembly and installation service covering bridges and overhead line electrification works, that includes lift plans and Risk Assessment Method Statements (RAMS).

Plant and transport manager Chris Hall said: “Our Mercedes-Benz trucks have always lived up to their premium brand reputation. They don’t let us down, they’re easy to work on, and the drivers like them.

“They look really good too.

Image is important and a clean, smart looking truck reflects well on

MJ Hughes plant and transport manager Chris Hall knows from experience that he can rely on Northside truck and van sales executive Nigel Hill (right)

our business in the eyes of every one from the DVSA to the general public.

“Our vehicles can spend as much time on rough sites as they do on the road, so the extra ground clearance you get with the Arocs is a big advantage. It offers a good body and payload allowance, and as a purpose-designed construction chassis is ideally suited to our work.”

Mr Hall experienced MirrorCam technology in action during an event at Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ Wentworth Park complex, near Barnsley, which he attended as a guest of Northside Truck & Van. “The safety benefits are obvious, so I’m all for it,” he enthused. “I collected our new truck from the Dealer on a miserable day but the images from the cameras were crystal clear.”

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 13

Business News

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 13

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 14

Business News

14 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 15

Business News: Focus On Transport

Dame Sarah Storey and Cllr Chris Read at the Active Travel Route, Sheffield Road

Rotherham and Sheffield connected by new travel route ocal active travel leaders are paving the way for residents across Rotherham and Sheffield to get on their bikes and try out the new cycling routes across the region.

Leader of Rotherham Council, Cllr Chris Read, and active travel commissioner for South Yorkshire, Dame Sarah Storey, have been trying out the new cycling route on Sheffield Road.

Working with partners, including the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, Rotherham Council is continuing to improve the borough’s 90 miles of cycle infrastructure as part of its Cycling Strategy.

The new plans aim to improve provision so that everyone, of all abilities, can enjoy the health, environmental and economic benefits of cycling, walking, scooting, and travelling actively.

The strategy will also provide a network of active travel routes in the borough that are safe, comprehensive, and accessible, including integration with public transport, to support longer journeys.

L

Cllr Read, who is also chair of the Transport & Environment Board for South Yorkshire, said: “The new cycle links between Rotherham and Tinsley offer residents to travel more actively and safely, whether they are new to cycling or are pros. It marks one part of a route that in time will stretch from Nether Edge, through Sheffield City Centre, out to Meadowhall, into the centre of Rotherham, and then onwards towards Broom.

“Dame Sarah has played a key role in encouraging councils to do better at providing safe cycling infrastructure that helps people to travel in a healthy and environmentally friendly way, and that work will go on well into the future. Over the next few years, the council will be working with our close partners to provide new routes, and I, for one, am very excited and encourage others to get out and use the new active travel

routes as they become available.”

South Yorkshire’s active travel commissioner Dame Sarah Storey said: “Linking the major towns and urban centres in South Yorkshire was one of my priorities when I arrived in this role three years ago, so I am delighted to see this first link opened to connect Rotherham and Sheffield. This route increases the options for those who work and shop there, but ultimately it creates the first complete route from Rotherham Town Centre to Sheffield City Centre.

“This route is also the first in Rotherham to be built to new standards, giving more space to those on cycles of different kinds and setting the standard for all infrastructure across the region. In the past people have avoided using Sheffield Road for cycling and walking, due to significant safety fears, but the side road priority and full segregation ensure those

‘This route increases the options for those who work and shop there’

travelling on foot or by bike are now given the space they need. It has been great working with Chris Read to set out the vision and start delivering, and I want to thank him for his support and help. This is one of the tangible legacies from my work in South Yorkshire, and I want to come back and see the network as it develops.”

The council has already committed resources in its budget to improve the borough’s existing infrastructure including renewing all worn markings, cutting back overgrowing vegetation, removing weeds and sweeping cycle routes to ensure they a free from litter and debris. Further Government funding has also been made available through the Transforming Cities Fund and Active Travel Fund and the strategy will set a framework to establish the most appropriate way to commit these funds.

The Rotherham to Tinsley scheme is to be delivered by Rotherham Council with money secured from the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 15

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 16

Business News: Focus On Transport

One million journeys made cheaper with travel pass an Jarvis’ travel discount has made one million public transport journeys cheaper for young people in South Yorkshire.

The special travel concession, offering 18–21-year-olds 80p single fares, was brought in by the former South Yorkshire mayor to help young people across the region recover from the effects of Covid19. Over 23,000 young people are now benefiting from cheaper travel

D

16 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

in South Yorkshire with a Zoom Beyond 18-21 Travel Pass.

“Local leaders and I took the decision in 2021 to extend this concession to cover everyone aged 21 and under in South Yorkshire because, while the past couple of years have been tough on us all, it’s been particularly tough on our young people,” said Dan Jarvis.

“The offer was a great way to encourage people back on our buses and support our transport system. We need to make sure that

passenger numbers return to prepandemic levels as quickly as possible so we can maintain the financial viability of the network and tackle the associated traffic congestion and air pollution that comes from a dependency on cars.

“During my time as mayor, transforming public transport to deliver the system South Yorkshire deserves was a top priority. I’m proud to have unlocked millions of funding to help achieve this, but also to have introduced schemes

such as Zoom Beyond which brings real, practical changes that passengers benefit from.

“Reaching one million journeys milestone shows that, if the offer is there, people will take it up and make the most of it.”

The free Pass for 18–21-year-olds offers travel for 80p per single journey on bus or tram anywhere in South Yorkshire.

A recent survey showed that Zoom Beyond saves pass holders money, makes it easier to access

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 17

Business News: Focus On Transport

A plan to overhaul public transport in South Yorkshire Former mayor Dan Jarvis and South Yorkshire leaders agreed plans to transform public transport, which could see the cost of bus fares capped and free travel brought in for young people.

The plans set out in a new Enhanced Bus Partnership with operators intend to unlock greater powers to improve ticketing, routes, and frequency of services across the region.

Agreement on the Partnership puts South Yorkshire in contention for a share of £3bn of national funding pledged by Government to encourage local bus use.

Dan Jarvis said: “This partnership is a crucial step towards driving the step-change I want to see for South Yorkshire’s buses.

“We’ve invested millions to improve our public transport system and set out transformational plans that give us more control over how buses are run and promise passengers a better service. That includes capping fares, free travel for young people, quicker journeys, more journey options, and zero emission buses to make travel cleaner and greener towards a

net-zero future. Agreeing this partnership gives us a shot at winning the funding needed to make that vision a reality.

“Improving South Yorkshire’s buses was a priority of mine, to help South Yorkshire become stronger, fairer and greener.

“But to progress our plans, to deliver a bus system people can be proud of, we need Government to provide the investment they promised - to level up bus services and build the future that South Yorkshire deserves.”

Subject to Government funding, South Yorkshire’s Enhanced Partnership will provide free travel for under 18s and capped fares for all passengers, bus priority measures to make journeys quicker, better journey planning information, ‘turn up and go’ bus options, and the region’s first zero emission buses (see story below).

The legally binding agreement between SYMCA and local bus operators will remain in place for between three and five years, allowing progress to be made on bus improvements at the same time as the formal assessment of bus franchising is undertaken.

‘We’ve invested millions to improve our public transport system’

South Yorkshire has secured funding from the ZEBRA programme for the new buses

Former mayor Dan Jarvis with some of the young people taking advantage of the scheme

education, training and employment and encourages the use of buses and trams. Over 75% of 18 to 21 years old in South Yorkshire currently travel by bus and over half by tram at least once a month.

Zoom Beyond is valid on over 175 routes in South Yorkshire, on local services operated by First, Stagecoach, TM Travel, Powell’s and Supertram. Applications can be made at travelsouthyorkshire.com/ ZoomBeyond

Cleaner buses for the region South Yorkshire will get brand-new zero-emission buses to help reduce air pollution and carbon emissions and attract passengers back onto public transport.

Former mayor Dan Jarvis made a successful bid to the Government’s ZEBRA programme. Only 12 areas were chosen to receive funding under the programme, which will give South Yorkshire over £8m to create a fleet of up to 27 buses and build charging infrastructure.

“This is a huge step in making our bus system fit for the future,” Dan Jarvis said. “Cutting edge new zero emission buses will help attract people back onto public transport. They will cut pollution on our

streets that is implicated in 17,000 premature deaths across the UK. They will help us reduce the carbon emissions that are fuelling a global climate crisis.

And they will cut our operating costs, freeing up money for better services.

“I’ve always argued that our ambition for our buses should be nothing less than a world-class service. This is only a beginning, but it sets us on the right path for that transformation. Now we need to build on it.”

The case for zero-emission buses was made in the recently published South Yorkshire Bus Service Improvement Plan, and in the Bus Review led by Clive Betts.

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 17

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 18

Business News

New sustainability centre to lead the region’s drive for net zero T

he recently announced South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre will bring together researchers, businesses and organisations across the region to co-design solutions to regional and global sustainability challenges and work towards net zero emissions by 2050.

The South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre is led by the University of Sheffield through a partnership that includes the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, the four South Yorkshire local authorities, Sheffield Hallam University, and a range of private and voluntary sector organisations.

Projects that will be coordinated by the centre include the optimisation and decarbonisation of transport routes, retrofitting housing stock, decarbonising the agri-food sector and heavy industry, and restoring the region’s natural environments and assets.

Announcing the South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre at the South Yorkshire Economic Summit, former mayor Dan Jarvis said: “South Yorkshire is the heartland of innovation and we are harnessing these credentials to tackle the biggest challenge facing our generation: the climate emergency and the need to drastically reduce carbon emissions. I’ve made it my mission to create a stronger, greener, fairer South Yorkshire economy and our investment in the Sustainability Centre will catalyse our region’s plan to reach net zero emissions by 2040, unlock good green jobs and grow and attract new businesses and investment.”

The South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre has recently received £5m of funding from Research England. It will be delivered by a network of academics working closely with the region's established business and industrial capabilities.

Centre director, Professor Rachael Rothman, said: “The South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre will bring together academic expertise from across Sheffield’s two universities to address specific regional challenges. It is important to look at sustainability challenges holistically; ensuring that in our urgent drive to reduce emissions we are also considering the economic and social impact, and opportunities, of the solutions we propose. We are looking forward to working with organisations of all sizes to assess the opportunities to work together to decarbonise for the future. While we have identified initial projects for the centre, we also have some funding for future projects and we are keen to hear from organisations that would like to work with us to co-design solutions to regional sustainability challenges.”

For more information contact sysustainabilitycentre@sheffield.ac.uk

The centre has received £5m of funding from Research England

Mechan shortlisted for industry award The unique nature of the products made by Sheffield-based rail depot equipment specialist Mechan was recently celebrated by the city’s manufacturing community.

Mechan was one of five firms shortlisted in the manufacturing innovation category at this year’s Made in Sheffield Awards.

The firm was selected for the accolade, which recognises the impact of an innovative product or process, after producing a bespoke bogie drop for Norwich’s Crown Point rail depot.

The firm’s skilled design team created the equipment to allow complete bogies and other underfloor modules on trains to be changed without decoupling, meaning they can return to service more quickly.

18 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

“There is no other UK company providing the same bespoke design service to the rail industry as Mechan and the Crown Point project demonstrates perfectly the high level of engineering skill and expertise we possess.

“We fly the flag for Sheffield at home and overseas and hope the judges recognise our commitment to promoting the local manufacturing industry.”

Winners of the Made in Sheffield awards were announced at a special dinner held on 28 April at the city’s Cutler’s Hall, bringing together competitors from across the S postcode.

Lindsey Mills, Mechan’s sales manager, said: “We were thrilled to make the finals of the Made in

Sheffield Awards, which celebrated the world class manufacturing taking place in our region.

For more information call (0114) 257 0563, visit www.mechan.co.uk or follow Mechan on Twitter, @mechanuk.

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 19

Business News

Former mayor leaves behind support fund an Jarvis announced a fund worth half a billion pounds to be used on making improvements in the region’s four local authority areas.

The South Yorkshire Renewal fund will be invested in place-based projects across infrastructure, housing, community renewal, net zero, business growth, skills and employment and transport.

Former mayor Dan Jarvis said: “I am delighted to have secured the South Yorkshire Renewal Fund during my last MCA meeting as the mayor of South Yorkshire, equipping the incoming mayor and local leaders with the tools to unlock our region’s potential.

“It will allow the MCA to continue making much needed improvements to transport and infrastructure, regenerating our places as well as improving opportunities for people by supporting the creation of

D

hundreds of highly skilled and green jobs.

“It has been my mission as mayor to create a stronger, greener and fairer South Yorkshire for all of us and together we have implemented great things to achieve this.

“We have already attracted a host of new, exciting businesses to invest in our region, and South Yorkshire is fast becoming a hub of advanced manufacturing and green technology.

“I’d like to thank local leaders and my team at the Combined Authority for all of the incredibly hard work dedicated over the past four years, which enabled us to unlock and invest vital funding to benefit the whole region.

“I look forward to seeing the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority move forward, continuing this important work backed up by the huge investment that the South Yorkshire Renewal Fund brings.”

Former mayor Dan Jarvis

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 19

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 20

Business News

Local leaders back railway HQ bid ll three Doncaster MPs and the mayors of Doncaster and South Yorkshire came together at the Danum Rail Heritage Centre to sign a letter to the Transport Secretary urging him to establish the Great British Railways headquarters in the town.

Against a backdrop of two steam locomotives built in Doncaster emphasising the town’s 180-year long history of association with the railways, the five leading politicians presented the key reasons why the headquarters of the new body being set up to run the railways should be based in Doncaster.

The letter sets out how Doncaster meets all the criteria stipulated by the Government for places wanting to host the headquarters. Apart from demonstrating its rail heritage, this includes its central position on the rail network, the excellent connectivity to all parts of the country and how having the headquarters would be a major stimulus to the town and South Yorkshire, helping to attract investment and make a major contribution to the Government’s levelling up agenda.

The benefits that would come to Great British Railways from being in Doncaster are also set out, such as being at the heart of a major rail cluster and being well served by rail orientated skills providers, also the value for money that the town offers and potential sites within one minute of the station and lastly, how the bid has widespread public support not just in

A

Dan Jarvis, Ed Miliband, Rosie Winterton, Ros Jones and Nick Fletcher all sign a letter urging the Transport Secretary to back Doncaster in its bid for the HQ of Great British Railways (GBR)

Doncaster but throughout the region from the Humber to Bassetlaw.

The breadth of this support is also demonstrated by the presence at the signing of leading business representatives from Doncaster and Sheffield Chambers of Commerce and the South Yorkshire LEP. Commenting on her support for the bid, Mayor Ros Jones CBE, mayor of Doncaster said: “Doncaster more than meets all the bid criteria stipulated by the

Yorkshire’s first distillery celebrates whisky awards The team at Yorkshire’s first single malt whisky distillery is celebrating after winning eight prestigious spirits awards.

Eight of Hunmanby-based Spirit of Yorkshire’s Filey Bay whiskies were awarded the accolades at the 2022 International Wines and Spirits Competition (IWSC).

The medal haul included three silver and five bronze medals. Silver medal winning spirits are typically described as ‘An accomplished spirit with good balance, strong character and good complexity. A classic example of its style or variety’.

Spirit of Yorkshire’s Whisky director Joe Clark said: “The IWSC is judged by 85 experienced sommeliers, distillers, vintners and distributors. These medals are great accolades and a timely reminder of why we're doing what we're doing: making world-class field to bottle whisky using 100% home grown barley, here on the Yorkshire Coast.

“Only eight of the 33 English single malt whisky distilleries were awarded medals and Filey Bay whiskies won eight out of the 22 medals that were awarded to English whiskies in the Worldwide Whisky category.

As a young distillery with whisky that's just five years old, we're very pleased with the results.”

20 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

Government, making it the ideal place in South Yorkshire to locate Great British Railways. Doncaster has been a rail town dating back to the 1840s. World famous locomotives such as the ‘Flying Scotsman’ and ‘Mallard’ were built here and families have generations who have worked on the railways or in related industries. This continues to this day with over 50 businesses in the town associated with the industry making it a natural base for the headquarters.”

Dan Jarvis MBE MP, former mayor of South Yorkshire, said: “Locating the HQ in Doncaster will be a major boost for the whole of South Yorkshire, confirming it as a centre of rail excellence, helping to attract further investment and create more skilled jobs.”

Dame Rosie Winterton MP, Member of Parliament for Doncaster Central, said: “Doncaster’s rich rail history, alongside our vibrant rail cluster and strong links to the network, make it the ideal home for Great British Railways.

“We have several places just minutes from the rail station that would be a perfect location for the headquarters.”

Nick Fletcher MP, member of parliament for Don Valley, said: “There would be no greater sign of the Government’s commitment to levelling up the area than bringing the home of Britain’s railways to Doncaster and I will continue making that case to ministers in Westminster.”

Ed Miliband MP, member of parliament for Doncaster North, said: “I am so proud of Doncaster and what it has to offer the whole country as the rail headquarters.

This bid has united the town and region across business, higher and further education and local community groups as well as politics.

“I am confident that the quality of our bid means we deserve to be shortlisted and I urge the public to back Doncaster when it comes to the public vote.”

Joe Clark and David Thompson

The IWSC was launched by wine chemist, Anton Massel as Club Oenologique.

Home to Filey Bay, Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery is Yorkshire's first single malt whisky distillery and is one of only a handful of distilleries that grows the barley for whisky production.

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 21

Business News

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 21

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 22

Business News

Fleet telematics is used to monitor and report data relating to vehicles

Fleet telematics: the smart way to manage your fleet

By Will Sissons (pictured), director at iTrack hey say is certain except death and taxes… and rising fuel costs if you’re reading this article in 2022. Regardless of business sector, a common challenge we all face during the current turbulent economic climate is increasing operating costs with fuel prices front and centre to this challenge.

It would be foolish for a company that operates a fleet of vehicles, regardless of size, to overlook the importance and money-saving potential that a well implemented fleet telematics system can offer.

Fabricated employee working hours, excessive idle times, poor route management and nonwork-related journeys are just some of the challenges faced daily for fleet managers and company directors. This is in addition to the obvious threat of vehicle theft. A significant step towards confronting these common issues is to engage in a fleet telematics strategy.

On average companies can save up to 45% on fuel costs by eliminating unnecessary journeys and engine idling times.

Customer experience is also a key factor in business and can be the difference between a customer returning or going to your competition in future. Vehicle location data can be used and even shared with your customer to improve communication – knowledge is power and if you can reassure the customer and keep them in the loop, this can only be a good thing.

Monthly reports can be generated to feedback journey data, fuel costs and business mileage records that can be used to monitor company performance in detail.

In the unfortunate event of vehicle theft, the presence of a GPS tracker on a vehicle has obvious benefits and significantly increases the probability of recovery. The trackers can be installed covertly where criminals would be oblivious to the fact it was fitted to the vehicle.

T

What is fleet telematics?

Fleet telematics is the technology used to monitor and report a wide range of data relating to an individual vehicle or an entire fleet. Crucial information such as vehicle location, speed, driving style and fuel consumption is gathered and fed back to a central control platform. This feedback is then available at the disposal of a fleet manager who can use the data to make sure the company is operating as efficiently as possible.

GPS tracking devices are fitted to vehicles that work in conjunction with smart telematics software such as iTrack Live. The trackers are not only capable of reporting a real-time location of the vehicle but can also provide other useful data such as odometer readings, fuel level and driving style such as harsh accelerating and cornering.

It is also possible to use Bluetooth enabled tags for driver identification or temperature probes for monitoring cabins where the temperature is critical such as medical or food 22 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

Will Sissons

transportation – in this scenario, should the cabin go above or below a certain temperature the fleet manager would be alerted immediately.

‘Fleet telematics allows fleet operators to keep their finger on the pulse’

How can my business benefit?

Fleet telematics allows fleet operators to keep their finger on the pulse and make sure the operation is running as efficiently and safely as possible. Fleet telematics software can be used to alert fleet managers when various service tasks are due such as oil changes, MOT’s and general servicing which ultimately ensures vehicles are maintained to a roadworthy standard and manage maintenance costs.

How to implement fleet telematics

Companies like iTrack offer complete tracking solutions whether it is for a single vehicle or a large fleet. ‘Plug & play’ devices are readily available where the user will simply install the tracker to the vehicle in a matter of minutes and the hardware will then link to the tracking platform, instantly reporting and logging data. iTrack also offer a bespoke service where companies have specific requirements such as driver identification or cabin temperature monitoring for example.

While we may not be able to prevent extortionate fuel prices, we can make sure we are doing our best to limit the damage.

Visit: itrackgpstrackers.com

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 23

Business News

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 23

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 24

Business Connect

T: 01482 214169 M: 07926 566220 E: darren@randdsecurityservicesukltd.co.uk E: accounts@randdsecurityservicesukltd.co.uk W: randdsecurityservicesukltd.co.uk 24 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 25

Business Connect

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 25

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 26

‘It is important to retain a consistent voice across social media’

26 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 27

Feature: Communications & Marketing

Digital marketing for small businesses As a small business, adopting a digital marketing strategy is a vital tool for building a brand, increasing customer engagement and extending your reach. But what are the steps you need to take to developing a winning digital marketing campaign?

Target audience, target content When considering your digital marketing strategy, it’s important to know your audience. Who are they, what do they do, and how can your product or service help them?

To help you understand your audience, create a buyer persona. This could include details such as their age, gender and income, allowing you to determine the kind of content you should create and what kind of social media platforms you should target. Once you know your audience, you will find it much easier to create targeted and relevant content.

Another key factor is reaching your audience on a personal level, which means it’s important to show that you value their needs and appreciate their custom.

Tactics such as giveaways, surprise and delight campaigns and rewards schemes will help foster loyal relationships with customers.

Schedule social media posts to maximise your engagement

Show, don’t tell Visual content is on the rise. Video content platforms, such as YouTube, Instagram Stories and Facebook Live, have become an increasingly popular way to connect with thousands of potential customers. Best of all, you don’t necessarily need a big budget or expensive equipment to create content, as many smartphones cameras have high-quality video capabilities perfect for shooting short videos and soundbites. Interviews, product demonstrations and walk throughs are all good examples of video content.

When making video content, remember that consistency is key. A posting schedule will encourage your audience to tune regularly and anticipate new videos, while consistency in style will help you connect on a much more personal level with your customers.

Focus your social media efforts There’s no denying the power of social media, but there are a multiple of available platforms, and they are all constantly evolving. Therefore it’s important to focus your efforts on the platforms that are most relevant and where your customers are the most active, rather than wasting time on the ones that won’t bring you any new business. B2B businesses may find such platforms as LinkedIn and Twitter the most helpful, where as Facebook and Instagram might better suit a B2C business model. Whichever platforms you decide to focus on,

remember that it is important to retain a consistent voice across social media (and also your website) to help build a connection with your customers.

A scheduling tool, such as Hootesuite or Buffer, can help you schedule your posts to go live at times that would give you the highest traffic and social media engagement.

Put your website to work As well as making sure your website is easy to use and navigate, make sure it is also mobile friendly and views correctly on small screens.

Page speed is also an important factor, as slow load times can deter potential customers.

Your website content is incredibly important, but an easy way to fill your website with useful and entertaining content is to maintain a regular blog. If something interesting is happening in your industry, a blog or ‘vlog’ (video blog) is a great way of capitalising on trending topics and inserting your brand into the narrative.

Your website is also your opportunity to improve your SEO skills, because if search engines can’t find you, you might as well have not bothered investing in a website at all. Create content around the key words and phrases that will put your website directly in front of your target audience.

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 27

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 28

Sitting pretty: On the set of Open All Hours

Sofa, so good!

By Martin Abonyi, creative director, The Sofa Web & Design Ltd

oes your brand represent what you do and how you do it? Does it represent your core values, ethos and principles? More importantly, does it raise your profile, create client consciousness and get people talking about you? Wouldn’t it be a bit easier if it did? Have you got Company Brand Recognition?

Many years ago we purchased a modest two-seater sofa from eBay and its primary function wasn’t just to brighten up the office. We decided that this sofa was to represent our ethos and principles – it was to become a visual metaphor for our brand. In simple terms we wanted our business to be about the relationships that we create with our customers over a long period of time. Sitting down with a coffee, chatting about business, creative projects and how to move forward together. This is what the sofa is all about, sitting down and communicating.

Once we had established this key part of our brand we realised that the scope for promotional opportunities with

D

28 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

the sofa could be endless. In terms of profiling our business and getting people talking about us, the sofa was and is, perfect. We suddenly had a brand that was mobile, visual, great at attracting attention and even better for gaining people’s curiosity.

In many ways, the sofa is a big icebreaker when we take it on location, people ask about the sofa first, ‘Why is it here?

What’s all this about?’ This gives us the opportunity to tell the story, the fact that we are a creative agency is an interesting subtext to the sofa and the stories of it’s travels. Whether it’s Silverstone racetrack, Sheffield Arena, Keepmoat Stadium, Tour de France, Angel of the North or Blackpool promenade, we are selling our brand without mentioning our services, which is very powerful.

The simple message of the brand is also reinforced by asking our clients to give video testimonials on the sofa, as well as a general ‘sitting on the sofa’ shot. This also gives us lots to communicate to all our contacts.

A good example of how effective the sofa can be in generating interest, raising profile and getting people

‘We decided that this sofa was to represent our ethos and principles’

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 29

Feature: Communications & Marketing

Martin Abonyi - and sofa - visiting Blackpool back in 2010

talking was realised during the filming of Open All Hours in Doncaster. We took the sofa over a period of three days to the filming set, primarily to get a shot outside Arkwrights shop. Simply just placing the sofa in the street while we waited for a break in filming got the curiosity of the film crew and general public alike.

So come the time when we could get on set, we had a whole host of people queuing to sit on the sofa and have a picture.

The following day we were instantly recognised with the set designer quite insistent on having his picture on the sofa along with genuine blueprint drawings of the Open All Hours set. He told us that the crew had been talking about us the previous night after filming and wanted a piece of the action.

Back to the main point about brand recognition. Do you have a visual metaphor for your brand? Something that can generate interest, keep you in the forefront of people’s thinking and actually do part of your job for you? It can be very powerful if done correctly and also can be a lot of fun.

It’s definitely worth thinking about, but you need to know very clearly what brand message you want to communicate and be very consistent with that message.

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 29

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:24 Page 30

Feature: Professional Services

Why workplace well-being is well worth the effort Keeping your staff happy and healthy is an investment worth making, says workplace well-being advisor Jane Dyer (pictured), of Tudor Rose Workplace Well-being Consultancy

nvesting in a workplace well-being strategy might not be at the top of your list. As the cost of living continues to increase, it may seem prudent to look at tightening the purse strings and cutting back on seemingly non-essential items within the business. But the cost of ignoring the overall well-being of your workforce can be even more costly.

For example, increased absence and related costs, reduced productivity and presenteeism and the mental health impact.

Here are three important reasons why workplace well-being should be a priority:

I

1. Productivity levels plummeting Current financial pressures are leading to an increase in presenteeism.

Where employees are still turning up to work but are not working at their peak productivity levels. This could be as a result of physical health conditions, or mental health issues such as stress, anxiety or burnout triggered by factors outside or within work.

Presenteeism costs an organisation more than absenteeism, with approximately £92bn lost in 2019 due to lack of productivity within organisations.

go in business, and a job for life is rare these days, it needn’t be such a frequent occurrence. If it is, you should be asking yourself why and losing the talent you have invested in isn’t necessarily good for business.

One of the most common reasons employees give for leaving an organisation is mental health and burnout. Nobody wants to work for an organisation that doesn’t care for its workers – there are plenty out there who do.

‘Employee wellbeing strategies don’t have to cost the earth’

2. ‘The Big Resignation’ Research tells us that the average cost of turnover per staff member is over £30,000, when you take into account the recruitment, interviews, and training for new members of staff. While it’s normal for people to come and 30 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

3. Abnormal absence levels Lead to reduced productivity levels, interruptions to service delivery, increased workloads of colleagues, understaffing issues and poor team morale. Absenteeism due to poor mental health costs UK companies around £45bn each year.

Aside from being hugely costly, when employees are regularly absent from work it can have a negative effect on the overall organisation.

Affordable action for workplace well-being Ignoring workplace well-being can mean your business could lose out to competitors in terms of the best talent as well as potentially incurring some serious costs.

Research has revealed that on average, for every £1 spent on staff wellbeing, employers can regain £5 in reduced presenteeism, turnover and absenteeism – definitely worth it!

And the best news is, that employee well-being strategies don’t have to cost the earth or be overly complicated.

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 31

Feature: Professional Services

Top tips for a successful well-being strategy If you’re looking to set up a workplace well-being strategy, here are my top tips: 1. Make sure your strategy addresses identified areas of concern. Is it fit for purpose and meeting the needs of the organisation and of your staff?

We welcome your interest.

For further information please contact us.

2. Review regularly. Survey staff and find out what things they would like to see included.

Tudor Rose Workplace Wellbeing Consultancy

3. Involve staff in the solutions and strategies. With well-being working groups for example.

West Yorkshire, covering nationwide

4. Lead by example.

t: 0796 975 7041 w: www.tudorroseservices.co.uk Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 31

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 32

Feature: Professional Services

The value of having a strong employer brand hether you know it or not, your company has an employer brand. It’s your reputation as a place of work.

In essence, defining your employer brand is finding the answer to this simple question:

W

“Why should somebody choose to work for us as opposed to someone else?”

Why should you want to know?

A reputation as a great employer can increase your ability to attract great people, reduce your recruitment costs, and also help you keep hold of your most talented employees. It is important to remember that an employer brand cannot be created or destroyed. It already exists.

But you can influence it.

Where do you begin?

Talking to your current employees is the best place to start. Find out what makes you a great place to work and what your real strengths as an employer. But don’t be afraid to listen and take on board those areas in which you need to improve. Talk to people outside of your business. Ask them, how do they see you? How do you measure up against their expectations?

It is this insight that can then be used to create specific marketing messages aimed at each of the groups of job seekers that you are looking to target. It can help shape your recruitment advertising activity, the messages that you have on your careers website and everything that you share on social media. By championing the things that you do really well and showing how you’re addressing the things you don’t do quite so well, you can start influencing people’s perceptions of you, both internally and externally. This will offer an honest and much deeper insight into what life is like in your company.

What are the benefits?

According to LinkedIn, a strong, positive employer brand can lead to a 43% decrease in a company’s cost per hire. Additionally, organisations with a strong employer brand are also noticing other attractive benefits: • Reduced need to engage recruitment consultancies • Increased quantity and quality of applications • Increased conversion from ‘offer’ to ‘hire’ • Improved quality of hire • Reduced attrition of people within the first six months of employment.

All of which suggest that those employers that have a strong employer brand are better placed to attract, engage and retain talented people than those who haven’t.

Your website is your primary employer branding tool Chances are that your careers website is going to be the first place that a job seeker will be exposed to your employer brand. Which means that not only do you have a fantastic opportunity to make a great first impression, but also to position yourself apart from your competitors for talent.

That said, the demands of a job seeker are increasing all the time.

They are no longer interested in simply finding a job, they are looking to your website to give them an insight into what it is actually like to work for you. To offer more than a job search engine and online application form, but also information around your culture, values, rewards and benefits, training and development – in fact anything that can position you as an employer of choice.

In fact, your careers website should never be considered ‘finished’. It should be a continuously evolving piece of communication - changing to meet the recruitment needs of your business, changing to meet the expectations of job seekers and changing to build on the things that work well.

32 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 33

Business Connect

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 33

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 34

Business Connect

34 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 35

Business Connect

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 35

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 36

Sector Focus: Digital & Technology

36 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 37

The latest news from South Yorkshire businesses operating in the Digital & Technology, International Trade, Finance, Legal and Skills & Training sectors.

Sector Focus

The Logica Digital team

Logical move as digital agency targets growth Dylan joins Logica having successfully completed a Sheffield-based digital marketing specialist, digital marketing apprenticeship. which opened its doors just a month before the Commenting on his appointment, Dylan said: “I’m UK entered into its first national lockdown, is celebrating its second anniversary by relocating to looking forward to joining the Logica team. It’s my first new, larger premises, and has appointed its second full-time role since completing my apprenticeship and member of staff, following a number of new business I’m looking forward to using the skills I’ve learned to help wins. support their clients. I’ve always been interested in Logica Digital celebrated its second photography and graphic design, often spending anniversary by moving to new headquarters my weekends with camera in my hand, or in one of Sheffield’s newest office creating visual content on my laptop, so securing a job with a business like Logica complexes, Cubo, which is based on ‘I realised that Carver Street. The agency was is a dream come true.” founded by experienced digital Mark said: “When lockdown struck, many businesses marketer Mark Skinner in February the business was less than a month would be forced 2020 and specialises in the delivery old and I knew it would be a sink or to adapt the way of SEO, paid search, and paid social swim moment for the company. As media campaigns, placing an more people were spending time at in which they emphasis upon lead generation and home, only leaving to shop for communicate’ sales. essentials, I realised that many Mark’s ambitious plans to bring a new businesses would be forced to adapt the type of digital marketing agency to the way in which they communicate with their steel city were placed into jeopardy when, just customers. a month after launching the business, the UK entered “The success we’ve enjoyed during the past two years proves that we’ve developed a winning formula, into its first national lockdown. However, Mark was quick to spot the importance of digital communication but I’m keen not to rest on our laurels. Relocating to in helping businesses to connect with their customers new headquarters is a significant milestone for the and since that time, Logica has forged a strong business. I want to give young people in South nationwide and regional client base which includes Yorkshire the opportunity to build careers in our student accommodation platform Unihomes, DIY industry. Dylan excelled during his apprenticeship, and components provider Eurofit Direct and YorkshireI’m hoping that in the years to come he will become a based granite and quartz worktop specialist Stone valuable member of our team.

“I believe the key to any successful marketing Synergy.

As part of the company’s future growth plans, Logica campaign is always about helping businesses to get to is setting its sights on doubling its turnover over the the heart of their customer needs by combining new next 12 months and has also appointed digital marketing and innovative ideas with tried and tested techniques.” executive, Dylan Bonsall, to a newly created role in the business.

Visit: logica-digital.co.uk

A

Free recording sessions on offer A world-class recording and rehearsal studio in Doncaster is making its services free of charge to local artists, schools and community members for a limited period, thanks to funding from South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.

Supanova Studios, based in Armthorpe, Doncaster, has been awarded £35,000 under the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG), which in total provided £1m funding for arts and culture organisations and freelancers across South Yorkshire.

The studio, run by creative director Jason Burns, is now able to offer free access to a wide range of its services including audio recording, band rehearsal rooms, as well as production support.

Supanova Studios boasts the largest live recording room in South Yorkshire, three fully equipped rehearsal studios and a world class vocal booth, plus a fully mirrored dance studio.

“We applied for the arts and culture funding as we have seen how badly hit local musicians and artists have been in this area by the pandemic,” said Jason.

“Local artists, musicians and dancers are working hard to build their businesses back and we wanted to be able to support them and the community through our studio.”

Supanova Studios has been used by big names in the music industry such as YungBlud and Bang Bang Romeo, as well as in recordings for TV shows including Digging for Britain and Walking Victorian Britain.

Kate Brindley, director of Arts, Culture and Heritage at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, said: “It is fantastic to see South Yorkshire’s Arts & Culture fund supporting talented local people and community groups.”

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 37

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 38

Sector Focus: International Trade

How has the 2020s affected the freight industry?

By William Sweeney (pictured), branch operations, Davies Turner he world of freight can be a magical place.

Everything in your presence, including this magazine you are reading now, will have at some stage in its lifespan, been processed through the freight industry. However, in these difficult times, it has admittedly become quite a challenging industry to be a part of whether a shipping company or manufacturer.

Rising freight costs throughout Covid-19 have affected the industry massively, whether it be from hauliers, shipping lines, or agents. In some cases freight rates not only doubled but quadrupled due to the lack of space, vessels and equipment; making each freight journey an investment.

As a shipper or consignee, you would have been repulsing over the rising costs, however things are now on the up. Costs are slowly starting to fall as the industry picks itself back up from what has been an awful few years for suppliers and forwarders alike.

Why have these costs been so high you may ask? Well, with the full effect of Brexit now finally kicking in, this means more work for hauliers, clearing agents, forwarders and European based shipping lines, which then leads to additional costs for the additional work. Brexit also had a massive impact on the recent driver shortage, as there were no more European drivers coming into the UK due to the end of the free-movement into the UK for EU citizens. It lead to a huge backlog of shipments that essentially didn’t have enough drivers to move the goods around. Jobs were having to be booked in with hauliers over a month in advance in order to accommodate, and if containers were delayed into port, this lead to another nightmare in having to re-book delivery.

On an international scale, Covid-19 is still massively affecting the business. The recent outbreak in Eastern China has caused major issues. Cities such as Ningbo and Shanghai, which are major sites when it comes to exporting out of China, are no longer operating their ports. Couriers are imposing weight limits or not collecting at all out of Eastern China altogether. With a lot of the world’s supplies coming out of China, it has put a temporary stop on proceedings.

Will things end up getting better in the industry? The short answer is yes. With the driver shortage now slowly resolving itself, and the development in treating the Covid-19 virus, the end is very much near for the dark times in the haulage industry. Fuel prices are gradually creeping down also, which will only lead to costs creeping down for suppliers. The present time is a brilliant time to start utilising the freight industry.

T

‘Covid-19 is still massively affecting the business’

Visit: www.daviesturner.com

A lack of drivers caused backlogs and delays

38 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 39

Sector Focus: International Trade

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 39

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 40

Sector Focus: Finance

Major acquisition for accountants orkshire-based chartered accountancy and business advisory firm, Hentons, is further strengthening its position in South Yorkshire after acquiring Voice & Co, which has offices in Sheffield and Doncaster, for an undisclosed sum.

The deal follows Hentons’ recent acquisition of London based Clayton Stark.

Voice & Co was established in 1990 by Hugh Voice, and Mandy Guest became a partner in the business in 2002. Both Hugh and Mandy, along with Voice & Co’s eight employees, will now join Hentons, which employs a team of 125 across offices in Sheffield, Leeds, York, Thirsk and London, and is ranked as one of the UK’s top 100 accountancy firms by fee income by industry bible Accountancy Age. Hentons already has a significant presence in Sheffield with an 11strong team led by partner Tim Baum-Dixon, and this acquisition is the second major development for the firm in South Yorkshire in recent months.

In September Hentons formed a joint venture and invested in Sheffield based Mackenzie Spencer to create Hentons Corporate Finance and Hentons Legal. It means Hentons now offers corporate finance lead advisory services and corporate legal services so that any business sale or purchase can be fully completed and managed by one team.

Following the two deals, Hentons

Y

From left: Mandy Guest, partner of Voice & Co, Hugh Voice, partner and founder of Voice & Co, Peter Watson, managing director of Hentons and Tim Baum Dixon, partner of Hentons

now has a 25-strong team in South Yorkshire.

Peter Watson, managing director at Hentons, said: “Voice & Co is a very reputable and longstanding firm, with an experienced team and approximately 500 established clients.

“We already have an excellent reputation and a well-established team in Sheffield and this acquisition is a great fit for our existing client base and significantly builds our critical mass in South Yorkshire, as well as giving us a crucial foothold in Doncaster, which is an area that

we’re keen to continue expanding our presence in.”

Nadeem Ahmed, managing partner at Hentons, added: “It also means Voice & Co’s clients now have access to an even wider range of services including our specialist tax, financial planning and corporate finance teams. Smaller clients can take advantage of our market leading digital services and benefit from the cost and time savings, as well as the business insights, that cloud accounting provides. All this makes it a very exciting time for both our new

Voice & Co clients and the existing Hentons team in South Yorkshire.”

Hugh Voice, partner and founder of Voice & Co, said: “Hentons is a leading name in Yorkshire’s accountancy industry and the multi-award-winning firm offers a full range of financial and accountancy services, which will further benefit our client base.

Hentons has the same approach to providing a local proactive service, and Mandy and I are excited that we shall have the support to enable us to take on the new clients that we are gaining.”

Belmayne partner saddles up for charity challenge A partner at Dronfield-based financial planners, Belmayne, is preparing to take on one of the toughest cycling challenges around to raise funds for four small local charities.

Ben Smalley will be undertaking the 112-mile Tour of the Peaks with three friends on behalf of the Belmayne Foundation.

Starting and finishing at Bakewell Showground, the challenge encompasses the notorious Derbyshire peaks of Holme Moss, Winant’s Pass and The Cat and Fiddle and is expected to take participants seven to ten hours to complete. It follows the route of the original Tour of the Peaks road race, which took place between 1943 and 2005 and includes more than 10,000 feet of ascent.

All of the sponsorship money raised by Ben and his friends will be split equally between the four charities supported by the Belmayne Foundation this year. They are: Derbyshire Asbestos Support Team, Disability Awareness with Sport, Sheffield Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus and Sight Support Derbyshire.

Ben said: “This event is not for the fainthearted and will push me and my friends to our limits. We are all keen cyclists, of varying ability, 40 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

Belmayne partner, Ben Smalley (right) and friend ‘Farmer Jack’ on a previous charity cycling challenge

and I hope that by working as a team, we can motivate each other through the toughest climbs.

I would like to thank everyone who has already sponsored us so generously. We hope to add at least another £1,000 to our charity fund and we’re well on the way to reaching our target.”

The Belmayne Foundation was set up by the firm’s four partners to support small charities

that focus on health and well-being and provide relief for those in need.

To sponsor Ben’s Tour of the Peaks, visit www.gofundme.com/f/tour-of-the-peaks.

For more information about the Belmayne Foundation, call 01246 298181 or visit: www.belmayne-ifa.com/charity

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 41

Sector Focus: Finance

NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT

Rochelle Gilburn, Managing Director of Gilburn Investment Group, says despite the challenges facing the property industry, she is moving her business forward thanks to a combination of more properties, more contacts and more offers.

Throw back to this time last year...

I spoke to so many people who wanted to start investing in property after Christmas, after Covid, after ‘insert excuse here’.

When it comes to investing… there’s no time like the present.

The people I work with know that their money is doing nothing for them sat in a bank account and are looking for ways they can invest their money wisely.

Now 2022 is here. A few of those people took action, but a lot of them found the next excuse.

The most common thing I hear from my clients is that they would love to invest their money in property but don’t have the time.

Let’s get a call set up and put that money to work.

I’m not going to lie, finding properties in 2021 was anything but easy, which you will know if you’ve tried to move home in the last year.

But whilst others may have given up, I saw it as a challenge. I viewed more properties, put more offers in, made contacts with key people and moved my business forward.

I do the leg work for my clients. I find the properties, manage the process and renovate them ready to rent out.

Rochelle Gilburn

We completed on 12 properties last year with 5 currently in the refurb process and another 5 going through conveyancing.

If this sounds like you, scan the QR code to organise a call.

If you would prefer to email, then please contact me on:

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 41

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 42

Sector Focus: Legal

Lawyer voices his support for Barnsley W

hen Sheffield’s awardwinning employment lawyer Jay Bhayani was planning to open a new branch, there was a strong voice in her team cheering for Barnsley…

Jason Thelwell, Bhayani Law’s client relationship manager, is otherwise known as the ‘Voice of Barnsley FC’.

The Tykes’ stadium announcer for 31 years, Jason’s dulcet tones are recognised by generations of supporters.

He is also a big advocate of the town in which he was born and bred.

“Barnsley was a mining town that time had forgotten, but has gone through a huge regeneration and the transformation has brought in new companies and more jobs,” said Jason.

“When Jay wanted to set up a branch of Bhayani Law to complement our offices in Sheffield and Leeds city centres, I encouraged her to opt for Barnsley.”

Jay is one of the leading employment lawyers in the Yorkshire region and has won various accolades, including Yorkshire Lawyer’s Employment Lawyer of the Year, ABDN Professional of the Year and 2021 Enterprise Nation’s Top 10 UK HR Advisor.

She took Jason’s advice and Bhayani Law now operates out of the town’s Digital Media Centre on County Way. Two lawyers are currently being recruited from the area and Barnsley businesses are already benefitting from its quarterly HR training forums and free monthly legal and HR drop-in seminars.

A forum recently staged in Barnsley led to a number of local food producers setting up their own monthly HR meet-ups. A recent meet-up, titled Safe Exits, focused on termination procedures, redundancy and settlement agreements.

‘The transformation has brought in new companies and more jobs’

Jason Thelwell, the Voice of Barnsley FC, pictured at Barnsley Digital Media Centre, where he persuaded his lawyer boss Jay Bhayani to base a new office

Jay said: “Jason opened our eyes to the fact that Barnsley is a vibrant town with a growing number of new digital and technology businesses – it’s a great location for us.

“We have brought our unique and affordable expertise in employment and HR law to their doorstep.

“Bhayani Law operates Watertight, a monthly fee support package for businesses who don’t have dedicated teams in-house and is soon to launch a similar package for companies with less than five staff.”

Jason joined Bhayani Law in December 2019 from a national HR and employment law provider.

His first job, via a YTS scheme, was with the Halifax Building Society. Her spent 20 years in its property sales division – and narrowly missed out on becoming famous via its TV ads.

Jason made it to the final 10 out of 3,000 employee applicants, but lost his nerve in the final audition, forgot the words to the Tom Jones hit Sex Bomb and cashier Howard Brown went onto become a household name.

“Looking back, Howard was exactly what they needed,” said Monk Bretton-born Jason, who loves the day job, looking after clients at Bhayani Law, and being in the spotlight at the football club he’s supported since the age of five.

Legal property experts named top team Taylor&Emmet LLP were presented with the Residential Property Team of the Year accolade at Sheffield and District Law Society’s Yorkshire Law Banquet and Awards.

The firm was also honoured for its charitable efforts, after raising the most in sponsorship at last year’s Sheffield Legal Walk.

Held at the Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria in Sheffield, the Yorkshire Law Banquet and Awards is a celebration of the region’s brightest and best solicitors and their achievements in the last 12 months. Taylor&Emmet secured the residential property prize after demonstrating its achievement in the sector, dedication to clients and contribution to the community.

Neil Riley, head of the firm’s residential property team, said: “We are thrilled to be recognised as the region’s top conveyancers by our colleagues in the legal sector. We have worked exceptionally hard in the last two years to streamline our service and provide clients with the transactional speed and ease of access they expect.

“We are very proud of the transformation we have achieved and this award win is testament to the hard work and dedication shown by the entire team.”

A trio of young solicitors led Taylor&Emmet’s participation in the 10kilometre Sheffield Legal Walk, contributing £980 of the total £4,100 raised, which is donated to charities providing free legal advice.

Clinical negligence specialist, Samantha Sims and trainee solicitors, Amy Parsons and Martha O’Toole, have already volunteered to be part of the organising committee for this year’s event and will be hoping to build on their success.

42 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

Neil Riley with the award

Taylor&Emmet was also shortlisted by the Sheffield and District Law Society for its private client, family law, personal injury/clinical negligence and rising star of the year awards.

For further information about its participation in the event, call 0114 218 4000, visit www.tayloremmet.co.uk or follow the firm on Twitter, @TaylorEmmet.

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 43

Sector Focus: Legal

Changes to employment law A

s the new financial year began in April, it brought with it a number of employment law updates.

The national minimum wage increase From 1 April, the national minimum wage rates increased to the following: • National Living Wage (23 years and up): £9.50 • 21-22: £9.18 • 18-20: £6.83 • 16-17: £4.81 • Apprentice: £4.81

Other statutory increases As well as the national minimum wage, there have also been statutory increases for sick pay, redundancy and family-related pay.

• The weekly rate of statutory sick pay increased to £99.35 from £96.35 • The statutory redundancy maximum amount of a week’s pay for calculating a redundancy payment increased to £571 from £544 • The capped weekly rate for statutory maternity/paternity/shared parental leave and adoption pay increased to £156.66 from £151.97.

National Insurance threshold Chancellor Rishi Sunak recently announced to the House of Commons that from July 2022, the Government will increase the threshold before people have to pay National Insurance. This figure is rising to £12,570 from £9,800 (to match Income Tax). It is thought this increase will impact around 70% of UK workers.

Covid-19 From 1 April 2022 the guidance on voluntary Covid status certification in domestic settings was removed. Additionally, the Government no longer recommend that venues use the NHS Covid Pass for eligible entry. However, as we have seen in the past, this is by no means set in stone and could be reviewed again in the future if necessary.

Right to work checks Due to the pandemic, the Home Office temporarily relaxed the need for employers to check original right to work documents, allowing them to check documents online. While this measure was supposed to end on 6 April 2022, the Government has extended this to 30 September 2022.

The Employment Bill Although the Employment Bill was announced in the Queen’s Speech in 2019, it was delayed due to the pandemic. It had a second reading in March of this year and is set to progress into law this year. Some of the key points of the bill are: • Requiring employers to pass on all tips and service charges to their workers • Extending redundancy protection, including offering suitable alternative employment to pregnant employment employees and for six months after the return from maternity/adoption/shared parental leave

• The right for new parents to take statutory leave for up to 12 weeks for neonatal care • The establishment of a single labour market enforcement agency.

Other changes There are a number of other upcoming changes that HR departments need to be aware of: Flexible working: following a consultation, the Government is considering the option to allow employees to request flexible working from day one of employment.

Sexual harassment: a new duty for employers to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace is expected to come into force this year.

Modern slavery: reforms to the Modern Slavery Act are expected late this year. When these come into effect, firms may need to review their anti-slavery statements.

‘The pay gap reporting deadlines returned this year’

• The right for carers to take one week of unpaid statutory leave a year

Gender pay gap reporting The gender pay gap reporting scheme – in which a business with 250 or more staff members is legally obliged to publish an annual gender gap pay report – came into force in 2017. While it was paused in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the pay gap reporting deadlines returned this year, though it is estimated that around 600 companies missed the 2022 deadline. Additionally, the rules that govern gender pay gap reporting are set to be reviewed later this year and could be amended to include ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting.

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 43

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 44

Sector Focus: Skills & Training

44 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 45

Stately home upskills creatives

From left: Dan Shipway, of Sheffield, Ed Jones from Doncaster and Loui Goodinson from Rotherham with guest trainer Connor Alderson. They are all working on editing films using Adobe Premier Pro software

otherham stately home Wentworth Woodhouse is used to welcoming film crews, having been chosen as a location by some of the biggest names in TV and movies.

Now it’s helping a group of local young filmmakers to find their feet in the industry.

A team of 10 17-23 year-olds from Sheffield, Rotherham and Doncaster will be at the mansion for six months, learning about creative digital skills for film-making.

They are being trained by digital content creator and skills coach Tom Marshall, of @tomscreativecanvas, who also trained the Wentworth Woodhouse Digital Team volunteers.

The trainee creative producers are being paid a wage by Rotherham Council and are tasked with developing concepts for films which could be made when Rotherham becomes the world’s first Children’s Capital of Culture in 2025.

R

Their films will be shown during a pilot project heralding the 2025 initiative, which will see children and young people celebrate the town’s heritage, culture and identity and shape its future.

“Not so long ago, the Digital Team at Wentworth Woodhouse were all raw beginners and we are really enjoying helping these passionate young people develop their creativity and skills,” said Steve Ash, who helped launch WWPT’s Digital Project in 2020 to produce films that would keep Wentworth Woodhouse in the public eye during the pandemic.

Steve added: “We are taking these young producers in-the-making through a Digital Skills training programme, focussed on film-making.

“They will complete video diaries, produce live shows and documentaries and create a final film project to mark the end of their training in June.

They have come up with some great ideas for

this, including an exploration of the similarities shared by different faith groups across Rotherham, a film-based quest in and around Rotherham using QR codes and even a Rotherham Children's Film Festival, which could be screened at Wentworth Woodhouse.”

WWPT is one of a host of Creative Partners supporting the Children’s Capital of Culture pilot project, which is being funded by a £1.4m Government grant through the UK Community Renewal Fund.

Other young people are learning skills in hospitality, events and performance with Creative Partners Gulliver’s Valley Theme Park Resort, Grimm and Co, Rotherham Football Club, Magna, Rotherham Open Arts Renaissance, The Source Skills Academy, Rotherham Pioneers and the Workwise Foundation.

Visit: wentworthwoodhouse.org.uk

Work experience at Gulliver’s Valley Gulliver’s Valley has hosted a successful open day aimed at giving young people with learning disabilities and autism work experience at the Rotherham theme park resort.

Gulliver’s Valley held the Project Search Open Day with Rotherham Opportunities College, which helps young adults with special educational needs find employment.

The theme park and college are working together under DFN Project SEARCH, an international transition to work programme committed to transforming the lives of young people with learning disabilities and autism spectrum conditions.

About 70 people attended the Open Day. As the host business in the programme, Gulliver’s Valley offers interns from the college real-

Project Search open day

life work experience. The course also equips them with training in employability and independentliving skills to help young people make successful transitions to productive adult life.

Last year, 80% of the interns that joined Gulliver’s Valley from Rotherham Opportunities College as part of the programme ended

up in employment at the theme park.

Laura Bladon, from Gulliver’s Valley, said: “The Project Search Open Day was a huge success and we were thrilled to welcome so many potential interns and their families to Gulliver’s Valley.

“We are really pleased to continue working with Rotherham

Opportunities College as part of Project Search and can't wait to welcome our next cohort of interns which will be our third intake so far.”

Lauren Jeavons, a tutor at Rotherham Opportunities College and job coach for the project, said: “DFN Project SEARCH is a great internship programme that pairs a college with a host business to give people who have barriers getting into work, like autism, anxiety or down syndrome, a year's work experience with a support network of job coaches.

“Gulliver’s Valley has been a fantastic partner for the project and previous interns have learnt invaluable on-the-job skills and secured employment. We’re looking forward to meeting our next group of Project Search candidates!”

Visit: www.theroc.co.uk Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 45

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 46

Sector Focus: Skills & Training

Students get a taste of Royal Navy arnsley College Catering and Hospitality students gained valuable experience by taking part in a cooking challenge designed to give a taste of the careers available within the Royal Navy.

Royal Navy chefs Craig Emanuel and Matt Forfar outlined what service life entails and gave an insight into the educational, sporting and social opportunities that a career in the Royal Navy provides.

The students then took part in a cooking challenge where they had to create two dishes, chicken and chorizo paella and a chocolate brownie, within an hour. The Royal Navy provided all the ingredients and Craig and Matt encouraged students to be creative and to think outside the box when preparing their dishes.

Craig said: “I think it’s really important that students get a clear understanding of the careers available within the Royal Navy. The cooking challenge is a good way for the students to demonstrate their team work, communication and catering skills in a pressured environment.”

Martyn Hollingsworth, Catering and Hospitality Curriculum Leader

B

46 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

Royal Navy representatives Craig Emanuel (left) and Matt Forfar talking to Catering and Hospitality students from Barnsley College

at Barnsley College, added: “I really appreciate the representatives from the Royal Navy taking the time to come and speak with our students.

We aim to continue to build strong links with students and business, helping to provide career-ready

students to employers.”

For more information about Catering and Hospitality courses visit www.barnsley.ac.uk/catering, email info@barnsley.ac.uk or call 01226 216 123.

‘We aim to continue to build strong links with students and business’

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 47

Sector Focus: Skills & Training

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 47

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 48

Sector Focus: Hospitality & Leisure

‘Companies are keen to reconnect their teams in-person’

Beyond the screen A guide to restarting in-person events

By Sharon Bannister (pictured), head of venue find, event account management and sales at Agiito s we approach the spring period, it’s naturally a good time to reflect on the first quarter and to plan for the rest of the year.

As a meetings and events agency, we have seen an encouraging return to live events this year. Companies are keen to reconnect their teams in-person and delegates have missed the level of engagement that can’t be replicated on a screen.

While the majority of delegates are excited to start attending events again, not everyone feels comfortable in doing so and event planners need to continue to be mindful of this.

Hybrid events continue to feature regularly in our requests from customers in order to provide inclusion for those delegates, enabling them to benefit from the content of the event through the use of technology.

A

What’s changed since the pandemic If you’ve not had face-to-face events in over two years, where do you start? This is one of the biggest questions companies are asking and I’ll share the key things that need to be considered. If you 48 BUSINESS connect Q2 2022

are unsure where to start, it is best to reach out to the experts.

An experienced event agency will be able to guide you on the most appropriate solution for each event, whether that be a full return to a live event or a carefully-blended mix of in-person and virtual elements.

Going ‘green’ Following the COP26 conference in Glasgow, we have seen a heightened focus on sustainability among event planners.

This runs throughout the organisation process and can often determine choices of venue, the catering, collateral and delegate travel to and from the event.

We are finding that our customers are making more considered choices and the sustainability credentials of venues is key. While there isn’t currently an industry standard for accreditation, there are lots of great schemes that can independently appraise venues activity in this area, such as Green Tourism.

We recognise the significant impact we have in supporting customers with more than 62,000 meetings and 300 large events each year – every small step towards running a more sustainable event really does add up.

I would highly recommend giving consideration to your own organisation’s sustainability goals and how your next event could support those objectives. We are working towards the ISO20121 accreditation this year to further demonstrate our commitment to delivering sustainable events.

Maybe this is also a framework you may want to work towards?

Top tips for event planning in 2022 Thinking of planning a conference or event this year? These are my top tips: • Start planning early: Venues are incredibly busy – especially as there are a backlog of events that have been postponed – so you may not get your preferred venue if you leave it too late. The earlier you start, the more choice you will have.

• Be flexible on dates: If you have some flexibility at the initial stage, this will help to give you more options for consideration.

• Consider an off-peak day of week: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the peak days for conferences and events. If you want to achieve a more competitive rate and find more

venue availability, try opting for an off-peak day and you will be pleasantly surprised at the savings that can be achieved.

• How do your delegates normally travel to the event? If they normally drive, taking the train is a much more sustainable option and can greatly reduce the total carbon footprint of your event.

How can an event agency support you?

Many companies organise effective and engaging events and conferences without any support.

This area has become a minefield over the pandemic, with many businesses now turning to specialists for advice and support on aspects including venue negotiations, contracts, delegate registration, audio-visual and thirdparty suppliers.

Working with an agency can provide added value by accessing their network of suppliers, with access to exclusive rates and they can share the most up-to-date industry knowledge.

More importantly, you can save you time and take away the stress of event planning.

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 49

Sector Focus: Hospitality & Leisure

Q2 2022 BUSINESS connect 49

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 50

Celebrating 150 years of pioneering service Davies Turner is one of the UK's leading freight forwarder and logistics organisations, with 21 branches throughout the country. With a warehouse capacity of over 1,000,000 square metres and a network of overseas partners, you can be assured of a fantastic service. With ISO 9001 accreditation too and a UK-wide collection and delivery service that fuels an annual turnover of over £145 million, Davies Turner are flexible experts in logistics, storage and supply chain management solutions. Anything from courier to overland can be tackled, as well as freight by sea and air, with IT support in the form of in-house management systems and the latest WMS software, ensuring security and safety.

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 51

BUSINESS CONNECT Q2 2022 LLOYD.qxp_Chamberlink 19/05/2022 12:25 Page 52