SBT issue 472

SBT POWERED BY:

ISSUE 472

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CARPENTER BOX CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS 2023 100 YEARS OF SERVICE TO SUSSEX...AND BEYOND

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 1

SHARING SUSSEX BUSINESS STORIES SINCE 1975

All business is symbiotic in nature.

You can be inspiring your peers one day, learning from them the next.

In the end, people buy people.

That makes sharing our stories the most compelling way to connect with one another.

What’s needed is a platform to embrace and empower our regional business ecosystem.

Where varied backgrounds and perspectives provide new context.

Harnessing potential, enabling growth.

And at the heart of it, a dedicated term of curators unlocking insights for the good of us all.

So we’re changing the way people think of connecting.

Because we believe in self-reflection, rather than self-promotion.

By demystifying the art of storytelling, we deliver authentic thought leadership through events, publishing and broadcast media.

We come together to discover, share and grow.

But we won’t be limited by geography, or our imagination.

Instead, we’ll seek out local leaders, visionaries and experts, wherever great businesses thrive.

Growing communities, in partnership with the businesses that power them.

And nurturing the enterpreneurial spirit in everyone.

2 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

SBTWelcome

W E LCO M E

Welcome to another issue of SBT

It’s a wonderful time of the year to support local good causes. That’s

our front cover. The business is celebrating its centenary - 100 years

why, during the season of goodwill, we once again shine a light on the

of service to Sussex. We chart important milestones in the firm’s

many, often overlooked, charities and non-profit organisations making

long history and outline what it is doing to support the community.

a real difference to people’s lives across Sussex.

Its content in this issue also includes a complete run-down on the Autumn Statement.

I hope you will take the time to read more about who they are and what they do - and consider one of them for a charity endeavour or

In addition to local business news, we have legal and finance features

corporate sponsorship in 2024.

designed to help you save money and time.

When everything in life is ticking along nicely, it is easy to forget that

If you are looking to sneak in some extra networking before the close

not everyone is so fortunate. From children with disabilities to those

of 2023, don’t miss news from the Big Business Breakfast Club and

suffering the heartbreak of stillbirth, an army of volunteers are working

discover what Best of British Events has been staging.

hard to provide much-needed support. Of course, much of this work goes unseen but its positive impact benefits not just families but the

Finally, I must mention a well-deserved trio of awards for Rivervale

wider community too.

Group. You can learn more about those in the motoring section.

Without the generosity of people just like you and me, many of

It’s that time… Thank you for being part of the Sussex Business Times’

these fantastic good causes simply wouldn’t exist. 2023 has been

community. Myself and the team would like to wish you and yours a

an especially difficult year, with rising prices and inflation impacting

wonderful Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year.

donations as well as running costs.

Sam Thomas, Managing Director As the year draws to a close, it is fitting to feature Carpenter Box on

VALUE ADDED PARTNERS

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

Issue 472

SBT POWERED BY:

ISSUE 472

FREE

CARPENTER BOX CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS 2023 100 YEARS OF SERVICE TO SUSSEX...AND BEYOND

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 1

SHARING SUSSEX BUSINESS STORIES SINCE 1975

06

Monthly News

08

Valued Added Partner Spotlight

09

Guess the VAP

Cover 472

Joint Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 07894 762304 Joint Managing Director Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk Production & Design Kim Butler kim@lifemediagroup.co.uk Accounts Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk Published by The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Licenced to TBG by Pixel Publications Ltd Unit 1a Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by Gemini Print Group 1A Dolphin Way Shoreham-by-Sea West Sussex BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 www.gemini-print.co.uk

All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Sussex Business Times Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Sussex Business Times Magazine assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisement contained within Sussex Business Times Magazine.

All prices featured in Sussex Business Times Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

Copyright The Business Group Sussex Ltd. 2020 ©

4 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

10

Learn about the impact of AI on programmatic advertising and how community groups can get a share of a £40,000 funding pot.

County Business Clubs Sussex throws the spotlight on Emma Draper, founder of Velvet Stores Limited.

Here’s your chance to put a name to some faces and win a massage for two.

Finance

Carpenter Box explains the key announcements in the Autumn Statement.

Meanwhile, Plus Accounting gives its space to highlight the success of Bare Biology, a wellness brand that is growing by 60 per cent a year.

14

Legal

18

Cover Story

24

Christmas Charity Special

48

Networking & Events

54

Motoring

56

Lifestyle

58

Wine of the Month

Mayo Wynne Baxter outlines top tips for avoiding stress when moving and Cognitive Law reflects on 2023.

Carpenter Box marks its centenary with a very special feature, charting its successes from 1923 to 2023.

Meet the charities working tirelessly across Sussex to improve lives.

The Big Business Breakfast Club Christmas extravaganza, Body Fixers, Best of British Events and more.

All the latest news from Rivervale Group, including major awards recognition.

Carole Gilling-Smith reflects on a milestone year for The Agora Clinic

Michael Yeoman shares his top tipple for County Business Clubs’ December Wine of the Month. Don’t miss this if you have yet to stock up for Christmas.

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contact@h2productions.co.uk 01273 094371 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 5

MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

The impact of AI on programmatic advertising, productivity and sustainability With the rapid advancement of technology in recent years, the advertising industry has undergone a major transformation.

The use of Artificial

Monthly News

Intelligence (AI)

in programmatic

advertising has altered the way brands reach

their target audience and helped to boost productivity. As businesses begin to

adopt to new guidance on AI and data rules, data and programmatic expert

Crimtan discusses the benefits of AI in

programmatic and the positive impact it will have on the industry.

A study by Accenture claims that AI

will increase productivity by 40% and

in turn boost profitability by an average of 38%. AI has the ability to gather

purchases, and any previous interactions

processing loads by 80% and cut CO2

vast amounts of data in a small amount

with similar ads.

emissions by 40 kilograms per day. This

ad-buying and placement processes,

Andy Houstoun, Chief Commercial Officer

placement, where AI optimises processes

AI algorithms, brands can analyse data

programmatic advertising will be significant

consciousness and responsible control.

the best time and place to display ads.

will not only enable brands to reach their

Houstoun concluded: “The use of AI in

employees and businesses to focus on

boost productivity by automating the ad

revolutionise the way brands reach their

of time, allowing brands to automate

suggests a transformative future for ad while maintaining environmental

saving time and money. With the help of

at Crimtan, said: “The impact of AI on

on consumer behaviour to determine

and AI-powered programmatic advertising

This in turn frees up valuable time for

target audience more effectively, but also

programmatic advertising will continue to

optimising campaigns.

buying and placement process.

target audience and embracing it not only

Marketers can optimise results in

“As the advertising industry continues

to a sustainable and environmentally

algorithms have the ability to adapt to

advertising will only become more

non-AI algorithms. With AI algorithms

to encourage them to embrace this

Intelligence Opportunities and Positive

performance, brands can quickly make

advantage in the marketplace and be

Planning, Attribution and Measurement

enhances efficiency, but also contributes

programmatic by using AI, as AI

to evolve, the use of AI in programmatic

conscious advertising landscape.”

any new patterns they encounter, unlike

prevalent. We work with our clients

Houstoun is speaking on ‘Artificial

constantly analysing campaign

technology in order to have a competitive

Disruption: Driving Efficient Marketing

adjustments to their ad creatives,

better equipped to reach and engage

through AI’ at the Martech Summit,

targeting, and bidding strategies to

with their target audience.”

London on 17 November.

return on investment. For example, AI

Additionally, multiple players in the ad

To read more about AI and the

insights by taking into account a wide

the power of AI for sustainability gains.

produced a free whitepaper, which you

browsing history, apps, previous

differences, AI has the capacity to reduce

com/AI-whitepaper.html

improve performance and maximise

algorithms can deliver more accurate

placement bid stream have harnessed

programmatic landscape, Crimtan have

range of factors, such as a consumer’s

By incorporating regional and channel

can download here: https://lp.crimtan.

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

Community groups in Newhaven urged to apply for £40k funding pot Newhaven Enterprise Zone is appealing for community groups in Newhaven to apply for £40,000 of funding to enrich residents’ lives during the cost-of-living crisis.

Groups should

Monthly News

apply via the

Sussex Community Foundation, which manages the

Community Fund on behalf of the

Enterprise Zone. The deadline for the first round of funding applications is Friday

5th January 2024, with decisions made on chosen recipients in March 2024.

Two further rounds will follow in 2024, with deadlines for groups to apply for

funding on Friday 3rd May and Friday 6th September.

Corinne Day, programme director at

Newhaven Enterprise Zone said: “As the cost-of-living crisis continues, we know our community groups need a cash

boost to support their important work now more so than ever.

“The fund is here to support charities

and not-for-profit organisations which

benefit the Newhaven area. We would particularly love to hear from groups

which encourage a sense of place and build on the thriving community.

“Groups which encourage community

participation, address inequality, raise aspirations and develop opportunities for people in Newhaven to be more

actively engaged are also high on our list of priorities.”

Amongst the groups to benefit last year was the Denton Community

Challenge, a much-loved feature on

the Newhaven social calendar which

has grown to provide almost 70 stalls since it began in 2012.

It received £1,000 towards the cost of

the event by the grants we receive.

activities together with rosettes and a

“I would encourage any local group or

staging the affordable day out of sports burger for children taking part.

charity to apply for this funding. It is

Tricia Gostock, secretary of Denton

an amazing community event - and

easy to do and it really helps us provide

Community Challenge Committee, is

they could too.”

“We would like to thank Newhaven

Groups which are invited to apply include

so grateful for all donations we receive,

training, education, employment and

urging local groups to apply. She said: Enterprise Zone for their support. We are

those which create opportunities for

no matter how big or how small.

enterprise, improve life skills, employability

“The money we receive in grants enables

quality of the local environment and shared

with activities such as a bouncy castle,

assets and resources, encourage the use

a fraction of the normal cost.

deliver initiatives for improved quality of

and develop aspirations, improve the

us to subsidise the day for local families

public space, enhance shared community

climbing wall and bungee trampolines at

of sustainable transport and promote and

“The grants also go towards all the basic

life, including health and wellbeing.

running costs of the event, such as hire

Last year’s recipients also included

licences and insurance.

Newhaven Arts Project (£3,314) and

of the community hall, bar and music

“We have had over 200 children take part

Denton and District Cricket Club (£3,000), Newhaven Families Forum (£3,600).

in the ‘challenge’ on the day in the last

To find out more and download

young children entertained all day for very

sussexgiving.org.uk/named_funds_

few years. It is somewhere you can keep

the application form visit: https://

little expense, due to the subsidising of

posts/newhaven-ez-community-fund/

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

VAP S POTL IG HT S P ON S OR

Value Added Partner Spotlight This month, the County Business Clubs Sussex Value Added Partner spotlight falls on Emma Draper, of Velvet in Hove.

VAP Spotlight

Tell us about the

What has been your

Limited story.

challenge to date?

Velvet Stores

My story is about

resilience, staying power and sheer

determination. But it is also a tale of

how to find the utmost pleasure from the most important things in life; a business built with passion and dedication, the

joy of family life even during the hardest times, and staying true to your own

beliefs, goals and never losing sight of the road ahead.

My primary business is Velvet - a large two-floor, award-winning independent retail store in the heart of Hove. We sell a fantastic range of women’s

fashion, delightful and affordable

homeware and gifts. We really are

a destination store for many of our

customers, some of them travelling

across the country to visit us. I started Velvet in the year 2000, after a move to the South Coast.

The secret of our success at Velvet

isn’t anything magical, just adhering to our principals and empowering our colleagues to achieve greater

biggest business

After many ups and downs, including

recessions, those

dreaded lockdowns,

illness and many other

challenges, we enjoyed our busiest ever year

in 2022/23. I am lucky enough to have three

fabulous teenage boys.

So I would say, being a

single mum, it has been extremely challenging

to balance the demands of motherhood with the pressures of running a successful high street business, but I have

come through it stronger

than ever and even more determined to push on and achieve greater things.

people this year to discuss issues and ideas with, and also be inspired by.

Tell us a story/fact about yourself that

What has been your greatest or

people might not know.

to date?

Velvet has always been my overriding

Winning The Dynamic Business Woman

we have grown our profit base, I have

against some incredible competition – I

and now have a burgeoning property

proudest business achievement

passion in my business life but, as

of the Year Surrey and Sussex 2023

looked around for a way to invest

was absolutely thrilled!

portfolio of local, high-end flats, plus

remembering that we are a customer-

What type of clients do you

startups and SMEs. My businesses

nothing at all without them. All of our

you looking to meet?

I am also now looking to expand

We are lucky enough to have an

knowledge and experience to others

marketing team and I are always

by speaking at events and imbue them

it’s been great to meet other business

pursue their own goals and dreams.

things every day. We have a fabulous team of eighteen women, including a management team of five. The most important aspect of what we do is facing business and we would be

team are laser focussed on ensuring

our standards and service are delivered to the highest degree. We always strive to go one step further to make our

customers feel valued and welcome and that is our guiding principle.

8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

currently work with and who are

I have invested in some other local give me great joy and satisfaction.

my horizons and hopefully offer my

enormous customer base, but the

in business, start ups and students

working on growing this. For myself,

with the confidence and courage to

Win a massage for 2!

This month’s prize is kindly donated by Little Jasmine Therapies and Spa.

How to enter For your chance to win a massage for 2 at Little Jasmines, simply email your answers along with your details to Jackie at sbt@countybusinessclubs.co.uk

Congratulations! to Kathy Taylor who won the last guess the vap, the only person to correct all 7 correctly. Kathy wins afternoon tea for 2 at the Grand Hotel, Brighton.

Then...

Take a look at these youngsters! Which County Business Clubs Sussex Value Added Partner do they look like to you?

A

C

B

D

Now...

Oh, how they’ve grown! Now decide which letter and number belong together.

1

2

3

4

Emma Draper Entrepeneur, Owner of Award Winning Retail Store - Velvet, Property developer, Buy to Let Business. Business Woman of the Year 2023 Surrey and Sussex

Gary Peters Founder ICP search/ love local jobs.com/love local jobs foundation/authentic resilience

Kiki Hood Senior Sponsorship & Hospitality Exec | Sussex Cricket

Kyriakos Baxevanis Founder | Investor | Mentor | Lifelong learner

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 9

Autumn Statement 2023: the key announcements A full round-up from Carpenter Box.

Finance

The Chancellor

Business tax

introduction of ‘full expensing’ of

his speech by

Cash basis

new plant and machinery (P&M) for a

Jeremy Hunt started claiming he was

bringing forward

capital expenditure by companies on

The Autumn Statement announced that

three-year period from 1 April 2023 to

2024/25: unincorporated businesses of

now made this ‘permanent’, which

default method of computing their profits.

revenue in the short term but is shown

the turnover limits will be removed for

31 March 2026. The Chancellor has

any size will use the cash basis as the

makes little difference to government

Interest of any amount will be eligible

as a £7.5 billion reduction in 2026/27.

exclusively incurred for the purposes of

Research and development (R&D)

business to opt to use traditional accruals

intention to merge the two schemes for

is the case at present for rental income.

periods beginning on or after 1 April

Hunt, with an explanation of what they

Capital allowances on plant and

the changes would apply for expenditure

personal finances.

The Spring Budget included the

110 growth measures to back British

business. He did not list them all in the speech, but there is no doubt that the

documents released online when he sat

down contained a mass of detail – some specific rule changes coming in on

particular dates, and some plans that are being considered for later.

In this article we summarise the main

tax changes that were announced by Mr are likely to mean for your business and

10 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

for deduction, as long as it is wholly and the business. It will still be possible for a

The government has confirmed its

accounting rather than the cash basis, as

SMEs and large companies for accounting

machinery

2024. It was previously announced that incurred from 1 April 2024; the revised

implementation date will avoid the issue

F I N A N C E SP O N SO R

of having to make claims under two

different regimes for expenditure in the same accounting period. The rate of

credit under the merged scheme will

be the current RDEC rate of 20%. The

notional tax rate applied to loss-making companies will be the small profit rate

of 19%, rather than the 25% main rate currently used in the RDEC.

Construction Industry Scheme

From 6 April 2024, VAT obligations are

added to the statutory compliance test

for being granted (and for keeping) gross payment status (GPS). The measure also extends one of the grounds

for immediate cancellation of GPS.

HMRC can withdraw GPS if they have

reasonable grounds to suspect that the

GPS holder has fraudulently provided an incorrect return or incorrect information

in relation to a list of taxes which will be extended to include VAT, Corporation Tax Self-Assessment (CTSA), Income

Tax Self- Assessment (ITSA) and PAYE. Business rates

The small business multiplier will be

frozen in 2024/25 for a fourth consecutive year at 49.9p, while the standard

multiplier will be uprated by inflation to 54.6p. In addition, eligible retail,

hospitality, and leisure businesses qualify for 75% business rates relief, capped at

£110,000 per business and extended for a year from 2023/24 to 2024/25.

Energy saving materials

The installation of energy saving materials currently qualifies for zero-rating for VAT. This relief is to be extended with effect

from February 2024 to new technologies, such as water-source heat pumps, and also to installations in buildings used

solely for a relevant charitable purpose.

Personal tax Dividend income

The dividend allowance, below which

no tax is paid on dividends, will fall from

£1,000 in 2023/24 to £500 in 2024/25. The

will increase by 8.5% in April 2024

£2,000 for several years up to 2022/23)

earnings, rather than the lower figure

assessment tax returns to settle what will

amount of £221, pensioners will receive

reduction in this allowance (which was

based on the increase in average

will require many more people to file self-

for price inflation. At the new weekly

often be a relatively small tax liability.

nearly £900 a year more than in 2022/23.

National Living Wage (NLW)

Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings

those aged 21 or over (currently 23),

ATED applies to residential property

£11.44, with comparable increases to

through companies and other corporate

workers and apprentices.

a relief. The rates automatically increase

National Insurance Contributions (NIC)

6.7% from 1 April 2024, in line with the

From 1 April 2024, NLW will apply to

(ATED)

and will rise from £10.42 per hour to

worth above £500,000 that is owned

the other rates that apply to younger

structures, unless the situation qualifies for each year with inflation and will rise by

The largest tax cut announced in the

September 2023 Consumer Prices Index.

billion in 2023/24, is a cut in the rate of

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax

the lower and upper earnings limits from

A number of points have been confirmed

January 2024 and will save up to £754 in

documentation. Firstly, those with gross

£50,270 or above).

income) under £30,000 will not be

Self-employed people have for many

be kept ‘under review’. The requirement

which have conferred entitlement to

Statement (EOPS) has been removed;

4 NICs. These are both cut with effect

‘Final Declaration’ process. The reporting

Autumn Statement, amounting to £8.7 employee NICs on earnings between

Self-Assessment (MTD ITSA)

12% to 10%. This will take effect on 6

regarding MTD ITSA in the accompanying

a full tax year (for an employee earning

income (self-employed and property

brought into MTD ITSA, although this will

years had to pay flat rate Class 2 NICs,

for taxpayers to file an End of Period

State pension, and profit-related Class

instead, the EOPS will be merged into the

from 6 April 2024:

of quarterly information will become

•C lass 2 NICs will not be required to

quarter’s figures. This change should

above £6,725, saving £179.40 a year

as taxpayers will be able to correct any

for anyone earning less than that to

rather than resubmitting past quarters.

•T he rate of Class 4 NICs on profits

Get in touch

reduced from 9% to 8%, saving up

and reassess your plans in light of any

cumulative, rather than just reporting that

secure benefits for anyone earning

make amendments easier to deal with,

– they can still be paid voluntarily

errors in their next quarterly update,

maintain a full contribution record;

between £12,570 and £50,270 will be

We will be happy to help you adapt

to £377.

upcoming changes. Please get in touch

The combined saving is up to a

com or visit www.carpenterbox.com

maximum of £556.

for more information.

State pension

*Information correct as of 22 November 2023.

with us via email at info@carpenterbox.

The State pension will continue to be uprated in line with the ‘triple lock’

commitment. This means that the rate

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 11

Bare Biology: A wellness business that aims for longevity Bare Biology is 10 years old and growing 60% yearly, without investors and with core values that get stronger by the day.

In the now ultra-

Finance

competitive world

of wellness, where trends often come

and go, Bare Biology

stands out as a brand grounded in authenticity, transparency, and a

steadfast commitment to health. The story behind Bare Biology isn’t just

about crafting quality supplements; it’s a tale driven by passion, integrity, and a deep belief in the benefits of pure, potent ingredients.

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Bare Biology’s origins can be traced

back to a defining moment in the life of

Melanie Lawson, the founder and CEO. Frustrated by the lack of clarity and

effectiveness in the supplement industry,

Lawson set out to redefine the standards.

With a marketing background and a keen

interest in health, she aimed to establish a brand that embodied her ideals, providing consumers with the best supplements.

The journey began with thorough

research into omega-3s, the foundation

of Bare Biology’s product line. Lawson was determined to source the purest

and most sustainable fish oil available.

This commitment led her to Norway, where she established partnerships with manufacturers who shared

her dedication to environmental responsibility and quality.

The result was Life & Soul (originally

called Lion Heart), the flagship product, a premium omega-3 supplement that

quickly gained acclaim for its purity and

F I N A N C E SP O N SO R

efficacy. The company’s commitment to using only wild-caught fish and

sustainable practices, coupled with thirdparty testing and complete transparency,

set it apart in an industry where shortcuts and compromises are common.

What distinguishes Bare Biology is

not just the quality of its products but the passion that underlies every step of the process. Lawson’s personal

commitment to health and wellness propels the brand, resonating with

consumers seeking products aligned with their values.

As Bare Biology flourished, it expanded

its product line to address various health needs. From prenatal supplements for expecting mothers to vegan-

friendly options, to marine collagen

and high-strength vitamin D, the brand diversified without compromising its

core principles. Each product undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets

high purity and potency standards,

reflecting Bare Biology’s dedication to transparency and quality.

The success of Bare Biology in the

competitive wellness market can be

educational initiatives, Bare Biology has

attributed not only to its exceptional

cultivated a loyal following.

honest approach to business. Another

As the business grows, Bare Biology

term relationship with accountants,

The commitment to quality, transparency,

Biology’s accountants for the last 9 years.

an industry often clouded by hype and

Plus Accounting provided invaluable

increasingly discerning about product

to one support to working closely with

supplements that meet the needs of an

products but also to its refreshing and part of its success is down to its long

remains true to its founding principles.

Plus Accounting, who have been Bare

and sustainability serves as a guide in

misinformation. In a consumer landscape

advice in the very early days, from one

choices, Bare Biology offers a range of

their Finance Director on the annual

ever more cynical group of consumers.

to the great systems that have been

Looking ahead, Bare Biology has

are confident in the finances and allow

in product offerings and global reach.

positioning of the brand.

organically funded with no investors

The brand leverages relationships

that allows the founder and employees

health professionals, a select group

central to the way the business is run.

Whole Foods and Planet Organic,

For more information, visit

accounts which run like clockwork, due put in place to ensure that the team

ambitious plans for expansion, both

them to make decisions about the

Profitable from year 1, the brand is

with Nutritional Therapists and

of retailers, including Selfridges,

digital platforms and e-commerce

or debt. Sustainable, healthy growth

to have a healthy life/work balance is

www.barebiology.com

to connect directly with consumers, fostering a community that goes

beyond transactions. Through valuable

content, social media engagement, and

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

Why moving home can be stressful and how to keep your emotional health in check Mayo Wynne Baxter offers 11 stress-relieving tips to make your move go smoothly.

Moving house is a

Logistical challenges

work, hiring movers, packing materials,

that will create

The logistical aspects of moving are

contribute to the stress. The fear of

From organising belongings and

budget can add an extra layer of anxiety.

legal paperwork and address changes,

Time pressure

be overwhelming. The fear of forgetting

Moving often comes with time

unforeseen challenges adds to the

deadlines, lease expirations, or

Lawyer to assist in reducing the stress.

to complete the move within a set

the familiar and venturing into the

Financial concerns

making the process feel rushed and

discomfort. To avoid this you must arrange

The financial aspects of moving,

Legal

significant life event a mixed bag of

emotions. Here are

some proven tips on how to make these emotions positive.

Change and uncertainty Moving entails a major life change,

and change, even positive change, can be a source of stress. The

uncertainty that comes with leaving unknown can trigger anxiety and

the most appropriate support for you.

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

enough to make anyone’s head spin. coordinating with movers to dealing with the sheer number of tasks involved can

and potential unexpected expenses,

financial strain or the unknowns of a new

something crucial or encountering

constraints, whether it’s due to work

stress. It is important to instruct a good

other commitments. The pressure

including the costs associated with legal

timeframe can heighten stress levels, chaotic. An experienced Lawyer will help you to be organised and give guidance on timings.

L EGA L SP ON SO R

all, choosing someone with the right qualities that will enable

you to build a rapport and trust is invaluable. Speak to family and friends who have moved to obtain a recommendation

from them. Also check google

reviews that endorse the Lawyer for the right reasons.

Plan and organise

Nadine Ashford

Another key to a successful and

less stressful move is meticulous

throughout the moving process.

checklist of tasks, including packing,

Moving in – have a plan to make it easy

address. Breaking down the process into

Make your new space feel like home

of being overwhelmed.

first, such as bedding, toiletries,

Seek support

comfortable and functional living space.

Moving doesn’t have to be a solo

familiar decorations or scents, can help

Finding a good lawyer

family to share the load, both physically

environment feel welcoming.

Choosing the right lawyer when moving

can provide encouragement, practical

Conclusion

legally sound transition. The hallmark of a

during a potentially stressful time.

Moving house is undoubtedly a complex

they will keep clients informed about the

Declutter mindfully

right mindset, lawyer, and strategic

complex terms in a clear and easy to

Take the opportunity to declutter and

and transformative experience. A good

responds promptly to client enquiries,

of sorting through belongings with

stress and how to implement practical

processed in a timely manner, and keeps

joy and letting go of the rest. Donating or

help, you can turn the chapter of moving

legal work on a regular basis.

only lighten the physical load but also

Embrace the change, seek support, and

planning. Start early by using a detailed notifying utilities, and updating your

manageable steps helps reduce the feeling

endeavour. Enlist the help of friends or

house is pivotal in ensuring a smooth and good lawyer is effective communication; legal aspects of the move, explaining

and emotionally. Having a support system assistance, and a sense of camaraderie

from the start. Unpack essential items and kitchen essentials, to create a Adding personal touches, such as

ease the transition and make the new

and challenging process, but with the approach, it can also be a rewarding

understand manner. A good Lawyer

simplify your life. Approach the process

Lawyer understands the sources of

ensures that all necessary documents are

mindfulness, keeping items that bring you

strategies to navigate them; with their

the client updated on the progress of all

selling unneeded possessions can not

into a pleasurable and fulfilling adventure.

bring a sense of fulfilment.

enjoy the journey. The journey is just as

A good Lawyer pays meticulous

important as the destination!

attention to every aspect, from reviewing

Take breaks and practice self-care

that could affect the client legally,

Moving can be physically and

your move easier and less stressful

to take breaks and prioritise self-care.

on nashford@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

and schedule moments of relaxation.

Nadine Ashford - Partner

contracts to identifying potential issues financially or emotionally.

emotionally demanding, so it’s crucial

Never choose a lawyer on price

Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well,

Too many people choose their Lawyer

Balancing productivity with self-care is

on price – whilst price is important to us

For a Copy of our Checklist to make please contact Nadine Ashford by email

key to maintaining a positive mindset

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

LEGAL S PO NS O R

Reflecting on the past year at Cognitive Law As we approach the end of 2023, and the festive season is nearly upon us, Lucy Tarrant, solicitor and Managing Director at Cognitive Law, shares her reflections of 2023.

I’m always staggered

Legal

by how quickly a year passes. My

daughter tells me that is because I am old,

but I prefer to think it’s because of how much we pack into it.

We kicked off the year by welcoming St Barnabas as a new charity partner for

the firm. St Barnabas is very close to my heart and, having used their incredible

service, I know all too well how wonderful they are. The support they provide to

their patients and families is invaluable.

Our charity efforts started by taking part

in the Step Challenge where we pledged to walk 7,000 steps a day. Happily, we successfully achieved this and more!

This year St Barnabas celebrated 50

years of loving care for the community in Worthing, Adur, Arun and Henfield areas and it has been a pleasure to support

them along the way and we look forward to continuing doing so next year.

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

This year also bought an exciting change to the networking lunch club that we run

on a not-for-profit basis for professionals in Brighton and Hove. The First Friday Lunch Club is one of the longest

established lunch clubs in Brighton,

and we were delighted to partner with

Whitespace at the beginning of the year to manage and run the club. The First

Friday Lunch Club was rebranded, and

a dedicated website built to enhance the experience for the Club’s members. We are thrilled to have sourced brand-new

venues this year, and next year is looking bigger and better than ever. So do keep your eyes open as we’d love to see you along to one of the lunches soon.

As a firm we, love to share our knowledge, and help to support our clients and those in the industries we specialise in. As

such, we ran several seminars and were delighted to have been invited to speak at a number of events throughout the

year. Our later life team partnered with

Benchmark and Scarlet Monday to

hold a seminar on succession planning and wealth management for business owners and due to its success, we

hope to run a series of seminars on this subject next year.

Personally, I was thrilled to be invited back to The Recruitment Agency

Expo in London as a guest speaker

to discuss the legal requirements of

running a recruitment business, an area

I specialise in. I was also delighted to be on the panel at the hugely successful

Directors Forum event alongside other business experts from Rubix VT, Knill James, Extech Cloud and Preston Insurance Brokers.

In other events we were delighted to host several breakfasts at Sussex Innovation, where our Head Office is based. We

really enjoy getting to know our business neighbours, and hosting a number of

events for the other members has been

L EGA L SP ON SO R

a fantastic way to form new connections amongst the business community we have at Sussex Innovation.

June saw a shift back to our charity

efforts when Richard Bates took on The Starr Trust’s Bike Ride Challenge. The

epic challenge saw Richard join a team of (crazy!) cycling enthusiasts to cycle from Bristol to Brighton, via the Isle of

Wight in 3 jam-packed days. The Starr

Trust is another one of Cognitive Law’s official charity partners, and one that Richard is a Trustee off. The charity,

also based in Sussex, has a mission to remove roadblocks for young people

and to help them succeed and thrive in whatever they put their minds to.

At the time of writing this we’ve just

enjoyed a fantastic evening celebrating The Starr Trust at this year’s Winter

Extravaganza. An evening of music,

laughter and of course fundraising – a

whopping £50,000 was raised in total! It was an honour for Cognitive Law to be

part of the show as a Pop Partner. What a

fantastic way to kick off the festive season!!

On the business front, one of the key areas we wanted to focus on this year was to

look at the way we provide legal services

to our clients. We took time to listen to

appointments of David Watson and Mandy

of their needs in terms of how they want

running. We are thrilled to have them on

legal landscape is changing and will

for next year – keep your eyes peeled!

our clients with exactly what they need,

Lastly, I can’t finish without the

suit our clients’ needs we have developed

year. In May I was delighted to be

This means commercial clients can

as Lawyer of the Year and more

requirements at a price point they are

the Professional Service category at

on demand, as and when they need it.

can’t tell you what an honour it is just

and therefore our packages come in

competition, and I am so proud to be

to the business. We hope this offering will

and collaborative business community.

with the knowledge they can have access

As they say, there’s a lot more in store

our clients and build an understanding

Tourle who have absolutely hit the ground

legal services delivered. We know the

board and are excited about further growth

always strive to ensure we are providing when they need it. Therefore, to better

mention of our awards success this

a number of legal retainer packages.

shortlisted in The Dynamic Awards

pick a package that suits their business

recently awarded ‘One To Watch’ in

comfortable with and enjoy legal advice

this year’s Sussex Business Awards. I

Of course, all businesses are different

to be shortlisted amongst such tough

different sizes and can be made bespoke

part of such a fantastically supportive

alleviate the stress on business owners,

to legal advice when they need it, and with

for next year, and I can’t wait to see

a payment plan everyone is happy with.

what 2024 brings.

We’ve also seen a year of growth for

By Lucy Tarrant,

solicitors to the team. David Lawrence

www.cognitivelaw.co.uk

the firm and welcomed new consultant

Solicitor and Managing Director

joined us earlier in the year and has

fast become an asset to the team with his expertise and knowledge in the

commercial property sector. The later life team has also expanded with the

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

Carpenter Box centenary celebrations 2023 This year, Sussex-based accountancy and business advisory firm Carpenter Box is proud to be celebrating 100 years since its formation!

To mark this

Cover Story

momentous

milestone, the firm decided to make

local charities a focal

point of 2023 by setting a target to

raise £50,000 for the Carpenter Box Charitable Foundation (CBCF). The

charity supports small, local voluntary and community groups that are active in the Sussex area.

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

100 years of service to Sussex...and beyond Carpenter Box has its origins in Worthing in 1923, when Robert Carpenter agreed to go into partnership with Harold Box and together they opened an office at 8 Liverpool Gardens. Fast forward 100 years and the firm now has five offices, 18 Partners and a team of over

220 staff supporting clients ranging from start-up businesses to large international corporations.

Message from Alan Edwards,

Carpenter Box Managing Partner We are drawing to the end of our

Centenary Year at Carpenter Box

and what a year it’s been! My sincere thanks go out to all our people for

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

their hard work, effort and creativity in

making 2023 a fitting celebration of this significant milestone for our business.

As a firm, our ethos is about

being positively engaged with our

A Century of progress 1923:

Robert Carpenter agrees to go into

partnership with Harold Box. Harold opens a Worthing office at 8 Liverpool Gardens.

stakeholders – with our customers,

staff, suppliers, associates and local

communities. Over the last 12 months, we’ve had a lot of fun, but we also

wanted this special year to make a

difference beyond our office network.

1939:

Gordon Child is appointed as Partner. The

Lancing office opens at 1 Drayco Buildings, South Street. WWII starts, with some staff

So, I’m delighted to report that through

called up for the duration.

the commitment of our people and

the activities they organised, we have exceeded our initial target of raising

£50,000 for our Carpenter Box Charitable Foundation, which supports small

charities in Sussex and the South East.

1960:

The new decade begins with the

Partnership comprised of Reginald Methold, Kenneth Mashford, Fred Webber and Roger Williams.

These funds will make a real difference to the work of the community groups that do so much to help vulnerable people of every age live their best

possible lives. You can read more about these charities in this special feature.

1982:

The first computer is purchased at a cost of £16,000.

This year has also been one of reflection.

I’ve been privileged to see much of

the development of the firm first hand,

having joined Carpenter Box in Worthing

as a trainee in 1993. At that time, we had 42 employees and six partners; today

1985:

The Worthing office is moved to

15 Grafton Road, after 62 years at Liverpool Gardens.

we have over 220 staff and 18 partners spread across five offices in the south.

Our success has won us national,

regional and local awards, but I prefer to measure our achievements in the value

2002:

we create for our clients, everyone who

Carpenter Box launches its first website on the domain www.c-box.co.uk. This is

changed to www.carpenterbox.com in 2006.

works for us and the wider community.

Now we look to 2024 and the promise of more exciting chapters in the Carpenter Box story.

Here’s to the next 100 years!

2005:

John Billings becomes Managing

Partner, later handing over to Alan

Edwards, leading the next two decades of exciting growth along with a great partnership team.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

A year of fundraising

2008

Carpenter Box Financial Advisers is

Launch event

Box Wealth Management).

The scene was set at a launch event at the

founded (originally known as Carpenter

Carpenter Box Head Office in Worthing

2009:

Carpenter Box Charitable Foundation is launched by staff and Partners to help local grassroots charities and community projects.

in March, with special guests including Worthing MP Sir Peter Bottomley and CBCF Gold sponsors, who have generously donated to the Foundation.

Local organisations which have benefited from CBCF support also attended, among

Sam Uwins, who later becomes the

2011:

youngest ever Partner at the firm, begins

working with influencers. He later launches the StarBox brand. The Worthing office is

moved to Amelia House, which remains our current Head Office.

them Red Balloon, Turning Tides, West Sussex Mind and Crawley Open House.

The Foundation’s year-long events programme received enthusiastic support from staff working groups set up at Carpenter Box to organise

2014:

fundraising activities...and have lots of Gatwick office opens at the Beehive in

fun in the process!

The headcount at Carpenter Box is 115.

May: Sports and Social Working Group

City Place, and quickly doubles in size.

The events programme got underway

2019:

Brighton office opens at The Projects

in the Lanes. Carpenter Box is named the national winner at the British

Accountancy Awards as the Mid-Tier Innovation Firm of the Year.

in May with a 100-year celebration staff party at the Grand Hotel in Brighton.

At the party staff paid to take part in a classic game of ‘Heads or Tails’, with the winner receiving a luxury hamper.

Later the same month, four of the

2020:

Carpenter Box team embarked on the Chichester office opens at Rume2 on Crane Street.

2021:

Carpenter Box joins PrimeGlobal, an international association focused on

member firm collaboration. Firm rebrand aligns all three businesses under a common identity.

challenging Mountbatten’s ‘Walk the Wight’, covering the 26 miles coastto-coast.

Among the most popular May events was the opportunity to ‘lob’ a wet sponge or dump a bucket of water over one of the Carpenter Box Partners. Together with competitions such as the ‘best drawn cartoon’ and ‘best paper aeroplane flight’, May bowed out having raised £1200.

2023:

London office opens on Hanover Street.

Carpenter Box celebrates centenary.

June: LGBTQIA+ Working Group June kicked-off with a bang, with Carpenter Box proudly hosting its first-

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

ever LGBTQIA+ public speaking event.

September: Sustainability

The Diversity, Equality and Inclusion

Working Group

speaker, Michael C Wearing, took centre stage, sharing his personal journey and inspiring a full house with his inspiring stories and knowledge.

Throughout June, the group sold Carpenter Box Pride lanyards, which served as a symbol of support and inclusivity, and on 22nd June, staff members from the Worthing, Crawley, and Brighton offices came together for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie at the LGBTQIA+ “Gaymes Day”.

July: Mental Health Champions In July, the firm’s Mental Health Champions rolled their sleeves up and got their cleaning products ready, as they organised a highly popular car washing service exclusively for Carpenter Box staff.

On 2nd July, staff members laced up their shoes and hopped on their bikes to participate in the Inter-Office walk/ cycle/run, with routes from London, Gatwick, Brighton, and Chichester all leading to Worthing, followed by much-needed pizza! It was a celebration of achievement, teamwork, and most importantly, a united effort to make a positive impact on the local community, raising an impressive

September ushered in the Sustainability Working Group to take the fundraising reins. This team is the driving force behind the sustainability initiatives at Carpenter Box, working tirelessly to integrate sustainable practices into the firm’s day-to-day operations and nurturing a culture of environmental consciousness among all staff and clients.

The main event for the month was a ‘book swap’, which allowed team members to exchange their favourite reads and reduce paper waste. They also arranged a plant sale, sold some vegan ice cream on a hot sunny day and organised a ‘Bargain Box’ where staff could buy and sell pre-loved items, promoting a culture of re-use and recycling.

October: Your Voice The final fundraising month of the year belonged to the ‘Your Voice’ Working Group, comprising staff who discuss ideas to improve and enhance the business. Their objective is to harness the collective insights of the employees, focusing on staff well-being, professional development, and the overall growth of the organisation. This group plays a pivotal role in translating these ideas into actionable and effective strategies that enhance the business.

The group organised a range of fun events for staff, the highlight of which was a lunchtime digital quiz where teams across the firm competed to vie for ultimate glory. The quiz brought together Carpenter Box staff from various offices, with 50 intriguing questions spread across 5 rounds.

The group also ran Halloween themed sweepstakes for sweet treats!

Our support for local communities The Carpenter Box Charitable Foundation (CBCF) is the charitable arm of Carpenter Box and Carpenter Box Financial Advisers. It was set up in 2009 as part of the firm’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) with the aim of supporting smaller locally-based charities and community groups.

Since its inception, CBCF has raised

over £350,000 to support the work of these vital organisations.

£1,648.84 in the process.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

How fun translated into fundraising Thanks to the amazing teams who arranged and took part in the fundraising events across the year, Carpenter Box staff and partners, together with the support of our generous sponsors have exceeded the initial target of £50,000 by raising a total of £82,000 for the Carpenter Box Charitable Foundation – all of which will be funnelled into local charities and good causes.

Supporting the work of local community groups

skills they need to return to education or prepare for work or further training.”

and support it offers, the charity aims to improve people’s physical and mental wellbeing and strengthen their self-

CBCF has a proud history of supporting

esteem and confidence.

vulnerable people by a range of dedicated,

Debbie Watkins, Communications

the vital work provided to communities and locally-focused charities. The main

beneficiaries for this year’s fundraising are:

Crawley Open House

& Fundraising Manager at West

Sussex Mind, commented: “We rely

Crawley Open House is a year-round

on the generosity of our donors and

comprehensive support to 55 people in

would like to say a big thank you to

residential homeless shelter providing

fundraisers for much of our work and

and around Crawley.

Carpenter Box for their kind donation –

Red Balloon

Ian Wilkins, Head of Fundraising &

within the charity.”

Worthing-based Red Balloon helps

enjoyed a good relationship with the

from education, whether as a result of

many years and we are thrilled that they

an alternative to school, helping students

in their centenary year.

their confidence and self-esteem through

“Their generosity makes an important

provides services for single homeless

providing the accommodation, food

supporters, 300 volunteers and 140

experiencing homelessness and severe

individuals and organisations who work

Relationships, commented: “We have

young people who are self-excluding

Gatwick office of Carpenter Box for

bullying, anxiety or trauma. It provides

have decided to support local charities

to re-engage with education and build

it is very much appreciated by everyone

Turning Tides Turning Tides is based in Worthing and

social and wellbeing activities.

contribution towards the costs of

people in West Sussex. It has over 5,000

Nick Munday, a Trustee of Red Balloon,

and support which we offer to those

staff and brings together compassionate

charity has received: “The donations

hardship locally 24/7 365 days a year.”

tirelessly to transform the lives of people

is very appreciative of the support the

provided by Carpenter Box have enabled

perceptions of homelessness.

us to purchase a laptop charging

station for 20 of our laptops and replace worn out carpeting at our premises

in the local community and to change

The charity provides a warm, safe

in Worthing. Carpenter Box has also

West Sussex Mind

reception area following a refurbishment

West Sussex Mind is an independent

pathways out of homelessness.

their staff volunteered for two days’

mental health support hubs in Southwick,

We are thrilled to have been able to

supports people across West Sussex with

charities, with an additional 25

donated good quality furniture for our

space to listen to anyone who is

looking for help and provides real

at their offices. In addition, a group of

local charity based in Worthing, with

painting and gardening at the charity.

Littlehampton and Midhurst. The charity

donate £30,000 to these four fantastic

“Their engagement is very much

their mental health, provides specialist

charities also receiving donations.

at Red Balloon and helps us support

services and promote understanding of

To find out more, please visit our website

appreciated by everyone who works

training and campaigns to improve

vulnerable children in developing the

mental health issues. Through the advice

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

www.carpenterbox.com

ADVISORY / TAX / AUDIT

Celebrating 100 years of Carpenter Box Serving Sussex since 1923 Are you looking for an innovative firm of accountants, auditors or tax and business advisers who can improve the performance and profitability of your business? Then look no further.

Carpenter Box is a large accountancy firm based in Worthing which offers a wide range of services from specialist accountants and tax advisers. Take a look at us and discover how we can help your business grow.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

For once – Rubix does things by half!

Rubix VT is proud to be the headline sponsor for the 2024 Brighton Half Marathon.

Charity

As the headline

a charity, find incredibly important.

Every year 10,000 runners flock to

three years, Rubix

“For the race team, this partnership is a

seafront course. In 2024 the Rubix

race, and it provides a fantastic platform

feature a wheelchair race, a one-mile

sponsor for the next VT believes the new

partnership provides

the perfect opportunity to give back

to the local community in supporting

runners and their fundraising efforts. As well as supporting the official partner

charity, the Sussex Beacon, Rubix will be donating race places to The Starr Trust.

Martin Harrigan, Rubix VT Brighton Half Marathon Race Director, said:

“It’s incredibly exciting to announce

that Rubix VT will be our new headline sponsor for the next three years.

“I know Nick and the team at Rubix

VT have a real passion for running and

have shown their support for a range of community initiatives across Sussex –

values which we, as an event owned by

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Brighton to enjoy the fast, flat 13.1mile

big vote of confidence in our plans for the

VT Brighton Half Marathon will also

to enable us to continue to develop the

youth race and new this year, a charity

event over the next three years.”

relay race.

Nick Poyner, Managing Director at

As well as headline charity partner The

Half Marathon is a fantastic community

over 30 other charities. General

fundraising and charity very much at

are available now from The Rubix

Sussex Beacon and all the other amazing

however organisers advise runners to

Rubix VT, commented: “The Brighton

Sussex Beacon, runners can support

event with an incredible heritage with

entries and charity places for 2024

its core. An opportunity to support The

VT Brighton Half Marathon website,

charities that participate in the event was

enter soon before the race sells out.

such an easy decision to make.”

Go to www.brightonhalfmarathon.com

Taking place on Sunday 25 February 2024,

for more information and to sign up to

in its 34th year, is a UKA-certified event

facebook.com/BrightonHalfMarathon

one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.

(formerly Twitter).

the Rubix VT Brighton Half Marathon, now

the race, join the Facebook page www.

that features a stunning seafront course in

and follow @BrightonHalf on X

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Rubix in the community 2023

A round-up of how the business has helped The Starr Trust and other local charities.

It’s been quite a year

Charity

at Rubix VT.

• The size of the team has tripled – from 6 to 18

• The turnover has doubled

• And the business has contributed over

£100,000 to charities and good causes

Managing director of Rubix VT Nick

Poyner said: “It’s in my DNA to want

to help children and young adults who need a helping hand in life.

“Since escaping poverty myself and as a father, I want to give back and make

people’s lives better. It’s that ethos that I’ve carried with me into Rubix VT.

“It’s important for other company leaders to consider that giving back to their local

community is good business too. People want to work for companies that make a real difference, so I would urge other

business leaders to think about what that they can do to help others.”

Over the past year Rubix VT’s donations

Boat House and several other charities

including its headline charity partner The

spokesperson for Chestnut Tree House

have benefited a variety of causes

including Chestnut Tree House. A

Starr Trust which received £25,517.

said: “Rubix VT have been a huge

The charity supports young people aged

2023 and we look forward to working

who are from or have links to the greater

to come. They are helping to make

difficulties in their lives, have emotional,

families in the local community and we’re

supporter of Chestnut Tree House during

10-25, from a low-income background,

with them hopefully for many years

Brighton area and are experiencing

children’s hospice care possible for

physical or learning challenges or are

extremely grateful for all that they do.”

achieving their goals.

Rubix VT’s next programme of charity

Rob Starr, co-founder of the Starr

as Headline Sponsor for The Big Hoot, a

a remarkable year for The Starr

staged by local children’s hospice

facing a roadblock that is stopping them

activity is well underway after signing up

Trust, commented: “It has been

public art trail in Chichester and Arundel

Trust, and I’d like to express our

charity, Chestnut Tree House.

its unwavering support. Rubix VT’s

Rubix VT is planning to hire a dedicated

into 2024 promises a bright future for

initiatives next year to build on its

profound gratitude to Rubix VT for

commitment to continue this support

employee to spearhead its charitable

our charity and the lives we touch.”

support for its local community.

Donations also went to Rockinghorse

For more information, visit: https://

Children’s Charity in Brighton, The Old

www.rubixvt.com/

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

12 Days of Christmas to 12 Years of Fundraising

The remarkable story of how Search Seven raised £100,000 for charity – by being a purpose driven business that is focused on charity giving all year round, not just at Christmas.

3

2

2017

2015

1

2014

4

2017

Search Seven was

Charity

founded in 2011

with the intention to

fully embrace ‘giving back’ as a core part

of who we are and what we stand for,

with our new slogan ‘Search Marketing for Social Good’ the ethos at the heart of our business.

In October 2023, at our first-ever Search

Seven Charity Ball, we celebrated raising over £100,000 for charities chosen by

the Search Seven team. With over 220 people in attendance, we managed to raise a further £11,000 on the night,

bringing our fundraising total to £120,000.

It’s been 12 years of bringing the

community together to make a difference through the 23 events that we have

hosted and as it’s Christmas, we thought we would share our 12 favourite images from our fundraising to date, helping to bring to life what we have achieved.

2014 - Our first fundraising event back in 2014 was a charity football match

at Shoreham Football Club. The “Ted’s Trophy” - dedicated to raising money

for Rockinghorse Children’s Charity in

honour of Gavin’s godson Ted - was a real success, raising over £4,000 for charity.

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

2015 – The first ever Search Seven Charity Golf Day was held at Mid Sussex Golf Club, with 12 teams battling it out for

‘Ted’s Trophy’ yet again. This was the start of a regular event in our events calendar.

2017 – Founder Gavin and his wife

Catherine visited Uganda to meet Allan and the Nkuringo School, who Search Seven has supported since 2015.

Search Seven donated water tanks,

paid for Allans yearly tuition fees and even funded lifesaving eye surgery

for Gilipina who had a tumour behind

her eye. We also held our first charity football match at the AMEX stadium.

2018 – We launched the #share7

campaign, hosting three fantastic

events that raised £20,000 in one year,

including a football match at the AMEX Stadium, a golf day and a quiz night.

Through #share7, our aim was to raise

£17,000 in one year to match what we’d achieved in our first six years! That

year we also won the Best Corporate Fundraiser Award at the Brighton & Hove Business Awards.

2019 – Another Golf day in 2019 plus we supported the RISE Superheroes Run.

We won the CSR Excellence Award at the Brighton & Hove Business Awards.

2020 – During the pandemic, and just

days after launching our new #share77k charity campaign, we had to postpone

several events, like many other charities did too, yet we pivoted quickly, hosting

an online Quiz night by the end of March 2020, followed by other events, both offline and online, during the year, to continue to make a difference.

During the pandemic, we had to

postpone several events and instead, decided to continue hosting them

online. By the end of March 2020, we’d hosted an online quiz night followed by other offline and online events to show that a small business can make a big difference in tough times.

2021 – We hired out ‘Network My Pub’

for the evening, turning it into ‘S Pub 7’ – our first ever VIP virtual Pub Quiz It was a fantastic event, raising over £2,000.

By the end of 2021, and to celebrate

our 10th birthday party in style, we hit

our £77,000 on the night itself through

a charity raffle. Here we are celebrating with a few of our chosen charities that came along to celebrate with us.

2022 – In 2022 we launched our #S7100 campaign, with the aim to increase our fundraising to £100,000 by the end of

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

5

2018

7

2019

6

2018

9

2020

8

2021

10

2022

12

1123

2023

20

2023. The Search Seven team kickstarted individual challenges to walk ‘100 Miles

in August’ to raise money for their chosen charities as part of the #S7100 Charity Campaign. This was our first big team event, where we met up in London for a London Landmarks Half-Marathon

spanning 13 miles. We match-funded

everyone’s individual fundraising, bringing the total raised to a whopping £5,000.

2023 – We held our first ever Search

Seven Charity Ball at The Grand Hotel in Brighton in October 2023, raising

£11,000 on the night. It was a great

way to celebrate reaching our £100,000 fundraising target with all our clients,

partners, colleagues, supporters, charities, friends and family in attendance.

Our purpose has remained strong for 12

years. There have been several changes

in how we raise money and how we

have launched a new campaign and a

of our 7% charity pledge has remained a

the target of increasing our fundraising to

involve the team, but the core principle

new goal - the #share177 campaign - with

constant throughout.

£177,000 by the end of 2026.

Since our first ever event back in 2014,

If you are looking to improve your PPC

to fundraising, creating campaigns that

be better, orif you are after some tips

a team a focus and something we can all

your business - get in touch to book

builds on the success of the previous

gavin@searchseven.co.uk

since the business was founded.

If you like the sound of our events and

We have now helped support 48 different

email to events@searchseven.co.uk

we have hosted and organised, setting

our website.

we have grown in terms of our approach

performance, feel that your SEO could

have a target attached. This gives us as

on how to embed a CSR strategy into

work together to achieve. Each campaign

in a FREE discovery call – just contact

one, to increase our overall fundraising

charities through 23 charity events that

would like to get involved, send an

or/and subscribe to our newsletter via

ourselves a new target to keep us motivated to ‘give back’ more!

With our 15th birthday on the horizon, we

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

‘Loneliness is something that affects us all - people are the solution’ The CEO of Together Co knows connection and community are key to solving loneliness Watching people

Charity

eating together and

realising she had no one to have dinner

with is what spurred

April Baker on to make changes to her

life and seek the connection she craved.

The CEO of Brighton loneliness charity

Together Co was in her 20s, single, and living in a house share with people in

London when she realised, she needed to make changes for her own mental health.

From the outside she appeared young

and carefree, with a successful career in the charity sector.

In reality, she was lonely and dealing with daily panic attacks, and felt like she was

dipping in and out of other people’s lives with no sense of where she belonged.

When agoraphobia stopped her from using public transport and left her

struggling to open the front door, April knew things had to change.

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Working in hostels she saw the need

environments for people to thrive,

as how important it was that everyone

transformative power of strong

for connection and community as well

not just survive, and recognise the

should have a roof over their head.

relationships and social connections.

She said: “In our society we are so

city for over 20 years, connecting

They have been working across the

focused on working with the individual.

communities, so everyone has someone.

and how we can connect people again.”

Together Co offers volunteering

April now works as CEO for Together

difference to someone experiencing

We need to look at the social element

opportunities which can make a huge

Co which helps thousands of people in

loneliness and isolation.

and social prescribing.

In that time, they have seen loneliness

She believes that in a crisis we

simple power of human connection.

pulling together to help each other out.

If you, or someone you know is affected

She said: “I don’t want us to stop talking

would like to talk to Together Co about

attached to it. It’s ok to talk about

business, you can find out more about

that affects us all, but it is people who

or email hello@togetherco.org.uk.

Brighton and Hove through befriending

automatically look for connection,

eased and lives changed, all through the

by loneliness or social isolation, or you

about loneliness because of the stigma

how to develop connection in your

mental health. Loneliness is something

Together Co’s services at their website,

are also the solution.”

Together Co is dedicated to creating

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Helping families through the challenges of caring for children with disabilities Meet The Children’s Respite Trust, wich explains all about its work and the positive impact it has on the families it helps.

At the Children’s

Charity

Respite Trust we

provide essential respite care for

families facing the

extraordinary challenges of caring for children with disabilities.

Beyond providing care, we strive to

create a compassionate community

where both children and their families

find the support they so rightly deserve.

We understand that each family’s journey is unique, and so are the needs of

their children. This means we tailor our

services to meet the specific challenges they face across our different groups: Little Stars, Superstars and All Stars.

The impact of our care is best measured in the star stories of the families we support like Poppy and her parents. When she

was born, Poppy had to undergo multiple surgeries for abnormalities that were not detected through pregnancy.

Facing this shock, her parents were continuously given a bleak outlook

from professionals all offering the worst

Our care is vital for so many families and

guidance. The family were even told that

but in the impact we make. However, to

support’ despite having severe learning

we must continue to fundraise.

case scenario with little to no advice or

success is measured not in financial gains

Poppy was ‘not disabled enough for

provide the care that we do free of charge,

disabilities and being non-verbal.

Attending events like our upcoming

When a health visitor directed them

Comedy Night on the 23rd February or

Mum said: “The focus was suddenly

will make a massive difference to the

changed to what her needs were and

fundraising and challenge events will

a break for a few hours.”

school service, the Milky Way Club. Both

Since accessing our services, they have

overwhelming demand for respite care in

towards the Children’s Respite Trust,

our new Summer Soiree on 18th May

away from Poppy’s diagnosis and

work we do. Regular giving, community

how she’d be supported while giving us

fund more support workers and our after

these projects are designed to combat the

joined a community where they can share

Sussex and therefore help more families.

as well as benefit from respite.

The Children’s Respite Trust is more than

For many families in this situation,

fuelled by the passion and commitment

simply not accessible resulting in

you would like to be a part of that please

Parents, children and siblings at CRT all

more information.

their experiences and support each other

an organisation; it’s a collective effort

mainstream services and events are

of our team, volunteers, and supporters. If

feelings of isolation and hopelessness.

visit our website www.crtcharity.org for

benefit from knowing they are no longer the odd one out and are in fact a very valued member of the Trust.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Over 370,000 children supported by Rockinghorse during 2023 Since the beginning of the year, Rockinghorse has supported an amazing 380,000 children throughout Sussex.

For the last 56

Charity

years Rockinghorse

Children’s Charity has been supporting sick

and disabled children

across Sussex. It supports babies,

children and young people, along with their families, at The Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and The Trevor

Mann Baby Unit in Brighton and all of

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the specialist children’s wards and baby units throughout Sussex.

And during the last year the charity has supported 380,000 children across the county.

This figure includes 30,000 children who have been to the Accident and Emergency department throughout

the year who have benefitted from

toys and games in the waiting areas

to help pass the time, 3D goggles and

interactive technology to distract them from a painful procedure, or support

from the Rockinghorse funded Youth Worker for young people struggling

with their mental health and wellbeing.

It also includes the 725 premature

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

babies who have been supported with specialist medical equipment such

as the Rockinghorse funded neonatal ventilator which prevents babies

having to be transferred to London for the treatment they need.

And it includes the 68 individual projects that the charity has funded.

Projects like toys, books and craft

materials that offer children a distraction

how more personalised medication can

person who has taken part in any

better help control their symptoms.

fundraising during the year.

It also includes funding people with

Rockinghorse CEO Donna Holland said:

specific, additional skills to a hospital

Rockinghorse during the last year has

for children and families that the NHS

doctors, nurses, support staff and project

a specialist Oncology Psychologist to

babies, children and young people with

specialist skills who can provide

“What the local community has done for

team or department, can help fill a gap

been absolutely amazing. It’s meant that

simply aren’t able to provide, such as

organisers have been able to provide

support young cancer patients.

the support they need to thrive, be happy and enjoy being children.

from scary procedures, a relief from

Thank you

long time, or a way to just feel like their

But absolutely none of this help, none

opportunity to thank all the businesses

of this life-saving equipment, and none

participants and individuals who have

there if it weren’t for the support that

help support us this year.”

supporters within the local community.

www.rockinghorse.org.uk

the boredom of being in hospital a normal selves again.

Equipment like Dinamap monitors that let staff easily and accurately

assess patients’ blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels and temperature.

Activities like sea swimming and art therapy courses that help children

manage their feelings around a longterm health condition.

And ground-breaking research into how genetics play a part in how children

with asthma respond to treatment and

“So, we would like to take this

of these life-improving activities, none

and community groups, challenge

of these life-changing people, would be

taken so much of their time and effort to

the charity receives from thousands of

This means individuals, schools,

community groups and local businesses

fundraising in hundreds of different ways from netball matches to sponsored

walks, Easter Egg donations to rubbish collections. This list is endless, like the charity’s appreciation of every single

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

2023 in the world of Dad La Soul Dad La Soul charts another year full of activity, adventure and awards.

From launching new

Charity

events with an array of different partners

in a host of different locations to being

recognised in the corridors of power,

it’s been an eventful 12 months on our

mission to battle social isolation in dads.

Our Worthing playdates for dads and their kids have continued to grow, as have the dads-only night time events. We’ve also

added another dads-only meet-up in Hove with Freedom Works, and in Brighton in

association with Propellernet and the Early Birth Association. In addition, this autumn

saw us complete our first year of Brighton playdates at Plus X, which have proved a huge success.

During the summer, Dad La Soul

partnered with the Baton of Hope, the

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

UK’s biggest ever suicide prevention

gender equality and engaged fatherhood.

school playdate and even opened the

Interest also came from Sussex University,

initiative. For that, we hosted an afterdoors to mums for the first time!

In June, we received a letter from

Number 10 Downing Street to tell us that the Prime Minister had chosen

Dad La Soul to receive a Point of Light

award. Rishi Sunak wrote: “Through Dad La Soul, you have built a community of dads with global social impact.

Congratulations, and thank you.”

But it wasn’t only the PM’s office

that we infiltrated in Westminster. In

November, our founder Dan Flanagan attended the House of Lords for a review of the State of the World’s

Fathers report. It was a proud moment

to have Dad La Soul take its place as a

credible part of global conversations on

with whom we worked on a research project case study that used us as a

model of a successful social enterprise.

Online, we launched a new podcast,

Dad La Soul Extra Time, which provides listeners with chat topics to take to the pub or drop into the WhatsApp chat.

And our Dad La Soul Sessions live

stream included a powerful and funny

interview with journalist Sam Delaney as well as chats with a self-defence expert, a comedian who jokes about his mental health, a man who takes on extreme challenges to raise money to save

babies’ lives and many many more.

All in all, 2023 has been a riot. Here’s to more of the same in 2024.

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Supporting families through cancer and beyond With bespoke support, WOLO brings Sussex families together for friendship and so much more.

Wolo Foundation (We

Charity

Only Live Once) helps to improve the quality

of life of families living in Sussex on their

cancer journeys. The bespoke support they offer includes practical help and

emotional support, wellness opportunities and family experiences. They work with local businesses and communities to offer all family members a wealth of

services to support them through their diagnosis, treatment and beyond.

Co-founders Fler and Justin faced their

own cancer journey in 2018. They found

out the hard way that there wasn’t much help out there for families.

Wolo focuses on making connections

and bringing families together - not only to share their challenges but to form

lifelong friendships. Free family events, walks, talks, running groups and more,

provide families with the opportunity to

meet others on similar cancer journeys, breaking the feelings of isolation. The

empathy, shared experiences and

events planned for 2024. Their unique,

support network, so families know they

run in September is the first charity

understanding, result in a strengthened

once-in-a-lifetime Africa 100-mile trek/

are not alone on their journey.

event of its kind in the world. 10 days,

The impact of a cancer diagnosis extends

with the release of a vulnerable species

has a huge effect on mental wellness

please see their website https://

100 miles in the South African bush,

beyond physical effects. Cancer also

in the local area. For more information,

too. Wolo offers various therapies to help

wolofoundation.org/wolo-africa-100

and children. They have also developed

The Wolo 100 Club is an exciting

exclusively for the Wolo community.

make a difference to local families

Wolo’s impact is measured not just

the benefits of joining and to make

of lives. They are proud to share that

website. https://wolofoundation.org/

the whole family; the patient, partner a new, bespoke wellness course

initiative aimed at businesses to help affected by cancer. To read more about

in numbers but in the transformation

a difference locally, please visit their

100% of families feel significantly

wolo-100-club

the Wolo community. Every connection

Statistics show that 1 in 2 people in the

contributes to a community supported

with cancer in their lifetime. Life is

more supported as a result of joining made and every shared experience

UK born after 1960 will be diagnosed

on every level.

precious - we need to make the most of

Wolo is busier than ever, with the

number of families reaching out for help

quickly rising. They have lots of exciting

it - we only live once - Wolo!

contact@wolofoundation.org www.wolofoundation.org

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Meet Eastbourne based charity Muma Nurture Founded in 2017, the community interest organisation supports people affected by infertility, perinatal mental health and baby loss. This is what Trustees want you to know.

Muma Nurture is

Charity

a small volunteer

and community led Eastbourne based charity providing

support for people in Sussex affected

by infertility, perinatal mental health and

baby loss through specialist counselling, holistic therapies, support groups and community events.

Providing a place to belong for those

experiencing these unfortunately common and often overlooked struggles before,

during and up to a year after pregnancy.

We offer a free initial consultation and

invite clients to donate whatever they can

afford (or not) for further therapy to ensure we don’t exclude anyone financially.

Often people are unaware of these

issues until personally affected. Of an

estimated 19,462 Sussex pregnancies in 2016; 2385 ended in abortion, 2785

in miscarriage and 67 in perinatal death.

These, plus the 86,315 struggling with

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

fertility issues are our community. Our

beyond the therapies and support

approximately 55% of people are

relationships and improving wellbeing

very conservative statistics suggest

offered by the charity, building strong

affected by infertility, perinatal mental

within the community:

these issues are surrounded by shame

“It helped me to understand I was not

may not be aware.

this had happened to. The therapists

In addition to the emotional struggle,

really helped, but more than that I

health and baby loss, although often and secrecy and those around them

alone and I was not the only person are brilliant and the sessions I had

there are other adversities to overcome:

made friends.”

fertility treatment are totally ignored by

To date, we have supported over 200

there is full entitlement to maternity

reported an increase in emotional

are real disadvantages at an already very

services. Those who came for

Those who never get pregnant or have legislation. For stillbirth after 24 weeks

clients. Each and every one of them

leave and pay, before that none. These

wellbeing through accessing our

vulnerable time.

workshops all reported an increase

The most common feeling our clients

information. A significant amount of

we provide the opportunity to be part of a

reported improvements as mentioned

can accept and understand your

belonging and gratitude for a space to

in knowledge and learning of new

report to us is isolation. At Muma Nurture,

anecdotal feedback underpins the

new community where everyone involved

above but also a general feeling of

experience and thoughts and feelings

feel normal, accepted and understood.

made within the centre extend far

https://mumanurture.org/

associated with that. Connections

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Sussex to get boost from Coronation Food project The Coronation Food Project was launched to mark His Majesty The King’s 75th birthday on 14th November.

Charity

The Coronation Food

people access vital frontline services.

& Surrey commented: “We are delighted

new initiative to save

The Coronation Food Project will help to

Food Project. It will enable us to access

gets surplus food to where it is needed

otherwise be going to waste. In the last

King Charles III Charitable Fund whose

of food and an increase in demand

sustainable communities.

groups we work with. This food is a

Project represents a

and circulate surplus food and use it for

social good and will provide a much-

needed boost to charities and people in need across Sussex and Surrey.

The project, which was inspired by The King, aims to create a fairer and more

sustainable future by redistributing more

food and supercharging food distribution through centres across the UK. In Sussex and Surrey, food is

redistributed by FareShare Sussex & Surrey, part of a nationwide network operated by FareShare, the UK’s

biggest charity using the power of food to bring positive change to people

and communities. FareShare Sussex

& Surrey serves 153 frontline charities

across the region, all of which use food to strengthen communities and help

to be supported through The Coronation

enhance and scale the infrastructure that

an increased level of food which would

most. It is being coordinated by the

year we have seen particularly low levels

mission is to transform lives and build

from the local charities and community

As part of the project, senior figures from

starting point to help bridge that gap.

the food industry, both major retailers

“We want to encourage food suppliers,

under a new model to save even more

are able to help in the same way.

the charity sector.

helps to feed hungry people, rather

and manufacturers, have joined forces

big and small, to get in touch if they

waste and generate additional food for

Ensuring that this good-to-eat food

Through the Alliance Manufacturing

than heading to waste.”

programme, they aim to utilise surplus

For more information on the Coronation

food, packaging, labour and capacity

kccf.org.uk/coronation-food-project/

people in need.

For more information on FareShare

Dan Slatter, CEO of FareShare Sussex

faresharesussexandsurrey.org.uk/

and donated resources of any kind -

- to produce more nutritious food to help

Food Project, please visit: https://www.

Sussex & Surrey, please visit https://

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Search is on for new corporate sponsors in 2024

A mental health charity offering support to families whose children are struggling with their mental health has seen a huge take-up of their services.

Holding Space is the

Charity

only East Sussex charity offering

Parent Peer Work –

parents with real-life

experience always on hand to support

mums and dads with children struggling with mental health issues.

The charity has helped over 800 parents, carers and young people through

activities such as low-cost counselling, yoga sessions, coffee mornings and education programmes.

Chief Executive Hansa Raja explained

that the best advice and guidance always

came from parents who had lived through the trauma and pain of a child in distress.

“Parents with lived experience can share a journey and understanding with the people we support,” Hansa said. “It

is empowering to know that someone

understands and ‘gets it’. We help them get their voice heard and listened to.”

Hansa said that latest statistics indicated

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

an incredible one in four children

a mentally ill child and finding no

prospect of NHS support is currently

space for families to come together. It

struggle with their mental health, but the

support. The charity provides a safe

standing at two to three years.

believes that no parent should struggle

“This is just not good enough,” she

the voice of the parent is paramount.

are vital. We cannot wait until children

Services offered include:

Government support and an NHS

• Face-face monthly parent coffee

said. “Early intervention and support reach a crisis point. We need proper

alone when caring for a child and that

and social services that receives the

mornings Face-face monthly parent

funding it needs.”

coffee mornings and evenings with

Holding Space finds itself having to

• Online parent coffee evenings

and corporate support. “My team

parents/carers undertaken by parent

significant amount of time exploring

• 1:1 low-cost counselling for parent or

hugely grateful to our corporate

• Weekly yoga for parents

Sussex businesses to consider

• Monthly creative sessions for parents

rely on fundraising, grant applications of volunteers and I are spending a

ways of making ends meet. We are

invited speakers

• 1:1 Telephone/ wellbeing support to peer support workers. child/young person

sponsors and I would urge other

• 1:1 yoga sessions for teenagers

adopting us as their charity in 2024,”

• Educational programmes empowering

Hansa said.

parents with skills and knowledge to

Holding Space was founded by Hansa

• Parent peer support

own journey trying to cope with

https://www.holdingspace.org.uk/

in Eastbourne in 2019 following her

support their children

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

The Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation – moving into the heart of Brighton This December, the Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation moved away from the Amex Stadium and into a new office near Queen’s Park.

Who is the BHAFC

Charity

Foundation? It’s

the official charity

of Brighton & Hove

Albion FC, the city’s

local Premier League football club.

The BHAFC Foundation’s mission is to change lives through the power

of football. They do this by helping

thousands of people in Sussex to get active, live well, and learn new skills.

You may already be familiar with the foundation’s work; the charity has

operated in Sussex for more than three decades, supporting several different generations of local children.

In 2022 alone, the BHAFC Foundation

supported more than 20,000 people in

35 towns and cities across Sussex. Every single week, their sessions support over 5,000 children and young people.

After being based at the Amex Stadium

for years, the Foundation has decided to

new skills. Whether that’s through their

– their new office is just a stone’s

lessons, their healthy eating workshops,

and Kemptown - to be closer to the

lessons, they provide a great deal of

move their HQ into the heart of Brighton

football-themed literacy and numeracy

throw from Queen’s Park, Whitehawk,

their after-school clubs, or their PE

communities that they serve.

support to schools in Brighton & Hove.

It has moved into a new office on

It also runs free football sessions for

used to be The Cuthbert pub. The pub had

Kicks programme; they have sessions

Foundation hopes to revitalise a treasured

and Manor Gym.

memories for many people in the area.

CEO Matt Dorn says: “We’re proud to

Just as the pub building was once a place

we’ll be looking to do even more in and

Freshfield Road – into the building that

local kids through the Premier League

been closed for years, and the BHAFC

nearby at Moulsecoomb Leisure Centre

building that no doubt holds treasured

make a genuine impact in the city, and

for local people to gather, locals will once

around Whitehawk once we’ve moved in.

Part of the new office development will

“We’d love for you to come down to meet

again be able to meet at The Cuthbert. include a football-themed community

us, and find out all about who we are.”

and enjoy a coffee together.

www.bhafcfoundation.org.uk

café, where locals will be able to come

The BHAFC Foundation works in dozens of schools across the city, helping

youngsters to get active and learn

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

No young person chooses to be homeless

At the Clock Tower Sanctuary, we provide practical and emotional support to help young people to move from crisis to stability. We are the only drop-in day centre in Brighton & Hove for 16-to-25 year olds who are experiencing homelessness.

We want Brighton

Charity

and Hove to be a city where young

people’s experience of homelessness is

rare, brief and non-recurring.

For young people experiencing

homelessness in Brighton and Hove, Christmas can be very tough. While

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

some will have access to emergency

or emergency support in a crisis.

the uncertainty of rough sleeping.

Kurt talks about their experience: “I was

accommodation, many will be facing

For these young people in vulnerable

situations, the drop-in centre is a safe

place, somewhere to escape loneliness and isolation, where there are hot

meals, showers and laundry facilities.

There’s also advice on benefits,

accommodation, budgeting and more,

15 when my grandfather died. I missed him so much, and turned to drink and weed to drown out my feelings. In no time, I was taking heavier drugs.

“My relationship with Mum became

volatile, so when she decided to move up

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

north, I stayed in Brighton, mostly sofa surfing, but also living on the streets.

“With support from my boss, I

started the 12-Step Programme. But

recovery was very up and down, made worse by a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2020. I received

chemotherapy during the pandemic,

and thankfully managed to stay clean, recovering from the cancer.

“The stress of being ill, as well as

centre. But when I finally returned, no

me back to the drugs. But I’d had

and given a proper meal after days of

trauma from my early childhood, drove

one judged. I was shown kindness,

enough, and sought help from the

going without.”

Clock Tower Sanctuary.

With your help, we can keep the

“It felt like normality – somewhere to

doors to our drop-in centre open this

clothes, as well as receive support

person experiencing homelessness,

have a meal, shower and wash my

December, and give another young

with rehab.

like Kurt, the emergency support

“Recovery has not been

£20,413 a month to make this happen.

Christmas last year, and felt too

here: https://www.thects.org.uk/

they often desperately need. It costs

straightforward. I relapsed over

If you can help, you can donate

ashamed to come to the drop-in

christmas/

If you can help, or you want to find out more about us, just scan the QR code.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

7 steps towards a suicide safer business and community

Grassroots Suicide Prevention explains why everyone in Sussex needs to be aware of its work.

Sussex consistently

Charity

has amongst the highest rates of

so we can start to build a suicide safer community in Sussex.

suicide in England. On

3. D ownload our pioneering and award-

die by suicide in Sussex each year. This

Alive onto all your work devices. It’s free

average 186 people

is 20% higher than the national average and rates are on the increase amongst those aged 10 – 24. Every suicide

is a tragedy which has a devastating and long-lasting impact on families,

to download, available in 14 different

2006. We empower people to help save

tools and resources for those at risk and

educating, and campaigning. We need

lives from suicide through connecting,

people supporting them.

your help to create a suicide safer

suicide. We can provide specialist

1. O ffer training that will help your

colleagues to look out for risk factors,

understand myths and spot signs that someone is at risk, as well as gaining the knowledge and skills to support someone who is in crisis.

2. Join our Champions programme. We are encouraging every organisation to have a suicide prevention champion

40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Sussex-based charity, founded in

languages, and includes life-saving

by suicide is estimated at £1.8 million.

a difference?

in one of our challenge events!

Grassroots Suicide Prevention is a

4. R eview your well-being or mental

So, what can businesses do to make

fundraising event, or perhaps participate

winning suicide prevention app, Stay

colleagues and the whole community.

The financial impact when a person dies

work we do, get involved in organising a

community in Sussex.

health policies in relation to

If you can support our work then we

advice regarding your policies in

contact Carrie, to discuss ways we

relation to suicide.

5. Partner with us on an awareness campaign to help end the stigma around reaching out for help.

6. Become a corporate partner and

help raise funds so we can continue

building the range of support we offer.

7. Ask your staff to volunteer or fundraise. You could use your

knowledge and skills to support the

would love to hear from you. Please

can work with you on carrie@preventsuicide.org.uk

If you are struggling yourself or

worried about someone else then

you can find crisis resources at www.

stayalive.app or call our friends at the Samaritans on 116 123.

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

The WayfinderWoman Trust – helping women take control of their lives WayfinderWoman Trust is a female-run charity, based in Eastbourne, which empowers women across Sussex to gain the confidence, skills and strength to take control of their future.

We are a volunteer-

Charity

led charity and, in

recognition of this,

we had the highest

honour of receiving

the Queen’s Award for Voluntary

Service in 2019. Our drop-in information hub is the nerve centre of the charity, where we provide free peer support

appointments, office work experience for our volunteers and run our grantfunded workshop and courses.

“The workshop has changed my life, I

was too scared to leave the house before and it was a huge deal for me to even walk through the door, and now I can

walk around town confidently and live my life again. I can’t thank you enough.” Jay We welcome women regardless of circumstance and background

Those coming to us may be feeling

isolated, fearful of meeting others,

the charity could offer.” Ayesha

responsibilities, believing that they

It is thanks to our volunteers, who

with the discrimination and prejudice

in the last year, that we are able to

out on their own, to create the life they

turn, our hub volunteers gain huge

may be in work but feel unworthy;

too. Improving confidence, and

don’t believe in. It’s not simple to get

other women in the process. Thanks

other organisations to be the best they

and support; during the summer three

Work and Wellbeing Day is one of the

employment. The hub offers a warm

out of work through ill health or caring have no skills. Others are frustrated

have given over 4,500 hours just

holding them back, desperate to step

help women like Jay and Ayesha. In

deserve but they don’t know how. They

benefits from volunteering with us

imposters navigating a career they

developing skill sets whilst helping

that balance right, so we also help

to our success in providing training

can be in nurturing women. Our annual

of our volunteers found permanent

ways we do this.

welcome, and an opportunity to enjoy

“I found myself somewhat “lost”, having

laughter and friendship.

been made redundant last year and

In 2024 we have plenty of wonderful

employment. One day on my way

email volunteering@wayfinderwoman.

WayfinderWoman and from that moment,

with us and keep an eye on our social

with a couple of bouts of unsuccessful

events planned, so do get in touch,

to the job centre, I stumbled across

com to find out more about volunteering

I felt encouraged by how much support

media channels to get involved.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Opera Brava: Britain’s largest professional outdoor touring company

Did you know, Opera Brava is based in Sussex? Here, the company explains what it has to offer.

With almost 35

Charity

years experience, we perform full

operas with some

of the most talented

artists of today. Both amazing singers

and players. We perform with our OBE (Opera Brava Ensemble) or with piano

in accessible and intimate productions sung in English.

We have worked in schools with our unique and inspiring educational

workshops. It’s all about introducing

primary school children to this amazing art form while creating a participative and fun environment for both pupils

and teachers. Over the years, we have worked with over 25,000 children and

helped to create ‘children of today into the artists of tomorrow’.

We provide the perfect corporate event for businesses, tailoring each event to

your particular needs. Whether to help with fund-raising for a charity event or

simply adding sparkle with ‘The Magic of Opera’ galas to a business dinner – we

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

have all that you need. Clients include:

without them realising it. The team was

Electric, Lloyds TSB Corporate, Unilever,

imagined the benefit or the fun – if we

Prince Charles’s Charities, General

absolutely fantastic. We could not have

Nestle, and many others.

hadn’t tried it!

Venues we have worked in include:

I would recommend this for any

Museum, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Spencer

different that will leave the team bonded,

The Globe Theatre, The Natural History

organisation looking to do something

House, The Mandarin Hotel. So,

uplifted, motivated and laughing!” -

wherever you need us – we will travel.

Claire Cater, CEO of The Social Kinetic.

We can also provide team building events

Opera Brava have worked all over the

for your staff and even your clients!

UK, from Berwick upon Tweed down to

Become an opera singer for a day! Step

heart and soul into it,

out of the boat and sing on water!

Exeter. Whatever we do – we put our

“They will enthral, inspire and encourage

We offer a range of fun and entertaining

you to go that extra mile.”

your team, improving creative

For more information, contact:

ultimately boosting your business results.

Bronek & Mandy Pomorski on admin@

“The power of opera is nothing short

operabrava.co.uk

managers not only engaged, but inspired

Bronek 07831165161

takes people out of their comfort zone

Registered Charity No: 328417

opportunities, revitalising and refreshing cooperation, building confidence, and

of unique. We had the most senior

weeks after the event! Their approach

operabrava.co.uk or mandy@

Mandy 07887737923

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Sussex Cancer Fund’s triple make-overs for patient areas in three hospitals Alongside their general work of providing additional equipment, patient services and research, Sussex Cancer Fund’s emphasis in recent months has been on improving patient facilities and comfort.

The Sussex Cancer

Charity

Fund transformed

three patient areas across Worthing

Hospital, The Princess

Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath, and

The Sussex Cancer Centre, at The Royal Sussex County Hospital Brighton. Part

of their ethos is to make patients feel as comfortable as possible while waiting for appointments or treatment. The

environment in which patients wait can have a big impact on anxiety levels.

One of the make-overs was at the

Amberley Chemotherapy Unit at Worthing Hospital, part of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. The

Amberley Unit is a fantastic new facility

but the waiting room was very cold and

unwelcoming. The Sussex Cancer Fund transformed the room, from a stark and

clinical area to a relaxing and comfortable space. Complete with a refreshment

station providing a selection of free hot drinks to patients.

The second of the makeovers was the

The Susssex Cancer Fund haven’t

Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards

yet and are working on two projects

garden and patio area at Hurstwood Park

and at the Preston Park Breast Centre,

Poo Patio, to Peaceful Patient Parlour. A

of January 2024.

garden furniture and a garden tidy-up.

Please see www.sussexcancerfund.

The next make-over in the triple line up

work of the SCF throughout Sussex.

Cancer Centre. Much of the furniture had

Who are the Sussex Cancer Fund

and unfriendly. With a lick of paint,

The Sussex Cancer Fund works

created a space that not only generated

patients in Sussex – providing

it, making it more welcoming

tangible difference for patients who

The Sussex cancer Fund would like

journey. They also selectively fund

some of the Finance Team from Virgin

research programs that contribute

Tesco and M&S, Holmbush, for the

improved outcomes for patients.

Patient Patio clean-up, Hurstwood Park,

finished with their refurbishments plans

Heath. Transforming, a tired and unloved,

across St Richards Hospital, Chichester

Chemotherapy Suite. It went from Pigeon

which should be complete by the end

good clean and paint, coupled with new

was the main waiting room at the Sussex become tired and the layout awkward

co.uk for more information about the

some new furniture and faux plants they

to help make life better for cancer

space for more patients but also softened

equipment and services that make a are often on a difficult and stressful

to thank all their volunteers including,

and enable Sussex based cancer

Atlantic and TCS. Also thank you to

to the understanding of cancers and

donation of the faux plants.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Russell Martin Foundation - delivering a positive impact on the community 2023 has proved to be a great year for Russell Martin Foundation (RMF), the registered charity was recognised for the positive impact it is having on the local community.

Back in May, RMF

Charity

was a finalist for ‘Best Football Community Scheme’ outside of

the Premier League.

This category included all 72 Football

League Clubs as well as independent football charities similar to RMF. Last week this national recognition was

followed up locally with RMF being

awarded ‘Highly Recommended’ in

the ‘Community Hero’ category at the Sussex Business Awards.

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The organisation, which became a charity in 2017, was set up by current manager of Southampton Football Club, Russell Martin, who wanted to give something

back to the community in which he grew

up. However, what started out as delivering football at after school clubs and holiday camps in Brighton and Hove, has now

grown beyond recognition as provision has now not only widened geographically, but also in range of provision.

One of the highlights for 2023 was

the girls’ football tournament which took place in June with a record of

over a thousand participants. This is

estimated to be one of the biggest of its kind in the UK.

The football provided for the boys

included fixtures against professional clubs with similar age groups as well participation in the Gothia Cup (Gothenburg) which is the

world’s biggest community football tournament.

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Another area of success this year has

who help deliver our programmes.

football programmes which are delivered

However, perhaps not so well known is

been the development of the pos-16 at Varndean College and Shoreham

Academy. The well-developed Varndean programme continues to perform

well in national tournaments whilst

the Shoreham programme, now in its

second year, has grown significantly in number of students taking part.

In order for RMF to be sustainable,

the charity has to rely on a range of

income. This year we were delighted to receive support from the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) as

recognition for the work we do in

the local community. RMF currently

employ four ex-professional footballers

the alternative education provision that RMF delivers across Sussex called the Extra Time Project. This vital work is

mainly based on helping 11—14 year

olds cope with mainstream education.

The 12 week programme hopes to

identify what are often complex issues, and then offer appropriate support and solutions to the young children and their families.

The first centre for this project was set up in 2019 in Brighton but this year

now works with pupils from over 40

secondary schools across Sussex with more planned for the future.

Founder Russell Martin, expressed

his amazement at the success RMF

has had in 2023, when he said: “The charity has grown way beyond what I imagined 6 years ago when it was first set up. And now to get local and national recognition through

different award organisations shows the incredible impact we are having

to help residents of Sussex. I am so

proud of what we have done so far.”

RMF has also been delivering in centres in Chichester, Crawley, Newhaven

and Worthing. For this project RMF

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Cameron’s Orphanage Project

Amanda Jayne explains a remarkable link between Sussex and an orphanage in Zambia.

What has a tiny

Lifestyle

orphanage 7000

miles away got to do with Sussex?

Cameron Forster was a Sussex boy.

Born in Danehill and raised in Burgess Hill, with an easy charm and mop

of ginger hair, he bore more than a

passing resemblance to the character Ron Weasley. Embracing life to the

fullest, he played rugby for Haywards Heath Colts and was the lead oboist

for the Brighton Youth Orchestra. After

leaving Hurstpierpoint College, he went on to fulfil his dream of becoming an RAF fighter pilot.

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

And this is where the fairytale ends, and Cameron’s Orphanage Project

began. At the age of just 21, Cam was

tragically killed, along with a colleague, in a flying accident.

Nothing in life can prepare you for the

death of a child but, from the ashes of

such gut wrenching loss, I was compelled to do something positive in his name, and Cameron was not the sort of person you could commemorate with a tree.

That summer I travelled to a remote

Zambian village called Mkushi. Several thousand people lived there, in simple brick huts with tin roofs, with no

electricity or running water and living off the food they could grow or forage. In

Zambia two thirds of the population lives

on less than £1.60 a day, the international poverty line. You really need to read that sentence twice, it’s unimaginable.

Whilst there I helped repair a tiny

charity-run school, which provided a

free education to over 400 orphans or vulnerable children in just six simple

classrooms. With nothing more than

a chalkboard and a few desks, most

children sat on the floor. Some shared a treasured pencil stub and wrote on

scraps of paper. Having walked barefoot for up to two hours to attend, what

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

struck me was how much they valued an

education and how happy they appeared; with their filthy clothes, empty bellies and

evidence of much sickness and untreated injuries, they were making the most of an opportunity, without a hint of self-pity.

Orphans are the norm in much of rural Zambia. Diseases go unchecked and

abject poverty puts a price on human

life; some children are simply abandoned as parents migrate to seek work. As

I stood watching the huge red sun fill the entire sky with the deepest pink

as it slipped in silence over the dusty

littered with the ruins of well-meant,

adults; teachers, nurses, etc, with a

but unsustainable, intentions. Local

sense of community and responsibility.

benefit in some way too. So along the

It costs £60 per month to care for each

expanded and equipped the school, built

offer sponsorships, and encourage

small shop and a chicken farm. We have

their beneficiary’s upbringing. The

people and a committee of local volunteers

with regular updates and also send

communities need to feel ownership, and way, we have drilled boreholes for water,

child. To help meet these costs we

toilets, a pre-school, teacher housing, a

sponsors to take an active role in

provided employment to many local

children are keen to provide sponsors

manage the orphanage and school.

messages via the orphanage phone. Not

The task now is to develop projects that

helps to develop their self-esteem.

it finances itself. One of these is our farm

We understand that giving to charity

will be growing crops for food and the

donors exactly how their money will be

like this will mean long term security

administrative costs ourselves, so that we

their home. Most have heart-breaking

goes directly to the orphanage projects.

Nema, had been sold to an older man.

expedition to Zambia, our supporters can

been to school and Cam’s Orphanage

will make a massive difference to some of

provide an income for the orphanage so

only does this improve their English, but

venture. We have a small plot of land and

can feel impersonal and so we tell our

excess will be sold at the market. Projects

spent. We also pay any bank charges or

for the children who call Cameron’s

can guarantee that every penny raised

backgrounds. Our newest resident,

By donating money or joining us on an

Like some of the others, she had never

get personally involved with projects that

has provided their first sense of family, a

the poorest people in the world.

means no longer going to bed hungry.

In Zambia, a few pounds goes a long

and philanthropic adventure seekers. In

The gang at Cameron’s Orphanage

a real and positive change. And for me,

12 children in a building designed for 8!

More importantly, they finally have a

a mother to my beautiful boy Cameron.

for a fulfilled future, as we are committed

on forever.

education and appropriate nurturing, it

For more information and to follow

those who follow, to become successful

camsorphanage.org.

scorched horizon, it felt like the easiest and most natural decision I have ever made; to donate Cameron’s estate to

build an orphanage for the village and to help the school in whatever way I could.

To many, this may sound like a ridiculous fantasy. I was, after all, nothing more than a teacher, but I believed it was

possible and couldn’t just walk away from such a desperate situation.

Over the following years I took several

teams of volunteers to Mkushi to help with

construction projects; students, colleagues 2021, Cameron’s Orphanage opened, with

Living in Poverty The aim of course, was not to throw

money at a far-off problem and then

walk away; Third World countries are

chance to feel loved and cared for, and

chance to dream of a better life and hope to breaking the poverty cycle. Through

is intended to enable these children, and

way, so everyone has the power to make Cameron’s Orphanage is my final gift as Because a life that touches others goes

our progress, please visit www.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Big Business Breakfast Club - supporting Off The Fence in Christmas extravaganza A big thank you goes to the final breakfast sponsor of 2023 - Lanton maintenance.

After a year of sold-

Networking & Events

out events, we end the year with one

final showstopper at The Sussex Cricket

for Small Business’, some annual

awards and the business card draw.

December’s charity partner is Off The

For over 20 years, Off The Fence’s vision has been to see an end to social and

spiritual poverty in Brighton and Hove.

Fence. Please show your support and

In 1993, CEO Paul Young responded to

purchase your ticket, which they’ll

to get off the fence and do something

make a generous donation when you

the question: “When are Christians going

get directly.

about social poverty?”

Business Breakfast Club (BBBC) event.

Our sponsor - Lanton Maintenance

This was when he and his wife, Wendy,

2023 has been quite a year for the

Lanton Maintenance is a multipurpose

streets of Brighton and Hove to help

the residential and commercial sectors.

in the city.

service delivered by sister company AMS

We look forward to seeing you all on

with a team of 11, it understands that it’s

out so book in advance. Christmas fancy

Ground on Friday 15th December. This event is kindly sponsored by Lanton

Maintenance, a second time this year

that the business has sponsored a Big

BBBC. We have welcomed 1,400

attendees over 12 dates and 9 fantastic venues and raised a incredible £2586 for local charities. It’s official, we are

Brighton’s Biggest networking breakfast and that’s down to you.

We have a cracking guest speaker

lined up, we don’t want to spoil any

surprises - bound to turn heads! You

might recall, December 2022, we had our attendees singing and dancing

with Charlie Ohh La La and her silent

disco - this year, something completely different, along with Alex Ryan

(Marketing 101) regular slot ‘Big STeps

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

maintenance company that works within It also offers a top-quality decorating

made the decision to go out onto the

the most marginalised and vulnerable

decorating. As a family run business

Friday 15th December. Tickets will sell

imperative, along with great tradesmen,

dress is a must!

your journey from start to finish. Lanton

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/

to have a positive experience throughout has a back office support team available

bigbusinessbreakfastclub/1025727?

and to ensure your experience is as

If you are interested in learning

to answer any questions you may have smooth as possible.

more about becoming a sponsor

Sponsor’s Nominated Charity – Off

touch with the team at team@

The Fence

of the BBBC then, please get in

bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

Body coach Gavin Walsh whips breakfast networking event attendees into shape Read all about it below - from the Body Fixer himself.

Gavin Walsh here

Networking & Events

from Body Fixers,

where we’ve been stirring up the

wellness world with

our unique approach. Recently, we had

the pleasure of guiding the Big Business Breakfast Club (BBBC) members through a transformative 28-day

wellness challenge, and the results were nothing short of extraordinary!

Our mantra is simple yet powerful:

personalised fitness and nutrition plans, woven into the fabric of your daily life.

It’s not just about workouts; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that celebrates health and wellbeing. One standout

story from the BBBC challenge was a

member who incredibly shed 28 pounds!

This is the kind of life-altering change we’re talking about.

Each participant embarked on a journey tailored to their individual needs. Our

approach combines personalised

– with a kick up the backside or hearty

workouts – whether it’s lifting, yoga, or

praise, depending on the day.

guidance that doesn’t shy away from the

This hands-on, personalised approach

life without a bit of pudding, right?

but has also been making waves in

But we don’t stop there. Our

Challenge is transforming workplace

and guides. We’ve created a thriving

a happy and productive one.

where members cheer, motivate and

As we look back on a month filled with

this sense of camaraderie that turns

drenched mornings, it’s clear that the

delightful adventure.

crew was more than just a challenge.

The leader board, a friendly yet

when you mix health and fitness with a

something in between – with nutritional occasional indulgence. After all, what’s

commitment extends beyond just plans community within our group chats,

has not only been a hit with the BBBC the corporate world. Our Employee

wellness, proving that a healthy team is

sometimes gently rib each other. It’s

triumphs, laughter, and a few sweat-

the (sometimes) gruelling journey into a

Body Fixers’ journey with the BBBC

It was a celebration of what happens

competitive twist, adds that extra bit of

personal touch.

to the top; it’s about surpassing your

Join us, and let’s embark on this

spice too. It’s not just about climbing

own expectations. And when it comes

wellness adventure together.

we’re not shy about dropping in-app

To learn more, visit:

to keeping everyone on their toes,

messages or the occasional phone call

www.mybodyfixers.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Alfie Pyle makes debut for England Sussex D40 player Alfie Pyle made his debut for the England Learning Disability team this week, becoming the 43rd player in the country’s history to receive an England cap.

Alfie became the first

Networking & Events

ever Lord’s Taverners Super 1s participant to go from a hub

setting, through the

county system and then on to represent England. The remarkable achievement

caps off what has been an exceptional couple of years for the local batter.

Alfie was first part of history when he and his Sussex D40 side took part in

the first ever disability cricket fixture at a

professional cricket venue, when Sussex D40 hosted Surrey D40 at The 1st

Central County Ground in June 2022.

On that afternoon, over 300 spectators witnessed Alfie smash his way to 162 runs, helping Sussex to a 118-run victory over Surrey at Hove.

Since then, Alfie has been recognised

for his nationally for his efforts, when he recently won the 2023 Variety Disability

participants can enjoy themselves as

Sports Awards Rising Star award.

“The profile of our County Disability

Alfie is now part of the touring

continues to rise and by having England

in South Africa, where England are

models, we hope they will inspire more

hard to empower all the young people

South Africa and Australia. England

join our Super 1s programmes or join a

Programme through community Cricket.

Teams & Disability Cricket in general

they learn, develop and thrive!

England Learning Disability squad

players such as Alfie acting as role

“Together our two organisations work

taking part in a tri-series against

participants with disabilities to either

on the Super 1s Disability Cricket

have begun the series in fine form,

local club in Sussex.”

Today we celebrate one of our own

against the other two nations.

Mark Curtin, CEO of Lord’s Taverners,

Gary Wallis-Tayler, Community Cricket

fantastic achievement for a very talented

Foundation, said: “We are all incredibly

model for so many young people.

become the first ever Super 1s

“Lord’s Taverners is proud to partner

in Sussex, visit https://sussexcricket.

country is a proud moment for everyone

Foundation who create such an impactful

disability-cricket

winning both of their opening games

Director for the Sussex Cricket

proud of Alfie’s achievements. To

added: “Congratulations to Alfie, a

To find out more about Lord’s Taverners,

young Cricketer, who is also a great role

about-us/

participant to go and represent their

with our friends at Sussex Cricket

connected to Sussex Cricket.

environment, ensuring that Super 1s

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

reaching the pinnacle of the game!”

visit https://www.lordstaverners.org/

Or, to find out about Disability Cricket co.uk/sussex-cricket-foundation/

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

Sussex Cricket Foundation walking cricket tournament debuts at Lord’s

On Friday 20th October, a squad of eight players from the Sussex Cricket Foundation Walking Cricket Hubs from across the county participated in a newly formed Walking Cricket tournament held at Lord’s.

Taking place in the

Networking & Events

Indoor Cricket Centre, Sussex played five

matches during the day against teams

from the MCC, Epsom, Old Woking CC & Pirbright CC and Notts CCC.

Walking cricket is a very sociable format of the game and, although it was the first time that the players had played

together as a squad, it didn’t take them

long to form a great team spirit ready to take on the challenge ahead.

The newly appointed Sussex Cricket

Walking Captain Baz Weston lead his

team out onto the hallowed astroturf of the Indoor Cricket Centre for the first

time against an experienced Epsom side and Sussex narrowly lost by 11 runs.

Across the first round of matches, it was an opportunity for all participants to get any

nerves and excitement out the way playing at such an historic and iconic venue.

After a quick post-game debrief with

his players, Baz and the team agreed

specific tactics for the remaining games and the plan to keep the batting order

the same so players felt familiar in their roles definitely paid off.

During the course of the next match

against an MCC side the batting was very consistent with the approach

remaining the same which was to build partnerships with each pair, hit the bat

into gaps along the floor and to lose as few wickets as possible.

Victory was followed by a

famous Lords buffet lunch which was very kindly

provided for players and

umpires by the hosts the

MCC. With an extra spring in their step Sussex put in strong performances and

had wins against OWCC/ PCC and another MCC

team meant a final round match against unbeaten

tournament leaders Notts

Although Sussex showed glimpses of

CCC would determine the overall winners.

the form that proved successful in earlier

In the last game, Notts CCC batted first

Sussex to win the game and remain

matches, Notts CCC managed to restrict

and put on a commanding score due

unbeaten throughout the day.

the field Sussex gave a good account of

After a short presentation during which

to some smart and powerful batting. In

themselves with some tidy ground fielding.

Notts CCC were crowned champions,

Mick Millyard’s spectacular catch in the

Coach and tournament organiser) took

the day and it was appreciated by all the

of Lords which included many of the

Harry Thompson (MCC Community

deep was one of the many highlights from

all the players on a guided Stadium Tour

spectators on the viewing balcony above!

famous locations including home and

Thanks to their efforts in the field,

and the Media Centre.

distance of Notts CCC at the halfway

Overall Sussex won 3 out of 5 games

first over from the Notts CCC opening

runs but more importantly a great day

put Sussex on the back foot.

plenty of memories and friends made

Sussex managed to stay within chasing

away changing rooms, the Long Room

stage of the game, however a strong

during the day scoring a total of 431

bowler taking the wicket of Clive Hayton

was had by all the players and with

Having travelled down four hours

by Minibus on the morning of the

along the way!

Many thanks to Harry Thompson and

tournament demonstrated Notts CCC

the MCC for hosting the tournament.

they bowled and fielded with plenty of

More information on how to join our

run outs by the same fielder.

can be found on our website.

enthusiasm for their Walking Cricket and energy which included three direct hit

Walking Cricket Hubs across Sussex

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

£28,000 raised at Best of British Events’ comedy gala dinner At the end of November, 400 guests attended the Best of British Events’ Gala Dinner at The Grand Hotel, Brighton, with leading comedian Rob Beckett.

Rob Beckett is

Networking & Events

a popular British comedian, who

rose to prominence

through appearances

on TV panel shows like ‘8 Out of 10

Cats’, ‘Mock the Week’ and ‘Would I Lie to You?’.

He gained widespread recognition as the co-host of the ITV2 show ‘I’m a Celebrity: Extra Camp’ and later as

a team captain on the comedy panel

show ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’ and its spin-

offs. Beckett’s engaging and energetic personality has made him a popular

figure in the UK comedy scene, and he’s known for his quick wit and infectious

enthusiasm both on stage and in hosting various television programs.

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Guests included leaders from a range

lasting change to people’s lives.

Solutions, Loch Associates, MSC

With the support and generosity of

of local businesses including, GAP

Cruises, Seico Insurance & Mortgages,

guests and sponsors, this event raised

and Webtrends Optimize.

£28,000 on the night.

This prestigious black tie ball was

Ryan Heal, CEO of Best of British Events,

registered charitable organisation, and

Comedian Rob Beckett join us for the

With its vision to connect customers,

Brighton. Thank you to our sponsors and

everything it does, Focus Foundation was

hilarious evening with fantastic company

in aid of the Focus Foundation – a

said: “It was an honour to have leading

the philanthropic arm of Focus Group.

Best of British Gala Dinner at The Grand

people and communities at the heart of

guests, who helped us raise £28,000. A

established in 2021 to support UK-based

and all for a great cause.”

two main themes, mental health charities

Best of British Events hosts a range of

underprivileged children or young people.

fundraisers across Sussex and London.

communities and make a positive and

https://bestofbritish.org.uk

charities and social enterprises across

and initiatives and socially or economically

leading business networking events and

Its principal ambition is to connect

For more information please visit:

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

Best of British Events – giving back to the community During 2023, a staggering sum of more than £120,000 has been raised for good causes thanks to unwavering support.

Best of British Events

Networking & Events

is a multi awardwinning events

company in Sussex, specialising in

corporate fundraising lunches and dinners.

Guest speakers include A-list stars from

the world of sport, and broadcasting, as well as stage and screen who, coupled

with exceptional MCs, create memorable and entertaining events.

Best of British Events attracts leading

professionals from local businesses who utilise this leading platform to entertain

clients, reward employees, and endorse their philanthropic initiatives.

This year, events were hosted in

London, Brighton, Gatwick, Eastbourne, Tunbridge Wells, and Goodwood.

Since 2009, Best of British Events have raised over one million pounds for a

range of worthy causes. This year, with the support of guests and sponsors,

they raised over £120,000 for charities

including Care for Veterans, Taylor Made Dreams, Focus Foundation, Chailey

Heritage Foundation, Children’s Respite

Trust, Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity, St Barnabas House, and The Starr Trust.

Here are some of the highlights from this year’s events.

Next years events include:

Best of British Brighton Friday 31st May 2024

Best of British London Friday 5th July 2024

Best of British Tunbridge Wells Friday 11th October 2024 Best of British Gatwick

Friday 1st November 2024 Best of British Gala Dinner

Thursday 21st November 2024 For more information, visit: https:// bestofbritish.org.uk

Interested in attending next year? Tables are now available for:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

MOTO RI NG N E WS S P ON S OR

BMW i4 - a Sseek EV with exciting performance If you like performance, style and a great electric range, look no further than the BMW i4, says Rivervale.

Its primary

Motoring News

competitors are

the Tesla Model 3,

Volkswagen ID.5 and

the Hyundai IONIQ 6.

With competitors like these and BMW’s attention to detail, this vehicle clearly holds its own in the electric coupe

market. But what makes it special?

Introducing the BMW i4

Hosting the same driving appeal of the classic BMW 4 Series, in an all-electric

form, the i4 comes in 3 trims that increase in price and specification respectively: BMW provide plenty of power in the

performance of this vehicle. The top-

spec M50 model has an acceleration of

3.9 seconds (0-60mph) and a top speed of 140mph. With great suspicion and

grip, this car ensures a fun performance The i4 has an excellent rapid charge

time of 30 minutes (10%-80%) and a

standard (22kW) charge time of 8 hours.

However, with an impressive official

range (WLTP) of 365 miles, you won’t

run out of charge during daily journeys.

Read more about why electric range isn’t always important.

Exterior

This compact gran coupe has 5 doors,

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

yet still possesses a sporty and elegant

on the road than looking for the map on

with 12 colour options including

the i4 has a wireless phone charger

blue metallic; the number of colour

My BMW App.

With the option of up to 20” alloy wheels

BMW provide their Driving Assistance

still have a huge road presence. If you

This includes lane keep assist, rearview

out the Electric BMW iX1 SUV.

These features are accessed via the

Interior

Model Y, rather than buttons. The i4 also

design that stands out. The i4 comes

the infotainment screen. Additionally,

‘Aventurin red metallic’ and ‘Portimao’

built in and, of course, usability with the

options varies between each trim level. on the M50 model, this smaller EV can

Professional Package with this vehicle.

want something larger, why not check

camera, cruise control and much more.

infotainment screen, similar to the Tesla

There is still plenty of leg and headroom

includes a holographic heads-up display

passengers, making it an enjoyable ride

sign recognition, speed limit recognition

has a modest 470 litres of boot space,

getting caught out!

within the cabin for the driver and

(HUD) on the dash which includes traffic

for those longer journeys. The car also

and your current speed to stop you from

more than the Polestar 2.

Overall

This is BMW’s first vehicle to use the

The BMW i4 is an exceptional electric

called iDrive 8. The system operates with

style, and range. With impressive

hosts a 12.3-inch infotainment panel.

attention to detail, the i4 sets itself apart

The high-resolution infotainment and

an excellent option for those seeking an

infotainment and connectivity software

gran coupe that combines performance,

a 14.9-inch touchscreen display that

features, advanced technology, and

in the electric vehicle market, providing

digital dash displays are fast acting and

electrifying driving experience.

instantly connecting to your mobile via

Excited by the idea of electric

even set up your Apple or Google Maps

offers for this vehicle, or if you have any

allowing the driver to concentrate more

or visit rivervaleleasing.co.uk.

reliable. The vehicle has no issues in

Apple Carplay or Android Auto. You can

performance? Take a look at our leasing

app to be used in the digital dash HUD,

questions, get in touch at 01273 433480,

MOTO R I N G N EWS SP ON SO R

Rivervale celebrates triple success at Leasing Broker Federation Awards Rivervale is celebrating after winning not one, not two, but three accolades at the Leasing Broker Federation awards! Here, the team reflects on its huge success.

The awards,

Motoring News

collected by Director

of Fleet Management Services, Jaymie Stanbrook and

Group Marketing Director, Bud Johnston, were:

• Best Medium Leasing Broker Customer Service Award

• Best Fleet Management Service • Highly Recommended: Best Medium Leasing Broker Award

Winning the Best Medium Leasing

Broker Customer Service Award is an

immense honour for us. It highlights our collective commitment to going above and beyond, ensuring exceptional

service that makes a difference in our customers’ experiences.

Securing the Best Fleet Management

Service Award speaks volumes about our

team’s dedication and innovative approach to tailoring bespoke fleet solutions. This recognition reaffirms our efforts to meet diverse client needs continuously and stand out in a competitive market.

Additionally, being ‘close second’ in the Best Medium Leasing Broker Award

category is a testament to our collective dedication and places us among the industry’s esteemed leaders.

These awards go out to the remarkable

for business and individual customers alike. Their hard work remains the

cornerstone of Rivervale’s success,

driving us to deliver exceptional service and innovative solutions.

We would like to extend our gratitude to our business and individual customers

across the nation. Your trust in Rivervale for your car, van, or minibus needs is

the backbone of our motivation. Your support is invaluable, inspiring us to continue to enhance our offerings

and elevate the standards of service

excellence. Your confidence in us means everything, and we’re honoured to be your trusted vehicle provider.

Rivervale team, whose relentless efforts and unwavering dedication consistently strive to Make Motoring Manageable

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

LI FE STY L E S PO NS OR

Bringing joy and happiness in time for Christmas

Reflecting on 2023 not only fills me with joy, but also a great deal of emotion! It has been quite a special year for the Agora Clinic in more ways than one, writes Carole Gilling-Smith.

Back in January we

Lifestyle

said goodbye to our old clinic in Hove,

which had been our home for over 15

years and where we had brought joy to over 4,500 families. They say moving

house is very stressful but, believe me,

moving a whole IVF clinic is on another

level altogether! Imagine the complexity of moving thousands of little frozen

embryos, tucked up safely in their liquid

nitrogen storage tanks, by convoy along the Old Shoreham Road, following the extremely strict regulation required by

our industry. I am so grateful to those in

my team who planned and executed the

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

whole move with such military precision.

Everything arrived at 138 Dyke Road

safe and sound, and we officially opened with our first egg collections on the

18th January and completed the last

embryo transfer at our old clinic in Hove on the 20th January, closing our doors for the final time.

We celebrated our move with a Grand Opening event where 28 lucky Agora

children conceived through IVF at our

old premises were invited back to visit

where they had been made. Our young visitors and their parents were given a once in a lifetime chance to meet the

doctors and scientists who had helped

create them and get a behind the scenes look at all the fascinating equipment and techniques we use. The older children

were very curious to find out more about how babies are conceived and meet

other IVF-conceived children, and one

of our teenagers, Albi, was featured on ITV Meridian News speaking about his experience. The children all received

a signed certificate of their visit and a personalised video as a keepsake of

how they and other Agora children were made, including some very special and emotional staff testimonials.

In our new clinic we have continued

to do what we do best, make babies!

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

Over two thirds of our patients received

their treatment fully funded by the NHS, but in contrast to other NHS provision,

their experience has been on a par with private healthcare - all our patients are seen within 2 weeks of being referred

and experience no waiting time to start their treatment. We receive so many

lovely testimonials each week, but a

common theme prevails; the kindness,

compassion, and professionalism of our team, whatever the outcome.

So far in 2023 we have seen tiny little beating hearts on 225 of our early pregnancy scans after successful

treatment. So, a very exciting Christmas ahead for so many of our patients who

started the year desperate to be able to realise their dreams of having a family.

We have also been able to help 33

people diagnosed with cancer to freeze

their eggs or sperm urgently before they

started their chemotherapy, and 22 trans folk preserve their fertility before starting

gender affirming hormones and over 200 more patients entrusted us to help them preserve their fertility for other reasons.

We have also continued to be the leading

provider of fertility and reproductive health education in the South-East by offering

free seminars in schools, the workplace

and at national conventions such as the Modern Family Show in London.

All praise to my team of doctors, nurses, scientists, and admin staff who have

continued to live our vision and values

Day. As I write, we have a number of

the beating heart of our successful

full training for their Santa Dash on 9th

say we enjoy one of best workplace

again on the fundraising front!

healthcare sector. Look after your staff,

Our belief in nurturing and creating

your patients! Alongside the state-of-

regardless of their background, goes

that helps us create life in our laboratory,

chose to support a small orphanage

to making our patients feel they are not

Orphanage. Between us, we sponsor

whatever that journey may look like.

rebuild of the charity’s website earlier

As a fertility clinic, we believe in

clinical room for the orphans when they

long after the moment of conception

collect unwanted toys and story books

every single day this year. They are

very excited team members who are in

fertility service, where I am proud to

December, where we hope to smash it

cultures and wellbeing programs in the and rest assured they will take care of

a loving environment for every child,

the-art medical expertise and science

beyond borders, which is why we also

every member of my team is committed

in rural Zambia called Cameron’s

alone on their journey to parenthood,

two of the little orphans and funded the this year as well as helping to fund a

supporting parents and their unborn child

become unwell. Our current project is to

which is why we are so committed

to send out there in time for Christmas.

as they grow and develop into adults

So, all in all, a great year for the Agora,

This year, one of the charities we pledged

exciting projects for 2024!

provides vital resources, equipment,

The Agora Clinic is committed to

vulnerable children in Sussex, whatever

all walks of life, regardless of their

March, we were proud to be the Headline

background, or religious beliefs, fulfil

Glitter Ball, where over 58K was

have clinics in Brighton, Eastbourne

Headline Sponsor for their Glitter Ball

our website agoraclinic.co.uk

to supporting children and teenagers through our ‘giving back’ charity work. to support was Rockinghorse, which

and I will soon be revealing some of our

and professional help to the most

helping individuals and couples from

health hurdles they have to overcome. In

gender, sexual orientation, ethnic

sponsor for the Annual Rockinghorse

their dreams of starting a family. We

raised and we are delighted to be the

and Worthing. To find out more, visit

again in 2024! We also raised funds for

Rockinghorse during our Grand Opening as well as supporting their Making

Herstory Event for International Women’s

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

W I N E O F TH E MO NT H S P ON S OR

County Business Clubs’ Wine of the Month December 2023 For December, I have chosen the new release of Breaky Bottom Sussex Sparkling Wine from 2018, which was the best vintage for over 25 years.

This is the first Blanc De Noir that Peter Hall has ever launched, so I was excited to try this as our Christmas choice - the perfect accompaniment for Christmas morning or dinner.

Peter has been producing wine for

nearly 50 years in a little fold of the South Downs near Rodmell and

Northese, near Lewes. Peter sells his wines across the globe and is

recognised as one of the UK’s best

winemakers, producing consistently high quality sparkling wines using

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and the rarely planted Seyval Blanc.

Blanc de Noir typically have more

nanny, a wonderful sweet natured and

very French carer who I still remember

well. She fell in love with George Glede the delightful farm worker (who still

ploughed with horses!). They married, and after the war moved to France.

Long after, George, who had a superb Gloucestershire accent, used to write to me saying he still couldn’t speak a word of French!”

fruit on the nose and palate than a

3,572 bottles produced ABV: 12%

often called a Blanc de Blanc. I use

This Pinot Noir and Meunier

Spirit of the Downs Brandies as they

Michael’s Tasting notes –The wine

Chardonnay based sparkling wine

Peter’s grapes to create two of my

are of the highest quality, perfect for making brandy.

Wine of the month for December 2023:

has fine bubbles with enticing fruit

and a little white pepper on the nose.

On the palate, we have richer fruit

than a typical glass of Breaky Bottom bubbles with mouth watering acidity.

We have lots of red berries and

Michael Yeoman, Founder of

is the perfect wine with salmon and

Spirit of the Downs

for the roast turkey at Christmas.

Michael Yeoman specialises in working

“This was the only year to produce

Where to buy?

around Sussex and the South Downs.

Blanc de Noirs. A real ‘one-off’ with soft

To buy this wine you can buy directly

Wine Club and also creates a range of

purchase at many local wine merchants

spirits through his brand Spirit of the

2018 Blanc De Noir Cuvée Noella Launched mid December 2023 Peter’s comment on the new release

sufficient black grapes to make a 100% minerality and lovely autumn fruits.”

On the the naming of the wine, he

explains: “My elder brother, Rémy, and I were born during the war at our Irish

granny’s house, Rangeworthy Court in Gloucestershire. Noella was our first

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

cranberry on the lingering finish. This eggs in the morning or as an entrée

Brighton and Hove Wine Club and

with small batch wine producers in and He originally founded Brighton and Hove

online from Peter at Breaky Bottom, or

small batch Sussex Brandies and Grape

or at Steyning/Shoreham/Arundel

Downs www.spiritofthedowns.co.uk

Farmers Market with pricing between £33 and £35 a bottle.

Enjoy and cheers!

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

60 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk