Niche Magazine Issue 33

#FindYourNiche

July/August 2019

Paradigm Wills & Legal Services Putting your mind at ease

Leicester Mercury

The changing face of local news

Leicester Castle Business School Changing the culture in your business

AMANDA DALY THE TURNAROUND CEO

The ticket to a first-class education

A family of Schools

THE NURSERY

FAIRFIELD PREP SCHOOL

6 weeks - 4 years

Boys & Girls 3 - 11 years

The Loughborough Schools Foundation is a family of four, top-performing, independent Schools and a successful Nursery, sharing one beautiful campus and offering one educational journey, from Kindergarten all the way to exam success at eighteen. There is depth to this breadth too, enabling every family, at every step, to choose the educational path that best suits their own preferences and each child’s character and abilities.

Come to our Open Day and see, hear and experience everything that goes into the making of an education where every child has the freedom and opportunity to become the best version of themselves.

LEARN MORE HERE

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CALL

THE AMHERST SCHOOL

THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

THE HIGH SCHOOL

Boys & Girls 4 - 18 years

Boys 10 - 18 years

Girls 11 - 18 years

Cover: Amanda Daly, The Turnaround

LEANNE BAKER

JENNY CROSS MANAGING DIRECTOR 07815 899 574

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

jenny@crossproductions.co.uk

leanne@crossproductions.co.uk

CEO photographed by Vivienne Kane from Vivienne Kane Photography viviennekanephotography.co.uk 07787 556 512

Contributors The Miller Partnership, Glynis Wright & Co, Ian Guyler, Leicester Racecourse, Leicester Riders, St Martins House, Soar Valley Press, Fothergill Wyatt

SALLY SMITH

LIAM DEACY

SALES DIRECTOR 07931 220 116

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

sally@crossproductions.co.uk

liam@crossproductions.co.uk

Photography & Video courtesy of: Hitz Rao Photography 0116 246 0475 Adam King hello@incitevideo.co.uk Official Media Sponsors of the Leicester Riders

LAUREN RAYBOULD

SUSAN HOLMES DESIGN EDITOR

JOURNALIST

susan.holmes@crossproductions.co.uk

Lauren@crossproductions.co.uk

BECCI HOULSTON

EMILY KIRTON JOURNALIST

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

emily.kirton@crossproductions.co.uk

becci@crossproductions.co.uk

0116 271 2573

I

nichemagazine.co.uk Published by Cross Productions Ltd 17 Mandervell Road, Oadby, Leicester LE2 5LR info@crossproductions.co.uk

Marketing Partner of the Leicester Falcons

Also Sponsoring Robbie’s Rugby Festival Leicester Law Society Awards Hope Against Cancer Rainbows Dorothy Goodman Academy

Disclaimer – Niche Magazine and Cross Productions Ltd are fully protected by copyright; no part of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted without the complete and expressed permission of the publisher.

The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy, however there can be no liability accepted by the publisher for errors and omissions. We can under no circumstance be held responsible for any materials, matter or photographical copy submitted for publication or not within the website or magazine. We cannot be held responsible or liable for any breaches of copyright from adverts, materials or photography or any other such material supplied by a third party. The views and opinions expressed within our publications are not necessarily those of the publisher or indeed Niche Magazine or any featured parties.

Distribution Media Matters Direct Mediamattersdirect.co.uk Self Select Distribution Selfselectdistribution.co.uk

A WORD FROM JENNY

I

I am proud to announce that since our last issue of Niche the team at Cross have now been responsible for placing over two million pounds in marketing spend for our clients.

This spend has all gone back into our local economy as we work in partnership with different clients to raise profile, brand, engagement and of course net profit!

As we make our way into the summer months, the team at Cross Productions have been busy preparing for our annual Niche Business Awards. The quality of finalists this year has been higher than ever. We are looking forward to the next steps and seeing who our judges’ choses to crown as winners this year. If you want to be part of the celebrations, please do join us at Athena on Friday September 6. Tickets are available online or you can email one of our team to organize.

It’s been an interesting few months as we have had the opportunity to speak to a number of businesses in person about issues such as scaling up, leadership and culture change. Having organised a series of ‘Round Table

nichemagazineuk

@magazineniche

Lunches’ for clients, it’s been an amazing chance to share ideas and learn from other leading business owners from across the city.

Working in partnership with Glynis Wright and Leanne Bonner-Cooke MBE, we have the next Inspirational Women in Business event lined up for August 30th with three incredible speakers – featuring Jo Hayward, Amanda Riddle and Michelle Mills-Porter as the guest speakers. See page 52 for more information.

As the official media sponsor for Bamboozle Theatre Ltd.’s 70Seventy Challenge, we are incredibly proud of Christopher and his team for raising £70,000 for disabled children. The challenge included cycling over the Pyrenees, climbing the National Three Peaks and run a marathon.

There was a great mix of businesspeople, families and young people who are involved with Bamboozle Theatre Ltd, and there was a fantastic buzz in the air as the event started. Christopher complete the whole course, which was an amazing feat.

#FindYourNiche

Thank you to 360 Autoleasing for keeping us driving business forward

CONTENTS NEWS 08 10 12 14 15 18

Business News Sarah Harrison Leicester Mercury Leicestershire Law Society Eileen Richards Recruitment The Turnaround CEO

BUSINESS FOCUS 20 22 24 27 28 29

Finance Ian Guyler Claremont Financial Planning Ltd BGS Accounting MNE Accounting Finance columns

Featuring BP Legal, BGS Accounting,

2XL Commercial Finance

30 32 33 34

Legal Glynis Wright & Co Family Solicitors Paradigm Wills and Legal Services Legal columns

Featuring Paradigm Wills and Legal Services, Glynis Wright & Co, Hollingsworths Solicitors

36 Celebrating Success

37 Creative62 38 Incite Consulting 39 Geoff Rowe 40 Leicester Castle Business School 41 2XL Commercial Finance 42 Base 8 Innovations 43 Soar Valley Press 45 BP Legal 46 Inside-Out Laser Clinics 47 Help the Homeless 48 360 Autoleasing 49 Leicester Falcons 50 Paragon Sales Solutions 50 Kazzoo IT Ltd 51 The Y

53 Michelle Mills-Porter 54 Marketing

JULY / AUGUST 2019

57 Marketing Columns

Featuring Soar Valley Press, Base 8 Innovations, Incite Consulting

58 60 63 64 66 68

Leicester Castle Business School Manufacturing Forum Construction in Leicester Property Miller Homes Property columns

Featuring Oadby House, Fothergill Wyatt

70 Fothergill Wyatt 73 Utility Warehouse 74 Property columns

Featuring Ponds by Michael Wheat, Leicestershire Garden Design

78 Beau Aesthetica 80 Health Columns

Featuring Rossell Fitness, Priti Coles, Function Jigsaw

81 82 84 86 88

Rossell Fitness Debbie Moore Food Court St Martins House Queen Victoria Arts Club

SPORTS 91 Sport

Featuring Oadby Gymnastics and Leicestershire County Cricket Club

92 Leicester Racecourse 95 Outlaws

SOCIAL 97 Hanlon Hospitality 98 Young Driver 100 Tracey Miller Culture 100 The Amwell Care Home 101 Hope Against Cancer 103 Geoff Rowe 104 FOCUS

18 COVER STORY

Amanda Daly, The Turnaround CEO

36 Celebrating Success

58 Leicester Castle Business School

86 St Martins House

BUSINESS NEWS LEICESTERSHIRE

Evolve welcomes new MD Evolve are delighted to welcome their new Managing Director, Jonnie Davis.

CEO, founder and MBE Leanne Bonner-Cooke will continue her position of Chair within the company.

Jonnie joins the company from Market Force Information where he was Commercial Director and brings with him a wealth of knowledge within SMEs and start-up businesses.

His background focuses heavily on growing revenues through client acquisition and he has successfully achieved this goal three times over the past 11 years. With this experience, Jonnie has gained full visibility of the structure, size and potential of the industry and has chosen to join the ranks of Evolve to execute a growth strategy.

Leanne Bonner-Cooke, CEO and Founder of Evolve states: “I welcome Jonnie Davis into the Evolve team where he will take up the post of Managing Director. Jonnie has joined Evolve to continue to drive business growth with the management team.

Jonnie joins us from Market Force where he was Commercial Director.

He has been working across SMEs and start-up businesses for several years, but the focus has always been on growing revenues through client acquisition. I will still retain the position of Chair at Evolve.”

Jonnie Davis comments: “Joining Evolve was really never in question for me – having started my career in software design and development it has been like coming home. Joining a well-established, award-winning business with an enviable client roster and a top-class international team is absolutely thrilling. Our managed approach to the everchanging landscape in technology and the workplace means we are perfectly placed to help our clients transform and succeed.” evolve-consultants.co.uk 08 | NICHE

Victory for FSB after late payments campaign

FSB Area leadership team: Jennifer Thomas, Jenny Cross and Clare Elsby Poor payment practice has been an epidemic plaguing far too many small businesses in the UK, and Leicestershire is sadly no different.

Unreasonable payment terms, supply chain bullying and late payments are just some of the ways that some big businesses use their dominant position to squeeze suppliers.

Sadly, many small firms do not survive the crippling impact of this behaviour. An estimated 50,000 businesses are forced to shut down every year due to late payment issues, this at a cost of £2.5 billion to the UK economy.

FSB launched the ‘Fair Pay Fair Play’ campaign in the run-up to the Spring Statement, urging government to take action against late payments with a suite of key reforms. The Chancellor referenced and committed to making these changes during his Statement speech, however since then Brexit uncertainty and attention on the leadership race made it look as if these reforms were going to be forgotten.

This includes FSB’s calls to make company boards accountable for their payment practices; to increase the powers of the Small Business Commissioner; and to strengthen the Prompt Payment Code.

In late June we were delighted when the Small Business Minister,

Kelly Tolhurst announced in Parliament that the Government would be implementing these reforms.

Jenny Cross, FSB Area Leader and Managing Director of Cross Productions said: “This is a fantastic milestone that has been achieved and an important victory for the FSB and small businesses in general. 80% of SMEs in the UK are affected by the issue of late payments made by larger businesses and the public sector. This reform is crucial to the evolution of the business world as it will ease the burden of poor payment practices.”

FSB research amongst its 160,000 members shows that the vast majority (84 per cent) of small firms report being paid late, with half of East Midlands respondents saying at least one in four payments they’re owed arrives later than agreed. Nine out of ten public sector suppliers say that they have been paid late.

Ending late payments and poor practices is not only the right and fair thing to do, it will also spare small firms the financial impact of waiting for the money they’re owed, and instead allow them to invest and grow.

FSB will also continue to take direct action by campaigning to local and national government on business issues, working closely with the Small Business Commissioner. fsb.org.uk.

Newby Castleman appoints new partner Leicestershire chartered accountants Newby Castleman appoints new partner.

Leicestershire accountants Newby Castleman has announced its appointment of Joanne Chilton to the role of Partner at its Leicester office.

Having qualified as a Chartered Accountant with the ICAEW in 1994, Joanne gained Fellowship of the Institute in 2007. She joined Newby Castleman 19 years ago following the firm’s acquisition of Jervis Taylor & Partners in 2000.

The longevity of a large proportion of Joanne’s client relationships reflects Newby Castleman’s emphasis on delivering a personal service and forward-thinking advice to its clients. Joanne has worked with UKD, one of the largest footwear distributors in the UK, for the last 30 years.

Since joining Newby Castleman she has managed UKD’s accounts, providing ongoing audit and tax compliance services as well as occasional bespoke, specialist advice.

Chris Brown, IT and Operations Director at UKD, says: “Joanne has always been a pleasure to work with over the many years I’ve known her. She is professional and personal all at once, which is what we at UKD look for in an accountant. Joanne represents Newby Castleman extremely well – her promotion couldn’t be better deserved.”

Joanne, who lives in Burbage, comments: “Over the years I have built my own portfolio of clients, many of whom I’ve worked with for over 20 years, managing all of their account and taxation needs. I also oversee a team of staff to coordinate the smooth running of the work within our department.

“In recent years I have become more involved in estate planning. All aspects of my work in tax and estate planning will continue, alongside which I am also looking forward to developing my new role as these are very exciting times for Newby Castleman.”

Chris Castleman, Managing Partner at Newby Castleman, says: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Joanne as our new partner. Her promotion is the culmination of her hard work and personalised advice over the years, as well as the determination and commitment she has shown to strengthen the firm’s presence in Leicester.

“We believe this appointment, coupled with our ongoing re-branding activities throughout both branches, will continue to raise Newby Castleman’s profile even further. We look forward to Joanne continuing to play a key role in the future of our firm.” newbycastleman.co.uk.

Mattioli Woods launches fight against dementia Wealth management company Mattioli Woods PLC launched a new national partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK in May that focuses on boosting research, raising awareness about dementia and improving treatments.

The Group operates throughout 11 offices in the UK and says that it is the single biggest problem facing health services today – and one that is impacting many of its employees and clients.

For the next two years, Alzheimer’s

Research UK will become the Group’s charity of the year, with the aim to raise £150,000 during its vital fundraising partnership to help transform lives, identify life-changing treatments and, eventually a cure. In order to raise that money, their aim is to engage employees, clients and partners through a series of fundraising events.

Ian Mattioli MBE, Chief Executive Officer of Mattioli Woods, commented: “Dementia is one of the most misunderstood conditions in the UK and the money raised by Mattioli Woods is going to fund groundbreaking research that will change the lives of people impacted by it.

“We started out in business many years ago as retirement planners and still look after many of our original clients. We have seen first-hand the devastating effect dementia has on families, and we look forward to making a huge difference over the

next two years.”

Paul Glazier, Head of Corporate Partnerships at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “More than half of us will know someone living with dementia today. Despite this, there are no treatments to slow, stop or prevent the diseases, like Alzheimer’s, that cause dementia. But with the incredible support of Mattioli Woods, we will be able to make breakthroughs possible and change the lives of everyone impacted by this devasting condition.

“All of us at Alzheimer’s Research UK are so excited to be working with Mattioli Woods, and already we have seen how motivated employees are to support our cause. We can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”

To kick off the launch, Mattioli Woods has signalled its corporate commitment with an initial £25,000 donation. mattioliwoods.com NICHE | 09

ACHES - IREL

AND

BUSINESS NEWS

Sarah Harrison, City Centre Director tells us about an exciting programme of new and returning festivals and events this summer

T

Throughout the year, Leicester buzzes with amazing festivals and events and this summer we have stepped it up again! We have handpicked ten of the best for you to enjoy with family and friends and make this summer in our city a very special one.

The summer started in May with an explosion of colour when Leicester hosted one of the UK’s biggest art events of 2019, with the award-winning international street art festival, Bring The Paint supported by the Arts Council England, Leicester City Council and BID Leicester. The best of the best came from the USA, Australia, Tahiti, Mexico, Germany, France, Greece, and joined the UK’s talented artists to transform the city centre with

10 | NICHE

world-class mural paintings. Together, 50 street artists with headline internationally acclaimed painters such as SMUG, INKIE, INSANE 51, HOW & NOSM and TASSO applied their talents to walls in the Cultural Quarter and Frog Island.

The 22nd Riverside Festival took place over the first weekend of June, attracting record crowds on the first day, enjoying the warm weather.

Spread over four areas, this free festival featured fun on and off the water for all the family.

Inspired by the Mods: Shaping a Generation exhibition at New Walk Museum, Revive ran over three weekends in June as the city went back to the Mod movement in the

1960s with vintage fairs, live sixties music and events, vinyl records, street food, family fun and more scooters than the set of Quadrophenia.

Take a trip to outer space and mark the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landings with a new event One Giant Leap in the city centre and at the National Space Centre. The events include CreatACon in Space event for families and an intergalactic outdoor cinema. There is a full programme of events at the National Space centre where you can even see a piece of the Moon. World Space Week in October half-term has an amazing city centre wide LEGO® trail of 15 brick sculptures.

Luke Jerram’s stunning Museum of the Moon returns to Leicester Cathedral.

KAISER CHIEFS - GIGS IN THE GARDEN, DE MONTFORT HALL

Leicester’s Caribbean Carnival was first held in 1985 and is now one of the largest carnivals outside of London.

This year’s theme is ‘The Windrush – The Caribbean people’s contribution to the cultural and economic development of the UK’ and takes place on Saturday 3 August.

A new exciting series of largescale outdoor concerts in De Montfort Hall’s stunning gardens – Gigs in the Garden - takes place between Friday 16 August and Monday 26 August. A full programme of music genres from Bugzy Malone, Busted, Kaiser Chiefs, Pete Tong, BBC Music Introducing East Midlands, Years & Years and Bardi Symphony Orchestra family concert with firework finale.

Ride Leicester is back from Saturday 17 – Saturday 31 August.

A two-week celebration of cycling including Green Bicycle Mystery Weekend, Caste Classic Race Day and over 30 free family-friendly rides and social events for all ages and abilities.

Let’s Ride Leicester on Sunday 25 August takes place along a 6km trafficfree route.

Enjoy a host of South Asian arts and cultural experiences and spot a bargain in the Mela Shopping bazaar at Leicester Belgrave Mela on Sunday 18 August.

City Festival takes place over five fun-packed days from Monday 19 – Friday 23 August celebrating all things outer space with an Out of this World theme. We can guarantee visitors from other worlds such as giant insects and robots! New market square will host a programme of international street arts, performances and interactive activities

and games for all the family. Don’t miss the early evening music concerts.

Leicester Pride on Saturday 31 August is the city’s annual Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) festival celebrating diversity and freedom of expression with a parade through the city to Victoria park for a popular live music event, market stalls and funfair rides.

Further information about these events can be found in the Summer of Festivals 2019 brochure which can be downloaded from the Visit Leicester Website or picked up from Visit Leicester Information Centre, 51 Gallowtree Gate.

0116 299 4444 visitleicester.info NICHE | 11

BUSINESS NEWS

The Leicester Mercury had its largest ever total of monthly online page views in May as its LeicestershireLive digital brand continues to grow. Editor George Oliver briefs us on the latest developments at its New Walk HQ

The

changing R

Readers sometimes tell me about the hot air balloon which the Mercury used to fly over Leicestershire as it marketed its newspaper to readers.

These days, LeicestershireLive sends its messages around the world with the click of a button.

My industry has undoubtedly changed. It continues to do so at pace.

But what is also changing at pace is the number of people using our digital products to access information about the area around them. I’m writing this in early June. The previous month we reported a 56 per cent year-on-year increase to more than 13 million page views. We are now getting around two million unique browsers a month.

Such audience growth continued after our parent company Reach PLC rebranded the Mercury site as LeicestershireLive last year as part of a national portfolio change. For those

12 | NICHE

who aren’t familiar with Reach, it’s the largest news publisher in the UK. Last year it sold 620 million newspapers.

Meanwhile, its digital-first approach delivers more than one billion page views each month across its various regional and national titles.

News publishing is a disrupted industry. But it’s also one which remains traditional in many ways.

For example, we continue to tell stories about people from Leicestershire. Lots of them. We have professional journalists who adhere to laws, regulatory codes and ethical frameworks while doing so. This is one of reasons that our commercial partners like what we do.

There will be people reading this who don’t agree with us. ‘Twas ever thus. I imagine that when that balloon was floating over there was someone on the ground shaking their head at our choice of splash or writing to the

ran live for more than 36 hours straight. The reporting saw our web and app platforms run up 730,000 page views in a single day. The paper’s sale increased by more than 800 copies. We were present at every count in Leicestershire. And yet voters hear some voices arguing that people are turned off by local democracy?

Going back to the city’s crown

industry News publishing is a disrupted industry.

But it’s also one which remains traditional in many ways editor about a columnist. Contrary to what some would have you believe, the Mercury and LeicestershireLive don’t have a political allegiance.

Instead the motivation of our journalists is reporting on activity in the arenas which are central to the lives of people in our county: the council chamber, the high street, the football stadium, the crown court.

Let me give you an example. Our coverage of the May local elections

court, LeicestershireLive is now the only media organisation there every day. We take a traditional view that it’s important that justice is seen to be done. If anything, we are working on ways of increasing our coverage – notably by getting along to the magistrates’ court more frequently too.

We are interested in collaboration.

We work in partnership with BBC Leicester through our shared Local Democracy Reporter, who is based at New Walk but funded by the BBC. Every week she produces thousands of words of copy about real public interest issues affecting Leicestershire people. Roads. Public spending.

Health. Everything she produces is published on a wire service for the use of partner news outlets around the county. It’s worked so effectively that we have just recruited a Community Journalist as part of a £4.5m scheme

funded by Facebook. This is a globalfirst scheme which Facebook launched during an industry conference earlier this year. An industry conference staged here in Leicester.

You’ll have got my point by now.

We sell newspapers. We use traditional and non-traditional journalism in combination with modern publishing platforms to try to reach and engage as broad an audience as possible. The adverts you take with us and the events you sponsor help to support that. But you’re reading a B2B magazine. So what else is our business about?

I’ll give you three examples. The first is BusinessLive. I introduced this at the Mercury’s recent Business Awards at the Maher Centre. It’s a national B2B site which will launch in June and be divided into regions and sectors. Titles from across the network will feed into it and there has already been good interest from commercial partners.

Second is our approach to sponsored content. We know that a lot of businesses want to tap into our audience. We know this because of the number of press releases we receive each day. However, not all of them are going to be used in editorial. For this reason, we now offer a tiered content marketing approach.

Third are our events. Many of you reading this will be sponsors and judges. I thank you for your involvement and it’s always great to see you. We run a number of events all year round. We recently staged the LeicestershireLive Innovation Awards – our first event under the new online brand. We went for a radically new format which was well received. As a result, we’ve had increased interest and have already confirmed the 2020 event. We’re working with partners on some other innovation ideas as well.

While writing this I got to thinking: my industry is often more comfortable telling the stories of other sectors and their successes rather than it is in shouting about its own. Maybe we should do a bit more of it. Does anyone know what happened to that hot air balloon?

0116 251 2512 leicestermercury.co.uk NICHE | 13

NICHE FEATURE

Glynis Wright announced as LLS President

O

On May 30, 2019 at the Annual General Meeting, Glynis Wright became the ninth female President of the Leicestershire Law Society, the founder of Leicester based family law firm Glynis Wright & Co will be president for 2019/20.

Having served for three years on the Executive Committee of the Leicestershire Law Society, she said: “Nothing can quite prepare you for the moment when you are elected as President, and you contemplate the responsibility that comes with the role and the objectives you wish to achieve in your Presidential year. Our outgoing President Bushra Ali has been a tour de force. Her Presidential year has been marked by a plethora of hugely successful events that so many of us have enjoyed. Her objectives were to bring Leicestershire Law Society out to the business and wider social community and she certainly has accomplished that.”

In her presidential year, Glynis will also be running a number of what she hopes will be wonderful events. But one of her key objectives is to apply herself to an approach of careful stewardship and balance concentrating on ensuring the foundations of the Leicestershire Law Society are strong for successive years to continue its fantastic work.

The President will be co-

14 | NICHE

NOTHING CAN QUITE PREPARE YOU FOR THE MOMENT WHEN YOU ARE ELECTED AS PRESIDENT, AND YOU CONTEMPLATE THE RESPONSIBILITY THAT COMES WITH THE ROLE

hosting her first big event in collaboration with the Midlands Asian Lawyers Association (MALA) – the first 100 Years of Women in Law. This glittering event will showcase the achievements of inspirational women from a culturally diverse background in the legal profession. The President will also be running an event to celebrate some of the enormous achievements to have come out of Leicester, in law, science, sport, the arts and even the outer dimensions of space!

Finally, each President chooses a charity to support in their year. Glynis’ nominated charity will be Alex’s Wish whose prime objective is to fund research into a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy that affects around one in 3,500 boys and some girls. Many are wheelchair bound by the time they are 10. Most will not survive

beyond their mid-twenties.

Leicestershire Law Society will be playing its part in funding the search for the cure that will ensure the current generation of children diagnosed with this terrifying disease will be the first survivors!

The new President said “I wish to thank the Executive Committee and Main Committee and all the members for giving me this opportunity of being your representative for the next 12 months. You have my assurance I will do all that I can to discharge my responsibilities with commitment and integrity, and with the pastoral care of the Leicestershire Law Society at the heart of my presidential endeavours”

leicestershirelawsociety.org.uk office@leicestershirelawsociety.org.uk

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Is the work/life balance

a pipe dream?

Niche journalist Emily Kirton interviews Turnaround CEO Amanda Daly and discovers that a work/life balance for leaders doesn’t have to be a pipe dream – it can be a potential reality

A

Amanda Daly had an epiphany which was to change her life for the better and in turn, help to change countless others. Here she tells us her story.

What led you to start Turnaround?

“It was born at a retreat. It turned out to be a hugely inspirational retreat and in a completely different way to how I had imagined. Through discussion with people there, I found that I was so defined by the various roles I had in my life – leader, mother, wife. I had not only lost who I was, but found that because of my working life I was not thriving in any other aspects of my life – I wasn’t able to be the mother I wanted, so that area was lacking, my marriage was all about the business we shared together and nothing more, I didn’t have time for friendships, for people in my life and most definitely not for myself.

Something had to give and rather than applying more and more of myself to the business as so many of us leaders do, I realised it wasn’t where my passion was. I formed the Turnaround right there and then.”

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What does Turnaround aim to do?

“It aims to give business leaders a more fulfilling life, not just in business, but in their personal lives too. Through open, honest and frank discussions about the leader and their team working on their personal and business growth. I go further than looking at the figures of a business, with an emphatic approach I help leaders go through growth by asking them to look inwards – working with them to re-assess their vision, their goals and how their leadership is shaping the company’s culture. It’s about discovering the person behind the business and ultimately helping them to see the wood for the trees.”

Why do you think ‘burnout’ is so common in leaders?

“As leaders we feel that to be successful, or to improve our business that the buck stops with us. We then put more of ourselves into it causing more stress – I’ve realised that it’s not about doing excessive amounts but about being smarter.”

It’s not only the leaders that go through this period of change, but also

the employees. It’s not an easy journey by any means and clients have to be ready and willing to open their own Pandora’s box for it to work, but I guide them through what can essentially be a very lonely journey.”

Do some clients struggle with the changes?

“By asking the leaders and their team for frank and honest discussion and to take personal responsibility for their contribution to the business and the relationships within it, we can find out whether the right people are in the right seats of the business. It doesn’t necessarily spell the end for employees who don’t step up to the culture change, but it can really help identify what needs to happen for them to grow rather than resist the evolution of the business.”

Are there ever times when clients regret starting the process of change?

“Sometimes, but it’s at those moments that I assure them it’s the right thing. I always think of the muddy bucket analogy when I talk about the

NICHE FEATURE

By asking the leaders and their team for frank and honest discussion and to take personal responsibility for their contribution to the business and the relationships within it, we can find out whether the right people are in the right seats of the business changing process.” She laughs at my confused expression. “I’ll explain myself – if you imagine a bucket of water and mud, the mud will sink to the bottom leaving clear water near the top. If you stir the bucket the mud mixes in, making it cloudy and difficult to see and you can doubt why you started, but eventually the water will become clear again. The analysis and changes can feel rough for a bit, but they soon become smooth.”

Are there limitations to the process?

“Yes, the tricky part can come when leaders and employees take things

personally. As a business owner myself with a team of my own, I know only too well how hard it can be when you ask your team to tell you their thoughts on your leadership; it can be all too easy to take it personally. I know I do sometimes – we are only human after all. It can be the case especially if, as a leader, you feel like you are juggling so much, it can be hard to take when people don’t simply accept you are trying your best! I weigh up what is productive feedback too – sometimes people project their own discriminations and judgements onto you as a leader – those aren’t productive, and we need

to bear in mind that they may very well be projecting their thoughts about themselves onto you.”

Do you find you only really help businesses who are struggling?

“No, not at all. Often people do come to me when they are at a crossroads with their business, but they also come to me when they want to take their business’s level of success up a few notches from a plateau or are looking at plans for succession. I help them do this and encourage them to celebrate these successes too. As a leader myself, I am firmly of the belief that success is a continued journey – you never stop learning! I myself am a living, breathing example of this!”

Proving that no one ever got anywhere by standing still, the work that Amanda does with leaders is vital to any business leader wanting to evolve and grow not only their business but their personal growth too.

01509 274 119 theturnaroundceo.co.uk NICHE | 19

BUSINESS FOCUS

Financing and planning business growth There are many different types of finance available to a company with ambitions to grow. Creating a strategic plan is a key component in planning for growth it helps to put your plans into reality and shapes the growth. What are the best methods to use to expand your business?

DARREN WILLOUGHBY Managing Director at 2XL Commercial

W

When a business is looking to grow, there are a variety of ways this can be done depending on what actual “growth” looks like and how it is defined by the business: growth may include purchase of new premises, staff recruitment, increasing stock or taking on new clients to fulfil more orders or even acquisition of other businesses In doing so, each one will have a different type of finance: Commercial Mortgage This is traditionally used when purchasing premises for the business – availability comes from having a deposit available (typically 20 – 30 per cent, although 100 per cent funding is available with additional security). It is important that the business can demonstrate that it can repay the debt – if it ticks all of the above and the directors are of good financial standing, then terms can come in at anywhere around base +2 per cent and up to 25-year monies. This can be used when clients already own their premises and want to raise capital to inject into the business for any reason.

Asset Finance This is normally used when looking at purchasing new equipment within the business – the debt is secured against the asset itself; rates and terms vary, based on the type of equipment and the strength of the business – this could be used for new machinery for fulfilling an order or to be able to increase productivity. This is also similar to the above - the option to raise capital against assets already owned within the business.

20 | NICHE

Peer to Peer funding This is something that has now been around for a number of years but still has limited exposure – Peer to Peer lending allows businesses to borrow money crucially on a unsecured basis and is based purely on the strength of the client’s business – funds can be used for any purpose and can often be made available very quickly Invoice discounting and factoring Invoice discounting and factoring allows you to simply raise money against your current debtor book and also against any outstanding invoices to ensure your business can maintain a healthy cashflow.

Factoring is when a company buys a debt or invoice from another company. It is also seen as a form of invoice discounting in many markets and although it is similar, the context may vary.

It relieves the first party of a debt for less than the total amount providing them with working capital to continue trading, whilst the buyer or factor, chases up the debt for the full amount and profits when it is paid.

Factoring is a very common method used by exporters to help accelerate their cash flow. The process enables the exporter to draw up a percentage if the sales invoices value at the point of delivery of the goods and when the sales invoice is raised.

Waiting for payments from customers can restrict the growth of your operation, but factoring will allow you to invest in the continued development of your company and meet the day-to-day expenditure of running a business. Any business that trades on credit terms could benefit from a factoring facility, and we will ensure that the solution we offer is specifically tailored to your own company’s needs.

In summary, there are a multitude of ways that growth can be funded – the key is to understand exactly what the requirement is and then my role is to ensure that the appropriate solution is presented to the client on the best available terms.

Finance

LEANNE BONNER-COOKE MBE CEO at Evolve

A

As I have experienced as the founder of two businesses, there are many different types of finance available to a small company with ambitions to grow. We often find these days that banks are very risk adverse in lending start-ups and early stage business money, so where else can we turn?

1 Crowd Funding - the practice of funding a project or venture by raising small amounts of money from many people, typically via the Internet. This can take time but is low risk.

2 Funding Circle – money that comes from a pool of investors, where you can get small business loans from £3K - £150 within days. These are usually supported by a personal guarantee.

3 High net worth individuals (HNWI) – you may

get a loan which can be repaid over time or you can register your business for an SEIS or EIS scheme which will then attract HNWI as this is a tax benefit to them, in this case you would exchange money for equity.

4 Venture Capitalist /Private Equity – these funds lend you money in exchange for equity in your business.

Whichever method is suitable for your business to raise funds, there are some common factors; have a pitch deck of no more than five slides, a good business plan, a marketing plan and a robust set of financials. If you don’t have clarity about what you are asking for and can’t explain how the investors’ money will be spent, then it is unlikely a lender will be onboard.

IF YOU DON’T HAVE CLARITY ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE ASKING FOR AND CAN’T EXPLAIN HOW THE INVESTORS’ MONEY WILL BE SPENT, THEN IT IS UNLIKELY A LENDER WILL BE ONBOARD

FIVE YEARS AGO YOU COULDN’T RUN A BUSINESS FROM A MOBILE PHONE. NOW YOU DON’T EVEN HAVE TO GET OUT OF BED TO MONETISE, GROW AND MARKET YOUR BUSINESS IF YOU DON’T WANT TO

MARC FORD Business Coach at The Best Kept Business Secret

S

So, financing and planning business growth. A large topic, with not a lot of time to tell you some ideas to consider, but here goes.

If you’re a small business tear up your five year plan. Utterly pointless.

The speed at which business moves and in what direction it’s going has never been seen before in the last 100 years. Have a three year plan, with goals and targets and review quarterly.

Monthly if you love spreadsheets enough. There’s a madness to this... five years ago you couldn’t run a business from a mobile phone. Now you don’t even have to get out of bed to monetise, grow and market

your business if you don’t want to. So imagine what might happen in the next five years?

Banks in my experience don’t like small business. With many high street lenders turning their backs on small business because they are too busy looking for the next big thing to recover their losses from the recent spate of CVA’s, it’s worth seeking out recommendations for Independent Finance Specialists. There are several here in Leicestershire. They have the ability to look at other lenders who are specifically built to share the risks of lending money but are driven by small business success and what it could mean for them.

And lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for others’ opinions. When it comes

to business growth, I see many people miss the hidden-in-plain-sight opportunities. Sometimes the biggest growth areas in a business are just the simple, obvious ones. Controlling costs, adding value, restructuring pricing and probably just doing what your ideal customer or client needs you to do for them. Customers are the most important people on your payroll. Fact. So, when was the last time you directly asked them what they would like to see your business do for them. The knowledge you get from understanding them and your environment always allows a business to grow. Don’t believe me? Then why do companies such as Apple always ask to evaluate your data? It’s so they know what to do...

NICHE | 21

Enterprise Investment Schemes Ian Guyler collates the views of six professionals in the industry on Enterprise Investment Schemes and whether they are beneficial to invest in for

E

small and medium enterprises

Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) were introduced by the UK government in 1994. They are a route for companies to attract investor funding and having been in place for 25 years are recognised by corporate and personal advisors as being a well established – and reasonably accessible – solution when looking for company finance.

The objective of EIS was to encourage investment in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) because the government sees them as potential sources of employment and eventually tax revenues.

Over that 25 year span £18bn of investment has been via EIS schemes. Of course what is not known is how much of this investment would have happened anyway, but let’s be positive and assume EIS has helped catalyse investment that may not have happened.

As well as EIS, there is Seed EIS, which applies to smaller companies and for smaller investments but does provide

greater tax benefits to the investor and so can be a valuable incentive for the right company.

Summing up, there are distinct benefits of EIS in the SME financing mix. For the owner-manager/entrepreneur there is the usual ‘sharing’ dilemma to grapple with. Introducing equity capital means the business becomes not wholly yours – profit, capital gains and sometimes control become shared.

But a key objective of equity is to fund growth and you’re better off owning a reduced percentage of a company that becomes worth a lot more, than owning 100 per cent of a company not fulfilling its potential due to shortage of capital!

For more information on EIS you can speak to a qualified advisor such as Claremont Financial Planning.

07973 693 455 ianguyler.co.uk

EIS and SEIS Headlines Qualifications

EIS

Seed EIS

No of employees limit

Less than 250

Less than 25

Gross assets limit

No more than £15m

No more than £200k

Age of group/company

Less than 7 years

Less than 2 years

Location

Place of business in UK

Established in UK

Time limit on spend of investment

2 years

3 years

Limits on amounts that can be raised

£5m per year and £12m in total

£150,000

Investor Headlines

EIS

Seed EIS

Income tax relief

30%

50%

Capital Gains Tax deferral / relief

Deferral of capital gain up to value of investment

Exemption for up to 50% of the value of the investment

Investment limits

£1m

£100,000

Table provided courtesy of Trevor Shaw tax partner at TC Group 22 | NICHE

NICHE FEATURE

Chris Rees of Nelsons comments: “My experience is that many funding deals involving EIS are in high growth businesses and sectors. EIS is a good way to attract outside investors who are new to a company to help with seed/early investment. In addition ‘serial’ EIS investors often find it a good opportunity to give something back in the form of (post investment) mentoring, nonexecutive roles.”

the tax relief helps mitigate a higher risk profile that often exists with an SME or new venture

Graeme Gladstone of RSM added: “It is not only transactions that attract EIS investments, we’ve been involved in EIS projects to raise development capital – and indeed there can be several calls for EIS funding over a company’s lifetime, within the scheme limits.”

Trevor Shaw of TC Group has seen transactions work “because the tax relief helps mitigate a higher risk profile that often exists with an SME or new venture.” Trevor also emphasised that it’s essential to get the right advice – in particular “the rules can be intricate and getting the details wrong could lead to HMRC refusing the tax relief and upsetting your investor relationship.”

Pete Miller of The Miller Partnership re-iterates: “The intricate nature of the rules and the strict adherence to the rules by HMRC make it essential to take the advice of a tax advisor.”

Dan Banton of Howes Percival states: “EIS with its generous tax reliefs, especially for investment in ‘knowledge-intensive’ businesses, makes it very attractive for individuals to invest.”

Gareth John of Gateleys plc’s experience is: “I have been involved in start-up funding – and recent post-start-up funding – where it has helped businesses who are struggling to get funding through traditional banking.”

NICHE | 23

NICHE FEATURE

Will you be trapped by the lifetime allowance?

The overall cap on pension savings could catch out those with modest incomes

N

New analysis by Royal London shows more than 1.5 million people are on track to exceed the lifetime allowance on their pension savings.1 Under the current rules, if your pension savings are worth more than £1.055 million, then you have to pay a tax charge of 55% if you take the excess as a lump sum. If you take it as income, for instance as drawdown or by purchasing an annuity, it will be taxed at 25 per cent. This is on top of Income Tax at your marginal rate.

Around 290,000 savers already have pension rights above the limit and well over a million more are at risk of breaching it by the time they retire.2 Almost half of those who are already over the lifetime allowance are continuing to add to their pension wealth, thereby storing up an even bigger tax charge with every passing year.

Rise and fall When it was introduced in 2006, the Lifetime Tax Allowance stood at £1.5 million. It was then increased each year, reaching £1.8 million by 2010.

But since then, successive cuts have put many more savers within range.

LIFETIME ALLOWANCE TAX TAKE

£102m 2016-17

£5m

£20m 2012-13

2006-07

The insurer suggests that many senior public sector workers with generous defined benefit pensions are in danger of exceeding the limit – as are better-paid private sector workers with salaries of £60,000 or more.

“This research shows, for the first time, how the drastic cuts in the lifetime allowance mean that large numbers of workers will now be caught by a limit that was originally only designed for the super-rich,” said Steve Webb, Director of Policy at Royal London.

“The government needs to think hard about how to make sure people are aware of these limits in time to make alternative arrangements, and individuals need to take expert advice if they are to avoid potentially huge tax bills.”

Touching distance If you’re closing in on the lifetime allowance, opting out of further pension saving in favour of other investments could make sense.

“Quitting your pension will mean missing out on contributions from your employer, as well as valuable tax relief.

Source: HMRC, September 2018

THE DRASTIC CUTS IN THE LIFETIME ALLOWANCE MEAN THAT LARGE NUMBERS OF WORKERS WILL NOW BE CAUGHT

BY A LIMIT THAT WAS ORIGINALLY ONLY DESIGNED FOR THE SUPER-RICH

“Even taking into account the tax penalty, it could make sense to carry on saving. A potential lifetime allowance issue shouldn’t always automatically lead to a stop in contributions.”

You may also need to consider the needs of younger family members. For instance, it may be better to carry on contributing to your pension if you intend to leave it as a legacy when you die.

This is because monies within the pension are outside your estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes, whereas most other investments count. If the pension pot exceeds the lifetime allowance when you die, then your beneficiaries will have to pay the lifetime allowance charge, but this could be significantly less than paying IHT at 40%. Seeking advice is your best option.

To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Claremont Financial Planning 01455 286 800 sjpp.co.uk/cfp

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances. 1,2 The Lifetime Allowance timebomb, Royal London, 24 March 2019. The research is based on detailed analysis of data on more than 7,700 workers from Wave 1 and Wave 5 of the ‘Wealth and Assets Survey’.

24 | NICHE

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“We contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle” Sir Winston Churchill

Tax is taxing so seek good professional advice Last year the Office for Tax Simplification carried out a survey to see how easy or difficult businesses and tax advisers find it to operate within the UK system.

And, as a member of the consultative committee appointed by the OTS to look at how taxation is administered, you may recall me strongly encouraging you to give us your views.

The OTS is a government body which is not part of HMRC, but which is tasked with identifying areas where the tax code could be made simpler.

I am pleased to report that the OTS has now published its report based on your (confidential) feedback and has made recommendations which include improvements both to the operation of the PAYE system and to the mechanics of the Corporation Tax return process.

It has also recommended that tax changes are built on an understanding of business processes and suggested step-by-step guidance to help new businesses run smoothly at each stage of their life cycle.

In line with earlier HMRC research, the OTS found that more than 70% of smaller businesses were generally positive about their dealings with HMRC, although growing businesses and those experiencing tax life events such as registering for VAT, PAYE or NICs, were generally less satisfied.

It’s true that we have one of the most lengthy and onerous tax codes in the world, and tax law itself in some areas could be made easier.

However, we cannot overlook that tax is taxing and, with the best will in the world, there is only so much HMRC can do to guide people through such a complex maze of rules and regulations.

Helpdesk and fact sheets might be beneficial, but people are always going to need good professional tax advice.

UK tax legislation is the most complex in the world and, when you’re looking at the Taxation of Company Reorganisations, Pete literally wrote the book The Miller Partnership are experts in all aspects of corporation tax.

Our specialities include: Taxation of corporate transactions, mergers, acquisitions, disposals, demergers, reorganisations & reconstructions HMRC clearances Transactions in securities anti-avoidance legislation Taxation of corporate intangible assets & goodwill Disguised remuneration Taxation of partnerships Patent Box

T: 0116 208 1020 M: 07802 197 269 The Miller Partnership New Walk House, 108 New Walk, Leicester LE1 6UF

www.themillerpartnership.com pete.miller@themillerpartnership.com

Torr Waterfield are proud to be a Xero Platinum Partner.

Xero is beautiful accounting software that helps you do mundane bookkeeping and VAT Returns faster so you can enjoy more time doing what you love.

www.torrwaterfield.co.uk

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Time to

celebrate

A lifetime of friendship combined with celebrating a successful first year in business together makes for an emotive cocktail as Emily Kirton catches up with Bhavesh Shah and Gurbinder Singh of BGS Accounting

A

A meeting with BGS is always a pleasant, relaxed and social one, but this writer wasn’t expecting to shed happy tears on a Monday morning in May as she approached their inspiring office space on Exploration Drive, Leicester.

As the dynamic duo approach their first birthday in business, the common thread in our conversation is all about timing.

How fast it’s gone, how they set up at exactly the right time in their lives and how ultimately, they are having fun with their time now – meaning that elusive work/life balance that we all strive for is finally theirs.

“Our working day always flies by,” Gubs says, and Bhav agrees.

“The office feels like an extension of home. We are doing what we love – in a professional way of course, but we are providing a service which is collaborative with our clients. We are utilising our experience and doing so as a partnership and it just feels right.”

After being made redundant

as accountants at large firms, the pair shared a catch up and beer, and decided that it was now or never; this is when they started the business.

“It was scary at first, we both have young families, mortgages, and felt a great deal of pressure, but, together we decided to take the leap,” Bhav commented.

Thankfully the year has been a success and the pair provide exactly what they set out to do: a service which is relationship centred, where clients receive above and beyond what they are used to from their accountants.

This service works both ways as a result, though with Gubs commenting: “We have been lucky enough to have received a great deal of support from our clients too – we seem to help each other and that is testament to the network of support that we feel here in Leicester. It was exactly the type of relationship we set out to achieve at the start. It’s an exciting time to be part of the local business

WE HAVE BEEN LUCKY ENOUGH TO HAVE RECEIVED A GREAT DEAL OF SUPPORT FROM OUR CLIENTS TOO

community.”

I ask: “What would you say to others considering setting up a business for themselves?”

“Do it!” exclaims Bhav. “If it’s the right timing, and you feel it in your gut, just go for it!”

My final question to the duo is: “What’s been the highlight of the first year?”

Gubs turns to look at Bhav: “This guy right here, he’s the highlight. We support each other through all the ups and downs.

Thankfully, these days there are far more ups, but it feels good that we can support our families, enjoy our work and do it as a team and friends.”

Queue the need for a breather and a few emotionally charged tears from all of us – and on that note, we conclude our chat.

Happy first Birthday BGS!

07940 780 751

bgsaccounting.co.uk NICHE | 27

When your accountant stands still, your business pays more Your accountant may be experienced and technically sound, but we’re guessing they’re probably expensive too. We’ve streamlined our service; which means when it comes to fees, we’re confident that we’re far more competitive.

What you pay!

Ye Olde Accountant

What you could pay!

MNE

Paper, photocopier, receptionist, IT consultant, server & other unnecessary overheads Staff, office, software, training & licenses

0116 255 2422 hello@mneaccounting.co.uk mneaccounting.co.uk

NICHE BUSINESS

Forum

OUTSOURCING YOUR FINANCES BHAVESH SHAH Director at BGS Accounting Ltd Letting go of any aspect of your business isn’t easy, but outsourcing elements of it can have a positive impact on your business and in turn you as a leader and individual.

Finance is one such area. So what are the pros of outsourcing it? ◆ Specialist knowledge base: A specialist company will have the very best in training, including any recent developments in the sector. ◆ Reduces cash flow burden: Effective cashflow management is vital for any business and by outsourcing to a company which has expert knowledge in the area you are reducing the fear of unexpected cashflow problems. ◆ Quality of service: A dedicated

IS IT TIME TO BUY MY PREMISES? I am regularly approached by businesses who want to purchase their own commercial premises – whether that be office, industrial, warehousing, retail or hospitality – but not everyone knows how you do it or what is available.

If clients are looking to purchase new premises, then a commercial mortgage is often the best route, with funding available typically up to 85 per cent loan to value and terms of anything up to 25 years with more available with additional security.

The commercial mortgage available to you depends on whether you are looking to buy through a Special Purchase Vehicle (SPV) and then rent back to your company or whether your trading company itself buys the building with the profits of the business being able to determine how you can pay the mortgage back So why buy? Well, not only is it a

financing firm will be efficient and experienced in the area - meaning you get the best quality for your money. ◆ Frees management time: The less time you need to spend on looking at your finances, the more time you can spend on generating business to create them!

There are, of course, a couple of downsides to outsourcing the financial element of your company – most notably the concept of relinquishing the control of this area, and a fear of ‘sharing’ an aspect of your business with a company outside of your own.

However, by sourcing a trusted and well-regarded company who ‘get’ you and your business, these limitations shouldn’t get in the way of you enjoying the advantages!

BHUMIKA PARMAR Director at BP Legal

EVIDENCE OF DEPOSIT

good investment for the business, but it will also secure the business future.

Financially it could be well worth it – if you currently rent premises at say £25k per annum and those premises are available at £300k to purchase, if you have, say a 20 per cent deposit and need to borrow £240k over 25 years, that on a reasonable rate of interest would cost you approximately £1200 a month or annualised £14,410 pa. That would save your business approximately £10k pa which would mean by the end of the term if you paid the equivalent in rent, you would have owned the building outright and had an extra £250k in your bank account!

To buy a house, you will require a deposit, which amounts to the difference between the purchase price and the amount of any mortgage you are taking out. It is important to prove where the deposit has come from – lawyers will need to carry out an anti-money laundering check and confirm the credibility of the funds.

Once you have instructed a solicitor, he or she will wish to find where your deposit was sourced from.

The mortgage lender will also require this information before they are prepared to formalise the lending.

Most often, people delve into their savings to provide deposits, and solicitors will often ask for bank statements to confirm the funds are held in your account.

Another source for a deposit is from the sale of a property, which could be simultaneous with a purchase – often buyers who are selling will use the same solicitor to ease the transition of the deposit.

In some situations, a deposit may be a gift from parents. In this case a gifted deposit letter is required during the conveyancing process, to confirm that the money being given is a gift rather than a loan.

This information will also have to be notified to the mortgage lender. If the deposit is coming from parents or a relative, the solicitors will require evidence of the monies they are gifting such as a bank statement and their ID documents.

There is support available for buyers who do not have a deposit or only have a small deposit; often brokers can assist buyers with their options, including the Government Help To Buy scheme and ISAs.

01625 421 976 2xlcommercial.com

0116 253 6856 bplegal.co.uk

07940 780 751

bgsaccounting.co.uk

DARREN WILLOUGHBY Director at 2XL Commercial Finance

NICHE | 29

LEGAL FOCUS

strategising international expansion Global growth can be both daunting but also rewarding. Most of the time, expanding internationally is critical for businesses wishing to break into other markets. However, international expansion is not without its risks, especially legal and financial risks; they need to be identified and addressed upstream, when designing the overall expansion strategy

ASHLEY BARRATT CEO of CDS - Global Debt Solutions

F

For many growth-minded business leaders, the local and national market is only the beginning. They are planning all the time to take their organisation and expand it around the world.

Before this journey begins there are a lot of aspects to consider including some legal, tax and compliance issues that must be addressed but first I believe that business leaders should be looking internally. Here are the three questions I would be asking: Is the business financially and structurally sound?

An internal business analysis can help you sort the fact from the fiction with actual valid numbers. You may believe you have the best team around you with a solid foundation for international growth but the numbers will show you if you really can juggle your existing workload with an international venture. Have you considered the consequences international time zones can have on your teams and the impact this possible disconnect could have between sites. Not all time zone conflicts are severe but when looking at minimising inefficiencies and ensuring you are building a sound structure all this needs to be considered.

If you are happy that you have the resources, capabilities and competencies then the next step is to look at the market and develop your international strategy.

30 | NICHE

Does your business have a customer base in the country or countries that you are looking to enter?

Expanding your business internationally can have huge effect on the visibility of your brand, it can provide you with a reputational boost, new customers in your targeted location may perceive your business as exotic but is there really a customer base big enough for you in that country. What do you offer that is not satisfied by local organisations? Will local markets be interested in your business offering? And, if there is a customer base for your business what is your market size and how long will it take you to achieve your targets?

Do you speak their language?

This question may seem obvious but more than threequarters of the world don’t speak English as their first language and even where English is spoken as a secondary language if you intend to communicate properly with new customers it is imperative that you understand and get to grips with local dialect.

Beyond verbally speaking their language, you need to stay abreast of ever changing political environments and regulations regarding your industry in that country.

What is your plan in said country embargoes or outlaws something your business relies on? Do you need to consider political risk insurance as well as credit security risk?

Whether with foreign clients or suppliers you are going to have to send invoices, a cloud-based platform that issues in multiple currencies and languages may make sense but as with political change you need to address both tax and compliance implications in each territory that you are looking to expand into.

Ultimately, there are many pros and cons when considering international expansion. Careful planning and forethought is essential but with this in place there is nothing stopping your business from going to the next level and taking full advantage of a world of opportunities.

Global Growth

SHAHID SHEIKH OBE Managing Director at Clifton Packaging Ltd

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As a huge advocate for UK manufacturing, I was extremely proud and honoured to be asked by Her Majesty’s Government (Department for International Trade) to be one of just 56 new Export Champions supporting the Midlands region and helping to drive the export agenda forwards.

We have been successfully exporting now for a number of years and are glad that the opportunities continue to grow as we seek to do business further afield.

This increase in export trade was achieved in large part because of our global reputation for innovation which we acquired due to the numerous industry and business awards we have won and also for our experience in being able to provide complete packaging solutions within the food industry.

Our intention over the next 12 months is to double our export sales. We did it last year and we see no reason to not be able to repeat that same success again. We did it by putting export at the heart of our business side-by-side with our innovation work. This strategic decision has resulted in: 1 New products being brought, by Clifton Packaging, to

STELLA DA SILVA Freelance International Education and Training Consultant

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It’s important to have a strategy on how to generate leads and income internationally, especially as a freelance training consultant. There are many factors to consider: ◆ Work culture in these countries are different. ◆ Language barriers ◆ Travel documentation, work permits, visa requirements ◆ Culture in general, religion is a big one in the Middle East ◆ Politics

market in countries across Europe, Africa and the Middle East is our intended target for 2020.

2 Clifton exhibiting internationally which has led to many more international relationships being developed.

There is a lot of research required to understand exactly how each country works and that research – often carried out on the ground in the actual country itself – has been critical to our successful entry into the new overseas markets that we’ve targeted. Let’s take Africa as an example. The North, South, East and West of Africa are very different to each other when it comes to food products, which is our particular area of interest. What is popular in one region may not be popular at all in the other and if Clifton had gone into Africa randomly with one or a small group of products we would have failed. By doing our research and spending time in the different countries that make up Africa we were able to target particular products which were relevant to each market and we were, therefore, successful. Success will be yours if research is conducted correctly in the first instance and if possible if you are able to spend time on the ground in the country of interest.

It is also extremely important to seek advice and help from others who may have experience in the countries you may be interested to export to as there are many factors to take into account such as transport costs/duties/etc.

Chambers of Commerce are a great help and also in some cases the British Embassies, and not to forget the Export Champions whose details can be sort from the DiT.

LinkedIn is a great platform to market your services and generate international leads. Posting about the work you do internationally, accompanied by pictures and videos – then through that you’ll be able to arrange zoom call meetings with potential clients.

Off the back of the LinkedIn marketing I was doing, I now coach a few of my LinkedIn clients, who are from different countries; in February 2018, I also secured an amazing contract in Oman, which led to me flying out every month until March this year, to deliver training. In January 2018, a three-week contract landed

through LinkedIn from Saudi Arabia – honestly, it works!

Simplicity, in terms of language and the way you put out content – even your hashtags - is what attracts international clients and it is fast becoming part of my USP for the international market.

One of the big things to consider is the general bureaucracy of getting work in certain countries. As a freelancer, you may have to go through agencies for example, the British Council, or a Training Provider. It becomes easier for travel and paperwork documentation to be put in place. It also protects me should anything go wrong.

NICHE | 31

NICHE FEATURE

A new chapter

for Glynis Wright & Co

Glynis Wright & Co Family Solicitors and Mediators appoint board of directors in new company milestone

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Glynis Wright & Co Family Solicitors and Mediators was set up by Glynis Wright in 2011. Since that time, the firm has grown from one employee to nineteen, eight of whom are specialist family lawyers. This year Glynis Wright took the step of appointing three of her top staff as directors within the firm.

The Leicester-based firm has grown exponentially, winning multiple legal and business awards. Last October, they rocketed to national acclaim when they won Law Firm of the Year (Small) in the National Law Society Excellence Awards.

We asked Glynis to comment upon this exciting development and the thinking behind her strategy. She said: “Everyone within the Glynis Wright team brings a different skill set and experience – and this was a tough decision to make. The firm has now grown to the size where it makes absolute sense to delegate key performance areas to others. Also, as I was elected as President of the Leicestershire Law Society in May 2019, it is essential that I 32 | NICHE

have the right leadership team under me to carry the firm forward whilst I am engaged in presidential duties. I am therefore delighted to announce that LisaMarie Leanders, Gayle Rowley and Harinder Sahota are now directors within my company.

We asked the newly appointed directors how they felt about their new appointment. Lisa Marie said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed a director of Glynis Wright & Co, a firm which has already achieved outstanding success and which I am extremely passionate about. I look forward to continuing my career alongside the inspirational leadership team and playing a role in driving our success further forward.”

Harinder stated: “I am incredibly proud to have been appointed director of operations within Glynis Wright & Co. I am filled with excitement at the unprecedented opportunities for further growth and development as part of Glynis’ dynamic new leadership team.”

Gayle, who has taken on responsibility for the

EVERYONE WITHIN THE GLYNIS WRIGHT TEAM BRINGS A DIFFERENT SKILL SET AND EXPERIENCE – AND THIS WAS A TOUGH DECISION TO MAKE

development of the mediation service within the business said: “I was absolutely thrilled to be appointed as a director at Glynis Wright & Co. I have recently celebrated my five-year anniversary at the company. I am excited at the prospect of being part of the leadership team and being involved in key decisions that affect the company and our committed team of family lawyers and support staff. I am so grateful to Glynis for supporting and encouraging me and offering me so many opportunities to develop in the last five years. I am proud that she has recognised my abilities and has entrusted me to be part of the leadership team.

These years have flown by and I am looking forward to exciting times ahead!”

The team at Niche cannot wait to see what the future holds for the newly appointed leadership team at Glynis Wright & Co. Watch this space 0116 238 5680 glyniswright.co.uk

PUTTING YOUR MIND AT EASE It is important to plan ahead to protect your family’s welfare, should you or your spouse need to pay for nursing care or a residential care home According to a report by Laing & Buisson in 2018, care home costs range from £27,000 to £39,000 for a residential care home, and £35,000 to £55,000 if nursing is required. The costs for home care do differ, with an estimate of £14,000 per year for 14 hours of care a week; for full-time care during the day, the cost will be more than double that.

The local authority will undertake a financial assessment to see if you’re eligible to statefunded care. However, if your estate is more than £23,250 then they will make no contribution to your fees, and then you are responsible for paying them. If you require care later in life, your property may be at risk because it will be used to fund care fees rather than your children being able to inherit the property.

Planning for these fees isn’t just about putting money aside – it’s about looking at how your assets are structured, including your home.

Whilst most of us want our children to inherit our house after we pass, the reality is that unless you protect your home, it will go towards your care home fees.

You cannot explicitly gift your house to your children to avoid nursing home fees; the

local authority will reclaim the house from the individual you’ve gifted it to. There are ways around this, and there are legitimate reasons as to why you are gifting your house to someone else. It is possible to structure your estate by using Trusts to protect your home against these kinds of situations.

For more information and advice about how to protect your assets with trusts, contact the team at Paradigm Wills and Legal Services.

0116 464 7055 paradigm-wills.com

NICHE BUSINESS

Forum

PARENTAL ALIENATION BHAVIN GANDHI Director at Paradigm Wills & Legal Services

PREPARING FOR YOUR HOLIDAY Getting your affairs in order before you go on holiday, especially if you have children under the age of 18, is quite important. No one plans on falling ill or being sick, but planning just in case of that risk can make all the difference in an unforeseen, emergency situation. There are certain aspects you should consider before going on holiday: Updating your will – your will is the opportunity to ensure that your estate is dealt and distributed according to your wishes upon the event of your death. Keeping this updated will ensure that your current wishes are carried out, and your estate will be sorted accordingly.

Power of Attorney – this written authorisation allows someone to make decisions for you, or act on your behalf, if you’re no longer able to make those decisions.

This gives the peace of mind that someone you trust is in charge of your affairs.

Trusts – depending on your family structure, and if you have children from different relationships, you may want to put a Trust in place, to ensure that no one misses out on their inheritance. Trusts are commonly used for protecting property, providing for children in a will and when taking care of vulnerable loved ones.

For more information and advice about how to get your affairs in order, contact the team at Paradigm Wills and Legal Services.

0116 464 7055 paradigm-wills.com 34 | NICHE

Research shows that a child’s reactions and feelings are influenced by the adult behaviour they are exposed to.

Many separating couples are unable to contain their hostility towards the other. This unfortunately can damage their ability to responsibly co-parent as they are unable to put the needs of their children first. In extreme cases parent will abuse their parental responsibility as a result of their negative feelings which includes alienating the other parent from the children’s life.

Parental Alienation is a form of psychological abuse and is now recognised by CAFCASS as arising ‘when a child’s hostility towards one parent is not justified and is the result of psychological manipulation by the other parent.’

The consequence of this can be significant and a judge can consider a transfer in residence. Judge Lloyd North made this exact decision in a recent case heard in the family division

GLYNIS WRIGHT Head of Glynis Wright & Co of the High Court. The judge concluded that the child, aged eight would suffer significant emotional harm if he continued to live with his mother.

There is now special guidance available to CAFCASS officers in cases such as these. The Child Impact Assessment Framework (CIAF) aims to examine the underlying cause of the rejection and identifies the risks exposed to the child.

It is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible to minimise any further damage to the parent/child relationship.

0116 238 5680 glyniswright.co.uk

EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS: WHAT’S IMPLIED? GREG HOLLINGSWORTH Director at Hollingsworths Solicitors An employment contract is mainly made up of what is written down by the parties – but some terms can be implied.

One key term that is implied into an employment contract is the employer’s duty of fidelity. This is described in the case of Faccenda Chicken as requiring the employee to ‘act in good faith’ and not to ‘place himself in a position where his duty and his interest may conflict with the employer’. Put simply: the employee can’t bite the hand that feeds them.

This duty continues throughout the duration of the contract and extends to the employee’s off-duty time – so an employee undertaking work for his/her own benefit at weekends and being paid for it would fall foul of this duty unless the employer had consented to it.

The duty of fidelity only comes to an end when the employment ends – although that isn’t the case with directors. If the employee is also a director, or holds a position of particular seniority or responsibility, the duty may continue after the employment or directorship ends. It certainly extends to opportunities that the director learnt of whilst employed but tries to take advantage of after resigning.

The duty of fidelity is probably the most important and wide-ranging of an employee’s implied obligations – but it’s best to have it set out clearly in your employment contracts.

0116 204 7260 hlegal.co.uk

0116 204 2500 www.hlegal.co.uk

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We help individuals, at home and at work.

Talk to us today to find out how we can help you.

“We solve problems, from recovering a small debt to drafting complex contracts, a business break up to a restrictive covenant problem.”

19, New Walk, Leicester LE1 6TE mail@hlegal.co.uk

Greg Hollingsworth Director

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Whilst awards season is in full swing and with the finalists announced for the Niche Business Awards 2019, dust off those evening dresses to celebrate achievements produced from hard work

When marketed correctly, winning an award can have a huge impact on a company; being nominated adds to a company’s credibility as this can should be used to promote the quality of who and what the business is.

Niche Magazine loves nothing more than to shout about the success of local Leicester businesses and are busy preparing for their annual awards evening in September, which will be an evening of glitz, glamour and celebration.

The feature ‘Celebrating Success’ offers a platform that showcases a huge variety of selected nominees, finalists and winners from local Leicestershire-based businesses, thereby celebrating everything they’ve achieved and worked hard for over the years.

CELEBRATING Success

Recognising excellence Founders of Creative62, Mark and Andy, tell Niche about the importance of recognising excellence within your business through awards

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Awards are a fantastic way to improve your business’s profile, as well as that of your team members, and recognising your team for the hard work that they put in.

Mark believes that being a part of awards, from being a nominee, a sponsor or a winner, is an amazing way to get your business recognised: “Through awards, we can support and celebrate the achievements of local businesses and the teams behind the scenes that work incredibly hard.

“With the team here at Creative62, we don’t expect to win awards, we just enjoy being involved in the awards process.”

Creative62 is a Leicesterbased creative agency that strive to produce powerful creative campaigns, vibrant visuals, and high-impact messaging and deliver remarkable creative results for local businesses.

Their highly specialist team takes a ‘sleeves-up’ approach

SUCCESS

WE ARE VERY PROUD OF OUR TEAM AND WE WANT EVERYONE TO BE RECOGNISED FOR THE AMAZING WORK THAT THEY DO

to designing solutions that help ambitious businesses grow.

So far, the team have had a fantastic year full of growth and development, as well as getting through to the next stages of various awards; the team were semi-finalists for the Niche awards and have received four DRUM nominations.

Andy said: “We are now entering more business-related awards. We’ve spent our time doing what we do well for our clients, but now we need to start to promote ourselves by putting ourselves forward for awards.”

It’s all about getting recognition for the team at Creative62; their collaborative efforts have grown the business exponentially.

Mark said: “We are very proud of our team and we want everyone to be recognised for the amazing work that they do.

We function smoothly as a whole team and that’s what makes it

work. We always ask everyone what their opinions and thoughts are, because they’re important to us. It isn’t always Andy and I doing the design work – the work always gets distributed evenly.”

The company have had a great year so far, whilst they spent a lot of time evaluating and re-structuring different aspects of the business, as well as introducing new structures and procedures to further help streamline their processes.

“We are looking at organising talks and workshops on branding to aid local businesses and to help them with their branding. We want to push our profile whilst we grow and develop personally and as part of our team. We are currently making many plans to grow with new roles within the business. It is an exciting time for Creative62.”

0116 275 2831 creative62.com NICHE | 37

A rewarding

recognition Mark Platt of Incite Consulting talks to Niche about awards – how they are a great recognition and how they can push your profile in a positive way

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For the past two years, Incite Consulting has been recognised in the Best New Business category of the Niche Business Awards, and have now been named a finalist in this year’s awards. Mark emphasises the value that being nominated for awards can have on your business: “It’s rewarding to be recognised in awards, it’s a really good feeling. It also adds a lot of value to the PR, marketing and sales sides of your business. As a commercially orientated business, it is a great conversation piece because it gives you a reason to talk to people and it can help with sales pitches.”

As a big fan of awards and celebrating both personal and business successes, Mark believes that awards can push your profile out there, reaching potential customers as well as competitors.

“It’s important, as a business, to keep abreast of the competition and be aware of the competition. It’s such a good platform to showcase your company profile.”

After working for around

38 | NICHE

six years in London and Birmingham, Mark moved back to Leicester, and landed a 12-month contract with a huge corporate company. However, he soon realised that the big, global corporate world wasn’t for him.

“It was good for me to come back. It was a moment where I had to stop and think: where am I going? So, I went to see a business coach, who asked the question, ‘Why don’t you offer your services on an outsource basis?’ This was a lightbulb moment for me; outsourcing my services would be convenient for the business, there are no employment liabilities, there’s no risk and it’s a one-off figure.”

In January 2017, Incite Consulting was officially set up to motivate business leaders to inspire business development within senior management. The business’s services include consulting, sales management and commercial strategy.

The first six months was a fantastic start to the business, with Mark landing a contract straight away. However, a dry spell came not long after and it

SUCCESS

IT WAS GOOD FOR ME TO COME BACK. IT WAS A MOMENT WHERE I HAD TO STOP AND THINK: WHERE AM I GOING?

soon became tough – but Mark, despite others’ advice, kept on pushing his business and raised his profile in Leicester. After turning 40 and returning from his holiday in 2018, Mark made contact with two local business owners – one of them being a previous employer-turned-mentor and close friend.

“They sat me down and helped me redesign how I engage and deliver pitches – it renewed my enthusiasm to sell myself. Within four weeks, I had a full portfolio.

“I stuck with it, and it is paying off. I believed in myself and what I was offering. I was not willing to quit. I’d invested everything I had,” Mark said.

With Incite Consulting now VAT registered and a limited company, it aims to obtain a project turnover of £250,000 and to be recognised as a full-service consulting firm and is planning future acquisition.

0116 326 7050 incite-consulting.co.uk

CELEBRATING Success

Making a

big

difference

Geoff Rowe and his team are striving to raise the profile of the

Leicester Comedy Festival, as well as the profile of the city and what the region can offer in terms of creativity and art

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Whilst the team at the Big Difference Company and the Leicester Comedy Festival don’t tend to put themselves forward for awards as a general rule, someone has – and now Geoff is one of three finalists in the Businessman of the Year category for the Niche Business Awards 2019.

“It is nice when people believe that you are worthy of being nominated. Not only is it a recognition of my work, it is an acknowledgement of the determination and hard work of all of the staff that have contributed to building the Leicester Comedy Festival,” Geoff said.

The festival started off as a final year student project for Geoff, who studied Arts Management at De Montfort University. The first ever comedy festival was held in 1994 and featured the likes of Matt Lucas and Harry Hill. With the festival being well-received, Geoff decided to develop it further after he graduated. Whilst the event had informal beginnings, after ten years the team started

SUCCESS

IT TOOK US AGES TO COME UP WITH A NAME – YEARS TO WORK THROUGH ALL OF THE PROCESSES

to develop the business side, which had emerged more as the festival grew and developed.

Over the years, the festival has grown exponentially and as of this year, covers 19 days in February, with over 870 individual events in 72 venues across the city. As it developed, Geoff and the team were approached to host other events and festivals and realised that they couldn’t be branded as just the Leicester Comedy Festival any longer.

Hence, the Big Difference Company evolved more than a decade after the festival originally started.

“It took us ages to come up with a name – years to work through all of the processes, we wanted to become a well-known organisation in Leicester – but, more than that. We wanted to make a big difference in the community,” Geoff said.

The Big Difference Company specialise in using comedy and humour as an effective form of communication and have multiple, different projects currently, including ‘Comedy in the Dark’ and ‘Doctor, Doctor’

a project that uses the arts to improve public health whilst addressing health inequalities across the UK. Planning for the festival takes around 18 months, therefore the LCF 2020 festival organisation is in full swing, the team are already planning for 2021, whilst in talks with new partners and companies who want to support via partnerships.

“Our main aim is to continue to sustain ourselves whilst making each festival bigger and better each year. We want to concentrate on the day-to-day sustainability, as we only receive five per cent of public subsidy.”

0116 261 6812 bigdifferencecompany.co.uk

NICHE | 39

Going beyond

‘business as usual’ Established to drive excellence and challenge convention, Leicester Castle Business School have been announced as finalists for the Niche Business Awards in the Educational Excellence category

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The team at Leicester Castle Business School are delighted to be finalists for the awards.

Continually striving to be the best at what they do, the global business school represents over 6,000 students from over 100 nationalities and offers undergraduate, postgraduate, professional and research courses and expertise in four departments: Accounting and Finance, Politics and Public Policy, Executive Education and Strategic Management and Marketing.

Head of Business Development and Executive Education, Louise Donaghy said: “It is a great honor to be a finalist in this category. We continually strive to be the best at what we do, going ‘beyond business as usual’ for all of our clients and students – it is therefore so rewarding to be recognised for all of the work that we do behind the scenes.”

“The impact of this award

40 | NICHE

will help cement our position as a valued partner within the local business community. The award will also encourage more links to be secured with organisations, thereby widening our network and the opportunities to benefit the business community.”

Leicester Castle Business School celebrate success by nurturing the achievements of their students and clients and being a part of their development and helping businesses grow and progress. They see success in the number of people and organisations that they positively impact, providing them with the tools and skills to operate successfully and develop sustainable futures.

Louise said: “Business and education are better together; it is a cycle of learning, challenging, and changing to thrive in the modern business environment.

With our cutting-edge research we feed back into our educational

SUCCESS

BUSINESS AND EDUCATION ARE BETTER TOGETHER, IT IS A CYCLE OF LEARNING, CHALLENGING, AND CHANGING TO THRIVE IN THE MODERN BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

programmes and work with businesses on consultancy projects to build upon our current success and growth.”

Looking forward, Leicester Castle Business School have exciting plans to develop new programmes, including online short courses, a leadership and management programme tailored to the local business community to drive growth in the area and a Doctorate in Business Administration for Senior Leaders.

They also aim to grow the number of students enrolled on their current courses, whilst simultaneously developing their Executive MBA course to include a guided Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Assessment and develop partnerships with organisation to co-create bespoke education solutions. lcbs.ac.uk

CELEBRATING Success

The tip of the

iceberg

Director Darren Willoughby of 2XL Commercial Finance believes that awards are a major contributing factor to raising your business’s profile. But that is just the tip of the iceberg for 2XL Commercial’s plans…

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Whilst putting themselves forward for awards was something 2XL Commercial Finance has shied away from, they are delighted to be recognised and nominated by others who feel they are deserving of an award. Now, the business is a finalist in the Best Small Business category of the Niche Business Awards – and the company’s founding director Darren Willoughby is also a finalist in the Rising Star category.

Darren said: “To be acknowledged as one of the top three small businesses is an amazing achievement and one that the rest of the 2XL Commercial team can share in and recognise their own achievements.

“On a personal level, to be placed in the Rising Star category is great for me but I couldn’t have done it without the hard work of the team and also those within the business community that support us as both clients and introducers.”

When it comes to celebrating successes, Darren doesn’t

SUCCESS

THE MINUTE YOU STAND STILL IN MY OPINION, YOU’RE GOING BACKWARDS, SO IT’S IMPORTANT NOT TO REST ON YOUR LAURELS AND CONTINUE MOVING FORWARDS

really ‘celebrate’: “I think anyone reading this who knows me and didn’t see ‘having a few pints and a giggle’ would accuse me of being a liar!

“On a serious note I don’t really ‘celebrate’ as such. It is something you should continue to strive for. The minute you stand still in my opinion, you’re going backwards, so it’s important not to rest on your laurels and continue moving forwards.”

2XL Commercial Finance was set up by Darren and Tim Bamber, both former bank managers, who were previously helping establish a team that works with commercial brokers.

That business relied on working with external introducers such as accountants, IFAs and commercial brokers – 12 years ago, the standard of the broker community sometimes left a lot to be desired and there was a gap for a credible and reliable brokerage.

The future for 2XL is very bright and growth is on the company’s horizons – with Darren looking to establish a

further ten offices across the UK. This will enable him to work ‘on the business’ rather than ‘in the business.’

“With our second office in Leicester opening in August 2019, I am keen to recruit in Nottingham, Derby and Birmingham, which will complement our already established offices in Manchester, Cheshire, Southampton, London and Gloucester.

“Once we have executed our plans, we will be on track to arrange in excess of £100 million of funding in the following financial year. This would be a massive goal for our team to achieve.”

01625 421 976 / 07736 359 413 2xlcommercial.com

NICHE | 41

Director Mike Hutton is over the moon that Base 8 Innovations have been announced as a finalist for the Digital Business of the Year category for the Niche Business Awards

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When setting the business up, Mike Hutton, alongside his fellow directors, had no guarantee that they could make it work.

Fast forward three and a half years and, Base 8 Innovations has been on a steady growth journey. They are now being recognised for their innovative, customer-focused service by being a finalist in the Niche Business Awards.

Mike and his team are proud of how far they’ve come: “We would love to win an award as it will be testament to all the hard work and dedication that the team brings to every client we work with. Recognition is always fantastic, but to win a local award as big as the Niche Awards would be truly amazing.

We are extremely proud of our team and what we’ve achieved over the past three and half years. An award would be the cherry on the cake. It would be so fantastic.

“Awards can really help to raise the profile of your business.

The awards social media

42 | NICHE

Journey

to success campaign has already boosted our interaction on social media and it’s been hugely beneficial to network with like-minded businesses at the Niche awards events and announcements. I’m excited to see where this will elevate us to.”

Base 8 Innovations are a UKbased digital media agency who combine their expertise in digital design, website and application development, video production and the creation of learning and development modules. They have passion and love for what they do and embark on a journey with each individual client.

The company has a philosophy that the whole team share in everything they do and that is to balance the business across what they call the four Cs: ◆ Customer ◆ Colleagues ◆ Company ◆ Community Mike said: “We don’t believe that any small business should just focus on the profitability of the company. You need to look

SUCCESS

YOU NEED TO LOOK AFTER CUSTOMERS, COLLEAGUES, THE COMPANY AND THE COMMUNITIES THAT YOU SERVE

after customers, colleagues, the company and the communities that you serve. The community is at the heart of what we do.

We are very passionate about helping and doing as much as we can for those who need it the most. This is why we have decided to provide an app free of charge to the Veteran’s Hub. It’s a supportive communication tool that enables them to be aware of the help and support that they can get, and any veteran-related events in the area.

“If we were to win the award, it would be just brilliant, but we’d definitely keep our feet on the ground and keep doing the great things we are doing. There’s no room for complacency.

“We would like to congratulate all the people that were nominated for this amazing award, and wish all the finalists the best.”

01438 352 744 base8innovations.com

CELEBRATING Success

Soaring High

DESIGN + PRINT

Soar Valley Press

Soar Valley Press have had an exciting year so far, having been announced as finalists for Best Customer Service at the Niche Business Awards

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Soar Valley Press is a familyrun business that provides high quality design and print work.

Established in 1998 the company has grown to a team of nine who are highly proficient in their area of expertise.

The business was announced as a semi-finalist for the 2019 Niche Business Awards for two categories and they are now finalists for the Best Customer Service category. With their customers and their artistic vision at the heart of everything they do, it’s no wonder Soar Valley Press are being recognised for their hard work, amazing customer service and tailored advice.

Soar Valley Press make their clients feel like part of the family, with their welcoming, friendly approach; they provide and deliver a professional, high quality service before, during and after each project. Going above and beyond for their customers is second nature to the team – even sending nice little touches like a chocolate Freddo in the post.

SUCCESS

WE LOVE WHAT WE DO, AND WE STRIVE TO GO BEYOND EXPECTATIONS AND PROVIDE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE

In April, the company hosted the Official Opening of their Production Zone and pizza party; the event unveiled their fantastic new expansion that will add additional production space, equipped with modern technology. The event saw over 60 clients from local businesses attending, it was a fantastic event to network at, over homemade pizza by the ‘Woody ‘N’ Flame’ Truck. Each guest took home their own personalised chocolate orange.

Chris Goodman, Managing Director of Soar Valley Press, said: “We are extremely pleased to be chosen as finalists for the Niche Business Awards.

“This is a fantastic accolade of an achievement for all of our team and the hard work we have put in. We love what we do, and we strive to go beyond expectations and provide excellent customer service.”

Chris Goodman, above and below, brother Dave Goodman with Barry Randall

0116 259 9955 Soarvalleypress.co.uk NICHE | 43

Everards, 175 Years Innovating Come be a part of it

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It’s clear that Everards like to do things differently, a family business since 1849, now lead by 5th generation Richard Everard and set to open their 6th brewery at Everards Meadows next year, they are looking forward to a bright future for them and all of their business owners.

Want to run your own successful independent business, be that a fantastic pub or something else?

Everards can help you find a property and location that suits your vision and backed by 175 years of experience in the food, drink, and hospitality industry you know you will be well supported on your journey.

Everards still own the first two pubs that their founder William Everard purchased here in Leicester over 100 years ago. More recently they have invested £10m in phase 1a at Everards Meadows, a brand-new food, drink and leisure development in Leicestershire.

If you’ve ever thought of running your own pub or your own independent business then call the team at Everards, they’ll be more than happy to have a chat over a beer (or a brew). Call 0116 201 4260 or visit Everards.co.uk for more info.

Innovation & Investment Opened in April 2019, bod is a new concept from our friends at Titanic Brewery located in an old Bank in Trentham that Everards purchased in 2018. After a £278k investment from Everards and an £80k investment from Titanic, the building has been completely transformed.

“

It works. It’s something a bit different, a café come pub, come bar that feels welcoming, laid back and local.

We’ve been working with Keith and Dave for over 12 years now and they have five traditional pubs with us and now bod which is a completely different concept.

It’s been great to see their growth in both pubs and brewing. We love working and developing with people to deliver their ideas and visions.

Martin Bailey, Everards

“

hink of Everards and you think of great pubs and great beer! With over 170 pubs, most of them are your traditional local. But did you know, they also invest in cafes, bakeries and microbreweries and most recently they’ve purchased a former bank where you can dine privately in the old bank vault!

CELEBRATING Success

A journey of recognition After ten years in the business, it’s the first year the team at BP Legal have applied for awards. They were finalists at the Leicester Law Society Legal Awards and are now finalists in two categories at the Niche Business Awards

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It all started when the Director of BP Legal, Bhumika Parmar, was encouraged to put herself and her company forward for awards.

Now they are being recognised through various awards, with Bhumika being a finalist for Senior Solicitor of the Year for the LLS Awards, as well as a finalist for Best Small Business and Businesswoman of the Year in the Niche Business Awards.

When asked how it felt to be a finalist, Bhumika replied: “Surreal! There’s a buzz in the BP Legal office currently; we are all excited about the Niche Business Awards. I’m surprised and happy, and so proud of my team! We have connected and networked with many other businesses and individuals as a result of the award nominations – which is fantastic, and it has encouraged

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WE HAVE CONNECTED AND NETWORKED WITH MANY OTHER BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS AS A RESULT OF THE AWARD NOMINATIONS

us to put ourselves forward for more awards in the future.”

“To get to this stage is an accolade in itself. We are all so proud of the team, and how far we have come together on this journey. We are a small firm, and small firms can get lost amongst the bigger firms sometimes. So, to get this recognition on our journey is amazing.”

Recently, Bhumika appeared on the morning radio show at BBC Radio Leicester to talk about the opportunities that BP Legal provide to young students who are eager to get a foot in the door to start their career.

“As a growing company, we love to give students placements that will enable them to gain a start into their career.

“Being on the radio was a great experience; I’d love to

do it again and talk more about the opportunities that we have for students, as well as the charity events that we will be organising.”

This year, BP Legal will continue to grow and develop whilst working more with many charities in order to raise money for good causes.

Bhumika told us: “We want to give back to the community, work with many charities over the next few years and put on events. As we have evolved as a company and been in business for ten years, we want to put on an event this year to celebrate this and donate the money from the event to charity.”

0116 253 6856 bplegal.co.uk NICHE | 45

Inside - Out laser

clinics

Striving to

succeed

“We’re a small team, but we’re a family here,” Zoe Darkins tells Niche how incredibly proud she is of her team as Inside-Out Laser Clinics reach the semi-finals of the Niche Business Awards

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Inside-Out Laser Clinics have been announced as semifinalists for the category Best Small Business – and they are ecstatic.

Zoe said: “We are very honoured to have been selected as one of the six semi-finalists at the Niche Business Awards.

“I’m very proud of my team, we always put so much hard work and effort into what we do. We strive to ensure that our clients are professionally looked after all through their journey.

Our aim is to make our clients feel good about themselves.”

After working for a leading medical aesthetic clinic for many years, Zoe decided to take the leap and open up her own clinic in August of last year.

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Zoe now has over 14 years of experience in performing laser and aesthetic treatments.

The clinic is based in Mountsorrel and offers a full range of laser and aesthetic treatments, alongside clinical based skincare. All treatments are performed by her fantastic team of experienced professionals who put their clients’ needs and expectations at the heart of what they do.

The team are equipped with the award-winning Lynton Lumina, a multi-platform device that can treat a multitude of conditions, including hair removal, pigmentation, acne, facial thread veins, rejuvenation and tattoo removal.

“To be recognised for our

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I ENJOY WHAT I DO IMMENSELY, MY FAMILY, MY PASSION, AMBITION AND MY TEAM, ENCOURAGES ME TO PUSH FORWARD AND EXCEED MY GOALS

hard work is an amazing feeling – we want to shout about it! We are all very passionate about what we do, and what we can offer to our clients.

“I strive to ensure that we provide the best service possible for our clients. I enjoy what I do immensely, my family, my passion, ambition and my team, encourages me to push forward and exceed my goals.

“We want to grow, and the publicity from awards are a factor that will enable us to grow and develop – not only as a business or a team, but as a family as well.”

0116 237 4444 inside-outlaserclinics.com

CELEBRATING Success

Help the Homeless

make it to the finals Local charity which started as one man brought clothing to people on the streets in Leicester become finalists in the Niche Business Awards 2019

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Help the Homeless provide essential immediate assistance and ongoing long-term support to those who need it in the city of Leicester. Since their official inception, Help the Homeless have facilitated 36 people with a permanent place to live, clothed and fed thousands and aim to continue the charity throughout the UK in other cities which need this vital assistance.

Arif Voraji started the charity back in 2014 after bidding on and winning a bundle of clothing on eBay and taking them to the people of Leicester who needed it most. Today, Arif is joined by team members Corrie and Vanessa and together as a registered charity they deliver a range of projects to house and assist service users.

Delighted at what an achievement being a finalist represents, Arif commented: “It’s amazing to be noticed like this and only means positive things for us as a charity. Corrie, Vanessa, myself and all our volunteers work so hard and it’s just brilliant to be seen.”

Providing short-term relief in the way of clothing and food through their charity shop on

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OFTEN, THE SYSTEM FAILS THOSE WHO WANT TO GET THEMSELVES OFF THE STREETS AND WE SEE IT AS OUR JOB TO BRIDGE THE GAP

Abbey Street, and at Leicester’s market as well as imperative long term assistance through gaining adequate permanent housing, benefits help, employment advice and connections, the charity is a vital contributor to the wellbeing of the people who need it most in our city.

“We take a holistic approach when tackling the very real problem of homelessness in Leicester. Often, the system fails those who want to get themselves off the streets and we see it as our job to bridge the gap and continue to support those that we offer help to in both the short and long term,” Arif comments.

Taking the view that it isn’t about statistics but individuals, the path for each person is unique to them and therefore the plan for them needs to be too. “No two individuals will need the same from us. Of course, the immediate supplies are needed by all but the journey that we support them in will be different for everyone. We see this after we have helped too – some volunteer themselves and become part of the family whilst others simply get on with living the

life that we helped them get to,” Arif told us.

Helping by donating money to those on the streets in the day may not actually be helping as much as you’d hope, with many reports showing that to really help the cause donating to established charities makes sure your money gets to the people that need it most.

Arif explains: “We know that the people that do this just feel they want to do something there and then about what they are seeing but, honestly, we have seen that donations may not help in the way that the person might hope.

The best way the public can help is to donate to a charity like ours whether that’s money, clothing and furniture to the charity shop or through larger, regular food donations from business suppliers in Leicester.”

Every person, every human being on this planet should be fed and watered, without regard to gender, colour, creed or age.

07771 123 440 hthleicester.co.uk NICHE | 47

A driving force The Lewis Hamilton of the motor trade, Ian Hallam, tells us why he’s ‘shocked, thrilled and over the moon’ about making it to the Niche Business Awards Finals 2019

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Having made it to runnerup status in 2018, Ian wasn’t expecting to hear his business announced as one of the final three in the category Best New Business for 2019, but tells us he is “beyond shocked and honoured” that his peers in the local business community have recognised his hard work.

His business, 360 Autoleasing Leicester provides prestigious individual and fleet cars for lease and purchase to businesses across the region. Ian’s 40 years’ worth of experience in the motoring industry is the driving force behind the way he does business and he has always been about providing help whenever he can: “I naturally enjoy helping people, I run my business based

48 | NICHE

on that very objective and to be recognised like this by my peers is really flattering.”

Motivated to find the right solution for his clients and continue to support them, Ian told us that for him, whilst it isn’t about filling the awards cabinet, it would be nice to take home an award, to cement the way he does business in an industry which often comes up against judgement and criticism.

“I am always aware that new clients feel slightly uneasy about dealing with anything to do with the industry I work in. Thankfully, I know how to dispel those fears!

One of the highest accolades is when fellow business owners recommend me to others and, luckily for us, it happens a lot!”

SUCCESS

ONE OF THE HIGHEST ACCOLADES IS WHEN FELLOW BUSINESS OWNERS RECOMMEND ME TO OTHERS

Ian told us.

His enthusiasm and passion for what he does at 360 Autoleasing is palpable and Ian feels even more focused than ever before: “I didn’t realise how much recognition like this meant to me and I went into the semi-finals with the attitude that if we made it to the finals then we did. I genuinely felt what will be, will be. Then when our name was called out first, I just couldn’t believe it. I was blown away.

Now I am really focused on the win – I really do want it now!” Ian enthused.

01509 767 025 360autoleasing-leicestershire.co.uk

CELEBRATING Success

Paving the way

to success

From moving their home ground to Blaby, to their continuing development of the club and now, being a finalist in the Niche Business Awards, the year has been nothing short of amazing for the Leicester Falcons

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The Leicester Falcons, a local American Football club, were announced as finalists for the category Achievement in Sport for this year’s Niche Business Awards. To be selected as one of three finalists is an accolade, and it’s one of which the team are incredibly proud.

Guy Kersey, general manager of Leicester Falcons, said: “To be recognised for what we are wanting to achieve with the club is fantastic. Our hard work and dedication to the game, its community and to our team is being noticed by others in the community and that is great.

All of the staff, team and our sponsors have put so much work into the club; without their drive and passion for the sport,

SUCCESS

TO BE RECOGNISED FOR WHAT WE ARE WANTING TO ACHIEVE WITH THE CLUB IS FANTASTIC

we wouldn’t have been able to achieve all that we have.”

At the beginning of the year, their home ground moved just before the season began. The club are now closer to the city centre, at the Leicester Lions Rugby Club in Blaby and have formed a mutually beneficial partnership with the University of Derby, as well as Baker University in Kansas, USA, with the aim of significantly improving scholar player recruitment.

The club has also set the bar in the development for youth entry in American football. Lowering their costs to join the club to less than £100 (with average fees around £600) has been an amazing feat, and the Club are doing it for the second year

Guy Kersey, General Manager

running thanks to their sponsors.

“Lowering the costs to come and play for us has opened the door to so many potential players who wouldn’t have been able to afford the fees. Young people now have the chance to play American football without worrying about money issues.”

Leicesterfalcons.co.uk jenny@crossproductions.co.uk NICHE | 49

A passion

for sales Rob Spence, director of sales consultancy firm Paragon Sales Solutions, tells Niche how honoured he is to be selected as a finalist for the Niche Business Awards

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“It was fantastic to get to the semifinalist stage, but when I was announced as a finalist, I couldn’t believe it – I was flabbergasted.

“To be recognised in the local business community for the hard work I’ve put into Paragon Sales Solutions is amazing. It makes me want to strive to exceed my current goals and develop the business further,” Rob tells us.

Rob has been selected by the judges as one of three finalists in the Rising Star category – a category that recognises an emerging leader in business whose work reflects ongoing and exceptional growth.

Since starting Paragon Sales Solutions, Rob’s mission has been to help businesses succeed and achieve their business vision. Alongside telemarketing experts Emily King and Abby Spurling, the company operate in three key areas: they come on board as sales consultants, audit the business’s sales procedure and then look to refine the whole sales process. The team have a fantastic reputation for generating solid sales results and supporting their clients and are known to get stuck into supporting charities and networking events. Rob participated in Bamboozle Theatre Ltd.’s 70Seventy challenge and

completed the marathon around the Leicester Racecourse track – and he would do it all again.

“I’m very proud of our team and all they have done to drive the business forward and what we have done in our community. We want to grow and develop within this amazing business community and aim to support more charities and networking events. We are so honoured that we get to participate in the awards this year.”

0116 332 2813 paragonsalessolutions.co.uk

Flexible

IT support Kazzoo IT Ltd supports small and medium-sized businesses throughout Leicestershire and the East Midlands and is a finalist in the Niche Business Awards 2019

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The company is well-known for delivering a high standard of customer service, so it comes as no surprise that they have been announced as finalists for the category, Best Customer Service.

As an outsourced supplier, the team at Kazzoo believe that being an honest company that clients can trust is key to 50 | NICHE

providing an outstanding service.

Kazzoo aim to create long-term partnerships that can add value via day-to-day support, with on-going knowledgeable IT advice. They can facilitate as a client’s IT department or add to an existing department and take the time to fully understand their clients and their needs.

Chris Cain, founder of Kazzoo IT, said: “We pride ourselves on our customer service and commitment to ensure our clients receive the best IT support. So, to be recognised in the form of awards is an amazing accolade. I’m proud of my team for their hard work; we always encourage our staff to learn and excel in their field

of work.”

Kazzoo IT have had a busy year so far, with organising multiple events to raise money for Hope Against Cancer, including their Skydive and quiz night in April, in which they co-hosted alongside Fothergill Wyatt. The company are organising more fundraising events for the year and have many plans for growth and development that are being set into motion.

“We are all looking forward to the awards evening in September and want to congratulate all finalists.”

0844 372 9893 kazzoo.com

CELEBRATING Success

Y Heritage

in the hands of youth The Y’s latest project to empower young people is just one step in the journey that gave this local homeless charity recognition

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in the Charity of the Year semi-finals

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H A R D LI N E S

CIRQUE DU Y Fri 13 Sept, 6pm, £30/ £27

Roll up... Roll up… for a charity fundraiser with a twisT! For one night only experience the weird and the wonderful, the incredible, the astonishing... Cirque Du Y.

S I RCU YC D R

Supported by Gallagher, Next and Westerby, the night will raise funds to help young people leave homelessness behind for good.

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LH

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The Ringmaster is ready to welcome you to a melange of circus, magic and burlesque mixed up with some of Leicester’s freshest live bands. There will be a well-stocked bar and buffet, not to mention popcorn and candy floss.

WE’RE PROUD TO BE DEVELOPING PROJECTS THAT ENABLE YOUNG PEOPLE AND LOCAL ORGANISATIONS TO THRIVE TOGETHER

When Jimmy’s dad passed away his mental health came crashing down and he ended up sofa surfing and sleeping rough. The Y gave him a place to stay, lots of support and a placement with Y Heritage, funded by Heritage Lottery.

Alongside other residents Jimmy has commissioned Leicestershire based heritage projects through Dragon’s Den style panels designed to champion ideas which are engaging for young people (below).

Leicester Print Workshop was selected in the first round which gave Jimmy work experience helping to restore a Columbian printing press that was in bits; a rare skill! Other residents are working with Richard III Centre, ArtReach and NHS giving them new skills and confidence ready for work.

The Y is home to 101 young people who have experienced homelessness, family breakdown, mental health issues or trauma. The 136-year-old charity also runs a homeless drop-in centre, a children’s home and The Y Theatre, a well-loved cultural hub in the city.

Fundraising and Communications Manager of The Y, Emma Knight, said: “We’re proud to be developing projects that enable young people and local organisations to thrive together.

It’s fantastic that the hard work of our staff has been recognised by the Niche awards and we hope that new partnerships will spring from this success.”

SK YT RIB E

0116 255 6507 leicesterymca.co.uk

Also featuring a live music sets by The Veneers and Fourteen Down.

Ticket includes buffet!

Box office 0116 255 7066 www.leicesterymca.co.uk/theatre Corporate tables: fundraising@leicesterymca.co.uk

NICHE | 51

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Friday August 30, 2019 10am - 2pm St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester LE1 5PZ Founded by local businesswomen Jenny Cross, Glynis Wright and Leanne Bonner-Cooke MBE, Inspirational Women in Business is an event where guest speakers will share their experiences with their journey, their career and personal highs and lows, to inspire change.

THE GUEST SPEAKERS FOR THIS EVENT ARE:

Jo Hayward

Working in journalism on and off for the past 30 years, Jo co-presents the Breakfast show on BBC Radio Leicester following a reporting career in radio and TV. Jo has freelanced as a media trainer to help staff prepare for media interviews.

Amanda Riddle

Amanda has worked with international blue chip organisations for more than 20 years, developing her own unique style as her passion for learning inspires change in individuals, teams and organisations.

Michelle Mills-Porter

Michelle was a multi-awardwinning businesswoman when she was caught and injured in the Boxing Day tsunami.

On returning to the UK, she became a master behaviour profiler, who has mentored more than 50 practitioners.

Followed by an interactive session with the guests where current issues in the workplace and business problems are discussed.

EMPOWERING WOMEN TO NETWORK LOCALLY AND BUILD LIFE-LONG CONNECTIONS Book your tickets on eventbrite here: bit.ly/2WO0BX3 or email info@crossproductions.co.uk

NICHE FEATURE

Achieving

Michelle Mills-Porter is helping businesses to reach ultra-performance, by unlocking the potential of their people. She is successful because she knows the truth behind motivation and the key to successful collaboration, but her classroom was the

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Established as a multi-awardwinning businesswoman, the youngest recipient of Investor in People and a voice of authority in communication, Michelle MillsPorter was caught in the Boxing Day Tsunami. What she learned in the face of adversity set her on a new trajectory. In the midst of this horrific event, she had seen straight through to the core of humanity.

“We are inherently good and when you see someone put their life on the line for a complete stranger with no gain to be had, you realise that in everyday life we play roles. We wear masks, and fulfil our roles, but that’s not the stuff we are made of!” she said.

Upon her return, Michelle and her friends set up The Hikkaduwa Village Fund and raised £100,000 in six months for the people that had saved their lives. But she was getting very ill.

“Trauma affects us on a cellular level, even if you think you’re OK consciously. I was struck with a plethora of illnesses, including a rare cancer, internal infection, PTSD, horrendous eczema and chronic illnesses like fibromyalgia. I realised that something was wrong; I wasn’t

most unlikely of places in line with who I really was. I wasn’t aligned to my core values.

Immersing herself in the study of human behaviour Michelle became a master behaviour profiler. She set up her own profiling company and certified and trained more than 50 practitioners to use her own ethos and methodology.

Now, 15 years later, Michelle has finally managed to create an analysis that allows people to reach that inner core without having to go through a life or death situation. It is part of a suite of analysis tools that help people to communicate and understand themselves and each other better. She provides bespoke consultancy and training courses to organisations to help them to release the potential of their people.

These consist of workshops, one-to-one consultancy and development sessions.

The three analysis tools that Michelle has created to unlock potential are: Essence: one’s core values.

Clarity: behaviour profile – analyses basic and adaptive behaviour.

The People Reader: analysis of

WE WEAR MASKS, AND FULFIL OUR ROLES, BUT THAT’S NOT THE STUFF WE ARE MADE OF!

someone else’s behaviour.

Michelle’s programmes consistently achieve a release of energy for the individual members of the team and subsequently the larger organisation. This results in an upturn in performance that has longevity – particularly if organisations are going through change or have been suffering from a lack of performance in sales, or productivity.

She said: “Our people are our most important asset. When organisations choose me, it is because they are investing in their people, giving them the best opportunity to thrive, and thus to achieve ultra-performance.”

Michelle is now a keynote speaker on this subject.

0121 796 4035 mmp.uk.com

unleashing human potential NICHE | 53

MARKETING FOCUS

Outsourcing Marketing to experts How dynamic is your current marketing team? Many companies are learning that outsourcing marketing responsibilities can be a good idea.

Not only does it allow you and the rest of your team to concentrate on the running of the business it means you get the very best and latest models of marketing applied to your business

ANITA POPAT Social Media Coach/Manager

LET’S BE HONEST; IT TAKES TIME TO CONSTANTLY THINK OF FRESH CONTENT IDEAS TO STAY AHEAD OF YOUR COMPETITION; AND BE INTERESTING, RELEVANT AND ENGAGING ON TOP OF THAT!

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For many business owners, marketing can be one of the things that keeps dropping to the bottom of the to-do list. This could be because you need to prioritise more important tasks or just because you don’t have the inclination to give it the attention it deserves.

Let’s be honest; it takes time to constantly think of fresh content ideas to stay ahead of your competition; and be interesting, relevant and engaging on top of that!

To be successful in marketing you need to be consistent to build that ‘know, like and trust’ with your target audience. If your marketing efforts are haphazard then you’re probably not going to achieve this effectively.

If we take Social Media as an example; nowadays, potential customers will do their research before getting in touch with you. They will most likely check out your social media profiles before your website, so it’s important that your channels are not only consistently updated, but showcase

your company values, your business expertise, what problems you solve, your team and why someone would want to work with you...in a subtle way of course!

On top of this bear in mind that the algorithms (the rules which affect your post reach) can change on a monthly if not weekly basis. You could have learnt something last month and be ready to put it into action this month only to learn that the algorithm has changed again, so you need to relearn – do you really have the time to keep doing this?

If the thought of this already sounds overwhelming, then outsourcing is probably your best option.

By doing so, you can spend your valuable time growing other areas of the business and let the expert(s) stay up to date with industry trends, competitors, algorithms, engaging content ideas and post consistently so that you are always in front of your ideal customers.

Outsourcing

JULIAN SWIFT Owner of Big City Banners & Signs

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Marketing for us works in different forms. We tend to use social media and trade outlets, and networking events. Part of our remit is to help a customer market their brand effectively via large format full colour graphics, and we are experienced to guide a client through the process from start to finish.

We assist companies for when they need to outsource their marketing on a physical level, such as a large backdrop, a full colour branded gazebo, or a simple roll up banner stand at an event or exhibition.

Usually, a ‘kit of parts’ works well when wanting to market your brand or company at

JEMMA REDDEN Director of Access Generation CIC

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I believe that as a business owner you need to own your marketing and you need to be confident that any marketing is right for your business goals.

With 99% of the UK business population made up of small to medium businesses then there’s likely to be a lot of busy owners controlling every aspect of their business. And unless you’re a marketing expert, you won’t always have the know-how and insights to interpret and use the latest trends,

an event. If a space is booked at a show, we can work with the client to see how he can market that space to the maximum visual impact. The ‘kit of parts’ may be shell scheme panels; some roll up banner stands and a branded tablecloth. They may be opportunity to engage with the visitor outside the venue, with flags, branded gazebos and outdoor banners.

Having a team to help guide a customer through the process of outsourcing this type of marketing, leads to a better chance of getting your brand recognised in a more impactful way.

platforms or campaign ideas.

There is a common mistake I see business owners make time and time again. Without understanding the importance of target marketing or segmenting, business owners often market to everyone and as a result market to no one. The impact of this is wasted time and wasted money. Both of which are precious when you’re running your own business.

If you’re not sure if outsourcing your marketing would work for you then simply ask yourself the following questions: Do you know what and how to create a marketing strategy?

If no, then outsource. If yes, then great just make sure you follow it through. If you struggle for accountability consider getting a coach or joining a mastermind group.

HAVING A TEAM TO HELP GUIDE A CUSTOMER THROUGH THE PROCESS OF OUTSOURCING THIS TYPE OF MARKETING, LEADS TO A BETTER CHANCE OF GETTING YOUR BRAND RECOGNISED IN A MORE IMPACTFUL WAY

Are you confident and comfortable writing content such as blogs?

If no, then outsource to a copywriter.

If yes, then great create a plan to be consistent with your content.

Are you confident and comfortable on a particular social media platform?

Make a plan to use the platforms you are comfortable with and if there are social media platforms where your audience might be that you’re not comfortable with then find a social media expert.

What aspects of marketing do you not understand?

Find an expert in the areas you’re not comfortable with and outsource it.

Marketing is not one thing and there’s no silver bullet or quick wins. It’s about being consistent with your messages and consistent with your marketing activities.

NICHE | 55

NICHE BUSINESS

Forum

WHAT APP WOULD YOUR COMPANY LIKE AND WHY? MIKE HUTTON Director at Base 8 Innovations Is your business one of those that is fed up with paying licence fees for digital platforms that don’t quite hit the mark when it comes to either functionality or look and feel?

This was the motivation behind Base 8 Innovations specialising in developing bespoke web and native applications which do not already exist; products which are often top of the ‘wish list’ of those clients who have a strategy or objective which they are struggling to meet.

Many of the businesses we meet tell us of the numerous solutions they can purchase off-the-shelf. They also share their general disappointment that few, if any, of the big applications and platforms actually allow them to tailor a product to meet their specific

PERSONALISING YOUR CAMPAIGN Pete Buttigieg is a name you may not have heard of. As a candidate to be the Democrat nominee for US President in 2020, he needs to get his name and brand out there across all 52 US states. This reminds me of the challenges many of our businesses have in reaching out to a number of different audiences with our services and products.

Pete’s approach is to tailor his brand for each different state; voters in New York will be very different to those in Louisiana or California. There are 52 hand lettered logo designs, one for each state, plus more for individual cities. This is detailed in an amazing Design Toolkit at design. peteforamerica.com This level of detail will really pay dividends for his campaign and is one we can learn from. When you have defined your target audiences, think about how you can reach them with tailored messages. Create literature

needs. They also rarely like how these platforms look from a branding perspective. We saw this ‘satisfaction deficit’ as a challenge and opportunity and it is the basis upon which Base 8 was born. Within our solution-focused team we have the experience; we have the technology (not to mention the positivity), the desire, and we therefore don’t accept why organisations shouldn’t have exactly what they need to achieve their goals, efficiently and productively.

We have developed numerous bespoke applications for a diverse customer base, covering subjects such as internal communications, HR, brand guidelines, staff on-boarding, surveys, overtime management, ideas generation, stats sharing, voting, resourcing, learning and development and compliance.

01438 352 744 base8innovations.com

CHRIS GOODMAN Managing Director at Soar Valley Press that the reader can relate to, just like Pete’s logos are relatable to voters in each state. This may simply be in the language you use or could be separate campaigns for different target markets. Personalising the campaign to individuals will also improve your response rates and that all-important return on your investment.

If you would like to discuss how you can tailor your print marketing to better reflect your individual audiences, then please talk to one of our team at Soar Valley Press – design and print made simple.

0116 259 9955 soarvalleypress.co.uk

MARK PLATT Director at Incite Consulting

QUALITIES OF A SUCCESSFUL SENIOR TEAM Senior management teams are vital to ensure the success of a business; and within top companies, one of the most important factors that lasts is their impressive leadership.

There are countless different strengths that a senior management team can use, and there are many debates to determine which ones are the most important to have. Here are some of the qualities that will set the best leaders apart from the rest: 1 Shared purpose and vision For a company to thrive, there must be a vision; top-level managers need to be clear on the long-term goals of the business and be aware of one another’s strengths and areas of developments. This way, when challenges arrive, they never lose their way.

2 Communication The team must be excellent communicators to ensure that everyone is being kept in the loop. Amazing leaders speak honestly but with empathy and can build relationships with people in all areas of business.

3 Collaboration All teams must work together to achieve their goals. Not only should a senior management team work effectively together, they should encourage collaborating in the workplace amongst their employees. Collaborative leadership styles make each person feel a part of the larger ‘whole’ of the business.

4 Resilience It is never plain-sailing and there will always be hurdles for businesses to overcome – as well as the senior teams. Resilience is the key to get the team through the challenging times and supporting each other and their employees.

0116 326 7050 incite-consulting.co.uk NICHE | 57

Personal and Professional

Transformation Leicester Castle Business School (LCBS) exists to meet the needs of 21st century business and provides the skills that are needed to succeed in these challenging times

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The Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Coaching launches professionals on a rewarding personal journey of transformational development, taking your knowledge, self-awareness and expertise to the next level. Taking part in this course will empower and equip you with the knowledge, ability and insights to benefit your role, your coaching practice and your life, from day one!

The course content is enriched by contemporary and up-to-date professional coaching practice and research to offer a programme that gives you the academic theory and knowledge alongside the practitioner skills to expand your expertise and impact.

Professional Coaching alumni tell Niche why they embarked on the course with LCBS and how it has impacted their careers... lcbs.ac.uk

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Andrew White I’ve always been passionate about mentoring leaders and developing high performing teams and had been interested in learning more about executive coaching.

I felt that the Leicester Castle Post Graduate Certificate offered the best combination of practical learning, which was underpinned by robust and up to date academic theories and offered a pathway to accreditation via the Association for Coaching.

Three things I’ve taken away from the course

1 The complexity of our thought patterns, how individuals become conditioned in their thinking and how the human brain has the capacity to ‘re-wire’ itself to new, more positive, ways of thinking.

2 The importance of helping individuals to generate their own solutions.

3 The quality of our listening has a direct (positive or negative) impact on the thought, ideas, solutions etc. of the person we are listening to.

Gemma Crofts I had been thinking of formally training as a business coach for a while. It gave me the confidence to take the leap from employed to self-employed sooner than I had planned. By utilising the coaching opportunities with course colleagues during the programme, I was able to tackle challenges and personal fears about moving to selfemployed. I left full-time employment and set up my own business, Talenta Ltd, focusing on business coaching and leadership development.

Three things I’ve taken away from the course

1 Increased self-awareness as an individual and as a coach, particularly in terms of listening.

2 Increased confidence in myself and my abilities.

3 A deeper passion to use coaching in my practice.

NICHE FEATURE

I see this course as the beginning of a journey and will continue to gain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in the field Louise Donaghy I met previous students on the course who spoke so highly of their experience and how much it benefitted them that I wanted to give it a go. I see this course as the beginning of a journey and will continue to gain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in the field. I am a lifelong learner, eternally curious and always studying something and this, without a doubt, has been the best course I have ever done!

Three things I’ve taken away from the course

1 How life changing and impactful being coached can be.

2 That we are not our thoughts or the stories we tell ourselves.

3 A heightened level of self-awareness.

Steven Baguley

Helen Donellan I have always been interested in coaching, having benefitted from having a coach. I was lucky enough to hear about the course from colleagues and De Montfort University Is adopting a coaching culture throughout the university so I was keen to be part of that. The course has really helped me focus on finding solutions rather than worrying about the problem. I have loved every minute of the course and would definitely recommend it.

Three things I’ve taken away from the course

1 How different active listening is to just listening.

2 How the solution to most business problems come from within you, it’s just a question of approaching the problem in the right way.

3 How much fun coaching is.

Helen F Webb Coaching has transformed my personal and professional life. It has been some of the most effective CPD I have ever experienced as a teacher and school leader. As part of the practical component of the course, I experienced a huge amount of coaching both as a coach and a coachee. The course has allowed me to drive my own professional development and career forward in a direction that not only interests me, but also has tremendous value.

Three things I’ve taken away from the course

1 The value of a professional network.

2 The importance of professional supervision in a coaching setting.

3 The importance of effective contracting, both with clients and the organization.

I am working towards accreditation as an Executive Coach and the course provided me with the perfect opportunity to develop the key skills and experience needed for this. I believe coaching helps us to reflect on who we are.

Being coached has helped me to work through challenges at work, clarify my goals moving forward (especially the decision to undertake PhD research) and recognise my strengths and blind spots.

Three things I’ve taken away from the course

1 A really valuable network of friends, colleagues and CPD opportunities 2 A thorough grounding in the theory and practice of Executive Coaching – the coursework element ticks several of the requirements for accreditation with the Association for Coaching 3 A real appreciation of and enthusiasm for coaching as a profession.

NICHE | 59

BUSINESS FOCUS

The benefits of outsourcing Outsourcing different areas of work can be hugely advantageous – not only saving time, but saving money, increasing efficiency gains to greater competitive advantage and improve the focus on core business activities.

Are you considering using outsourcing tasks to different companies?

that businesses can be devoted to central business functions. Furthermore, HR outsourcing costs are variable and can be reduced when needs warrant.

KEELEY BAIGENT Director at ksabLAW

THE BENEFITS OF OUTSOURCING HR ARE PLENTIFUL AND CAN HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON A BUSINESS’S BOTTOM LINE

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Employees are one of a business’s most valuable assets. As such, managing HR has become a critical role in managing a business. For some businesses, however, the various areas of HR are too comprehensive and complex to deal with in-house, or alternatively, the particular HR work is too sporadic to justify in-house specialist recruitment.

A business can achieve a more efficient, cost effective and professional outcome by contracting with a specialist HR service provider and outsourcing its HR function. The benefits of outsourcing HR are plentiful and can have a significant impact on a business’s bottom line.

Here are the top advantages of outsourcing HR work: Cost savings and improved efficiencies A fully functional in-house HR presence requires trained and experienced HR staff which is a permanent and costly expense. Alternatively, substantial amounts of time and cost can be incurred by staff undertaking HR tasks in addition to their main duties resulting in less than optimal results. The time and money devoted to employee management is better spent by outsourcing HR so

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Experienced and skilled personnel On outsourcing a business’s HR function to an appropriate supplier, the HR work is undertaken by skilled, professional and qualified personnel who can provide specialist knowledge and advise. The provider adds value to the business by improving employee productivity and ensuring a more managed and focused workforce.

Risk Management Employment laws change regularly, and it can be difficult to remain up to date on legislation that affects the workplace. A specialist HR provider will ensure that contracts of employment and workplace policies and procedures remain current with employment law developments and a business is kept up to date with changes that are relevant to it.

This will help businesses avoid costly legal claims brought by employees.

Employee Development Outsourcing the HR function can help an employer manage employee performance and development.

HR providers implement appropriate appraisal systems and performance management plans to ensure employees comply with policies and procedures and successfully meet business goals.

Accountability By outsourcing the HR function this provides more accountability for the work that is being undertaken.

In the supplier contract, specific KPIs can be detailed that should be regularly monitored to ensure a business is getting the most out of the HR work that is being conducted.

ADAM CARVELL Marketing Co-ordinator at SFB Group

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Correctly calculating your employees’ wages and ensuring they are paid on time can be time consuming and stressful. It can be more efficient and cost-effective to outsource your payroll.

By using such a service from firms like SFB Group, you can take the worry out of the process, ensuring accuracy at all times and compliance with legislation and reporting requirements.

Why is outsourcing your payroll a great idea?

Time saving for better productivity – It is a timeconsuming process that can get in the way of your business concentrating on its core focus

LOUISE KEENEY Managing Director at Bondeye Optical Ltd

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THE INITIAL THOUGHT OF ANOTHER COMPANY TAKING OVER SOMETHING I HAD SPENT SO MUCH TIME PUTTING IN PLACE DID NOT INSTANTLY APPEAL TO ME

Bondeye Optical Ltd is a is a onestop optical wholesalers servicing over 3500 independent and high street opticians and labs.

It was late 2013 when I decided enough was enough, I had spent so much time and money on trying to improve our warehousing facility and output that it was becoming one of my biggest headaches within the business. It was at this point I invited a business consultant in who recommended we look at using a third-party logistics (3PL) to outsource this area of

Reduce costs – Outsourcing your payroll can be more cost-effective than hiring a full-time bookkeeper Accurate and timely – Avoid costs and fines and mistakes Team of experts – You are experts for your business sector, so let the experts for payroll take on that responsibility for you Avoid technology costs – Technology is evolving all the time. If you outsource your payroll, then you don’t have to continually invest in the latest payroll software Continuity – If you lose a payroll member of staff, there will be a transitional period. This can be avoided by outsourcing Reduce stress – The hassle often associated with processing payroll is gone as your payroll company takes care of it Now is the time to outsource your payroll, giving you the freedom to focus on the core activities of your business.

the business. The initial thought of another company taking over something I had spent so much time putting in place did not instantly appeal to me but I met with them in the November, and by the end of December, the stock had been moved up to Mansfield and we were up and running.

With any warehouse move came a few headaches but the team at Linney were excellent and within a few weeks all products were barcoded, located and running smoothly within their automated process. We have now been with Linney for just over four years and the benefits of having them as our outsourcing partner has been one of the best decisions I have made.

Not only has our service improved in terms of fulfilment but it has allowed us to grow the business and increase our product ranges. We have been able to grow our warehouse space organically without any

major upheaval of moving premises or increased business rates. Linney’s own stock management and courier system easily integrated with our own, sends orders over and updates stock instantly.

Once the goods are ready for despatch, the system chooses the best courier based on price, weight and location.

The discounts they achieve through the large volume of daily despatch is passed onto us which means we achieve a substantial saving against the couriers used in the past.

Over the last few months, the business has been preparing to gain its MHRA licence in the next stage of our business progression, so we can wholesale prescription medication with our 3PL already having its wholesalers’ licence and ISO certification then the process has been made a whole lot easier.

Here at SFB Group we can help you with your digital filings, can recommend and assist with your bookkeeping and migrating your software onto one of our recommended bookkeeping products.

NICHE | 61

Miller Homes

home and beauty fair Miller Homes Midlands opened the doors of its latest showhome in Kibworth for a special Home and Beauty Fair

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Guests were invited to Centurion Place in Kibworth for the event, which took place in May. The Home and Beauty Fair played host to No.56 Café, Bettie Lottie Makeup, You Beauty and Edward Thomas Interiors, showcasing what the community has to offer for current and future residents.

Sales manager at Miller Homes Midlands, Emma Weston, said: “At Miller Homes, we care about making our neighbourhoods part of the community, and an event like this is the perfect way to get to know the area and what makes it special.

“We provided a relaxing ‘pop-up’ space for residents to enjoy, where they were inspired and pampered all at once.”

An expert from Edward Thomas Interiors attended the fair to answer any questions on the latest trends and offered visitors top tips on how to style

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their own homes.

No. 56 Café, situated on High Street, is a firm favourite in the community; the team was on hand with their delicious sweet treats from the café, and you could purchase bespoke jewellery as well.

Guests paused for a pamper session with Market Harboroughbased You Beauty, who offered hand and feet treatments, as well as professional makeover tips from Bettie Lottie Make Up. Based on Warwick Road, Centurion Place offers a selection of three, four and five-bedroom homes, as well as two-bedroom bungalows, surrounded by countryside views and convenient transport links into Leicester.

0870 336 4400 millerhomes.co.uk

NICHE FEATURE

Improving Leicester There are many exciting redevelopment schemes around Leicester that are currently being put into place to improve the city. Here are the most recent plans being put into place Multi-million pound car park on Welford Road

The Leicester Tigers and the Leicester Royal Infirmary are planning an £11 million redevelopment scheme to build and share a seven-floor multistorey car park overlooking the Crumbie stand and next to the Welford Road rugby ground.The Leicester Royal Infirmary will have 750 spaces to be used by hospital staff for permit parking, with the remaining 99 held for Tigers’ staff and conference guests.

On the other side of the ground, the Tigers are also planning a major redevelopment on the Granby Halls site.

Currently, the area is a city council-owned NCP operated car park, but the club’s ambition is to build a £22 million hotel with 183 rooms which would include a business centre, retail and lobby areas that open up on to a

flexible fan zone and public open space alongside a fitness suite, restaurant and fifth-floor sky bar.

Brand new £80 million space park

The University of Leicester is spearheading the project to transform the John Ellis school site near Abbey Lane into a complete where technology and research businesses involved in the space sector will be based. The construction is currently underway and it is hoped that the new space park will be completed by the middle of next year.

The university’s Space Park chief executive officer, Grant Bourhill, said: “The UK space sector is booming. With a value of £14.2bn and productivity three times the national average, the sector has huge potential for growth.”

When completed, the estimated benefits of the Space

THE UK SPACE SECTOR IS BOOMING. WITH A VALUE OF £14.2BN AND PRODUCTIVITY THREE TIMES THE NATIONAL AVERAGE

Park to the economy are £715 million a year and 2,500 jobs in the wider supply chain.

Cycle lane across Victoria Park leading into the city centre

Plans have been put into motion to construct a cycle lane across Victoria Park, along a busy road into the city centre in order to create a safer, more direct cycle route between Clarendon Park and the centre of the city.

The scheme was announced as a parallel proposal to the current four million pound construction of cycle lanes along London Road and the edge of the park and is a part of the latest phase of City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby’s long-running multi-million pound Connecting Leicester programme. If given the go-ahead, the scheme is expected to take around 10 months to complete.

NICHE | 63

PROPERTY FOCUS

First Impressions count First impressions are crucial because they are hard to shake afterwards.

Your business premises are a vital element of this impression with potential clients deciding on the credibility of you and your company as they step through the front door. How do you make sure your business premises create the right impression?

NICOL NIGHTINGALE-SPEAR Director at Fothergill Wyatt

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WE HAVE A STRONG AND RECOGNISABLE BRAND AND FOR CONTINUITY OUR OFFICES ARE DECORATED IN THE SAME COLOUR SCHEME AND THIS IS CONSISTENT THROUGHOUT THE BUILDING

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As an estate and letting agent, one of the services people expect us to provide when they appoint us to handle the sale or rental of their most valuable asset, is advice on how best to present their property, to ensure it is displayed in its best possible light, in order to generate the optimum level of interest when it comes to market.

In order to instil confidence in clients when they visit our premises it is important to “practice what we preach” and ensure our offices are therefore always well presented.

We have a strong and recognisable brand and for continuity our offices are decorated in the same colour scheme and this is consistent throughout the building. On the rear wall we also have a painted mural, of a local street scene, produced by a local artist, to emphasise the fact we are a local agent, with strong knowledge of the surrounding area. This image is then reproduced on some of our marketing materials which clients take away, to remind them of our business and our brand.

We regularly update the paintwork onsite, replace any furniture that has seen better days and ensure we have the latest issues of magazines that we advertise our services in, such as Niche, on display to provide a welcoming environment to our clients.

We have plenty of seating available, always make ample time to discuss clients’ needs in detail over a coffee and have private offices and our board room where we can discuss confidential matters with clients that they may feel uncomfortable discussing in an open plan office (such as if we are dealing with a probate sale).

Of course, in line with the GDPR Regulations 2018 we also have a clear desk policy and ensure our PC’s are never left unlocked and unattended, or in a position where client data could be viewed by other parties, browsing our available properties in the branch.

We display our accreditation by ARLA Propertymark and Regulation by RICS, as well as the fact our independent redress is provided by The Property Ombudsman (TPO), to provide peace of mind to our clients and potential clients that we are up to date with important legislation, comply to the highest property industry standards and always act with their best interests at heart.

Finally, we always ensure we greet people with a smile when they walk through the door as even the nicest office surroundings won’t provide the right first impression to a client and win them over, if they aren’t made to feel comfortable and at ease by our team.

First Impressions

SHAF ISLAM Restauranteur at Chutney Ivy Restaurant & Bar

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When your customers enter your restaurant for the first time, there are really only two first impressions, good or bad. Our premises may be located in the beautiful Cultural Quarter of Leicester City Centre but as soon as those doors open it’s incredibly important that the restaurant has that warm, welcoming feel and a little wow factor never goes a miss.

Psychologists say that the information people learn about you first is more powerful than what is learnt later, they call it the ‘primacy effect’. This means that there is little room for error when you are creating a first impression – If a customer reacts badly in those initial stages of their visit they are likely never to return, no matter how great the food.

Nobody would enjoy dining in a cramped place or located too close to the kitchen or toilets. It is therefore imperative to plan the layout of the restaurant based on the space available. The dining area should be spacious enough to allow for free flowing movement, diner and staff should be able to get around without disturbing others or being disturbed. This all sounds incredibly obvious but you’d be surprised how many get this wrong, going for quantity over quality.

A noticeable and welcoming exterior and entrance attracts more customers and the restaurant should be well lit. The lighting sets the mood, boosts kitchen productivity and can even increase sales. Our large glass windows allow for amazing natural light and this is without doubt the best source of light, it is healthier and certainly makes a huge difference on those warm summer evenings.

Finally, cleanliness and regular maintenance of the building is vital, it goes without saying that no one wants to eat in a dirty restaurant but neither do they want to eat in a restaurant where the hand dryers don’t work or paint is peeling from the walls.

Then it’s over to good old fashioned hospitality, fantastic customer service and the main ingredient beautiful food.

PSYCHOLOGISTS SAY THAT THE INFORMATION PEOPLE LEARN ABOUT YOU FIRST IS MORE POWERFUL THAN WHAT IS LEARNT LATER, THEY CALL IT THE ‘PRIMACY EFFECT’

WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT YOUR BUSINESS IS BEING JUDGED FROM THE OUTSET

BARRY RANDALL Managing Director at Leicestershire Garden Design

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There’s the old adage that, ‘you never get a second chance to make a first impression’. So, on my watch that means... ‘It’s the only thing’.

Whether you like it or not your business is being judged from the outset. A prospects initial perception of your business decides what they’ll invest with you.

So, you better be ‘on it’ right from the word go. And, I’m telling you now, there’s no wiggle room here - get this high on your priorities if you are inviting people in. Especially if you expect them to spend anything with you.

In fact, you should be all over this

with everything you do. Long before they visit your premises. Whether that’s the basics like; the speed of your website. The responses to enquiries. Or the proof reading of letters before they go out. It all matters.

The premises play a part in the sale From the beginning I decided we would complete our design meetings in house. Allowing us to create an experience and position ourselves as the professional option.

It does mean you give yourself a maintenance challenge to keep the premises on point. It’s an ongoing commitment to create a first impression that converts.

Create a strong first impression We make sure there’s a signboard and a parking space when our visitors arrive. How many times have you went

to an appointment somewhere and got frustrated at the lack of parking?

When they enter the building, they’re greeted with an artificial lawn throughout. This puts their mind at ease and helps them to settle any predesign anxieties.

Maintaining the first impression To stay on top of our premises I have someone who spends half day every month completing small tasks. Fixing dripping taps. Touching up paint work.

Pressure washing paths and walls.

Sticking down loose artificial lawn. To name a few.

You see, it’s the critical nonessentials that you overlook when you invite people in. You can create the product in the world, but if the lady goes to use your toilet and the tap doesn’t work. Your price is too high.

Food for thought?

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BECAUSE WE ALL WANT TO LIVE IN THE CENTRE OF EVERYTHING At Way of Life, we make the joys of central living a reality. And we do so without compromise on space, style or service.

ARRIVING THIS SUMMER

Rent a stylish studio, 1 bed or 2 bed apartment on Vaughan Way, in the heart of Leicester city centre. Make the most of the ultra-fast broadband, on-site concierge and fabulous shared spaces. Throw a dinner party in the unique residents’ kitchen and dining space, chill out in the lounge or soak up the sun on the roof-top terrace, complete with BBQ and wood-fired pizza oven. We call it The Wullcomb. You can call it home.

Explore virtual tours and more, visit

THEWULLCOMB.COM @WOLLeicester

@WayOfLifeUK

Showroom Open: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm The Old Cinema Cropston Road Anstey Leicestershire LE7 7BP

0116 232 3175

www.broughtons.com

sales@broughtons.com

I was a tenant myself once ‘I can do it myself, why do I need an Agent?’

Nicol Nightingale-Spear

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from Fothergill Wyatt gives some insight into why outsourcing to a professional letting agent might be a wiser move

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“I rented myself once, so I can manage my own property now, I just need you to find my tenant!” says the landlord and, perhaps in bygone days, it really was this easy and a new landlord with basic knowledge could muddle through and manage their own residential investment.

However, with the minefield of over 150 pieces of legislation governing residential lettings and more on the horizon, an increasing number of landlords are appreciating the importance of outsourcing property management to the experts, to avoid the potentially crippling fines and possible custodial sentences for non-compliance.

Letting a property is easy, right?

You just make the property look presentable, stick an advert in the local shop window, have a quick chat

with the prospective tenants at the property, then download a template tenancy agreement off the internet, take some cash from them and hand over the keys.

Up until just a few years ago, this was common practice. If landlords chose to use a letting agency, they often opted for the ‘let only’ service, where the agent advertised the property, sourced and referenced tenants, drew up the relevant documentation and collected move-in monies, then handed over the keys to the tenant and left the day-to-day tenancy management to the landlord.

In most cases this was fine; the tenant paid their rent each month, kept the property clean and tidy, the landlord took care of routine maintenance and the tenancy continued relatively seamlessly.

NICHE FEATURE Fothergill Wyatt Estate Agents and Chartered Surveyors

But in an increasingly unstable financial climate (not helped by the B word!) as a landlord, if But in an increasingly unstable financial climate (not helped by Brexit) as a landlord, if your tenant suddenly lost their job and couldn’t pay their rent, would you feel comfortable approaching them to chase their arrears? Would you know the correct process to follow in the event of you needing to resort to serving notice to get your property back, because you must still pay your mortgage and can’t afford to have a non-paying tenant in situ? Would you have the time to dedicate to the process, whilst most likely working full-time yourself and looking after your own family?

By using an established agency to manage your property, you wouldn’t need to consider these questions, as a member of their experienced team would handle every stage of the process, ensuring legislation is complied with and that comprehensive records are kept as evidence to prevent future issues.

Then there is the actual legislation side. The Government is quick to state that ‘ignorance is not a defence,’ so landlords found in breach of legislation that they weren’t aware of, won’t be able to escape prosecution.

In January 2018, the website simplybusiness.co.uk produced an article citing some of the largest penalties incurred by landlords for failing to comply with legislation, such as the landlord who was convicted and ordered to pay a total of £3,700 in fines, after being prosecuted by Sheffield City Council. He served a tenant notice to move out, then removed and changed the locks only days later, rather than complying with the minimum two months’ written notice, seeking vacant possession through the courts, then getting a bailiff to evict the tenant, on receipt of a warrant from the court.

As landlord harassment and illegal eviction are criminal offences, under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977, this landlord got off lightly, as landlords can face a custodial sentence as

your tenant suddenly lost their job and couldn’t pay their rent, would you feel comfortable approaching them to chase their arrears?

well as having to pay damages to the tenant.

In another case, a landlord was fined a staggering £214,000 for putting his tenants’ lives at risk across various rental properties in London. One of his properties was found to have an exposed live electrical cable on the electric cooker hob, posing risk of electrocution. Another property had inadequate fire safety measures, as there was no safe exit route in the event of a fire and the landlord was also unable to supply gas and electrical safety certificates.

If you manage your own property, the liability for renewing safety certificates falls squarely on your shoulders, and therefore you, the landlord, need to ensure that without fail you arrange for a contractor to renew your certificates BEFORE the previous certificate expires and that your tenants are provided with a copy.

Sounds like a simple case of diary management, but how often have you ended up paying for a service you no longer required because you’ve forgotten to cancel the direct debit, or suddenly realised when you went to renew your car insurance that your MoT had just expired? A professional agency will have processes in place to prevent this from happening.

They are jointly taking on the liability and in a worst-case scenario, their directors could also find themselves in court facing manslaughter charges if something went wrong.

Furthermore, non-compliance with the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 could prevent you serving a Section 21 notice to regain

possession of your property under the Deregulation Act 2015. The Act requires tenants to be provided with four key pieces of information, at the start of the tenancy, including a valid Gas Safety Certificate (GSC).

As well as providing the GSC at the tenancy start, each tenant must then be provided with a copy of the new gas safety certificate on an annual basis, within 28 days of the check being carried out. Failure to comply prevents a Section 21 notice being served. This initially only applied to tenancies starting on or after the October 1, 2015, but now applies to all Assured Shorthold Tenancies in existence since the October 1, 2018 regardless of when the tenancy began.

If you’ve been managing your own tenancy that started before October 2015, can you categorically state that you fully understand and have complied with the Deregulation Act 2015?

With most reputable, accredited letting agencies charging around 10 per cent plus VAT of the rent collected for a standard fully managed service, isn’t this a small price to pay for the peace of mind and valuable extra time you’ll gain in the short term, and avoiding the potential legal and financial problems you could face in the long run by taking the DIY route?

To discuss your property management needs in more detail, please contact one of Fothergill Wyatt’s lettings team.

0116 270 5900 fothergillwyatt.co.uk NICHE | 69

PROPERTY FOCUS

Forum

SUMMER KITCHEN TRENDS

LEICESTER HOMES SELL MORE THAN AVERAGE Compared to the UK Average house selling price, Leicester homeowners sell their home five per cent more times.

Back in the 1970s and 1980s, the average time between moving between houses was every 10 to 11 years; it shot up during the Credit Crunch years to every 25.3 years and has been steadily decreasing after that.

Since 1995, Leicester people have moved 4.85 per cent more than the national average, with the average UK homeowner moving every 20.2 years.

82.8 per cent of Leicester’s privately-owned housing stock has been sold since 1995, compared to the national figure of 79 per cent.

Although, most Leicester homeowners are more often than not buying houses as well as selling their house. The website, Home, reports the average property sale price for houses in Leicester is £209,078, a two per cent increase from the same time last year, which was £204,392.

Existing homeowners have said that mortgages and the need for higher equity to put down on the next house is a factor in their lack of motivation to move to a new house. The number of years you stay in your house determines how much you will pay back on the mortgage you received when you initially bought it.

Furthermore, there is also a change in attitude to homeownership, with people aged 20-30 turning more to renting as the most affordable option.

So, what’s next for the Leicester housing market?

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Colours, textures, styles and finishes are making a big appearance in the upcoming season’s kitchen design trends. Here are my picks to keep an eye on this summer.

One of the key colours this year is set to be a rich blue-green. Whilst it can be a dramatic shade, it also can be classed as luxurious, especially the darker, green hues.

The combination of contrasting textures and sleek finishes are also emerging. Cupboards with textured bronze inlays and matte fronts with sandblasted timber offer that perfect balance between textures and finishes.

There is a distinct move away from bright white kitchens – making way for dark, matte finishes – think greens, blacks, greys and the rustic effect.

Whilst granite worktops continue to dwindle in popularity, ceramic worktops are becoming more popular, they not only look great but they have lots of benefits too – including their durability to withstand the most vigorous of daily

DANIELLA SMITH Showroom Manager at Sherwin Hall Kitchens/Oadby House wear and tear. They are also scratch and stain resistant so easy to care for and maintain.

Vintage always seems to be in fashion with kitchens, regardless of the season; the summer sees reclaimed and repurposed wood becoming a staple. It gives a nice, rustic, weathered look in the form of light fixtures, worktops, flooring and cabinets.

Look out for our picks from emerging and established luxury brands who are really bringing these trends to life at our Oadby House showroom on the Oadby Parade.

0116 233 7775 oadbyhouse.com

TOP TIPS ON VIEWING A PROPERTY NICOL NIGHTINGALE-SPEAR MARLA Director at Fothergill Wyatt When viewing a property, it can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of it all, envisioning yourself living there and picturing where you’ll put your furniture.

However, there are lots of things you should focus on, here are some tips on what to check out when you’re viewing: ◆ View the property with a critical eye – check for any signs of structural damage or leaks ◆ If you like a property, try to view it at least twice, at different times of day, to find out how lighting, traffic and surrounding noise changes ◆ Make sure you’re aware of any development or building works happening in the area that may impact on both your enjoyment of the property and future property prices ◆ Ensure that you know what furnishings and items are included in the property, ie. white goods and window dressings

◆ Check the heating system, water

pressure and what utility connections are in place ie. internet providers, broadband speed, utility suppliers and waste/ recycling collection service ◆ If possible, find out more about the neighbours ◆ Check the availability and accessibility of the local facilities – shops, restaurants, gyms, parks and playgrounds and schools if you have school-age children ◆ Work out potential routes and travel times to your work or schools ◆ Ask questions – the more you ask about the property from the agent, vendors or current tenants, the more accurate a picture you’ll build up of what it would be like to live in the property.

0116 270 5900 fothergillwyatt.co.uk

CREATING BEAUTIFUL SPACES

KITCHENS

●

FLOORING

●

FURNITURE

OADBYHOUSE.COM NOW OPEN AT 91 THE PARADE, OADBY, LEICESTER LE2 5BB

Our new Kitchen Studio is now open within our showroom in Leicester, where you can talk to our sales team about your dream kitchen. And for a limited time, we’re giving away a free appliance worth up to £800 with every new kitchen*.

Kitchen

PLANNING

INSTALLATION

Kitchen Studio 15 William St Leicester LE1 1RW near St George’s Retail Park Call 0116 242 9384 or email sales.enquiries@robertpochin.co.uk

*Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

DESIGN

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Keep the profits David Goadby continues to help not-for-profit organisations save money

T

The sole purpose of any charity or sporting club is to raise funds to support their cause and running costs – every penny counts.

David Goadby, a Utility Warehouse Authorised Distributor, explains how charities and sporting clubs can save money on their gas and electricity running costs so that they can use those all-important savings on the cause that really matters.

“Charities and sporting clubs raise funds to further their aims.

They really don’t want to be paying any more than they have to for their utilities.”

Utility Warehouse host all your utility bills under one roof – making it all simpler whilst saving the client money.

David can help a whole range of organisations such as local football clubs, bowls clubs, and ultimately any organisation that manages their own buildings.

“Notably I have helped: the Ninth Leicester Scout Group with phone and broadband; bowls clubs with their gas and electricity and also a number of charities with all their utilities,” David explained.

A particular passion for David is working in a fulfilling way and ‘giving back’ to society. “I am lucky that the work that I do not only provides a functional service but that it also gives me personal fulfilment. I am always happy to meet with people for a chat to discuss how I might be able to help them. For me, the

CHARITIES AND SPORTING CLUBS RAISE FUNDS TO FURTHER THEIR AIMS. THEY REALLY DON’T WANT TO BE PAYING ANY MORE THAN THEY HAVE TO FOR THEIR UTILITIES

most rewarding aspect of what I do is helping charities and notfor-profit organisations save vital funds, so that they can keep as much of their funds contributing to the aims of the club or organisation.”

See how Utility Warehouse can lower bills to spend more on sporting and charity thrills.

07736 146 400 davidgoadby@uwclub.net dream2earn.club

Authorised Distributor

What does your dream Swim Pond look like?

Hybrid Swim Ponds from £25,000.

Call our team today on 0116 240 3735 and let’s talk about how we can make your dreams a reality.

www.swimponds.co.uk 14811_Niche SwimPonds Half Page.indd 1

29/05/2019 NICHE | 73 17:16

PROPERTY FOCUS BECOME A GARDENING PRO THIS SUMMER Many of us wish we could do more with our gardens but don’t quite know where to start. Here are some handy tips to help you achieve the perfect garden this summer.

Lawncare: To achieve the perfect lush lawn, feed it every 6-8 weeks with a suitable lawn feed. This will add nutrients to the soil and help crowd out any weeds. Allow your lawn to grow a little longer than usual as this will help it cope better with spells of drought.

When cutting your lawn, try not to cut more than one third off the top of the grass blade as this ensures that the grass doesn’t go into shock and grow back faster in an attempt to make up for loss surface area to catch the sun’s rays.

If necessary, give your grass a drink, particularly when the showers are few and far between. Always water your lawn at times when the moisture is more likely to be soaked in rather than evaporate, preferably in the early morning or late evening.

Flowers and plants: Flowers and plants bring life and personality to our outdoor living spaces and summer is one of the most rewarding times to show our flowerbeds some love. There is an abundance of plants that thrive in the heat and sun, lavender, dahlias, poppies, marigolds and sunflowers are just a few, so spend some time in your local gardening centre to find some plants you love.

Another great tip to maximise your outdoor space is to companion plant your plants. Flowers and vegetables often flourish together and can help yield whilst saving space.

Hedges and trees: Conifers are easy to maintain and look good all year around. Summer is the perfect time to give them a prune.

Avoid pruning on days with high heat and strong sun, as the exposed foliage can be scorched and damaged. You should also avoid pruning deciduous trees and bushes in summer as these use a lot of energy to develop their leaves in spring.

74 | NICHE

RULES FOR WATERING YOUR GARDEN Watering is absolutely vital – a quick spray with the garden hose is simply not enough. All you’re doing there is wetting the top layer of the soil, making it seem that you’ve watered it sufficiently, but the water won’t be getting to the roots where it’s needed. Instead, it evaporates before it has time to get there! If you think you’ve done enough time standing in the garden with the hose, double it!

Because I promise you, you haven’t watered enough.

When to water: Ideally, water plants early in the morning to avoid evaporation loss and enable the plant to use the water during the day. On warm summer days, evening watering is also likely to be effective. Dry soil will soak water in readily and low humidity at night reduces the risk of disease. Very dry soil will take a while to soak down completely; apply water a little at time to avoid waste water run-off. Take your time.

To water or not to water: When there

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JODIE FEDORKO Soft Landscaping Designer at Leicestershire Garden Design is a downpour of rain, especially during the summer, it can be tempting to skip your watering duties. Plants that are in pots or hanging baskets miss out from the benefits of rain, because they are so tightly packed in a small space that the rain doesn’t actually get down to the soil.

It hits the leaves and drips off the side of the pot. While you may think rain alone is sufficient for your containers, in tightly packed containers the leaves shelter the soil, rain hits the leaves and drips off over the sides of the pot without making its way into the soil. Therefore, you will need to water pots and hanging baskets thoroughly, even after heavy rain.

0116 214 7076 leicestershiregardendesign.co.uk

DRIVING A BUSINESS FORWARD MICHAEL WHEAT Creative Director at Ponds

by Michael Wheat Michael Wheat is a man with a vision and an unrivalled determination to make it a reality. From small beginnings, he now runs a hugely successful business which is growing by the day. Here, Michael tells us how he has driven his business and what he envisages for the future. ‘’The cornerstone of a dynamic business is understanding that as the business owner, you cannot do everything alone. Delegation and trust in others are key aspects which are essential for expansion. The correct recruitment and training within my team enable me to focus on my key strengths and therefore streamlines company processes. Assignment of set roles

within the workplace is sometimes a challenge within an expanding business and we combat this with regular monitoring.

My team all work incredibly hard and I will always endeavour to show each member that their efforts are valued. One way that we choose to do this is by participating in regular training programmes where staff can gain qualifications and experience. I believe that if you invest in your staff as individuals, the positive effects on motivation, morale and ultimately productivity are immeasurable. I consider myself to be a modern employer in regard to my expectations and outlook.

We all work very hard, but we do also have a lot of fun together; we regularly arrange team outings, for example. I am proud of the company culture we have created and believe this passion will continue to grow as the team does.’’

0116 240 3735 pondsbymichaelwheat.co.uk

Your leading independent flooring retailer for over 70 years...

NICHE | 67

Surgery for hernias in adults.

Up to 100,000 adult hernia surgeries are performed each year in the UK. Most of these operations are performed as day cases with rapid relief of symptoms and most people return to normal activities two weeks following surgery.

What is a hernia and how is it caused?

What to expect after surgery.

A hernia is a protrusion of abdominal contents through a defect in the musculature of the abdominal wall. The abdominal musculature plays a vital role in posture, mobility and exertion and helps protect the internal abdominal organs. At any lateral weak point in the abdominal wall a defect can develop. Defects can also occur at the site of previous surgery. Hernias may also occur suddenly after a period of strenuous exertion but in many people they may present typically as a painless bulge.

The patient should feel minimal discomfort after surgery as local anaesthetic is used at the site of surgery and this effect lasts for a few hours. They will be able to eat and drink shortly after the surgery usually leaving hospital 4-6 hours after the operation.

Symptoms such as aching and dragging may accompany the bulging which is typically worse as the day progresses and is eased by rest and sleep when the bulge usually spontaneously reduces. Hernias can often be pushed back by gentle massaging and pressure, often with improvement of symptoms.

A hernia after a fit of coughing or exertion may protrude further than normal becoming trapped, compromising circulation. This is known as strangulation and is a surgical emergency requiring emergency repair. For this reason most symptomatic hernias should be considered for elective surgery.

Elective surgery dramatically reduces the risk of operative complications. Elective repair is highly successful with 100,000 such operations being performed in the UK each year. Reoccurrence rate for hernias is less than 1% in a year and less than 5% lifetime reoccurrence.

What does the surgery involve?

Most hernia surgery is conducted as day case surgery.

The operation takes between 30-60 minutes. Most hernias are repaired with a general anaesthetic although in appropriate cases surgery is performed under a spinal anaesthetic or a local anaesthetic.

Inguinal hernia repairs are the most common type of hernia. Keyhole surgery is now a very popular method for hernia repairs. Under a general anaesthetic three tiny incisions are made in the abdomen and a camera placed inside. A large mesh made of nylon is placed inside to repair the hernia. This is usually performed as a day case and most patients return to normal physical activity within days.

At home regular paracetamol is recommended combined with either Ibuprofen or Codeine for 48 hours. Increasing amounts of light physical activity and walking are recommended. Patients cannot drive for 24 hours, but if comfortable and are able to perform an emergency stop, they could drive at 48 or 72 hours. There are very low post-operative infection rates. Rapid return to normal physical activity is achieved within 1 week and for most, a return to driving and work occurs inside 2 weeks.

Are there different types of hernias?

Inguinal hernias are the most common types of hernias occurring ten times more frequently in men than women. The muscular weakness just above the groin crease can allow herniation to progress down into the scrotum. Femoral hernias tend to be smaller and occur closer to the groin crease. They have a higher risk of strangulation and are less common than inguinal hernias. The sex ratio between males and females is 2-1. Femoral hernias and umbilical (belly button) hernias are often repaired with sutures only, not requiring a mesh. Your surgeon will advise which repair method is best suited to you. Epigastric hernias, spigelian hernias and lumbar hernias are rare, occurring in the midline underneath the rib cage and in the loin areas respectively. Incisional hernias occur at the site of scars associated with previous surgery.

The repair can be quite extensive and complex. These should be discussed as an individual basis with the surgeon. It is generally advised that hernias should be repaired with surgery; the uses of corsets and truss are not recommended.

To find out more information on how Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital can help you call us today on 0116 298 2612 email leicester.enquiry@nuffieldhealth.com or visit Nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/Leicester

Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital Scraptoft Lane, Leicester, LE5 1HY

Botox specialist brings nearly 30 years of experience As a leading Midlands-based cosmetic Physician Dr Kam Singh triples his availability at Beau Aesthetica in Leicester, Niche Journalist Emily Kirton met with Clinic Director (and all-round beauty guru Am Vadhesha) to talk beauty and the power of anti-aging solutions

NICHE FEATURE

Many of our clients return regularly, with them commenting on how we approach each procedure

“I

with a long-term mentality rather than a quick buck

“It’s not about changing how we look, it’s all about enhancing what we have,” says Beau’s Am. “People simply needn’t have insecurities about how they look. So much is available to us now to help us feel better about ourselves – a little bit of self-care goes a long way and I can see it in our regular clients.”

Whether for a prescriptive facial, lip fillers or Botox, their approach from the close-knit beauticians and practitioners is the same – they treat every client as an individual and with absolute honesty and strong ethical conduct; it’s simply how they are. Am explains: “We see it as our responsibility to only provide exactly what a client needs; which isn’t always what they believe they want. Dr Kam Singh is so passionate about what he does and for him, it’s about a journey and not a ‘throw everything at it’ quick response.”

Every aspect of what the team do is prescriptive, with consultations and honesty before every treatment.

“With nearly 30 years of experience under his belt, Dr Kam Singh talks clients through exactly what they need, working with the budget a client has, as well as ensuring the treatment he offers is going to enhance and not alter someone’s natural features. He always says, you can always add more – you can’t take it away!”

With the media attention that fillers

and Botox have had since its inception – think celebrity botch jobs with face altering levels of Botox, and over inflated lips - this level of discussion and commitment to the journey of a clients’ procedures is all with a longterm relationship in mind. “Many of our clients return regularly, with them commenting on how we approach each procedure with a long-term mentality rather than a quick buck.” Am laughs with a fondness and warmth towards her partner; “Dr Kam Singh most definitely isn’t in it for the money – we often have to remind him he can’t offer his services for free! He loves to help people - he can’t help himself!”

With the news that Dr Kam Singh is extending his working hours at the clinic extensively, is a huge focus for the team at the moment, it can be easy to forget about the extensive list of treatments that the clinic offers, but there is huge merit in a non-invasive facial and body contouring treatments that go a long way in contributing to our self-care.

“Being how passionate he is about the advances in the Botox and Fillers industry, Dr Kam Singh didn’t consider facials as an important element of antiageing care. I have converted him now though, to the point where he wants them for himself! With technology moving so quickly and so efficiently

Before and after facial rejuvenation

in the world of facial care there is a solution to nearly all skin concerns.

Often, we will have clients approach us with Botox in mind, but I see a better solution in prescribing a facial.

We always do what’s best for them, which I believe is best for us as a business, especially in the long term,” Am tells me.

Talking of the effect this self-care can have on people, Am says; “I have seen over the years people just grow from their cocoon and emerge as butterflies! Even with simply getting their eyebrows treated every month – the effect is visible. People start to see the merit in taking care of themselves – we are typically last on our own list of priorities.”

There is often an apprehension about cosmetic procedures or even being in a clinic or salon environment, but the Dr and his team assure that they “hope to put everyone at ease whatever treatment they are having, whether a facial or lip fillers, that they are in safe, trustworthy hands.”

Their facial care is at the forefront of the fast-paced industry and through the right knowledge and equipment, as Am’s right hand woman Talia tells us, people can get on the right path to good skin.

“I have always been excited by beauty and the power of the right knowledge around this area,” she tells me, with her glowing skin. “I love prescribing facials, treatments, products and advice to the older generations, but more than that I love to share my knowledge with the younger generations on how they can look after their skin.” I’m sold.

I want to know whatever it is she’s doing and thankfully her friendly and approachable advice is available for those who come into the clinic.

It feels authentic and welcoming.

They certainly practice what they preach and with Dr Kam Singh’s extended availability, it’s an exciting time for not only the team at Beau, but for those seeking the industry leading secrets of anti-ageing here in the Midlands.

0116 270 9141 beauaesthetica.com NICHE | 79

HEALTH FOCUS

PRITI COLES RCST/Bodyworker

WHAT IS TRE? TRE stands for Tension and Trauma Release Exercises. The exercises evoke a self-induced therapeutic tremor in the body which discharges stress or tension accumulated from difficult situations and/or traumatic life experiences – for example social or domestic violence, natural disasters, or everyday circumstances like job stress, financial concerns, exams, puberty, etc.

Prolonged anxiety and stress can create muscular tension patterns in our bodies; we accept this chronic tension as normal.

However, eventually chronic tension patterns can create physical aches and pains, gastrointestinal problems and severe illnesses.

TRE is an effective tool in your ‘life coping toolbox,’ helping you to release everyday stress anxiety, physical/muscular tension and reducing psycho-emotional stress.

The psychology of trauma is very complex; some people dislike counselling and talking therapies, for others meditation and mindfulness can be harmful. TRE is a radical way to work with tension, stress and trauma. No need to talk about difficult things; no need to confront painful experiences; no need to get lost in overwhelming emotions.

The exercises were devised by Dr David Berceli, who has worked all over the world in areas of internal conflict and natural disasters.

Through his experiences he realised that the human body holds onto stress, shock and trauma and struggles to survive on a daily basis.

TRE is sometimes referred to as a shaking meditation. It’s safe and can be self-regulated, working at your own pace – it is you healing you!

07795 361 288 priticoles.co.uk 80 | NICHE

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EXPERT WELLBEING KNOWLEDGE As a Director or team leader of your business the wellbeing of your team is paramount. After all, a happy team is a more productive one. However, when it comes to knowing how to ensure your team have all the knowledge they need to look after their health, and therefore do their job to their best ability, can be tricky when you have to get on with the business of running your business.

Outsourcing this responsibility can be a highly effective way of ensuring your team have the knowledge about their health that they need without disrupting your busy schedule. The benefits are: ◆ Allows you to get wellbeing information across to your employees without taking up your time ◆ Speakers who are trained in the very latest advice for fitness, health and wellbeing information will be able to deliver information which will be fresh

JULIE HAYTON Managing Director at Function Jigsaw and relevant ◆ Your employees will likely respond more positively to information which is shared by somebody outside of the business in a professional capacity ◆ Your team will feel valued that you took the initiative to do something which would help them personally ◆ By forming a long-term working relationship with the providers, they will get to know your team and how you all work, creating a relaxed and open environment for discussion without fear of any potential judgement from employers.

0116 340 0255 functionjigsaw.co.uk

BUSTING THE BELLY FAT NICOLA ROSSELL Personal Trainer at Rossell Fitness When approaching weight loss or fat loss, it is typical to think just about exercise and food. After all, these are often considered to be the common causes of weight gain.

There is so much more to consider if you want to be successful with losing fat from your middle and keeping your weight off long-term.

One of the biggest mistakes is to drop into a drastic calorie deficit by hitting the gym every day and going on a crash diet. There is more to weight loss than this, and your body will not respond positively and consistently if you make things too extreme.

If you can make the connection between your weight-gain and the

choices that you make day-to-day, you are halfway there. I know it might seem obvious, but a lot of the time we eat mindlessly and aren’t aware of the choices that we are making – and the rest of the time we live in denial that our choices were the best ones!

When you take ownership of your choices, and work back to understand that your choices are impacted by how you feel, you will begin to see that your weight loss will not only be controlled by how much exercise you do, and how much food you eat.

When you are in a good place, physically, mentally and emotionally, you will find that everything becomes easier to manage; the choices that you need to make will feel easier and your weightloss will be a much happier experience.

07983 551 550 rossellfitness.co.uk

NICHE FEATURE

The Feminine

Paradox

As a woman, do you consider yourself to be strong, resourceful, competent and powerful with full autonomy over who you are and where you are heading?

I

If yes, would you also say that you relate to yourself with care, empathy, love and support too? Do you speak to yourself the way that you would a family member or loved one? Or is your inner critic simply ‘getting away with it’.

The paradoxical situation of the rise of women, and the correlation with the decline in female happiness can’t and shouldn’t be ignored. We can often find that we have lost that sense of who we are, what we identify as and where our centre is. While juggling the practicalities of life and craving social acceptance we often brush to one side that niggling feeling that something is ‘off’. Very rarely do we stop and listen to the innate wisdom that we have. What would it look like to go inward deeply? What would we

VERY RARELY DO WE STOP AND LISTEN TO THE INNATE WISDOM THAT WE HAVE find? Busy lives can distract us easily from listening to our ‘gut’ instinct as it’s often referred to; but by doing so and allowing ourselves to be authentically vulnerable, imagine the power over our sense of self and our lives that might have.

How we relate to who we are and how we ‘tap into’ our different traits and power points is a choice. What

if we connected the two aspects of ourselves? The resourceful, strong parts which we have cultivated and the nurturing, innate, curious, caring qualities of feminine power?

I believe that when we connect the many aspects of ourselves – the powerful and the vulnerable, the strength with the nurturing, the resourcefulness with the empathy – and combine this with listening to that inner critic, address it head on, and engage with ourselves fully, it will ultimately place us in a better position to show up in life, to live happily in that success with a true sense of who we are.

07808 783 483 debbiemoorecoaching.com

THE COMPLETE WORK BASED LIFESTYLE PROGRAM Helping companies’ employees achieve a healthier approach to work both mentally and physically

24 Long Street, Wigston, Leicester LE18 2AH I 0116 340 0255 I functionjigsaw.co.uk

GIFT GUIDE

Hive View £179 A stylish indoor camera with HD livestreaming and person detection, as well as a two-way audio system. hivehome.com

Modius £369 Modius uses neuroscience to make weight loss easier by reducing cravings, deceasing appetite and make you feel fuller.

Modiushealth.com

Our summer picks!

With Summer in full swing, Niche takes a look at the current trends in fashion and gadgets. From designer socks to complete your outfit, to a smart, high-tech indoor camera that has two-way audio, these are the hottest picks for the Summer that you don’t want to miss out on!

Hugo Boss Black Socks Two Pack £14

Anti-Wrinkle Eye Serum – Black Leopard £18.99

Two pairs of the finest soft cotton socks with a ribbed ankle cuff, complete with a Hugo Boss logo woven on the side. mainlinemenswear.co.uk

This cream was developed using the most advanced anti-aging technology and reduces puffiness and dark circles whilst it plumps the skin to reduce wrinkles. blackleopardskincare.co.uk

Napkin Holder £10 Made from durable iron and rustic woven chicken wire with a country cream finish, the holder is complete with a metal secure latch to keep the napkins in place. dibor.co.uk NICHE | 83

FOOD COURT In this issue, local business people choose their favourite places to eat in Leicestershire

The best eating establishments in Leicestershire ELIZABETH HARDWICKSMITH

oggileicester.co.uk 0116 254 5376 161 LONDON ROAD, LEICESTER LE2 1EG

Director of HR and Training at Pick Everard

At the top of the London Road is the Italian gem, Oggi’s. Already a firm favourite on the food scene in Leicester, I had been invited for a business lunch.

This was my first experience of Oggis and it lived up to expectations. The first thing that struck me was the restaurant’s authenticity and charm, as if I could have been enjoying a pit stop whilst exploring the old towns of Florence or Sienna on a weekend city break.

The restaurant has all white tablecloths and it feels calm, charming and cosy. Seasoned olives were available for us whilst we looked over our choices. We had attentive service and the menu had a fantastic, extensive choice of dishes.

ASHLEY BARRATT

CINI RESTAURANT cinirestaurant.co.uk 0116 286 3009 26 HIGH ST, ENDERBY, LEICESTER LE19 4AG

CEO & Founder CDS Global

84 | NICHE

OGGI ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Having been a Cini regular for over ten years the restaurant provides a perfect setting for meetings, family celebrations or a quick drink with friends after work.

The main reason we keep going back is the variety on the menu which is locally sourced and changes with the season.

The lunchtime menu provides ample portion sizes for a quick business lunch and has a huge variety to suit every palette. The a la carte menu personally designed by owner Andrea would rival any Michelin starred restaurant but at a fraction of the cost.

The venue is light and airy with windows to the kitchen allowing diners to see their meals being prepared. On weekends children are encouraged to

As this was a lunch, I enjoyed two courses. For my main I chose the Penne al Salmone. The ingredients, flavours and flair were mixed really well together, and the dish had a lovely creamy taste with a kick of stronger flavour from the tomato.

For dessert I chose the mango sorbet. The taste was amazing! Being sorbet, it was literally melting in my mouth, but the vibrant taste of the mango gave the dessert much more body than sorbets I had tasted before.

Very refreshing.

I’ll definitely sample more of Oggi’s menu in the future. It’s perfect for a lunch time treat, family gathering or intimate evening out.

get involved making their own pizzas or pasta in the kitchen playing ‘mini-chef’.

To start we had the sharing platter a mixture of cold meats, cheeses and fish which on this occasion included fresh mussels and calamari, which went perfectly with the bottle of Primitivo.

For mains, we had a mixture from the lunchtime menu and a la carte, sea bass cooked in paper with oil and fennel and Pasta Pescatore.

Cini is a fantastic restaurant owned by two people who genuinely care about their food. Both food and wine prices are reasonable which is complimented by attentive staff and amazing surroundings.

I would happily recommend to anyone who truly loves their food.

SUSAN HOLMES Design Editor at Cross Productions

JAMIE SKINNER Education Manager at Leicester City Community Trust

TRACEY BLAKE Local Director Nationwide Building Society

BLACK IRON AFTERNOON TEA winstanleyhouse.co.uk 0116 366 5642 HINCKLEY RD, LEICESTER LE3 1HX I love an afternoon Tea so I visited Winstanley House and had a fantastic feast there. It included the chef’s selection of freshly made cakes and sandwiches, with unlimited amounts of tea and coffee. The teapots and teacups were beautifully designed, and it was great that you could actually purchase them as well. There was a huge variety of different teas to choose from, including a sensational gin and tonic tea that was right up my street!

The sandwiches were delicious and had vegan and vegetarian options that catered for everyone, from roast beef, wholegrain mustard mayonnaise on white bloomer, to cucumber and cream cheese fillings and smoked salmon

and dill crème fraiche on whole meal bloomer.

The highlight of the afternoon was the cakes – they were all delicious, soft and moist; my favourite one had to be the pavlova that was bursting full of passionfruit puree – it was the right blend of sweetness. Though, a special mention would be the vegan apple and rhubarb crumble; it melted in your mouth. I would wholeheartedly recommend paying a visit to Winstanley House and attending their events – especially the afternoon tea! They have a multitude of events, including a bottomless brunch on Saturday and Sunday mornings, private dining, weddings and conferences.

THE OLD BULLS HEAD theoldbullshead.co.uk 01509 890255 134 MAIN ST, WOODHOUSE EAVES, LE12 8RZ I recently visited the Old Bulls Head in Woodhouse Eaves for a Sunday Roast and I have to say it was truly incredible. I was initially struck by the feel of the place, it reminded me of the gastropubs I’d visit back home in Devon. As we entered there was a lovely, warm welcome and as we were shown to our table the atmosphere really made us feel at home.

Having just been for a walk around the picturesque Beacon Hill Country Park, a stone’s throw away from the pub I was ready for a good old fashioned roast and they didn’t let me down. I opted for the ‘Trio of Roasts’ beautifully cooked Beef, succulent Pork and mouthwatering Chicken served with stuffing

wrapped in bacon, roasted potatoes and an array of vegetables. It looked exquisite and tasted even better.

For dessert, I opted for the Melting Chocolate and Peanut bomb, I was sold on the name alone but the taste blew me away. There was an explosion of flavours from the peanut butter cream to salted caramel sauce and it was the perfect way to end a fantastic experience.

I would without doubt recommend visiting The Old Bulls Head, it is the perfect place for those hearty Sunday roasts whether that be in the glorious summer sun or during those colder winter weekends when the fire is blazing.

CACTUS CAFÉ

cactuscafe.co.uk 01509 214 585 17 HIGH STREET, LOUGHBOROUGH LE11 2PY One of my favourite restaurants is Cactus Café in Loughborough, which offers traditional and modern Mexican food without the need to travel to Mexico. Next year in July 2020, it’s the restaurant’s 30-year anniversary, which I think speaks volumes to be in business for so long, and I’ve been returning here for many years – both as a young adult and now as someone with a family.

I love this place as the staff are so welcoming and they always have a good mix of people in, it’s great for couples and groups - they cater for big tables too.

It’s a relaxed kind of place which suits all occasions.

They offer a two-course menu Monday to Thursday at £9.95 which

is excellent value for money for that mid-week treat. On the first Wednesday of every month, they have a live Jazz band on whilst you can experience the delicious food.

They offer the best, most authentic tasting nachos – a huge portion of them.

They also offer vegetarian options, as a meat eater one of my favourite main dishes is the steak and chorizo quesadilla, filled with melted cheese, jalapenos, onions and peppers served with rice, Mexican beans, salsa and sour cream. They offer a wide range of drinks including a fab range of cocktails, alcohol free ones too. Big Mexican hats are on hand for those selfies and of course there’s tequila for those who enjoy it.

NICHE | 85

Welcoming, Sam Dimblebee brings her passion for high quality, homemade food to the St Martins House Café table – and it’s a foodie match made in heaven

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Found in the peaceful and historical quarter of the city, St Martins Café is nestled in its heart with views overlooking the rejuvenated cathedral gardens.

The already established café is now headed up by St Martins House’s Sam Dimblebee, known regionally for her ‘rustic without trying’ approach to cooking. There’s no skimping on portion sizes or ‘bought in’ elements to any of the menu, with from-scratch dishes, using top ingredients and seasonally appropriate creations reigning supreme.

“The café was already a nice place for people to relax and enjoy cake and refreshments, but I wanted to create a menu which would attract breakfast, brunch and lunch diners too,” says Sam.

The priority for me, whether it’s for a large-scale event or a lunch for one, is that the food is of high quality, is great value for money and where all the elements create a satisfying experience. There’s a lot to be said for simplicity with food and concentrating on even the smaller aspects – such as real butter in the sandwiches, bring it all together.

They are often the things that are overlooked, but for me they are the make or break aspects.”

She’s right. The homemade fishcakes, for example, are the real deal with no skimping involved anywhere, from the melting middle cheese to the homemade slaw and tartare sauce – it’s simple, comforting, high quality food at its best.

NICHE FEATURE

I love food, and I want people who feel the same to know that they are getting food which has been prepared with care that provides great value for money

comforting food at St Martins

Whether for breakfast, brunch, lunch or a delicious afternoon cake, the ‘theme’ of homemade is more than a theme – it’s a commitment, and one which Sam doesn’t take lightly. “First and foremost, I love food, and I want people who feel the same to know that they are getting food which has been prepared with care that provides great value for money.”

The Sam Dimblebee touch is filtering through the whole of St Martins House, with Director Nick Quinn keen to ensure that the new personnel he has headhunted utilise their experience, skill and passion to the highest degree.

“2019 has been about expanding our personnel to create a holistic conferencing and events service.

Sam is one of the best, and her vision for our food offerings – from small scale events to large corporate offerings, through to the café – is coming to fruition. Her work is taking our food services from functional to exceptional.”

Guests at the recently constructed boutique hotel, St Martins Lodge, can enjoy a delicious breakfast at the café as an extension of their stay, setting them up for a day with excellent coffee and a selection of breakfast options.

Not one to sit around on an idea, Sam’s plan is now fully established within the team and she is keen to ensure the menu is fresh and evolving depending on the season.

Recognised for ‘knowing’ her audience and what they want, Sam’s

foodie style is simple: good, honest, quality food.

“The menu will evolve naturally over time with seasons and ingredient availability playing a part – but so too will listening to what our customers want. It keeps things interesting for the chefs, so they remain passionate about what they are serving as well as for the regulars.”

St Martin’s Café is a welcoming addition to the area. In an industry which is often more style over substance, the café feels like a return to comforting basics which lets the ingredients speak for themselves.

Stmartinshouse.com 0116 261 5200 NICHE | 87

NICHE FEATURE

Exclusive members’

prize draw Launched last year, the Queen Victoria Arts Club is a prestigious new venue, with a restaurant, bar and private members’ club

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Located in the heart of the cultural quarter, the Queen Victoria Arts Club covers two floors and welcomes guests into the 50-cover restaurant lighted by floor-to-ceiling windows in a grade II listed Victorian Baroque property.

The building was built in 1897 in order to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee; it was restored, returning the building to its former glory – beautifully combining elegance and timeless classic furniture and opulence.

The award-winning venue has been taking Leicester by storm; with casual dining in luxurious surroundings, they have received almost universal five-star reviews.

The venue is open to the public for lunch, pre theatre, dinner & Sunday brunch and has private dining rooms for dinners, meeting and parties including the luxurious ‘Empress’ with its own private bar.

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There are two private dining rooms, each named after Queen Victoria’s children – Leopold and Beatrice. The ‘Leopold’ can seat 16 people, whilst the ‘Beatrice’ seats 10.

Although open to the public, members of the Club get additional perks; the membership costs £450 a year and has many benefits: ◆ Welcome meal for two ◆ Priority table booking in the restaurant ◆ Members-only price on all menus for up to three guests ◆ 10 per cent off all drinks ◆ Access to private dining rooms, Leopold and Beatrice with no minimum spend ◆ Free room hire of The Empress ◆ Members (plus guests) breakfast menu ◆ Members only prices on all events for up to three guests ◆ Free exclusive members-only events

Members are in for a treat this summer with a huge prize draw, including winning dinner at the Club for a year*, Silverstone Race Day with Porsche, tickets to the Curve, chocolate hamper and bottle of champagne to name just a few of the extravagant prizes available.

Entry into this prize draw is open to new members until August, and current members have already been entered automatically.

To find out more about Queen Victoria Arts Club or to become a member, speak to Julie, the Members Liaison officer.

0116 251 2291 queenvicleicester.com *MEAL FOR TWO ONCE A MONTH

McGuigan Black Label Red £6.50 This versatile wine can be paired with almost any dish and has a smooth finish that’s especially rewarding with milk chocolate. sainsburys.co.uk

North42 Gin 60cl £42

North42 Branded Gin Glass £12

North Bar and Kitchen have unveiled their new rhubarb and blood orange distilled gin. shop.north42gin.co.uk

Sophisticatedly shaped, the glasses are a generously sized balloon glass with the logo etched on the side. shop.north42gin.co.uk

I’ll drink to that!

Pale Rose and Sauvignon Blanc in a can 12 cans £36

High quality wine that is 100 per cent recyclable, and delivers on taste and brand, chilling at lightning speed. nice-drinks.co.uk

Beer and Cheese Basket £29.99 With delectable mature cheddar complemented by apple and ale chutney and savoury biscuits, this hamper is the perfect gift for beer and cheese lovers alike! virginiahayward.com/the-beer-and-cheese-basket

RECREATIONAL CLASSES FOR CHILDREN ADULT GYMNASTICS SESSIONS, FOR BEGINNERS, IMPROVERS AND EXPERTS! SQUAD SESSIONS FOR THOSE WISHING TO TRAIN HARDER AND ASPIRING TO COMPETE PARENTS & TOTS SESSIONS

fun - fitness - friendship aged

10-15 years

classes now available Sundays 09:45 - 11:00 & 11:00 - 12:15 mixed level classes

aerialanna.co.uk

aerial silks classes

ADULTS AND 16+ TUESDAY & THURSDAY 20:00 - 21:15 PM 4 WEEKS, JUST £50 OR £15 PER SESSION Anna is an aerialist, actress and independent dance artist based in the East Midlands.

Please wear tight fitting clothes (cotton is ideal, avoid lycra) and bring layers. No zips, buttons, jewellery or long nails as these may damage the silks.

JON MUTCH 07813 205 852

OADBYGYMNASTICS.CO.UK INFO@OADBYGYMNASTICS.CO.UK

17 MANDERVELL ROAD OADBY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE LEICESTER LE2 5LR

SPORT FOCUS

JON MUTCH Head Coach at Oadby & Leicester Gymnastics Club

LESS SCREENS MORE MOVEMENT According to a recent study by techadvisor.co.uk children are spending on average around 17 hours a week in front of a screen.

Gulp.

When you add it all up, those couple of hours a night after school/in the car/before bed really become scary and whilst we want our kids to be tech savvy, a well-placed few hours a week dedicated to a physical activity could be the screen break time our kids need.

The benefits of physical activity in young children and teens are huge – and certainly no secret.

Any parent whose child attends regular sport sessions a week will notice a marked improvement in many aspects of their child’s life.

From the obvious physical benefits of moving their bodies on a regular basis, to the social benefits of team work, meeting new friends and mindfulness practice that comes from concentrating on moving the body. These benefits are far better for their brain power than a passive or overstimulated brain state caused by school pressures and screen time.

There’s no doubt in my mind, I see it daily; that time away from the screen for just a few hours a week to take part in a dedicated sport has a profound impact on their lives.

07813 205 852 oadbygymnastics.co.uk

LEICESTERSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB

SMASH BOUNDARIES WITH LATEST APPOINTMENTS Karen Rothery and Mehmooda Duke become the first all-female chair and chief executive combination in the County Championship Leicestershire County Cricket Club have announced that Mehmooda Duke MBE DL has been appointed as the new Chair of the club. With Karen Rothery joining as the club’s new CEO in April, Leicestershire CCC now has the first female combination in the roles of Chair and Chief Executive in county cricket.

Having graduated from Cambridge University in 1989, Mehmooda began her career as a schoolteacher. She retrained as a lawyer and started her legal career in London in 1992.

Mehmooda is the CEO of Moosa– Duke Solicitors which was set up in 2003. Mehmooda has over 26 years’ experience in dealing with medical negligence claims.

She was appointed President of Leicestershire Law Society in May 2015. She became the public face of the organisation and steered the strategic direction of the Society.

Since May 2017, she has been the

Executive Board Chair and still holds this position.

Mehmooda was a Board Advisor from June 2017, became a Board Director in March 2019 and has now been elected as Chair, the first female to hold any of these three positions at Leicestershire CCC. She said: “I feel privileged to have been elected Chair of LCCC and to be working with a highlyskilled, diverse and professional new Board - both Directors and Advisors – and our new CEO. “I look forward to getting to know the members and working with the team at Grace Road. It is a really exciting time for the club, and I am delighted to be a part of the journey.”

Mehmooda’s appointment was confirmed after Roy Bent decided to stand down as Chair of the Board for personal reasons. Roy intends to continue in his role as an elected Director for the remainder of his term.

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conferencing

Leading memorable city conferencing venue with views across open greenery and a dedicated conferencing director combines picturesque surroundings with elite customer service 92 | NICHE

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Leicester Racecourse is known for its epic race days – and it’s team are experts in their field for a range of conferencing and events. The venue’s conferencing Director, Yvonne Holyland explained how committed they are to providing organisers and delegates with a worry-free conference where all the details – no matter how small – are taken care of, leaving the day to flow to the finish line with ease.

“We take care of all the details after a briefing and we can accommodate a wide range of requirements. I like to think we go above and beyond expectations for every client and think of the small details – I struggle to say no to most

requests if it will help a client!”

With a variety of spaces available, the venue can host up to 2,000 delegates in a whole range of settings, all with spectacular views, inviting décor, equipment and refreshments – some with their own bar. Priding themselves on creating bespoke menus using locally sourced highquality ingredients, delegates can enjoy delicious food created by the in-house catering team.

It is the ideal location to hold conferences, board meetings, exhibitions, product launches and much more, accommodating theatre, cabaret, classroom or boardroom styles. The rates are competitive

NICHE FEATURE

IT’S TIME TO SORT

CHRISTMAS Yes, that’s right, it’s really time to start planning that Christmas party, especially if you want to secure somewhere that fits the bill as a stylish, memorable and fitting celebration for your team.

Relax and unwind during the evening and then dance the night away into the early hours with music played by a brilliant DJ.

It drives me to approach each conference with a

DATES AVAILABLE: Friday December 6 Saturday December 7 Friday December 13 Saturday December 14 Thursday December 19 Friday December 20

fresh perspective on what we can do to go that extra mile for the client and include a choice of eating styles and all the equipment required for a successful conference. Yvonne told us: “We host a variety of styles of events and no two days are the same.

I enjoy that in particular about what I do and it drives me to approach each conference with a fresh perspective on what we can do to go that extra mile for the client.

The styles of conferencing popular this year are more relaxed affairs – BBQs out on the veranda, for example, have been really sought after this year and it’s exciting to see how people’s conferencing ideas are evolving.”

The venue is located a short distance away from Leicester city

THE NELSON SUITE: centre and the Midlands railway network, as well as being close to the M1 and M69; with plenty of free car parking, the location itself is a hasslefree position.

Offering that ‘something more’ than many of its competitors, Leicester Racecourse has the edge over others with its unique location and attention to detail. With the conferencing arena changing like it is, it’s the perfect canvas from which to create an event or conference with a difference.

0116 271 6515 leicester-racecourse.co.uk

For just £39pp join them in the Nelson Suite for a 3 course Festive Feast followed by a DJ and Disco until 1am.

All-inclusive drinks packages available for just £69pp (inc. beers, house wines and soft drinks).

THE CLUB SUITE:

For just £34pp join them in the Club Suite for a 2 course Festive buffet followed by a DJ and Disco until 1am.

The Kube is available for private hire for up to 600 guests, with a package including street food, bars and entertainment.

NICHE | 93

Benefits of purchasing A season ticket Be sure to secure your chosen seat at ALL BBL Championship, Trophy and Cup home games for the upcoming season. Season ticket holders are entitled to priority access on tickets at all of our other events, including pre-season, playoffs and major finals; as well as occasional exclusive offers to other events held at the Morningside Arena.

The season ticket means that you save money every game compared with full concessionary prices while guaranteeing your chosen view of the action at Morningside Arena.

We have decided to reward season ticket holders with incentives, beginning the moment that you collect your season ticket at a pre-season BBQ fun day, suitable for all ages, including a meet & greet with members of the Riders team.

Additionally season ticket holders will receive exclusive offers from the Merchandise retail outlet, and ÂŁ10.00 of Food and Drink vouchers to be used at any Leicester Riders home game throughout the season.

Payment options Easy and convenient payment options available: Cash/Card/Cheque/BACS/Direct Debit* Payment by Direct Debit is available.

Pay over 9** monthly payments starting May 1st to spread the cost of your season ticket. *Direct debits incur a 3.5% finance charge.

**Number of months subject to 1st payment date. Sign-up after May will decrease the number of months over which payment plan will run.

For More Information & pricing: leicesterriders.co.uk or call +44 (0) 116 255 8635 Direct debit prices will be spread over the remaining months until January 1st 2020. Direct debit form available on request.

Morningside Arena, Charter Street, Leicester, LE1 3UD

NICHE FEATURE

An outstanding first year

as outlaws

With the first season coming to a close, we get Outlaws coach Neil Jepsen’s take on how it’s progressed

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The league games have all finished and with just the U18s nationals left to complete, at Outlaws we are all smiles with what has been accomplished.

We have seen an outstanding performance from our teams in their first year and they have all shown great promise moving forward. The league standings for the 2018/19 season are: U12s – 5th Place U14s – 4th Place U16s – 3rd Place U18s – 1st Place, undefeated Seniors – 1st Place and promotion to Senior A league National Finals have now been completed for U14s and U16s, with our U18s looking to defend their league and National run.

U14s – 8th Place U16s – 4th Place U18s – To Be played

Our Senior team also qualified for National Championships, but with the dates clashing with the World Roller Games, more than half of our team will be flying the Team GB flag. It’s something the team, in truth, were very disappointed about, and will therefore not be available to compete in the National Finals – what a clash!

The team have also been promoted to ‘A’ league – something they have been working hard towards for the last two seasons, which is a huge accomplishment. The real work now begins, taking on teams that have been together in this league for many seasons before us, but we are confident and raring to go. The top teams also qualified for European leagues, something these teams will not want to give up to an U18s team.

THE REAL WORK NOW BEGINS, TAKING ON TEAMS THAT HAVE BEEN TOGETHER IN THIS LEAGUE FOR MANY SEASONS

Moments like these are what we play for, from U12s right through to Seniors, it’s all about working hard, building on lessons learnt, fun, laughter and even the tears are all part of it. Growing together as people, friends and players – it’s priceless!

We have players moving between age groups during the summer months, ready for the start of next season in September and the Outlaws management team are looking as far as the USA and Europe for our teams to play and gain those valuable experiences and lessons from doing so.

With plans and ideas already taking shape for the 2019/2020 seasons, we can only continue to progress and continue to raise good, motivated people who that love to play hockey, not just to be great hockey players. The only loss is a lesson not learnt. info@midlandoutlaws.co.uk @MidlandOutlaws18 NICHE | 95

23 NOV – 11 JAN

WEST SIDE STORY

JEROME ROBBINS ARTHUR LAURENTS LEONARD BERNSTEIN STEPHEN SONDHEIM Based on a conception of

Book by

Music by

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Entire Original Production Directed and Choreographed by

JEROME ROBBINS

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NIKOLAI FOSTER Choreographer ELLEN KANE Set Designer MICHAEL TAYLOR EDD LINDLEY Musical Supervisor SARAH TRAVIS Casting Director KAY MAGSON CDG

Costume Designer

Originally produced on Broadway by Robert E. Griffith and Harold S. Prince by arrangement with Roger L. Stevens Performed by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) Limited

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NICHE LIFESTYLE

JENNIFER HANLON Director at Hanlon Hospitality There is always a lot of buzz and excitement in the air for the last F1 race of the year; it is a longanticipated celebration that makes a fantastic, fitting finale.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will again be at the Yas Marina Circuit and is one of the most glamorous weekends of the year, which remains the biggest international event in the United Arab Emirates and in its capital

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A WORLD-CLASS WEEKEND city Abu Dhabi, with a crowd of 60,000 in attendance.

There are many hospitality and VIP packages available for the event, from the Yas Viceroy Suite, Harbour Club and the ultimate luxury Paddock Club. Guests can take in the thrilling action of the weekend in the private, luxurious conditioned suite with impressive views of the track.

The after-race concerts are not to be missed either; previous years’ performances include Post Malone,

The Weekend, Sam Smith and Guns ‘N’ Roses, Pink, Rihanna and Lionel Richie.

As the day turns into night, and the lights shine down on some of the greatest names in motorsport, the twilight race on the Sunday really has a truly magical atmosphere and is one not to be missed.

07568 339 218 hanlonhospitality.co.uk

V IP E V EN T SPECI A LISTS

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 29TH NOVEMBER

1ST DECEMBER 2019

As day turns into night, experience the magical twilight race.

The last race of the season makes it all the more exciting.

5 Star accomodation | Grand Prix After Party | Executive private transfers hanlonhospitality.co.uk I jennifer@hanlonhospitality.co.uk I 07568 339218

NICHE FEATURE

Under 17 and

want to drive?

Providing young people between the ages of 5-17 the

opportunity to get behind the wheel before they hit test age In the UK a young person can’t get behind the wheel of a car until they have passed their 17th birthday – until now. YOUNG DRIVER™, provide young people with the opportunity to do so from venues across the country. Their junior driving lessons, which are available for youngsters aged 5-17 or those who may not otherwise be able to have them, are creating a fun learning experience.

As the largest under 17 driving lesson providers in the country, Young Driver are reliable, safe and plenty of fun and because the lessons take place on private property, the rules are more flexible than on the road. Pupils can enjoy a lesson on the tarmac in a real-life car complete with dual controls, with lessons from a government approved instructor.

It’s as close to real-life driving as pupils can get!

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LEARNING A NEW SKILL FOR ANY YOUNG PERSON IS A GREAT BOOST TO SELFESTEEM AND CONFIDENCE

Safety is always the top priority and it’s not only about the safety for the experience – it’s about shaping young people’s perspective of what it means to be safe on the roads when they have lessons at 17. For those who will go on to eventually drive on the road, teaching them over an extended period of time, and in a less pressured environment whilst basic skills are learned is a great way to increase their confidence.

The skill learning and fun activity is highly beneficial for all, with lessons open to many young and older people with a wide range of disabilities, including those who are deaf, have prosthetic limbs, are in wheelchairs, are blind, have learning disabilities or neurological disorders. It’s availability to everyone means that those who may never

have thought they’d have the opportunity to experience driving a car – can. In fact, many pupils with disabilities are told they will need to wait several years before being able to apply for a provisional license, which of course, affects them – it can be hard when friends can simply reach 17 and go out and learn behind a wheel.

Learning a new skill for any young person is a great boost to self-esteem and confidence and the opportunity to learn something new and so responsibly which will later be used time and time again makes it a valuable, hugely positive and fun filled experience for everyone. youngdriver.eu 0844 371 9010

ARIF VORAJI Help the Homeless

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In the last year alone, we have helped 36 homeless people of Leicester get into permanent accommodation. Faced with the near impossible task of finding suitable accommodation where the landlords are willing to take on tenants who are receiving Universal Credit and who are without huge deposits and referencing, many give up believing that getting a place to call home is an impossible task.

That’s why we need more landlords like Nilesh who recently offered his property to five new tenants who we were helping to get off the streets. Local landlord Nilesh offered his 10-bed property to service users at our charity who were verified by us and therefore in a position to become paying tenants but who were typically struggling to get into rented accommodation because of the ‘red tape’ which so often prevents it.

The accommodation provides the fresh start that our service users so desperately need. In a system which so often lets them down we were able to work with Nilesh to get them clean, well-equipped and well-decorated homes in a safe and positive environment that was permanent.

The support of our team in getting them there through extensive benefit advice, employment assistance and emotional support along with committed landlords like Nilesh mean that we can happily make real, positive and lasting changes to people’s lives.

If you are a landlord and want to help make a huge lasting difference like Nilesh has please do get in touch.

07771 123 440

hthleicester.co.uk NICHE | 99

NICHE CULTURE

“Summertime...

...and the livin’ is easy” or so the song says

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ut is it really in these times of social media, experience overload and fear of missing out? What better than a trip to the cinema to give us the opportunity to escape into someone else’s life and have them tell us their story for a couple of hours?

So what’s on offer in summer 2019?

Whether you want to entertain the kids during the (at times seemingly interminable) long break, or to escape the heat into air conditioned comfort, what does this year’s blockbuster season have for those of us looking for big screen entertainment?

Well, there’s Dark Phoenix, starring Game of Thrones’ own Lady of Winterfell and Queen of The North Sophie Turner alongside the always watchable James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Nicholas Hoult, Tye Sheridan, Evan

TRACEY MILLER

Director at The Miller Partnership

Peters and Jessica Chastain – and who doesn’t love the idea of Sansa Stark and some mutant ass kicking action?

Live action remakes don’t come any bigger than The Lion King, an alltime Disney favourite which has been

a part of our cinema landscape for a quarter of a century, and which will star Donald Glover, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Alfre Woodard, John Oliver, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, and a hugely welcomed James Earl Jones in this Hakuna Matata revival.

From a much anticipated sequel perspective, there’s also Toy Story 4. Hear Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Tony Hale, Annie Potts, Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, and Keanu Reeves pull at your childhood heartstrings as this one promises an emotional rollercoaster to end all emotional rollercoasters.

So it looks like summertime in 2019 really could have something for everybody.

traceyannmiller@hotmail.com

NICHE CARE

MELTON CARE HOME

PRAISED BY OFFICIAL WATCHDOG

A care home in Melton Mowbray has been rated as ‘good’ by the official care regulators

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The Amwell, a residential, nursing, dementia and respite care home in Asfordby Road, has been praised following an unannounced visit on April 28.

The Car Quality Commission (CQC) has rated The Amwell as ‘good’ for providing a service that is ‘safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led’ – the five areas it grades all care homes on.

The Amwell opened in 2017 at a cost of six million pounds and sits within a private wooded area overlooking the River Eye. Its facilities include a riverside bistro, cinema room, beauty spa, specialised gym, landscaped courtyard gardens, private dining and computer suite facilities. Guests can enjoy a fresh fine dining experience prepared daily by on-site chefs.

In its report, residents told officers that they were ‘happy living at The Amwell’, ‘felt safe and secure’ and ‘liked the staff who look after them.’ The CQC found that the ‘premises were kept clean and fresh’ and that ‘staff knew each resident well.’

Staff had followed risk assessments to ensure that residents 100 | NICHE

received safe care and officers were happy with staff numbers at The Amwell and the training they had received.

The commission deemed that staff gave residents their prescribed medicines safely and followed good practice guidelines to help prevent the spread of infection. Residents had a variety of meals, including those with special dietary requirements and access to health services. The report also said that staff ‘respected residents’ privacy and dignity and their views were respected, listened to and acted upon’.

The Amwell care home manager Tracy Heyes said: “We’re delighted to have received this rating from the CQC as it’s recognition for all the hard work everyone associated with the home has done. We have created a safe and happy home for residents to live in and a lovely place for staff to work.”

01664 882 525 theamwellcare.com info@theamwellcare.com

NICHE FEATURE

Friendly golfing rivalry Many excited golf enthusiasts flocked down to one of the most challenging and picturesque heathland courses in the Midlands on Friday, May 31 in aid of Hope Against Cancer

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Luffenham Heath Golf Club hosted the fantastic day, which completely sold out, and it was one the participants will never fore-get! Over £18,000 was raised for Hope Against Cancer – an amazing feat.

From a midday lunch of sandwiches, and a shotgun start at 1:30pm, the four-ball golf commenced – and everyone was full of friendly competition and had a blast!

There was a record-breaking 25 teams playing the course, and many were bursting with hidden golfing talent.

After completing the golf course, drinks were served on the veranda, one of the nice touches provided by the exquisite golf club, before a delicious threecourse meal was served.

The headline sponsor for this year was Claremont Financial

Planning Ltd, a prestigious local financial planning company that is a partner practice of St. James Place Wealth Management.

John Kiely, MD of Claremont Financial Planning Ltd, was in the halfway house, where guests could attempt to swing a long putter, one which is technically classed as illegal now. Guests had to use their whole body to budge the huge putter!

Hope Against Cancer strive for a future in which more people survive cancer by funding innovative research that leads to improved treatments and achieves the greatest impact in the fight against cancer.

The charity has funded over 60 research projects in the form of fellowships, PhD studentships, and consumable grants. The projects have covered a range of cancers at different stages

THE CHARITY HAS FUNDED OVER 60 RESEARCH PROJECTS IN THE FORM OF FELLOWSHIPS, PHD STUDENTSHIPS, AND CONSUMABLE GRANTS

of research – all with the aim of improving the lives of cancer patients.

However, the fun doesn’t stop there! With loads of events being organised for the rest of the year, Hope Against Cancer return to the green with a further, different ‘golf experience’ Golf Day on Thursday, October 10 at the Cosby Golf Club; four-ball is priced at £170, with sponsorship available. Furthermore, bookings and sponsorship are now being taken for the next Luffenham golf day which will take place on May 29, 2020. To find out more and book places for their next golf day or how to sponsor, contact Tracey Hallam, the Corporate and Events Fundraiser.

0116 270 0101 hopeagainstcancer.org.uk NICHE | 101

NICHE CHARITY

GEOFF ROWE Festival Director at Leicester Comedy Festival Believe it or not, going to comedy shows offers a full range of health benefits – comedy maximises the benefits of laughing. Laughing decreases stress hormones and can be a powerful antidote to stress, pain and conflict.

Laughter brings people together and strengthens relationships; it’s the social aspect that plays a vital role in the health benefits of laughing.

Here are some of the main benefits from laughing.

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LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE 1 Relieves stress Laughter relieves stress by initiating and abruptly cooling down your stress response system. Research published by the American Physiological Society found that it lowered the levels of three stress hormones: cortisol, epinephrine and dopac.

2 Reduces blood pressure Your heart and respiratory rate increase whilst laughing, especially for a long period of time, which is followed by a subsequent decrease in heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure as well as improved blood flow.

Humorous programmes can improve the dilation of arteries as well.

3 Burns calories As far as sedentary activities go, comedy shows can burn

calories. A researcher from Vanderbilt University found that laughing for 10-15 minutes can potentially burn up to 50 calories.

4 Stimulates your mind Several sections of your brain are activated whilst you’re laughing – and watching stand-up comedy can actually improve your brain function. Dr. Scott Weems, a cognitive neuroscientist, found that people who watch comedy are able to answer semantic association tasks better than those who didn’t watch comedy.

0116 261 6812 bigdifferencecompany.co.uk

www.theamwellcare.com

BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY

01664 88 25 25

YOUR LIFESTYLE

YOUR WAY OF LIFE

RESIDENTIAL, RESPITE & DEMENTIA CARE BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY

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55 Asfordby Road, Melton Mowbray, LE13 0HR | T: 01664 88 25 25 | E. info@theamwellcare.com NICHE | 103

NICHE FEATURE

Celebrating 31 years

of achievements

An open invitation for you to join in the celebration of a local, young people’s charity’s 31 years of achievements…

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Following the success of our 30th Anniversary Dinner last year, we are putting on another celebration dinner, on Friday 11th October, at Leicester Tigers – and we would love to see you there.

FOCUS Charity is a local, Leicester-based young people’s charity, committed to transforming the lives of young people through inspiring and empowering projects and youth volunteering opportunities.

As a charity, we have supported over 19,000 young people in developing their skills, confidence, self-esteem and aspirations for the future, as well as recruited and trained over 4,500 adult volunteers to support young people as the positive role models that young people desperately need.

Young people regularly say

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to us that ‘FOCUS is family’; that it’s their second home; that it gives them somewhere to go, something to do, and someone to talk to.

And so, we realise that holding a celebration dinner is a very special way of bringing people together to find out about the life-changing experiences and opportunities that you have access to, when you get involved with the ‘FOCUS FAMILY.’ The glamorous evening will feature delicious food, fabulous entertainment, music and dancing, and – most importantly – a whole lot of heart, all wrapped up into one sparkling evening.

There will also be awards that are a recognition of the work we do and our achievements – which have all been made possible by a

AS A CHARITY, WE HAVE SUPPORTED OVER 19,000 YOUNG PEOPLE IN DEVELOPING THEIR SKILLS, CONFIDENCE, SELFESTEEM AND ASPIRATIONS FOR THE FUTURE

number of people involved.

From the young people we support, and their families that we develop strong relationships with, the volunteers that get in on the action in their spare time; and the businesses that offer us their donations, expertise, time and help raise our profile – the work we do wouldn’t be possible without them.

Tickets for our unmissable event are priced at £50 per person, £450 for a table of ten, which includes a three-course dinner, live entertainment and awards. So, break that glamorous outfit out of the wardrobe; we look forward to seeing you there.

0116 251 0369 0780 812 8803 focus-charity.co.uk

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Niche Business Award Finalists Announcement The finalists for the Niche Magazine Business Awards were announced on Monday June 3 at the Leicester Racecourse as part of Niche Networking.

Organised by Cross Productions, Niche Networking is an event on the local business agenda where business owners and like-minded individuals meet and network.

In the highly anticipated lead up to their annual Niche Magazine Business Awards, Cross Productions hosted an evening of networking, talks and canapes, before announcing the finalists.

This year, Paradigm Wills and Legal Services are the headline sponsor, a local, professional, friendly and caring firm that provide a costeffective solution to any wills or legal situations.

Now, preparation is in full swing for the awards night on Friday September 6, and will be a phenomenal evening of celebration, entertainment and recognising hard work.

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Leicestershire Law Society Awards Everyone donned their glitzy outfits for the Leicestershire Law Society Annual Legal Awards on Friday 26 April. Held at the Athena in the heart of the cultural quarter, this year’s theme was the ‘Taj Mahal: Crown of the Palace’ – and everyone looked the part!

With a Taj Mahal lounge, where guests could pose for photos with a multi-coloured parasol, the evening was a huge glamorous event that celebrated the hard work of local lawyers and their companies.

Opening the event was a very graceful, authentic dance entertainment act; they were dressed amazingly and were a fantastic start to the evening. Alongside the announcements of the winners, there was a selection of delicious street food served, and a superb performance by violinist, Charlotte Lauren.

One of the night’s highlights was the performance of singer Zack Knight – winner of the 2015 Best Breakthrough act of the Brit Asia TV World Music awards.

The annual event was organised by Bushra Ali, the president of the Leicestershire Law Society and Founding Director of Bushra Ali Solicitors. Bushra has had a fantastic year as the 158th President; she has shaped the law society by taking it ‘outside the box’, and she firmly believes in empowering lawyers to achieve great heights.

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The 70Seventy Challenge

PHOTOGRAPHY: MATT ROBINSON

Bamboozle Theatre’s Artistic Director, Christopher Davies, has just completed the 70Seventy challenge – to cycle over the Pyrenees, climb the National Three Peaks and run a marathon during his 70th year while raising £70,000 for disabled children.

While putting the fundraising plans together, Christopher was diagnosed with prostate cancer, during treatment the challenge was put on hold for 12 months.

In September 2018 Christopher and three others cycled 320 miles across the Pyrenees including the iconic Col du Tourmalet. Then in May this year five people took on the National Three Peaks – climbing Ben Nevis in very severe weather, Scafell Pike and Snowdon and finishing with the 26-mile marathon around Leicester Racecourse in June – Christopher turned 71 the day before the marathon.

Christopher said: “All three events were firsts for me – and each one a serious challenge for me. I kept going because the disabled families tell us how important Bamboozle sessions are to them. The support that people have shown for the challenge has been heartwarming. Although we are unlikely to reach the ambitious target of £70k, every pound donated will help us provide more activities for families who have disabled children.”

Jo Kerr, a parent of a profoundly disabled daughter, said: “What Bamboozle does makes a massive difference to our lives. There is nothing else we have access to that involves Teagan with her brother and sister at the same time.”

Bamboozle delivers multi-sensory experiences for learning disabled children and young people. This year, the charity celebrates its 25th birthday.

Anyone wishing to support the children can do so at: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=ChristopherDavies70seventy&pageUrl=3 107 NICHE | 103

Claremont Financial Planning Ltd, Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management We focus solely on providing face-to-face advice and offer a dedicated, personal wealth management service to build long-term relationships.

We have the experience to help you successfully secure and enhance your financial future by offering specialist advice in a wide range of areas including: Corporate Financial advice and protection Aspects of Exit Strategy Planning for business owners Investment Planning Retirement Planning Tax and Estate Planning Mortgages and Banking

For further information, or to request your complimentary guide to wealth management, please contact John Kiely or Declan Kiely:

01455 286 800

John Kiely and Declan Kiely Associate Partner Practice of St James’s Place Wealth Management

ST. JAMES’S PLACE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The title ‘Partner Practice’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.