Dynamic Business Magazine - issue 33 by Platinum Media Group

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN

FEBRUARY 2024 #33

THE BIG STORY

BARBOUR A cut above THE DYNAMIC FESTIVAL

Tickets on sale TRAVEL

Magical Miami THE DYNAMIC AWARDS

Entry deadline extended

Further reading

34 Debra Corey is an award-winning HR expert and the author of Bad Bosses Ruin Lives: The Building Blocks for Being a Great Boss (out now), co-authored with Ken Corey

Art Scene

❛❛

There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women Madeleine Albright

36 Kellie Miller discusses the paintings of Jules Allan

EVENTS 2 The Dynamic Festival 2024 Tickets are on sale. Get involved and don’t miss out 16 The Dynamic Awards 2024 The prestigious business awards for women returns for a third year in April. Last chance to enter…

Travel

38 The magic of Miami - a vibrant fusion of culture, sun and sizzle

Fine Dining

40 The Prince of Wales, Esher, Surrey. A recently converted Victorian pub now serving excellent cuisine

What’s On

42 A brief snapshot of art and culture cross Sussex and Surrey

CONTACTS PUBLISHER: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@platinummediagroup.co.uk EDITOR: Tess de Klerk tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk MOTORING EDITOR: Fiona Shafer fionas@platinummediagroup.co.uk COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: Lesley Alcock lesley@platinummediagroup.co.uk EVENTS DIRECTOR: Fiona Graves fiona@platinummediagroup.co.uk EVENTS MANAGER: Žaneta Bealing zaneta@platinummediagroup.co.uk HEAD OF DESIGN: Michelle Shakesby design@platinummediagroup.co.uk SUB EDITOR: Alan Wares alan@platinummediagroup.co.uk

WWW.PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

Financial advice, built around you. • Personal finance advice • Retirement planning • Business support • Generational planning • Tax year-end advice

I’m proud to represent both male and female clients. And, while it goes without saying that both can experience the same stressors, there’s no avoiding the fact that women face several unique challenges. My 20 years’ experience has shown that women can therefore greatly benefit from highly personalised financial advice, which takes these challenges into account. This is why I’m so passionate about empowering women with the confidence and tools to help them achieve their long-term financial goals. So, whatever your financial journey so far, let me give you the guidance, support, and stability to help you plan a happy and financially secure life.

Call me for a no-obligation initial meeting on 01444 712672 to find out more.

Wellesley House, 50 Victoria Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 9LH 01444 712672 | info@wellesleywa.co.uk | wellesleywa.co.uk SJP approved on 08/03/2023 Wellesley 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. Wellesley is a trading name of Wellesley Investment Management Limited, registered in England & Wales No. 6530147. Registered Office: 44 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5TN.

EDITOR’S NOTE A warm welcome to our February edition of Dynamic. We are proud to bring you our monthly offering in ode to women; Women from all walks of life, women who make the world a better place – often in small ways that can go unnoticed, and sometimes in leaps and bounds. This month, in particular, Dynamic features four hugely inspiring people in Spotlight. They all work in the charity sector, have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place, making huge differences in the lives of others. I believe that we all have the responsibility to look out for each other and as Sharon Livermore, creator of the domestic abuse campaign ‘Working It Out’ says in our feature: “Colleagues and managers can often be the only other people outside the home that survivors talk to each day and are therefore uniquely placed to help spot signs of abuse.” A reminder that sometimes, simply caring enough to be aware, can make a huge positive difference. Furthermore, we bring you the story of Dame Margaret Barbour, plus plenty of reading in our regular features too including Upfront, Health & Wellbeing and Art. Find the perfect Miami itinerary I’ve designed – and lived – for you in our Travel section… yes, it’s a tough job but someone has to do it!

Editor, Dynamic Magazine tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

SUSSEX WOMEN LISTED IN UK’S TOP FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS LIST Two Sussex-based women have been listed in the top 100 most inspiring female entrepreneurs of 2024. Pippa Moyle of the City Girl Network, and Lyndsey Clay of Connected Brighton, founded their businesses in Brighton to create more social connections in the city. They are now part of the f:entrepreneur 100 campaign run by Small Business Britain. Pippa started the City Girl Network in 2016 to help women find friends and feel more connected to the city. The network now has 18 communities with over 120,000 members across the country. Lyndsey started Connected Brighton in 2021, with the idea of connecting people to businesses. She is also the host of the Brighton Business Show on RadioReverb, and a finalist in the Dynamic Business Awards.

UPFRONT THE LATEST BULLETINS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

FEMALE START UPS HIT BY HMRC TARDINESS HMRC’s sluggishness is holding back entrepreneurs, says Buy Women Built (BWB), a network of some 450 female entrepreneurs. It says its members have been left frustrated when trying to access tax incentive schemes designed to support start-ups. Trying to contact HMRC was “very diﬃcult” and in some cases delays in receiving the tax credits meant firms could not pay bills. “In recent months the female founders in our community have increasingly experienced issues accessing key government incentives aimed at boosting new businesses and innovation,” says Sahar Hashemi, co-founder of BWB. In particular, she points to R&D (research and development) tax credits and EIS (Enterprise Investment Scheme) tax relief.

❛❛

People waste their time pondering whether a glass is half empty or half full. I just drink whatever’s in the glass Sophia Petrillo, The Golden Girls

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

WOMEN DELIVER BETTER RETURNS THAN MEN ON INVESTMENT In a report by Boston Consulting Group, entitled “Why Women-Owned Startups Are a Better Bet”, businesses founded by women deliver more than twice as much per dollar invested than those founded by men. Data published by the US Census Bureau, Dow Jones, the Harvard Business Review, and others from private and public studies show the following: • Women-owned firms generate significantly higher revenue than male-owned firms. • Female-owned firms create significantly more jobs than their male-owned peers. • Women are more effective in Senior Leadership roles. • Women executives significantly improve company performance as compared with men. • Women have a much larger appetite for growth and success than their male counterparts.

SUPPORT NETWORK SUPPORTS 300 MOTHERS BACK IN WORK A Bristol-based group has reached a milestone by supporting over 300 mums back into employment since its launch in January 2020. Women’s Work Lab, the all-female-led social enterprise has been helping unemployed mums and those on benefits back into workplace in the region, and has revealed plans to support further 185 mums this year. On the expansion plans, Camilla Rigby, co-founder and joint chief executive of Women’s Work Lab, said: “We are so proud to have now supported 300 mums on their journeys back into employment and are totally thrilled to reveal our new branding.”

❛❛

You see a lot of smart guys with dumb women, but you hardly ever see a smart woman with a dumb guy Erica Jong

GENDER EQUALITY STILL GENERATIONS AWAY Women CEOs may be the victims of what a leadership consultant has labelled ‘tall poppy syndrome’. New analysis shows that worldwide CEO gender parity is, at the current rate of travel, still 81 years in the future despite a record number of women being appointed to the role. In the UK, gender parity for FTSE 100 CEOs will not be reached for another 117 years (the year 2141), according to leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates. It also found that 10% of female CEOs left their roles in 2023 with 27% of these being dismissed. This led to one analyst to say women were being singled out and subject to more scrutiny than their male counterparts.

❛❛

The lord gave us two ends: One to sit on and the other to think with. Success depends on which one we use the most Ann Landers

TOP TEN JOBS WHERE WOMEN ARE BETTER PAID Personal finance experts Wealth of Geeks analysed gender pay gap data from the Oﬃce for National Statistics to reveal the job roles where women can be higher earners than men in the UK. Without context, here are the top 10 gaps in favour of women. pay gap

1. Community and civil enforcement oﬃcers (e.g. traﬃc wardens) 28.9% 2. Welfare professionals 20.9% 3. Biological scientists 20.6% 4. Hire service managers and proprietors 20.3% 5. Personal assistants/secretaries 17.1%

pay gap

6. Special needs education teachers 7. Veterinarians 8. Occupational therapists 9. Social and humanities scientists 10. Publicans/licensees

16.8% 14.3% 13.2% 12.4% 11.4%

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

BUSINES S

HELPING EVEN MORE WOMEN TO GROW Last year Dynamic magazine sponsored multiple places for women on the Help to Grow: Management programme to help them to grow their business and develop themselves. We are delighted that we have again teamed up with Help to Grow to sponsor more places so that a limited number of women business leaders or senior managers can attend free of charge in 2024. This mini MBA-style programme from the University of Brighton is taught over 12 weeks, face to face and online, and includes your own business mentor. Attendees enjoy taking time away from the business to focus on the business, and all come away with an actionable growth plan. 43 business leaders graduated from the Brighton and Crawley Help to Grow courses at the end of 2023, and Dynamic’s Businesswoman of the Year, Emma Draper from Velvet, was one of them.

Velvet is an independent store selling fashion homeware and lifestyle that Emma set up 23 years ago and she employs 18 staﬀ in her Hove shop. She tells us how the programme has beneﬁted her and the business.

What would you say to a female leader thinking of enrolling on the Help to Grow Course?

“Help to Grow has been amazing, it has generated the time for me to look at new ideas. I’ve learnt so much from the different businesses on the programme, even if they do something completely different to me. It’s supported me working over the businesses rather than in them. “Operations-wise, Help to Grow has prompted me to talk to some external businesses to look at new systems, and we have gone out to tender on this. “It’s impacted my leadership as I have learnt to be more strategic and set up systems to encourage the team to be more accountable to the business goals, which in turn is developing their skills. I have also just made someone an MD in the business which I was considering anyway but Help to Grow has made me realise this was the right thing to do for the business. “I have started chatting to my management team about the different topics we have covered on the course and will continue to use this and I am now finishing my plan on a page to help focus my growth plans going forward.”

What are the biggest challenges being a female leader in an SME?

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

“Do it! I learnt loads, felt validated for a lot of the stuff I was already doing and I met some fantastic people.”

“The huge cost of childcare and support when my children were younger, when I needed it the most, as the business was in infancy then too.” In one or two sentences, why should someone buy your products/services?

“Just a short bus ride from the centre of Brighton, come and discover the magical world of Velvet, your next great favourite shop. A fabulous two-floor independent store close to the seafront, full of wonderful fashion, homeware and lifestyle products. “We have a terrific team of passionate, dedicated and lovely people, committed to offering you the warmest of welcomes, the very best customer service and ready to find you that perfect outfit for the weekend or that ideal gift for someone you love.” www.velvetstore.co.uk

❛❛

HELP TO GROW • Mini MBA style content • In person and online sessions over 12 weeks • Open to businesses with 5+ employees • Your own one-to-one business mentor • Time away from work to invest in your business • 90% Government funded • Networking with other local businesses • Taught by experts at the University of Brighton

I learnt loads, felt validated for a lot of the stuff I was already doing, and I met some fantastic people Emma Draper, Velvet

FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY FOR A SPONSORED PLACE You must be a leader or senior manager of an SME which employs between five and 249 people to join Help to Grow. The next 12-week programme starts in April in Brighton, and further dates in Brighton and Crawley will be announced soon. To request your sponsored place, saving £750, pre-register now and we will get in contact to discuss dates and confirm. Make sure you QUOTE DYNAMIC24 under ‘Other’ when the form asks where you heard about Help to Grow. For more information visit Help to Grow or email helptogrow@brighton.ac.uk to arrange a chat with a course leader to ﬁnd out if the course is right for you

MODULES • Strategy and innovation • Digital adoption • Internationalisation and winning new markets • Vision, mission and values • Developing a marketing strategy • Building a brand • Organisational design • Employee management and leading change • Creating a high performing workplace • Efficient operations • Finance

FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

STORY BIG

BARBOUR

A CUT ABOVE Dynamic tells the story of Dame Margaret Barbour – a widow who took over an 80 year-old family business to turn it into one of the biggest international fashion brands the world has ever seen, and continues to do so

he Barbour story began in 1894 at 5 Market Place, South Shields (in those days in Co Durham, now Tyne & Wear). John Barbour founded the company as a retailer, specialising in ‘oilskins, waterproofs and footwear’. The company has stayed true to its North East roots and its family roots. In 2024, it is owned and run by the fifth generation family with its headquarters located in Simonside, South Shields, where many of Barbour’s classic wax jackets are still manufactured and repaired by hand. The company has a presence in retail stores in almost 55 countries worldwide including the UK, US, most of western Europe, Argentina, New Zealand and Japan. Today, the company is run by Dame Margaret Barbour, and her daughter Helen. They are the women responsible for turning Barbour, during the 1980s, from the essential professional outdoor clothing company into a high-end fashion brand, favoured by so-called ‘Sloane Rangers’. Margaret Barbour was made CBE in 1991 for her services to industry, and was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2001 for services to industry in North East England.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

BRIEF FAMILY TIMELINE

1894 J Barbour is founded in South Shields, Co Durham by John Barbour. 1908 John’s son, Malcolm Barbour produces the first mail order catalogue. 75% of the company’s business is now through mail order. 1912 J Barbour & Sons became J Barbour & Sons Ltd with John Barbour as Chairman and Jack and Malcolm as joint Managing directors. 1918 Founder John Barbour dies, aged 70. 1927 Jack Barbour resigns as Chairman, and brother Malcolm takes over. 1936 Duncan Barbour, Malcolm’s son, produces a range of motorcycle clothing, used by the British International Motorcycling team every year until 1977. 1939 Duncan is called away to war, so Malcolm runs the company with Duncan’s wife Nancy. Between them, they design the standard uniforms worn by British U-boat seamen. 1957 Duncan dies aged 48, meaning father Malcolm takes over the company again. Duncan’s son John joins, aged 19. 1964 Malcolm dies, aged 83, with Nancy taking over. John becomes Managing Director. 1968 John unexpectedly dies, aged 29. His widow Margaret joins the Board of Directors. 1973 Margaret becomes Chair of J Barbour & Sons, a position she has now held for over 50 years.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

STORY BIG Dame Margaret Barbour was born Margaret Davies in February 1940. She had begun her career as a teacher when she met John Barbour, whom she subsequently married. He was working for the firm in the south of England. After John’s early death, she immersed herself into the Barbour business, learning all aspects and every department of the company. This served her well after she succeeded her mother-in-law, Nancy Barbour, as Chair in 1973. As a fashionable young woman with a talent for listening and learning from customers, Margaret brought in some much-needed fresh ideas; pivotal to what was – in the 1960s and 70s – a traditional company serving a loyal but limited customer base. She turned the company’s rustic clothes, initially designed for seamen, motorcyclists and submariners, into a must-have fashion accessory for the 1980s. She then turned the rural brand into an international retaining its reputation for integrity, craftsmanship and urban fashion icon in over 55 countries where it is repre- tradition. In other words, fashion was given greater sented through the company’s regional prominence, without sacrificing the offices and distributors. As a fashionable young quality. In order to achieve this, what she Barbour received its first Royal woman with a talent for Warrant in 1974 from HRH The felt needed to happen was to widen the product range, and to make a range Duke of Edinburgh. In 1982, it was listening and learning of jackets that appealed to a younger awarded its second Royal Warrant generation. She brought in a wider from customers, Margaret from HM The Queen and in 1987 from variety of styles and colours, while reHRH The Prince of Wales. brought in some much taining the country-style that appealed Today, Dame Margaret remains needed fresh ideas so much to the city-dwelling young, active in the strategic management wealthy people; many of whom liked to of the business, as Chair of a fivebe synonymous with driving Range Rovers. member board of directors, including with her daughter The key to this was the design and product develop- and Vice Chair, Helen. Barbour now employs over a ment had moved to the front and centre of the compa- 1,000 people at its South Shields site, and around the ny’s thinking, enabling it to move with the times while world. 14

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

PHILANTHROPY

As head of a family business, Dame Margaret has undertaken to protect the welfare of its employees, providing security of employment, training, benefits, and support for the local community. It is an approach Dame Margaret has always believed in. To that end, in 1988, she set up The Barbour Trust – which later became The Barbour Foundation – to support charities and good causes in the North East of England and support research into the causes of chronic illness. The Foundation has a diverse collection of objectives, including; • The relief of patients suﬀering from any form of illness or disease. • The furtherance of general education of children and young people. • The protection and preservation of features of cities, towns, villages and the countryside that are of special, environmental, historical or architectural interest. • The relief of people in conditions of need, hardship or distress in the UK. Together with her daughter, Helen Barbour, she also established the Women’s Fund in 1999, with an initial donation of £250,000 to encourage and support women, also across the North East of England to develop their full potential. An annual Women in Philanthropy network event takes place, attended by 300 female business leaders, showcasing charitable projects, and boosting the Women’s Fund.

In keeping with Dame Margaret’s eye for fashion, Barbour keeps up to date with sartorial trends

As head of a family business, Dame Margaret has undertaken to protect the welfare of its employees In 2000, as a tribute to Nancy, her mother-in-law, Margaret – as she still was then – set up The Nancy Barbour Award, an award within the Women’s Fund that recognises organisations helping women to play a more active part in the community, particularly those who work with a disability. Dame Margaret has been a major supporter of medical research and education at Newcastle University. In 2014, she donated £2 million to the Future Fund of the Centre for Childhood Cancer. In 2019, Newcastle University named its new £39m teaching facility the Dame Margaret Barbour Building.

THE FUTURE

Dame Margaret Barbour (white jacket) at the opening of the eponymous building at Newcastle University, 2019

Dame Margaret Barbour celebrates her 84th birthday this month, yet shows little sign in relinquishing her handson control of both the Barbour business – itself showing no signs of abating – and the charitable benevolence she oﬀers women in the North East, and across the UK. With Dame Margaret and Helen at the helm, Barbour looks in rude health to continue the next-level success story both of them have brought about. www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

NE WS

❛❛

No quality of human nature is more remarkable, both in itself and in its consequences, than that propensity we have to sympathise with others.

THE EU IS SAYING ‘ENOUGH IS ENOUGH’ TO GREENWASHING Many products claim to, in some way, to be ‘green’ but research shows that over 50% of those claims are vague, misleading or unfounded. The EU has now approved a law which will prohibit manufacturers from using eco-buzzwords unless the product is truly greener than conventional ones. The directive, which will come into force within the next two years, also aims to ensure that people have better access to information about the durability and reparability of products before buying them.

David Hume, Philosopher, 1739

IN THE RIGHT

DIRECTION REDUCED-LITHIUM BATTERY DISCOVERED USING AI An AI-powered search conducted in a collaboration between Microsoft and a US lab has uncovered a novel battery material that uses less lithium, marking a significant advancement in materials science. The team of scientists employed artificial intelligence and high-performance computing to sift through 32.6 million potential battery materials, including many not found in nature. Any previous task – it was estimated – would have taken 20 years previously; this took just 80 hours. The breakthrough initiates an ambitious endeavour to develop a new generation of batteries with reduced reliance on toxic lithium.

POWER SHIFT Shell is confronting a potential shareholder revolt as major investors, including the UK’s largest pension scheme, align with a climate activist resolution. Twenty-seven investors, holding around 5% of Shell’s shares, are supporting a resolution by Dutch shareholder activists urging the oil company to align its medium-term emissions reduction targets with the 2015 Paris agreement. This coalition includes the UK governmentbacked National Employment Savings Trust (Nest), managing pensions for almost a quarter of the country’s workers, and firms like Amundi, Candriam, Scottish Widows, and Rathbones Group. The resolution, backed by investors overseeing about €4tn in assets, will be voted on at Shell’s annual general meeting in May.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

SCANDALOUS

A HELPING HAND FOR ABUSE SURVIVORS In England and Wales, people facing domestic abuse will now have access to ‘lifeline’ payments to help them start a new life. As of January 31st, survivors who lack the financial means to leave their abuser can apply for a one-time payment, with a maximum amount of £500, along with an additional £2,500 to support their path to independence. This initiative, funded by a £2 million government programme, will be administered through domestic abuse services. The programme’s implementation follows a successful pilot run by the charity Women’s Aid, where more than 75% of recipients used their grants for essential items after ﬂeeing abusive environments.

❛❛

One of the most significant miscarriages of justice in UK history, involving over 700 sub-postmasters wrongly accused of theft due to an IT fault, is now being addressed by a newly announced government law. This long-overdue legislation aims to exonerate and compensate all those affected by the scandal, which spanned 1999 to 2015. The question is why had it taken so long when so many people knew what had happened. Curiously, it took a television drama, “Mr Bates vs the Post Oﬃce,” aired in January, to prompt the government into action. Despite the relief, legal experts caution that the bill carries risks, as it could set a precedent that might compromise the judiciary’s independence in future cases.

A computer would deserve to be called intelligent if it could deceive a human into believing that it was human. Alan Turing, computer scientist, 1950

ALZHEIMER’S TESTING BREAKTHROUGH A study led by Swedish researchers suggests that a newly developed commercial blood test may match the accuracy of standard lumbar punctures in detecting Alzheimer’s disease. The blood test targets ‘p-tau217,’ a variant of the tau protein, a key marker of Alzheimer’s. Currently, Alzheimer’s is primarily diagnosed based on symptoms, and only 2% receive gold-standard diagnoses through methods like PET scans or lumbar punctures. With new Alzheimer’s therapies on the horizon, early and accurate diagnosis becomes crucial. The study found that blood levels of p-tau217 correlated with amyloid and tau proteins detected in brain scans and lumbar punctures.

EV RELIEF? Familiar fixtures on UK streets, the once-used green street cabinets for landline phone cabling may find a renewed purpose as charging stations for electric vehicles. British Telecom recently announced a pilot initiative aiming to repurpose these units, addressing the shortage of EV charging points. The trial is set to start in Scotland “within weeks,” with potential plans to convert 60,000 street cabinets into EV charging stations nationwide if successful. Currently, the UK has only 53,000 charging points. Tom Guy, Managing Director at BT Group, sees this innovative solution as a significant step toward bringing kerbside EV charging closer to reality and overcoming existing customer barriers. www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

FE ATURE

Business owner and survivor of domestic abuse SHARON LIVERMORE has launched a nationwide campaign to help employers tackle domestic abuse

Employers’ pledge to take action against domestic abuse The campaign, ‘Working It Out’, created in collaboration with the Domestic Abuse (DA) Alliance and outsourced HR provider The HR Dept calls on employers to sign up to a six-step pledge to support employees. After being forced to take five days of annual leave to attend the court case of her abusive partner, Ms Livermore created ‘Sharon’s Policy’ in 2021. The policy enables businesses to improve workforce safeguarding procedures for victims of abuse. The Working It Out six-step pledge invites employers to take action by: 1. Becoming a member of the Employer’s Initiative on Domestic Abuse. 2. Introducing and embedding a domestic abuse policy in the workplace . 3. Ensuring all staff know where to get help if they are experiencing domestic abuse. 4. Raising awareness of domestic abuse among employees. 5. Publicly sharing their commitment to the Working It Out pledge. 6. Reporting back on activities and achievements annually.

Following the introduction of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, the Home Office published Domestic Abuse Statutory Guidance to increase awareness and inform the response to domestic abuse. The guidance highlights the important role employers have in helping victims of domestic abuse to remain in work, in the workplace itself, and to help victims access the support they need. Sharon educates organisations by offering specialised training on domestic abuse and its impact on their workforces. She also provides strategies to help employees resolve the issue. “Colleagues and managers can often be the only other people outside the home that survivors talk to each day and are therefore uniquely placed to help spot signs of abuse. Whether providing a safe space to disclose abuse or signposting to the right organisations for help, employers can be a vital link between an employee and the support they need,” explains Sharon.

+ DOMESTIC ABUSE: THE FACTS • As many as one in five victims may need to take time off work because of abuse (Domestic violence and the workplace TUC 2014).

• One in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime (Domestic abuse prevalence and trends, England and Wales: year ending March 2020).

• An estimated 2.4 million adults aged 16 years and over experienced domestic abuse in England and Wales for the year ending March 2022 (Domestic abuse in England and Wales overview: November 2022).

• The social and economic costs of domestic abuse are estimated to be in the region of £78 billion (2022 to 2023 prices) over a three-year average period of abuse (Government response to ‘A Patchwork of Provision: how to meet the needs of victims and survivors across England and Wales’).

• Lost output relating to time taken off work and reduced productivity is estimated to cost the UK economy £14 billion (The Home Office: The economic and social costs of domestic abuse. Published 21 January 2019).

> A link to the report can be found here: Domestic Violence and Abuse: Working together to transform responses in the workplace.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

For many victims of domestic abuse, the workplace may be an escape from abuse at home • In 2017, Vodafone Foundation published a report about the barriers that prevent organisations from doing more to support employees who are experiencing domestic abuse, as victim-survivors or as perpetrators.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

FE ATURE

+ FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT DOMESTIC ABUSE EDUCATION

Domestic Abuse Education was founded in 2023 by Sharon Livermore, a domestic abuse survivor, who shares her lived experience and knowledge to educate and train businesses through her CPDaccredited course. Sharon has a Diploma in Domestic Abuse Awareness and is an Ambassador for the Domestic Abuse Alliance and the Employer’s Initiative on Domestic Abuse. Sharon works alongside both organisations to create a positive impact and end the perception and associated stigma that comes from the belief that what happens in a marital home isn’t our business. domesticabuseeducation.co.uk

ABOUT THE DOMESTIC ABUSE ALLIANCE

The Domestic Abuse (DA) Alliance brings together organisations working on the frontline of domestic abuse with the legal sector to provide legal assistance and protection for victims. The free to use WEPROTECT app enables an immediate referral to be made to the DA Alliance’s team of trained legal advisors who support domestic abuse victims to seek professional legal advice and secure protection measures, such as court orders and injunctions, to help them break the cycle of recurrent abuse. domestic-abuse.co.uk

“When I was experiencing domestic abuse, my employer couldn’t fully support me – because they didn’t understand what help I needed or how to provide it. The Working It Out pledge provides a platform for employers to actively demonstrate their commitment to raising awareness of domestic abuse and providing the right support so their employees and business can thrive,” she adds. “Our collaboration with Sharon and The HR Dept on the Working It Out campaign is a powerful example of how people and organisations can partner to protect victims of domestic abuse,” says Razi Hassan, Director of Partnership and Communication for the DA Alliance. “By engaging with employers and providing them with practical tools and resources, we can ensure that those experiencing domestic abuse are identified and receive the help they need as soon as possible.” “For many victims of domestic abuse, the workplace may be an escape from abuse at home. But with many of the UK workforce now working from home, employers also have the responsibility to ensure that the remote workspace is not only prosperous and productive, but also a safe place for their employees,” says Felicity Kenny, Managing Director of The HR Dept.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

• Sharon Livermore, Domestic Abuse Education. Tel: 07897 316514. Email: sharon@domesticabuseeducation.co.uk • Rosie Watson, Domestic Abuse Alliance. Tel: 07740 300686. Email: rosie@domestic-abuse.co.uk • Andrea Bristol, Admire PR for HR Dept media enquiries. Tel: 07887997922 Email: andrea@admire-pr.com

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

ABOUT THE HR DEPT

The HR Dept is an international network of expert human resources practitioners, offering advice and support to more than 6,000 small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) through a network of licensees in more than 100 territories in the UK and Ireland. Over recent years it has played an active role in lobbying for and influencing legislative change, including work around the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and also on legal employment statuses as workplaces adapt to technological and societal shifts. hrdept.co.uk

By signing the Working it Out pledge, it demonstrates commitment as an employer to raising awareness of domestic abuse and having the resources available to provide help

Guiding you to a brighter future In a continually evolving world we help all generations embrace change through trusted advice, support and guidance. Our passion for continued improvement ensures that we work to understand your goals, support and advise you on your journey and help you to realise your ambitions. #GuidingYouToABrighterFuture For more than accountancy, business and wealth advice. Call: +44 (0)33 0124 1399 Email: enquiries@krestonreeves.com Visit: www.krestonreeves.com/shapingyourfuture

In our exclusive Spotlight feature, we highlight women who are doing good things in their community. They’re not always seen but we think they should be

SPOTLIGH T Jan Ellis Jan is the chair of Tyler’s Trust, a small, registered charity based in Barnham, West Sussex, which supports local children with life-threatening illness and their families When Tyler, aged 12, was diagnosed with a brain tumour, he spent months in Chichester and Southampton hospitals. Whilst in hospital, Tyler bought some items to cheer up some other children; they were thrilled, and the idea of Tyler’s Trust was formed. Initially, there were many challenges to overcome, it was a huge learning curve, but with hard work and a great team of volunteers, The Trust was formed in 2015. The Trust covers Southampton, Worthing, Portsmouth and Chichester hospitals and, over time, has increased the services offered to local families. The services are specifically aimed at children and families who spend time in hospital and include: • A beautiful gift box of presents for the ill child, • A large bag of presents for each sibling, we are one of the few charities that recognise illness’s impact on siblings. • For a home essentials kit, many families we support find that at least one parent must give up work, meaning that essential items become unaffordable. • Overnight parental bags containing essential toiletries (when Tyler was first admitted, we could not clean our teeth or have a wash)

The Trust covers Southampton, Worthing, Portsmouth and Chichester hospitals and, over time, has increased the services offered to local families 24

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

• Managing two parental rooms and supplying food and toiletries. The hospitals no longer feed parents, and using the restaurant is costly. • Bespoke activity sessions, many of our children cannot attend standard provision. • Parental coffee mornings provides much-needed emotional support. • A fantastic, free family fun day for all our families One of the biggest issues the Trust faces as a small charity is fundraising and increasing public awareness of our work. I take the lead on applying for grants applications but in the current economic climate, this is highly challenging. To try to help this, I opened the office as a shop two days a week selling hand-crafted items. I also visit local schools and businesses to give talks. However, we still need our funding to increase – there is so much more we could do for our families with increased funding. Through this work, I have met some of the most inspiring and courageous families, and it has allowed me to find something positive in a difficult time. I am beyond proud of Tyler, the Tylers Trust Team, and all we have achieved. www.tylerstrust.co.uk

Rachael Swann Rachel is CEO of Grassroots Suicide Prevention, seeking to educate the wider community on the issue of suicide

Sussex consistently has amongst the highest rates of suicide in England. On average 186 people die by suicide in Sussex each year. This is 20% higher than the national average and rates are on the increase amongst those aged ten to 24. I have personal lived experience of childhood trauma and this has been my driving force in helping the most vulnerable people in our communities. I’ve had the privilege of helping people with legal aid support, gaining access to higher education, securing accommodation after experiencing homelessness, supporting carers and people at risk of suicide. Every suicide is a tragedy which has a devastating and long-lasting impact. For every suicide, it is estimated that over 135 people are profoundly affected. My vision is that everyone in our community is aware and develops the knowledge and skills to help prevent suicide. We are working hard to build stronger collaborations and have been expanding what we do to address the increased rates of suicide, ensuring our work is tailored for people at higher risk. One example is the increase in domestic abuse following the pandemic. As a result, we have developed a bespoke course on suicide prevention and domestic abuse which has been rolled out across Kent and is now being expanded to Sussex. We empower people to help save lives from suicide through connecting, educating, and campaigning. We offer a wide range of ‘off the shelf ’, tailored and bespoke training and consultancy on suicide prevention,

My vision is that everyone in our community is aware and develops the knowledge and skills to help prevent suicide mental health, and self-harm. With 20 years’ expertise, we have trained over 50,000 professionals and individuals to have the knowledge, skills and confidence to help support people at risk of suicide. Our pioneering, award-winning ‘Stay Alive’ app has been downloaded nearly one million times, across 212 countries and in 14 different languages. The app provides resources, tools and quick access to crisis support helplines and is nationally recommended by the NHS. If you would like to find out more then please contact rachael@prevent-suicide.org.uk If you are struggling yourself and need support or are supporting someone else please go to our Stay Alive app www.prevent-suicide.org.uk

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT

Jo Gough Jo Gough has spent ten years delivering direct services in the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector, with six of these as CEO at RISE. Here she tells us about her work.

I am driven by the global cause to end violence and abuse against women and girls, and understand that this takes a whole root and branch society-wide approach to bring real change. Establishing the structures to prevent and to address perpetration of abuse is at the core of tackling the systemic nature of abuse of women and girls. I want to have a greater impact on policy to permanently bring change, to see a turn-around in thinking rather than just a sticking plaster on the problem – this is the RISE vision. Whilst I have applied this approach over the last five years as Vice Chair and Trustee at Women’s Aid Federation England (WAFE) and as Chair of the Research, Policy, Campaigns and Communication Sub of the WAFE Board, I feel I have more to give. I want to see changes in policy that improve the lives of girls and young women, and that make the links about economic abuse being a core plank of coercive control. As well as providing services to help survivors recover, I dedicate as much time to ending violence and abuse forever. I am a feminist with an MA in Social Policy and a keen interest in ethnographic social research and its practical applications as well as a long history of taking a community development and service user / survivor-led approach to my work with adults and children. I am committed to tackling inequality, and have worked and volunteered in positions that campaign for and build social capital to respond to inequality including working to shut down long-stay hospitals (mental handicap (sic) hospitals); in HIV and AIDS support; and community development on ‘priority’ estates.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

I want to see changes in policy that improve the lives of girls and young women We are here to support women, children and LGBT people in Brighton & Hove and surrounding areas who are affected by domestic abuse. Demand may increase but we are not going away. We will continue to offer help including crisis accommodation, a helpline, counselling, support groups, legal and housing advice, children’s services and a specialist LGBT Service. We want to be there for everyone who needs us, providing the right support at the right time. www.rise.org.uk

Rachael Duke Rachael Duke is Director at Heads On, a Worthing-based official charity for Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, supporting mental health and learning disability services

I turned 18 in 1997. Titanic was the highest grossing film of the year, Glastonbury was the “Year of the Mud” (I know, I was there) and Baz Luhrmann wrote “Don’t feel guilty if you don’t know what you want to do with your life.” I’ve worked in the charity sector for over 20 years, driven by a desire to help make the world a better place than when I found it. But when I think about the career I feel incredibly grateful to have had, I remember that I never had a game plan. And yet, I am exactly where I’m meant to be. I started Heads On ten years ago. It’s the longest I’ve ever stayed in a job, and it is as challenging, exciting and deeply personal now as it was then. I am proud to work both in mental health services and use them – it makes me better at my job. One in four people in the UK will experience a mental health problem, and nearly 90% of them say that stigma and discrimination have a negative effect on their lives. It simply shouldn’t be that way and yet that stigma has persisted for generations. Part of Heads On’s work is to challenge this. Our schools’ project supports primary and secondary age childrenand their teachers to talk about mental health.

Football programmes encourage men to reach out. Our oral history project will capture people’s whole life stories, placing their mental health in the context of a life well lived. Throughout everything that we do, social connection is the thread that runs through it. If you do one thing after reading this, have a chat with the person you’re worried about. Ideally with biscuits. My proudest moment? Being here. For those of us with our hands up as the one in four, I think of the myriad of tiny moments that make up a life that, on more than one occasion, I wasn’t sure I’d be here to see. Being here? That’s worth celebrating. If you’d like to join Heads On in supporting many more people to be here, please do get in touch. www.headsoncharity.org

If you do one thing after reading this, have a chat with the person you’re worried about. Ideally with biscuits www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

FE ATURE

EMPOWERING

WOMEN

The Surrey Women’s Entrepreneurship Network (SWEN)

n the heart of Surrey, a burgeoning network is opportunities for women in the innovation ecosystem, driving change and fostering innovation within the raising the profile of entrepreneurs and companies across all entrepreneurial landscape. The Surrey Women’s sectors. SWEN’s mentoring programs are a cornerstone of its Entrepreneurship Network (SWEN) was launched in initiatives, connecting aspiring women December as a collaborative effort beentrepreneurs with experienced mentweenSurreyResearchPark,SETsquared tors who can provide guidance, share Surrey, and the University of Surrey. insights, and offer support. This It is dedicated to revolutionising mentorship component plays a pivotopportunities for business growth and al role in nurturing the next generainnovation, particularly for women tion of female innovators and leaders, entrepreneurs. SWEN stands for helping them navigate the complexities empowerment by offering a compreof the business world with confidence hensive suite of initiatives designed to and resilience. bridge the gender gap and create Complementing the mentorship a supportive ecosystem for women in Kat Mack, SWEN Co-founder programmes, SWEN provides expert business. At the core of SWEN’s mission is the commitment business support that covers a spectrum of areas, from to providing women innovators and entrepreneurs with refining business strategies to navigating regulatory frameaccess to critical information, support, and resources. works. Everyone at SWEN recognises that a strong foundaThe network recognises the unique challenges faced by tion is crucial for the success of any business, and it actively women in the business world and actively works towards works towards ensuring that women entrepreneurs have the levelling the playing field. Through its exciting collabo- tools and knowledge they need to build and sustain successful rative efforts, it has created a robust network that offers ventures.

❛❛

The community is vibrant and poised; I can’t wait to see the network ﬂourish.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

SWEN actively assists women in preparing for investment raises and grant applications, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate the funding landscape successfully Beyond mentorship and business support, SWEN places a strong emphasis on investor-readiness. Access to funding is a critical factor in launching and growing any business, therefore SWEN actively assists women in preparing for investment raises and grant applications, ensuring they are wellequipped to navigate the funding landscape successfully. By equipping women with the skills and knowledge needed to secure financial support, they aspire to contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem. But the Surrey Women’s Entrepreneurship Network doesn’t stop there. Its support reaches beyond mentorship and securing funding to a dedication to creating platforms for women to expand their networks, generate interest in their ideas, and receive expert business advice. Through events, workshops, and networking sessions, SWEN fosters an environment where women can showcase their talents, connect with potential collaborators, and explore avenues for collaboration and growth.

As part of its commitment to fostering growth opportunities, SWEN is actively involved in the Dynamic Festival for Women 2024, where it will host a Mentoring Room. This initiative will provide a fantastic opportunity for female innovators and entrepreneurs to engage with experienced mentors, gain valuable insights, and receive guidance on various aspects of business development. SWEN is also the proud sponsor of the Future Talent of the Year Award at this year’s Dynamic Awards. Surrey Women’s Entrepreneurship Network is creating a network that goes beyond traditional support structures, fostering a community where women can thrive. By championing women in entrepreneurship, actively promoting their contributions, and offering a holistic suite of initiatives covering mentorship, business support, investor-readiness, and growth opportunities, SWEN is making significant strides in creating a more inclusive and empowering entrepreneurial landscape for women, both within Surrey and beyond.

https://surrey-research-park.com/ surrey-womens-entrepreneurship-network

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

WELLBEING

Some women who have had normal cholesterol readings all their lives, find that this changes during menopause. But, before you start to reach for the statins or cut out eggs, let’s take a dive into the science and really understand what the numbers mean BY TANYA BOROWSKI

Menopause & cholesterol FIRSTLY, WHAT IS CHOLESTEROL?

After cholesterol testing, you will be told a figure for your total cholesterol – a ‘healthy’ level is considered to be five mmol/L (millimoles per litre) or below. But, this figure is misleading, as we do not have cholesterol particles freely passing through our arteries. Since cholesterol is a fat, it can’t travel alone in the bloodstream as blood is predominantly water based, and the two don’t mix. Picture fat left over from your Sunday roast floating on top of the roasting tray when filled with water. The body’s solution to this problem is to package cholesterol and other fats (lipids) into tiny protein-covered particles that can then mix easily with blood.

These tiny particles are called lipoproteins, “carriers” of cholesterol and other fats, able to travel in blood, depositing their cargo of cholesterol and other fats( lipids) around the body for many important uses.

WHAT ARE THE USES OF CHOLESTEROL IN THE BODY

Yes, contrary to popular belief, cholesterol has many positive functions within the body. Cholesterol is an essential part of all cell membrane structures plus the protective myelin sheath around the nerves. It is a building block precursor for hormone production (oestrogen, testosterone, progesterone and DHEA), vitamin D and the adrenal hormone cortisol. Cholesterol is also an essential component of bile acids which are key to eliminating waste from the body and facilitate the absorption of fat from the gut.

THE STAGES OF CHOLESTEROL l HDL (good) l LDL (bad)

Normal Artery

Low

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

Artery Narrowed

Normal

Moderate

High

MORE ON LIPOPROTEINS AND TESTING

As mentioned before, cholesterol is transported in the body within the lipoproteins, along with triglycerides. As such, it is important to emphasise, it is these lipoproteins that come into contact with the arterial wall and can, if the environment is correct (more on this in a bit), initiate the cascade of events that leads to atherosclerosis and heart disease. Measurements of your total cholesterol are not overly helpful or, indeed, reflective of health. To assess your risk, understanding your lipoprotein status; namely their density, numbers and size together with the status of the environment is far more helpful. Lipoproteins are classified according to their density; based on the amount of protein, cholesterol, and triglycerides within them. High levels of certain lipoproteins can be

Measurements of your total cholesterol are not overly helpful or, indeed, reflective of health

harmful to your heart. But some lipoproteins have heartprotective benefits. There are four major classes but only two are regularly tested within the NHS:• Low-density-lipoprotein (LDL-C) is commonly known as ‘bad’, delivering cholesterol to cells for either cell membrane or hormone production. • High-density-lipoprotein (HDL-C) termed ‘good’ is involved in bringing excess cholesterol back to the liver which is then eliminated via the bile and faeces.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

WELLBEING

GUIDE TO HEALTHY LEVELS FOR DIFFERENT TYPES OF LIPOPROTEINS

HDL-C (‘good’ cholesterol) above 1.2 mmol/L for women

LDL-C (‘bad’ cholesterol) Below four mmol/L.

Other lipoproteins are

• Very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) are another type of ‘bad’ cholesterol. VLDLs carry triglycerides – and to a lesser degree, cholesterol – to your tissues. • Chylomicrons are very large particles that also transport triglycerides. The LDL-C particles size and density change as they move around the body and lipids are removed. The most up-to-date thinking is that it is the smaller, denser LDL particles that are more damaging to arterial cell walls due to their ability to be more easily damaged by free radicals and get drawn in arterial walls forming a plaque.

MORE ADVANCED TESTING FOR LIPOPROTEINS

More advanced testing through Functional Medicine practitioners, who can test for VLDLs as well as the number of LDL-particles and the density of the LDLs 1. The number of LDL-particles (LDL-P) appear more predictive of risk than the standard LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) that is obtained from the GP. 2. LDL exists either as large, more buoyant particles or as smaller, more dense particles (sdLDL). sdLDL is more easily oxidised (basically internal rusting!), has a higher affinity for vessel walls, and remains in the circulation longer because it is less likely to be cleared by the liver, making it more atherogenic than larger LDL particles.

TANYA’S TOP DIET & LIFESTYLE TIPS

A ‘healthy’ level is considered to be ﬁve mmol/L (millimoles per litre) or below. But, this ﬁgure is misleading… On the other hand, a higher number of HDL-P is considered to be more protective, since HDL removes cholesterol by transporting it to the liver. In general, higher levels of HDL-P are at a lower risk for heart disease.

MOVE

You can walk, run, trot, swim, cycle, take a class, play tennis, or do any activity CHOOSE INCREASE SOLUBLE that gets your heart beating HEALTHY FATS FIBRE INTAKE faster. Any cardio exercise Monounsaturated fats, found Soluble fibre binds cholesterol can improve your cholesterol in olive oil, nuts, seeds, and in the gut and escorts it levels. The key is to do it avocados, lower the ‘bad’ LDL from your body before most days of the week and cholesterol; omega-3 fats are being absorbed into your known to raise ‘good’ HDL bloodstream. Aim for at least cholesterol levels. 25 grammes of fibre a day. Foods high in soluble fibre include raspberries (eight grammes in one cup), beans and pulses (eight grammes in half a cup), a medium apple with skin (five gramme), broccoli (five grammes in one cup), and brown rice (four grammes in one cup).

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

accumulate at least 150 minutes (30 minutes five days a week). You don’t have to push yourself too hard. However, an hour a day of activity or higher intensity activities like fast walking or jogging, may provide better results.

THE ENVIRONMENT AND MENOPAUSAL RISK FACTORS

What causes LDL to become damaged and as a result reactive? Inflammation can result for numerous reasons, most common are insulin resistance, psychological stress, excess exercise without sufficient recovery, heavy metal toxicity, chronic viral or bacterial infections, food reactions and weight gain. The life stage of menopause is associated with significant changes in body shape, namely the accumulation of fat in the abdomen as well as decreased lean body mass. This change in fat accumulation in the abdomen is not inert, it produces inflammatory chemicals, which damage (oxidise) LDL particles. The declining oestrogen levels that occur in menopause also results in a loss of blood sugar control. Escalating

CUT BACK/ ELIMINATE REFINED CARBOHYDRATES

These include sweetened drinks, biscuits, cakes, sweets, fruit juice, white bread, pasta, and the worst offender – alcohol. When digested, these foods quickly break down into sugar, raising blood sugar and insulin levels which increase triglycerides and lower protective HDL levels.

Contrary to popular belief, cholesterol has many positive functions within the body levels damage the lining of your arteries meaning it’s more likely that LDL- cholesterol will stick to them, making them narrow or even blocked. The following diet and lifestyle interventions help to control blood sugar levels and keep inflammation tamed. I hope you found this helpful. www.tanyaborowski.com

FIND A WAY TO RELAX

CONSIDER SUPPLEMENTS

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats found in fish, such as fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, walnuts, and seeds like ﬂax seeds and chia seeds.

REDUCE SATURATED FATS

Foods high in saturated fat include red meat, processed meats (salami, bacon, and hot dogs) and ice cream. Too much saturated fat impairs your liver’s ability to self regulate cholesterol production. Instead, eat more fish, poultry, and moderate butter and dairy intake.

One of the many detrimental effects stress has on your body is to raise cortisol which, in turn, increases triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels. Helpful strategies include meditation, yoga, and deep breathing, but they’re not the only ways to relax. Find what works for you and make it a constant part of your life.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

RE VIE W

FURTHER READING… Debra Corey is an awardwinning HR expert and the author of Bad Bosses Ruin Lives: The Building Blocks for Being a Great Boss (out now), co-authored with Ken Corey. What type of boss do you want to be?

LEADER AS HEALER By Nicholas Janni LID Publishing (2022)

This award-winning book is about the highest levels of presence and peak performance leadership. It is, above all, a call to break from the chronically imbalanced ways of thinking and functioning that have become the norm in so many corporate cultures, where ‘doing’ eclipses ‘being’, and hyper-rational, analytical thinking relegates feeling, sensing, intuiting and the transpersonal to the outer fringes of life. To face the scope and threats of 21st Century challenges, today’s leaders must possess potent powers for logic, reason, discernment and strategic forecasting. Yet, they must also be empathic and therefore embodied, grounded and intuitive.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

When you wake up in the morning, do you ever ask yourself – what type of boss do I want to be? Do I want to be a good boss, a great one, or possibly a bad one? I’m pretty sure it’s not the latter, that most of us don’t actively set out to be a bad boss. But according to research we conducted for our new book, Bad Bosses Ruin Lives, that’s exactly what’s happening, with 99.6% of people saying they’ve had a bad boss! In fact, of the ten bad boss traits we explored, over 50% of people said they’d seen every single one in a past or current boss. But why is this happening? Why do well-intentioned bosses get it wrong? I believe it’s happening because of a lack of three things – awareness, acceptance, and action. Awareness – I’m absolutely sure that if we went to the bosses of those we surveyed, the majority would be shocked to hear that their employees thought they were a bad boss.

THE CULTURE ADVANTAGE

EMPOWERING YOUR PEOPLE TO DRIVE INNOVATION By Daniel Strode Kogan Page (2022) Far from being the privilege of the unicorns of Silicon Valley, innovation isn’t dependent on business model, structure or even budget. By harnessing your people’s power through a corporate culture of innovation, you unlock business opportunities that your competition won’t have access to. The Culture Advantage is a blueprint to designing, implementing and sustaining a culture that will not only celebrate innovation, but will imbue it in everything your company, and its people, do.

Of the ten bad boss traits we explored, over 50% of people said they’d seen every single one in a past or current boss But we all have blind spots, not being aware of the big and little things that we say and do that cause us to be a bad boss. It’s critical to look out for and understand these, being selfaware of what makes you good, great and bad as a boss. Acceptance – Next, you need to take ownership and

responsibility for any bad boss traits you may have. Tell yourself that we all have them, admit that you’re not perfect, and be willing to recognise and embrace the traits that you personally need to focus on to be the great boss you want and need to be. Action – And finally, it’s time to take action, to leverage the right knowledge, skills, and tools to become great and overcome your bad boss traits. Will it be easy? Absolutely not! So remind yourself that it’s a journey, and embrace it. Celebrate achievements, learn from setbacks, and accept that often it’s going to be progress over perfection. If you’d like to learn more about your boss traits, check out our free and confidential online assessment tool at www.badbossesruinlives.com/assessment

FOR THE CULTURE

WHEN THEY WIN, YOU WIN

The architect of some of the most famous ad campaigns of the last decade argues that culture is the most powerful vehicle for influencing behaviour, and shows readers how to harness culture to inspire other people to share their vision. We all try to influence others in our daily lives. In For the Culture, Marcus Collins argues true cultural engagement is the most powerful vehicle for influencing behaviour. If you want to get people to move, you must first understand the underlying cultural forces that make them tick.

In When They Win, You Win, Russ Laraway, the Chief People Oﬃcer of Goodwater Capital, provides a simple, coherent, and complete leadership standard that teaches organisational planners and managers how to develop incredible levels of employee engagement. Russ Laraway’s approach to management, developed at Google, Twitter, Qualtrics, and Goodwater, shows the way to cultivate a happy, productive, and engaged team. Happy results are sure to follow – for you, your customers, your shareholders, and your employees alike.

THE POWER BEHIND WHAT WE BUY, WHAT WE DO, AND WHO WE WANT TO BE By Marcus Collins PublicAffairs (2023)

BEING A GREAT MANAGER IS SIMPLER THAN YOU THINK By Russ Laraway St. Martin’s Press (2022)

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

SCENE ART

By KELLIE MILLER

AWAKENING THE MIND AND THE BODY THE WORKS OF JULES ALLAN One can sense the energetic shifts that awaken perceptions when viewing Jules Allan’s paintings. They starkly remind us that art plays on the conscious and unconscious mind. Jules’ dual practices as an artist and art psychotherapist, without doubt, inform one another. We can draw parallels to the concepts of neuroscientist Antonio R. Damasio, who has dedicated his life to explaining how consciousness is created. He is concerned with what happens when our bodies interact with the world and what those experiences are. He gives us some insight when he says in his book The Feeling of What Happens: Body Emotion in the Making of Consciousness, “Sometimes we use our minds not to discover facts, but to hide them. We use part of the mind as a screen to prevent another part of it from sensing what goes on elsewhere. The screening is not necessarily intentional — we are not deliberate obfuscators all of the time — but deliberate or not, the screen does hide.” He goes on to say, “One of the things the screen hides most effectively is the body, our own body, by which I mean the ins of it – its interiors. Like a veil thrown over the skin to secure its modesty, the screen partially removes from the mind the inner states of the body, those that constitute the flow of life as it wanders in the journey of each day.” He seems to suggest that we construct screens as barriers. Somehow, these screens can also be referred to as layers, perhaps the clothing and our skin, the outer layer of our bodies. Jules’s subject matter is often related to mortality, sexuality and the vulnerability of the human body. Although her work has a human presence, the forms she uses are not human shapes as such. They relate to the body rather than representing it directly. The forms are fragile or tough, are blurred or have edges, and are separate or merged. Each abstract painting establishes its own identity.

Fusion Oil and acrylic on Canvas

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

She paints by slowly building up layers and then scraping them back to reveal new interactions between the materials. By layering, scraping, and dissolving the paint, residual glimpses and traces of what lies beneath appear. It is intensely physical; reactions between materials, such as the chemical resistance of oil and acrylic paint, are fundamental to the work, rooting it in oppositional forces and creating tension between structure and flux, control and chaos. In this way, process and meaning co-exist and is like memory-making. Often, a grid pattern underlies the layers; this becomes the basic framework, literally in terms of paint and metaphorically in terms of a molecular, cellular structure. Jules’ creative process echoes Damasio’s life work, building and uncovering as she goes with every surface and painting. She is using the mind and body as pathways in her art. Her works can be viewed at Kellie Miller Arts, Brighton. Kellie Miller is an artist, curator, critic and gallery owner. www.kelliemillerarts.com

Renewal Oil and acrylic on Canvas

Jules’ creative process echoes Damasio’s life work, building and uncovering as she goes with every surface and painting

Tendresse Oil and acrylic on Canvas

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

TR AVEL

Miami, a city that needs no introduction, synonymous with sun, sea, and sizzle, took me for an exhilarating ride, exploring its tapestry of fusion, cultural diversity and tropical allure. I only had a few days, but those few days sure packed a beautiful, pastel hued punch. BY TESS DE KLERK

THE MAGIC OF MIAMI A vibrant fusion of culture, sun and sizzle

Located on Florida’s south-eastern coast, this iconic destination blends Latin influences, Art Deco charm, and an irresistible energy that pulses through its streets. There is so much to see and experience, and I would suggest as long a visit as your life allows but if three days is all you have then this itinerary will not disappoint. Alternatively, use this over a longer period by taking a more leisurely approach.

DAY ONE: GET YOUR BEARINGS

Morning: Kickstart your Miami exploration with either a guided tour by a local driver or a bus sightseeing tour to get a comprehensive overview of the city. There are plenty of open top double-decker bus tours, with enthusiastic guides narrating the journey through iconic neighbourhoods like South Beach, Little Havana, and Coconut Grove. Enjoy the vibe and take note of places you’d like to explore later. Late morning: Most bus tour companies offer boat tour extensions. The bus drops you right by the harbour for a tour along Biscayne Bay. Cruise past Star Island, catching glimpses of celebrity homes and the stunning Miami skyline. The boat tour provides a unique perspective, offering insights into the city’s maritime history and its architectural gems.

Afternoon: Enjoy a late lunch at Bayside Marketplace (right by the harbour), a bustling waterfront shopping and dining area. You’ll find a diverse choice of restaurants; best to settle for something overlooking the marina. Afterward, explore the marketplace for souvenirs or take a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the bay breezes. Evening: Downtown Miami is all business during the day, but it truly comes alive at night, aglow in shimmering lights and bustling with activity. Take in a Broadway show or dance the night away at a concert at the Adrienne Arsht Center. Hungry? There are restaurants and bars to satisfy every craving and style, from casual happy hours to quiet date-night spots.

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

DAY 2: BEACH BLISS AND CULTURE

Morning: Start your day with a relaxing morning at South Beach. Soak up the sun, take a dip in the ocean, and enjoy a beachside breakfast at one of the numerous cafes along Ocean Drive. The iconic pastel-coloured lifeguard stands make for the perfect photo backdrop. Late morning – afternoon: Head to Little Havana for a cultural immersion. Wander along Calle Ocho, exploring the local shops and experiencing the vibrant Cuban atmosphere. Stop for a traditional Cuban lunch at Versailles Restaurant, a Miami institution known for its authentic flavours.

DAY 3: RETREAT TO NATURE BEFORE YOUR BIG NIGHT OUT

Morning: Escape the urban hustle with a visit to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables. Explore the lush gardens, tropical landscapes, and butterfly conservatory. It’s a serene start to your day, offering a contrast to the vibrant city scenes. Afternoon: Head to Key Biscayne for a

There is beachside lunch and relaxation at Crandon Park Beach. Enjoy water sports or simply unwind on so much the sandy shores. Take a scenic drive through to see and the island, visiting the historic Cape Florida experience, Lighthouse for great views. Afternoon: Visit Wynwood; the and I would Evening: Return to South Beach for a glamorous neighbourhood famous for its colourful evening. Begin with dinner at a beachfront street art. I suggest hopping on a city suggest as long restaurant, relishing fresh seafood while the sun bike as well as using the Wynwood Walls sets. Transition into Miami’s renowned nightlife a visit Museum app to make sure that you get to with a visit to a rooftop bar for panoramic views, as your life followed by a night of music and dancing at a see it all. Alternatively, book a personal guided tour. Wynwood is renowned for famous club such as LIV at Fontainebleau or allows its art galleries also, if street art isn’t your E11EVEN. We chose E11EVEN. It was wild, preference.

Evening: Dine in the trendy neighbourhood of Brickell, known for its upscale dining options and lively atmosphere. Savour cuisine from around the world before exploring Brickell city centre or taking a stroll along the Miami Riverwalk.

nuts, over the top and we had a blast!

This itinerary will have you soaking up the essence of Miami – from its cultural diversity to its beaches, iconic neighbourhoods, and electrifying nightlife. Make no mistake, it will have you leave this pulsing city exhausted, spent but all the better for it. www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

DINE & WINE

THE PRINCE OF WALES ESHER, SURREY

BY TESS DE KLERK Nestled in the heart of West End, Esher, the historic Prince of Wales, which has stood as a public house for over 140 years, has been completely transformed following a two-million-pound investment and four months of extensive renovation works. The pub officially reopened in December 2023. I was delighted to be invited to go and see the transformation for myself, knowing that, renovating a building dating back to 1892 in a way that retains its charm as well adding the modernity needed, is no small feat. They managed this beautifully. Alongside keeping its original Prince of Wales name, the renovation has given the building a new lease of life, while retaining all-important touches, including the beautiful original open fireplaces and floor finishes. The drinking nooks, lounge areas and dining spaces in the original building are comfortable and cosy whilst the addition of a 48-seater orangery, a new outdoor bar and heated seating terrace in the garden has greatly increased the space for visitors. The Prince of Wales has a lovely atmosphere. We went on Burns Night; part of the building was dedicated to

celebrating Robbie Burns in the proper Scottish fashion - the piping of the haggis, whiskey sampling and tartan aplenty. I was not surprised at the ample attendance of the Burns Night celebration, but I was surprised to see so many well-healed, jovial punters there simply for a drink or dinner on a Thursday evening. Clearly, this pub is doing something very right. Their menu features pub food that you would expect as well as more gourmet offerings such as harissa lamb ragu with orecchiette pasta or a tempura soft-shell crab burger with avocado and gochujang aioli. What I particularly liked of their menu is Stix, basically a grazing menu where you choose up to six different dishes to sample. On top of that, they also offer small plates, in case you need more substantial grazing or would like to share. Then there are also the actual sharing plates. Oh, let me not neglect the drinks menu! Extensive. Nearly a binder full of carefully curated wines (inc organic and bio-dynamic), spirits, world beers, local cask ales and house cocktails, finishing off with a good selection of non-alcoholic drinks – something for everyone. Everything about The Prince of Wales encourages a good night out – well worth a visit.

Everything about The Prince of Wales encourages a good night out – well worth a visit

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

www.theprinceofwales-westend.co.uk

Renovating a building dating back to 1892 in a way that retains its charm as well adding the modernity needed, is no small feat

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

CHICHESTER

FANTASTICALLY GREAT WOMEN WHO CHANGED THE WORLD This ‘pop-fuelled, upbeat’ hit musical, based on the book by Suffragette relative Kate Pankhurst. Jade meets the incredible wonder women Frida Kahlo, Rosa Parks, Amelia Earhart and Emmeline Pankhurst: from explorers to artists, scientists to secret agents, hear the stories of some of history’s strongest women; all independent icons who really did change the world. Chichester Festival Theatre, Chichester February 14th-18th www.cft.org.uk/events/ fantastically-great-womenwho-changed-the-world

WHAT’S ON... A brief snapshot of art and culture in Sussex and Surrey

CHICHESTER

LASER SHOW EXTRAVAGANZA A free laser light show is to be held over Chichester Canal Basin to provide some fun for all the family. The show will be held across two evenings, making it the perfect way to end the half-term holiday. Scheduled to start at 5.00pm on each of these two dates, the laser shows – which will take place with music – will be shown at 6pm and 7.30pm on both evenings. Chichester Basin Canal February 15th-16th https://chichesterbid.co.uk/event/ laser-show-extravaganza-at-the-canalbasin/2024-02-17

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

LINGFIELD

LOWER BEEDING

WINTER PHOTOGRAPHY DAYS

FLOWER ARRANGEMENT WORKSHOPS

A packed day with many photo opportunities including: animals of the Copse (could include red squirrels and muntjac deer), foxes, Scottish wildcats, otters, harvest mice, stoats, weasels, and polecats. The days offer the advantages of diffused winter light, toning down deep shadows and harsh highlights. And, there’s always the chance of frost and snow!

Are you ready to infuse your Valentine’s Day dinner with an extra touch of enchantment? Picture yourself surrounded by blooming peonies, fragrant roses, and delicate tulips. During this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to craft your very own Valentine’s Day dinner table centrepiece, an exquisite arrangement that will set the mood for a truly memorable evening.

British Wildlife Centre, Lingfield Until February 29th https://britishwildlifecentre.co.uk/ photography/photography-days

Leoanrdslee Lakes & Gardens February 14th www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk/ all-events/floral-arrangement-workshops

LEWES CASTLE & MUSEUM

BILL BAILEY – THOUGHTIFIER

BRIGHTON

HURSTPIERPOINT

Climb to the top of Lewes Castle – a Norman Castle built after the Battle of Hastings by supporters of William the Conqueror – for stunning panoramic views across Sussex. This medieval fortress has been standing in the heart of Lewes for close to 1,000 years, providing the perfect place to explore tales of knights and dragons.

Thoughtifier - noun

Washbrooks Family Farm is set against the backdrop of the South Downs, in Hurstpierpoint. This is the perfect day out for children, offering tractor rides, indoor play area, and two acres of outdoor adventure. The farm is home to a range of animals, including donkeys, Shire horses, Shetland ponies, pigs, goats, sheep, ducks, llamas, alpacas and Highland cows.

LEWES

Lewes Castle, Lewes Open seven days a week sussexpast.co.uk/attraction/lewes-castle

• an intriguing device that can amplify the thoughts of a curious mind using music, channelled through a human instrument, known as Bill Bailey • (colloq.) a person resembling Bill Bailey The Brighton Centre, Brighton February 18th, March 5th https://brightoncentre.co.uk/ whats-on/2024/bill-bailey

WASHBROOKS FAMILY FARM

Washbrooks, Hurstpierpoint Seen days a week https://washbrooks.co.uk

BERWICK

HALF TERM AT DRUSILLAS Keep the kids half term happy with a zooper day out at Drusillas Park – voted one of the best days out with kids in Sussex! Get nose-to-nose with 80 species of animal in our interactive zoo, go wild with indoor and outdoor adventure play, be totally immersed in SPARK sensory play experience, and more! Drusilla’s Zoo Park, Berwick February 10th-18th www.drusillas.co.uk/ february-half-term-at-drusillas

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

NOV/DEC 2022 #19

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN

WHY YOU NEED A MENTOR

THE TRUTH ABOUT THE MENOPAUSE

Medically and personally

PREMIER WOMEN

Female political leaders across the globe

GIRL TORQUE

The all-new electric Fiat 500

SPOTLIGHT

Women in business making a difference

TRAVEL

The Highlights of the Highlands

NEURODIVERGENCE

Is it a superpower

THE UK’S ONLY MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS

ALL THE BUSINESS NEWS, VIEWS AND OPINION FROM ACROSS THE REGION

ESSENTIAL READING FOR ANY BUSINESS IN THE SOUTH EAST

PLATINUM MEDIA GROUP

WWW.PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK Platinum Media Group Ltd @platbusmag E: info@platinummediagroup.co.uk

THE AWARDS

THE IC DYNAIM AL FE S T V

CENTRAL SOUTH BUSINESS AWARDS

SUSSEX

AWARDS

WEEK

TECH TECH