Platinum Business Magazine - issue 122

UKREiiF report

Business

Grant funding

MOTORING

LARRY

BIG STORY

20 Larry Ellison

The founder of Oracle Systems is the world’s fifth-richest man. But who knows anything about him? NEWS

8 International news

A round up of the important business stories from around the world

10 Local news

A look at the business news stories across Sussex EVENTS

6 Platinum Club

Now in its 16th year, it remains the pre-eminent networking forum in Sussex

14 Central South Business Awards

Tickets selling fast for this prestigious event. Have you got yours?

40 Surrey Business Awards

Last chance to enter as the deadline rapidly approaches

44 Brighton Summit 2024

Announcing the first keynote; Bill Collison of Bill’s Restaurants

48 Sussex Business Awards

The 36th annual Sussex Business Awards are now open for entries

PLATINUM MEDIA GROUP

BUSINESS

12 Gatwick Diamond

A delegation has returned from UKREiiF, full of vigour

16 Help To Grow: Management

Platinum Magazine extends its fully-funded offer to the 2024 intake as the course heads to Crawley

24 Gatwick Airport

Gatwick strengthens ties with China, while closer to home, offers support to local businesses

28 MDHUB

The support network chats to Helen Bailey, market research guru

32 Aspiring HR

Transforming organisations by revolutionising leadership and growth

34 Company formations: Surrey

In the first of a number-crunching series, Platinum looks at company formations across the region.

This month, we highlight Surrey

52 Creative Pod

The leading creative agency turns 18!

55 Cleankill

A strong case for leaving bird proofing to the professionals LEGAL

18 Mayo Wynne Baxter

Negotiating ‘Heads of Terms’

30 DMH Stallard

To what extent are menopausal women protected under law?

39 DMH Stallard commentary

The latest trends in the M&A market

50 Loch Associates

Is radical reform of employment law on the cards?

FINANCE

36 Kreston Reeves

Why business credit scores matter INNOVATION

46 Sussex Innovation

Scouting the best funding prospects for its community of start-ups

EDUCATION

42 Hurstpierpoint College

Modern boarding - getting them ready for the world

OPINION

56 Anger Management

The General Election has, for now, spared us a heinous new privacy Bill in Parliament. But will it re-surface later?

TRAVEL

58 Sharm El-Sheikh

This once-idyllic Egyptian setting on the Sinai peninsula has lost a certain amount of charm recently. Until you go diving under the water MOTORING

60 Mercedes-Benz EQE

Maarten reviews another fairly impressive EV offering from the German giants

PLATINUM

Welcome to issue 122 of the business bible for the South East.

Our Big Story looks at the elusive billionaire Larry Ellison. As the world’s fifth richest man with $141bn to his name, he tends to avoid the spotlight – but does anyone really understand what Oracle is?

Also in this issue, MDHUB discusses the mastering of the art of perception, Kreston Reeves explains that business credit scores really matter, and DMH Stallard looks at to what extent menopausal women are protected by law.

In Jonathan Grant’s column, he looks at the Mergers & Acquisition market, and in the Anger Management column, Maarten makes you aware of a very scary and highly intrusive new Bill the government tried to get through.

London Gatwick strengthens its ties with China, and the Gatwick Diamond Initiative team returns from UKREiiF full of gusto.

AspiringHR encourages you to Imagine Better, the Brighton Summit announces its first speaker, while Hurst College explains the concept of Modern Boarding.

So much more to read, so over to you.

The PlatinumTeam

info@platinummediagroup.co.uk

CONTACTS

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@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

TRAVEL EDITOR: Tess de Klerk tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk

PLATINUM MOTORING EDITOR: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@platinummediagroup.co.uk

DYNAMIC MOTORING EDITOR: Fiona Shafer fionas@platinummediagroup.co.uk

HEAD OF DESIGN: Michelle Shakesby design@platinummediagroup.co.uk

SUB EDITOR: Alan Wares alan@platinummediagroup.co.uk

SIMPLY THE MOST EFFICIENT AND FUN EVENT IN THE REGION. THE ONLY NETWORKING EVENT I EVER ATTEND

MERCEDES-BENZ

❛❛ THE PLATINUM CLUB IS A REALLY WELL ORGANISED NETWORKING GROUP, WITH THE HOSTS HELPING TO FACILITATE TO ENSURE WE ALWAYS MAKE USEFUL, NEW CONTACTS AT EACH EVENT ❜❜ LLOYDS BANK

Paige Collins, Managing Partner, Warren House Accountants; Iris Jackson, Director, OG Kicks; Dr Adam Jones, Programme Director, University of Brighton; Naomi Roberts, Co-CEO, Flare Audio

Nick Ades, HBSC

Geoff Davies, Founder Pivotal Edge AI; Kate Partridge, Founder, illume Legal; Maarten Hoffmann, CEO, Platinum; Barry Carden, Partner, Galloways Accountants

ALL BUSINESS IS BASED ON RELATIONSHIPS AND PLATINUM GIVES YOU THE PLATFORM TO CREATE THE MEANINGFUL HUMAN CONNECTIONS THAT MATTER ❜❜ BAILEY AND FRENCH

We meet once per month, excluding August. If you would like to attend an event, please get in touch info@platinummediagroup.co.uk

As annual membership is no longer required, we look forward to welcoming you to the most effective, enjoyable and lively networking group in the South

WE SEE THE PLATINUM CLUB AS AN IMPORTANT AND INTEGRAL PART OF OUR BRAND AWARENESS STRATEGY, THROUGH INTERACTIONS WITH WELL CONNECTED BUSINESS PEOPLE AND OTHER INFLUENCERS. IT IS WELCOMING AND GREAT FUN TOO!

MATTIOLI WOODS

Jamie Servante, Director, Kreston Reeves; Alex Smith, Director, ForLoop; Alex Williams, Director, Burt Brill & Cardens; Danos Athanasi, Partner, DMH Stallard

Graham Gayler, Director, Ridgeview Wine Estate

Maarten receiving a birthday surprise and, in consideration of the Brighton Fire Brigade, the Grand decided not to use the correct number of candles!

Stewart Payne, Private Banker, Handelsbanken with Abigail Owen, Senior Corporate Counsel, DMH Stallard

Maribel Coles, Manager, Nettl; Gemma Wall, Partner, Galloways Accountants; Alexandra Nott, Associate, Dehns Law; Cathy Roberts, Events Director, ISON Events

Naomi Roberts, CEO, Flare Audio

Adrian Alexander, Partner, FRP Advisory

Dr Olivia Hum, Co-Founder, Myla Health; Maarten Hoffmann, CEO, Platinum; Alex Smith, Director, ForLoop; Gilva Tisshaw, Director, Tisshaws Family Law

ROYAL MAIL ACCEPTS IMPROVED BID

The owner of Royal Mail – International Distribution Services (IDS) – has accepted an improved takeover bid worth about £3.5bn from shareholder and Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský. IDS said it had received a proposal of 370p a share from Mr Křetínský’s EP Group, an improvement on the initial 320p-a-share bid made in April for the shares in IDS that it does not already own.

Royal Mail, which was split from the Post Office and privatised a decade ago, is legally obliged to deliver a oneprice-goes-anywhere universal service, which means it has to deliver letters six days per week, Monday to Saturday, and parcels Monday to Friday.

NEWS BULLETIN

UK’S BILLIONAIRES CLUB SHRINKS

The Sunday Times has published its latest UK Rich List, revealing the largest fall in billionaires in the guide’s history – from a peak of 177 in 2022 to 165 this year. The combined wealth of the list’s 350 wealthiest individuals amounts to more than £795bn – larger than the GDP of Poland.

“This year’s Sunday Times Rich List suggests Britain’s billionaire boom has come to an end,” Robert Watts said. “Many of our home-grown entrepreneurs have seen their fortunes fall and some of the global super rich who came here are moving away.”

Top of the list is British-Indian businessman Gopi Hinduja and his family, whose wealth of £37.2bn is the largest fortune in the ranking’s history.

COMPANY INSOLVENCIES RISE BY ALMOST A FIFTH

Challenging economic conditions for businesses resulted in an 18% rise in company insolvencies during April 2024. Rising debt levels, higher interest rates and cuts to spending pushed company insolvencies to 2,177 during the month, up from 1,838 the previous month, according to data from Companies House.

The rate of company insolvencies during the 12 months to the end of April was 57 per 10,000, up from 52.6 companies per 10,000 a year earlier.

The level of company insolvencies continues to be much higher than at any point since 2014. However, the figures are much lower than the peak of 113.1 insolvencies per 10,000 companies reported during the recession of 2008 and 2009.

❛❛ Old Professors never die, they just lose their faculties ❜❜

Stephen Fry

KEEPING THE AI IN SAINSBURY’S

Supermarket chain Sainsbury’s said it has agreed a five-year strategic partnership with Microsoft that will use the technology company’s artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and the supermarket group’s rich data. Seeking revenue gains and cost savings, more retailers are using generative AI to boost personalised shopping experiences for consumers and make staff working practices more efficient. Sainsbury’s, Britain’s secondlargest grocer after Tesco, said it would use AI to create a more interactive shopping experience for online shoppers, while also improving search functions. In stores, staff would have real-time data and insights for key processes, such as shelf replenishment. Time to market for new services and product innovations would also be reduced, Sainsbury’s said. No financial details of the partnership were disclosed.

EXCESSIVE HOURS FOR SHEIN WORKERS

Workers for some suppliers of Chinese fast fashion giant Shein are still working 75 hours a week, despite the company promising to improve conditions, a report suggests. A new investigation by Swiss advocacy group Public Eye has followed up on its 2021 report, which found a number of staff across six sites in Guangzhou were doing excessive overtime.

According to the group, who interviewed 13 employees from six factories in China supplying Shein for its latest investigation, excessive overtime was still common for many workers. Shein told the BBC it was “working hard” to address the matters raised by the Public Eye report and had made “significant progress on enhancing conditions”.

❛❛

He’s either never been to Southampton, or he’s never been to Umm Qasr. There’s no beer, no prostitutes and people are shooting at us.

It’s more like Portsmouth ❜❜

UK solider’s response to the UK Defence Minister comparing the Iraqi city to Southampton, 2003

WATER BOSS MAKES MORE DIRTY MONEY

The boss of Severn Trent has defended her multi-million pound pay package despite sewage spills by the company rising by a third in 2023. Liv Garfield was awarded £3.2m in pay, bonuses and shares last year, while over the past four years she has earned nearly £13m. Severn Trent was responsible for more than 60,000 sewage ‘spills’ last year, an increase of 33% on the previous year. The spillages lasted for 440,000 hours – that’s more than 50 years cumulatively when poured from one source.

Water firms argue they need more money to improve their infrastructure to help limit leaks. Some, such as Thames Water, want to raise bills by 44% over the next five years to pay for investment.

START-UPS IN SUSSEX

Recently published figures show that almost 5% more new businesses were established in Sussex during 2023 than in the previous year with 13,989 companies registering.

A total of 6,678 new formations were registered in West Sussex during the past year, an increase of 8.8% on 2022, while East Sussex saw its registrations rise 1.6% to 7,311. It brings the number of companies registered across the county to just over 130,000.

The statistics are taken from the Inform Direct Review of Company Formations, using data from Companies House and the Office for National Statistics.

See page 34 for more in-depth local start-up statistics

LOCAL NEWS

NO WATER FOR HASTINGS

The impact of 32,500 properties being without water in Hastings will be “drastic” for businesses, as it falls on an annual festival which thousands usually attend, a councillor has said. Southern Water said the disruption in St Leonards-on-Sea and some areas of Hastings, due to a burst water main, lasted for more than four days during May.

One hotel in Hastings has resorted to flushing toilets with sea water, East Sussex County Councillor Godfrey Daniel said, while schools, a leisure centre and a theatre in the area were forced to close. “Across the town there’s frustration that this has happened, it’s not the first time Southern Water has caused problems for Hastings, and it doesn’t seem to be getting any better,” said one resident. Souther Water said it was “very sorry.”

WHAT KATY DID NEXT

In an otherwise bad night for the Conservatives in the local council elections, Katy Bourne was re-elected for the fourth time at the Police and Crime Commissioner for Sussex.

Bourne was educated at Roedean School from the age of 10, and subsequently went to Aberystwyth University, where she graduated with a degree in history.

She remains the only person to have held this role since its inception in 2012.

Meanwhile, in the council elections themselves, the Conservatives lost the last council in Sussex it controlled, when voters chose a Labour administration for the Adur district.

❛❛ I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me ❜❜

Fred Allen, American comedian

AMBULANCE TO UKRAINE

After 42 “wonderful” years with Moore Kingston Smith, Paul Samrah is hanging up his calculator, and retiring. However, ‘feet-up’ is not an option for Paul as, on September 22nd, along with his good friend Doug, he will drive an ambulance stocked with medical and practical aid including dressings, medical equipment and defibrillators to Ukraine.

To make this happen, including purchasing, refurbishing, stocking and delivering the ambulance, Paul needs to raise £15,000. This is mostly to kit out the ambulance, and make it roadworthy. The medical supplies are being donated.

Paul is asking for generous donations to make this happen. If you would like to help, you can donate to this cause via www. justgiving.com/page/mkscf-london-to-lviv

REVIEW INTO

GRADUATE VISA

ROUTES

Four Chambers of Commerce representing businesses across Sussex joined university and business leaders to warn the government against watering down or scrapping the graduate visa route.

This subject was passionately talked about by Professor Sasha Roseneil in last month’s Platinum magazine. The letter was sent ahead of the Migration Advisory Committee’s review of the graduate visa route, which was published on May 14th. The signatories argued that if the government were to make any restrictions to the graduate visa route, it would have a ‘serious impact upon research and development capacity and return on government investment, besides causing damage to the wider economy.’

In the end, the review found no abuse of the migrant system, and recommended universities continued their systems of allocation.

❛❛ Being a fish out of water is tough, but that’s how you evolve ❜❜

Kumail Nanjiani, Pakistani actor

BRIGHTON & HOVE ELECTS FIRST MUSLIM-BORN MAYOR

Councillors at Brighton & Hove City Council have unanimously voted Mohammed Asaduzzaman as the new Mayor. A ceremonial title, he becomes the first Muslimborn Mayor of the city. Asaduzzaman has been resident for over 30 years, having moved from Bangladesh in 1993. The election raised eyebrows outside Brighton & Hove when it was felt that his Muslim faith might be at odds within the city’s LGBT community. However, Asaduzzaman, a largely secular person, is a popular and supportive figure across the city, and a supporter of the Trans and Pride community. It is also unusual for such a relative newcomer to be chosen to be Mayor, as he only won election in 2023. Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of the Council, described Councillor Asaduzzaman as a “well-known and well-loved” figure in the community, and felt he would be “a credit to the city in the year ahead.”

A Gatwick Diamond delegation has returned from a successful showcase at UKREiiF 2024, with new connections and partnerships poised to enhance regional growth and collaboration

“NOW LET’S BUILD ON THIS!”

Gatwick Diamond delegation success triggers business rally call

The Gatwick Diamond Initiative, along with local and regional authorities and private sector affiliates, participated in UKREiiF 2024 in Leeds from May 21st23rd. The event attracted over 12,000 investors, developers, occupiers, and local authorities, providing a platform to highlight the region’s business opportunities.

During the event, the coalition, which included representatives from Sussex, Surrey, Kent, and South London, successfully forged numerous new connections and partnerships. These relationships are expected to bolster the growth of both emerging and established companies in the Gatwick Diamond, further establishing the region as a premier location for business and investment.

UKREIIF

UKREiiF (The UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum) 2024 was a three-day conference in Leeds brought together more than 12,000 attendees from the public sector – with every core UK city and region involved – alongside Government, investors, funders, developers, housebuilders and more.

The organisers say that the UK needs this platform for the public sector to showcase the scale of development progress and profile future investment opportunities to investors, developers, and occupiers from around the globe that are based right here in the UK.

Brett North, Chairman and Chief Executive of the Gatwick Diamond Initiative, said: “We had a diverse cross-section of private and public sector organisations. Traditionally, for some groups, this may have been a barrier to collaboration, but not for us. The Gatwick Diamond’s success at UKREiiF 2024 highlights the region’s potential for growth through collaboration.

“The new connections and partnerships formed can inspire closer cooperation between public and private sectors. It means we can drive more sustainable growth, economic development and innovation in the Gatwick Diamond. The challenge for us is a simple one: Now, let’s build on this!”

❛❛ The Gatwick Diamond’s success at UKREiiF 2024 highlights the region’s potential for growth through collaboration ❜❜

(L

to R): Ben Davies, Managing Director, Oander ; Brett North, Chairman and Chief Executive, Invest Gatwick Diamond; and Lynne Hainge from Crawley Borough Council

Real estate and infrastructure play critical roles in regional development. The Gatwick Diamond’s participation at UKREiiF allowed the Gatwick Diamond to showcase the region’s unique selling points and investment potential. The delegation made significant connections with likeminded organisations and is committed to building on these relationships to drive future growth in the Gatwick Diamond.

London Gatwick, a major supporter of the delegation, highlighted the airport’s significant economic impact, including supporting 76,560 jobs and generating approximately £5.5 billion in GVA in 2023. The delegation’s success at UKREiiF underscores the importance of continued collaboration between the public and private sectors.

North added: “The Invest Gatwick Diamond delegation exhibited the region’s diverse and distinctive strengths including infrastructure, connectivity and viticulture; a unique

❛❛ The delegation made significant connections with like-minded organisations and is committed to building on these relationships ❜❜

mix that offers compelling investment potential for the real estate and infrastructure sectors. Together it’s a potent blend that will play a pivotal role in regional development in the future.

“We established meaningful connections with like-minded organisations during the event, and we now have an opportunity to nurture these relationships together. I can’t help but feel excited for the future. We believe that this will serve as a catalyst for driving more sustainable growth and prosperity in the Gatwick Diamond region.”

www.ukreiif.com https://investgatwickdiamond.co.uk

HELP TO GROW: MANAGEMENT SUPPORTING CRAWLEY

Help to Grow: Management is a mini MBA style programme for business leaders covering all aspects of business, helping participants to find gaps and opportunities, improve processes and develop leadership skills.

It is 90% Government funded in order to support SMEs with five or more staff to grow at this challenging economic time, and is delivered by experts at the University of Brighton.

With the support of a one-to-one mentor, participants take part in the programme with a growth action plan to take away at the end, and implement in the business.

Twenty-one leaders took part in the 12-week course in Crawley last year, from businesses that ranged from a golf club to a florist, and solicitors to a marketing agency –each attending four sessions in person in Crawley and four online.

Additionally, Help to Grow: Management is celebrating its 200th participant recently graduating from the programme. Its return to Crawley later this year is a sign of the programme’s support for the town, and will only add to that number.

HELP TO GROW IN FIGURES

l 202 business leaders attended the course since its inception l Ten hours of one-to-one mentoring

l 50 hours of leadership training across 12 weeks l 90% Government funded LIMITED FULLY FUNDED CRAWLEY PLACES FOR PLATINUM READERS www.brighton.ac.uk/helptogrow APPLY NOW QUOTING PLATINUM

TWO OF THE CRAWLEY PARTICIPANTS TOLD US HOW MUCH THEY TOOK FROM THE COURSE. HERE ARE THEIR STORIES:

❛❛ I have always been an employee, and became a director last year at the age of 30, so it was a great time for me to attend Help to Grow.

It’s easy to have impostor syndrome, but this has given me validation and relief to know that I am doing the right things and I’ve learned how to be a leader and find solutions.

It’s been amazing on a personal level which will also help the business. I feel like I can support staff to grow in their roles as I realise that I can’t do it all and I can learn from others ❜❜

Garima

Arora, UK Visas, Horsham

BACK TO CRAWLEY

Help to Grow: Management returns to Crawley in November 2024, and Platinum Business Magazine readers are invited to enrol on the course. Not only will those readers receive some of the best mentoring and business advice while on this course, readers can also enrol, with the fee (normally £750) being fully funded.

WHY CRAWLEY?

Since the pandemic, Crawley’s resilience and strength to grow

commercially is among the highest in the UK. It has the eighth-highest job density in the country – outside London – with the main sectors being transportation and storage, and administrative and support services.

With the support of Crawley Borough Council, and its One Town economic recovery plan, pulling together all existing regeneration programmes, the town has a sustainable economic future with the emphasis on attracting investment.

APPLY HERE

Find out more about the Help to Grow programme and sign up here.

To apply for your NO COST Platinum sponsored place on the Crawley cohort enter Platinum under ‘other’ when asked where you heard about us on sign up.

If you have any questions on the programme or applying for a sponsored Crawley, place email helptogrow@brighton.ac.uk

CRAWLEY IN FIGURES

l £6 billion annual contribution to the UK economy

l 2,000 jobs to be delivered through regeneration programmes

l 600,000 visitors to the town centre every week

l Top ten for patent registrations

l 3,500 active businesses in the borough

Lynn Hainge, Economic Regeneration Manager at Crawley Borough Council said “Our ‘One town’ economic recovery plan has been working hard to unlock jobs and boost economic activity and is continuing on plans across the town to make it a place that people enjoy and want to live, work and visit.”

❛❛ The best aspect of Help to Grow is the tutor-run group sessions as these are face to face, and you can talk to other business owners and use them and the tutor as sounding boards.

I am planning to implement differentiated website services for different segments of the market. The course has helped me to understand that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and that we can offer tailored services to different segments. This, in turn, allows us to charge an amount appropriate for the level of service required.

Help to Grow allows you to step out of the business and work with academic experts and other business owners to develop your business ❜❜ Richard Worsfold, Branding Box Ltd, Crawley

By Jon Clays, Partner, Mayo Wynne Baxter

NEGOTIATING HEADS OF TERMS

Now that you have found a commercial property to rent, it’s time for the key terms of the proposed lease to be agreed with the landlord, or their agent, and for those terms to be set out in a set of Heads of Terms (‘HoTs’). The following are some points that should be considered when agreeing these HoTs:

1 SUBJECT TO CONTRACT

Whilst the HoTs are intended to set out the key terms, they are not intended to be binding on the parties. The HoTs and correspondence in relation to the proposed letting should be headed ‘Subject to Contract’.

2 SUFFICIENT DETAIL

Whilst neither the landlord, nor you, will want to spend significant time negotiating the HoTs, the key terms of the proposed letting should be clearly set out.

3 KEY TERMS

The following terms are often included:

n Property – the exact extent of the property to be let, and any parking rights, should be agreed at an early stage (preferably shown on a plan).

n Break right(s) – without a formal break right you cannot bring the lease to an end early without the agreement of the landlord (which they may not agree to or may require payment of a sum of money for). Break rights can either be on fixed dates or on a “rolling” basis throughout the term with a set period of notice to be given in each case.

n Rent – what is the annual rent and how often is this to be paid (usually quarterly or monthly in advance). Such rent will be exclusive of VAT (check whether VAT is payable).

n Rent-free period – will you have the benefit of a rent-free period (for example to allow fitting-out of the Property before opening or use).

n Rent review – the landlord may require the ability for the rent to be reviewed at set periods (but usually only where the lease is for five-plus years). Whilst this is usually by way of an upwards-only review to the level of the market rent on an agreed date (or dates), there are alternatives (e.g., any increase is linked to an index, such as Retail Prices Index ‘RPI’, allowing any increase to be easily determined).

n Repair – often HoTs will refer to the tenant having a full repairing liability. In this case, you would be obliged to put the Property into repair (even if not in repair when you take the lease). If the Property is in disrepair (early on you should instruct a surveyor to determine this), you should strongly consider having your repairing obligation limited to keeping the Property in the same state as when you entered into the lease (usually evidenced by a Photographic Schedule of Condition).

❛❛ Whilst the HoTs are intended to set out the key terms, they are not intended to be binding on the parties ❜❜

n Service charge – if the Property forms part of a larger building/estate it is usual for the landlord to recover a percentage of its costs for maintenance, repair, cleaning, etc, of the building/ estate through a service charge. Details of any service charge (including recent service charge accounts) should be obtained. In addition, to avoid having to contribute towards costly repairs, you should consider whether there should be a cap on the service charge in any year.

n Security – the landlord may require you to provide a guarantor and/or rent deposit. You should consider if this request is reasonable. If it is, then each have their advantages and disadvantages (with a guarantor being personally liable for all liabilities of the tenant and a rent deposit possibly impacting cashflow with a sum being tied up for some or all of the term of the lease).

n Permitted use – the permitted use of the Property and the ability to change this (subject to planning laws permitting this) should be clearly set out.

n Assignment and underletting – will you be allowed to assign (transfer) the lease or underlet (grant a lease for a shorter term)? If you are, this will usually be with the landlord’s consent (not to be unreasonably withheld).

n Security of tenure – is the lease to be granted with security of tenure (often referred to as being ‘inside the 1954 Act’ so that you are entitled to a new lease at the end of the term) or not? If not, then it would be entirely up to the landlord if they wish to offer you a new lease at the end of the term and they would have full discretion as to any lease terms they may be willing to offer.

n Landlord’s works – are there any works the landlord is to be required to carry out?

n “Covid Clause” – the Covid pandemic has led to some tenants requiring the landlord to include a clause in new leases suspending rent (or reducing it) should the tenant be prevented from trading due to Government measures.

4 PROFESSIONAL VALUATION ADVICE

You should strongly consider obtaining professional advice from a surveyor or property agent on the HoTs.

5 (AND FINALLY, BUT NOT LEAST) INSTRUCT A SOLICITOR

Serious consideration should be given to instructing a solicitor at an early stage to advise not only on the draft HoTs but also to avoid any delays once HoTs are agreed. A solicitor can also assist by confirming whether Stamp Duty Land Tax is payable (and the amount) as well confirming other likely costs such a Land Registry Registration Fees and costs payable to third parties.

If you require assistance, please contact our Commercial Property Team today who will be happy to assist you.

Jon Clays – Partner jclays@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

❛❛ As of March 2024, he is the fifth-wealthiest person in the world, according to Forbes, with an estimated net worth of $141 billion. ❜❜

LARRY ELLISON CONSULTING THE ORACLE

Each year, the American business magazine, Forbes, publishes several lists of what it believes are the world’s richest people. The Forbes 400 lists the US’ richest people; the 600 most notable young people under the age of 30 (Forbes 30 under 30); America's Wealthiest Celebrities, the world's top companies (the Forbes Global 2000); and until 2018, Forbes list of the World's Most Powerful People.

The list most people refer to, however, is 'The World's Billionaires’, colloquially referred to as ‘The Forbes Rich List’. The 2024 List has been published, and lurking at No.5, as he has for several years, is Larry Ellison.

Platinum delves into the life of a multi-billionaire, whose passion for self-publicity doesn’t quite match his peers...

BIG STORY

Lawrence Joseph Ellison was born on August 17, 1944, in New York City to Florence Spellman, an unwed Jewish mother. He is an American businessman and entrepreneur who co-founded software company Oracle Corporation. He was Oracle's chief executive officer from 1977 to 2014 and is now its chief technology officer and executive chairman.

As of March 2024, he is the eighthwealthiest person in the world, according to Bloomberg Billionaires Index, with an estimated net worth of US$130 billion, and the fifthwealthiest in the world according to Forbes, with an estimated net worth of $141 billion, a mere $54bn behind his pal Elon Musk, who, in turn, currently resides at the No.2 spot.

EARLY YEARS

His biological father was an Italian American US Army Air Corps pilot. After Ellison contracted pneumonia at the age of nine months, his mother gave him to her aunt and uncle for adoption. He did not meet his biological mother again until 1992.

Ellison attended South Shore High School in Chicago and later was admitted to University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign and was enrolled as a premed student.

He withdrew without taking final exams after his sophomore year because his adoptive mother had just died. After spending the summer of 1966 in California, he then attended the University of Chicago for one term, where he studied physics and mathematics, and also first encountered computer design. He then moved to Berkeley, California and began his career as a computer programmer for different companies.

HISTORY OF ORACLE

Ellison co-founded what became the Oracle Corporation in 1977 with Bob Miner and Ed Oates under the name Software Development Laboratories (SDL). Ellison had taken inspiration from the 1970 paper written by Edgar F. Codd on relational database management systems (RDBMS) named “A Relational Model of Data for Large Shared Data Banks.”

He heard about the IBM System R database from an article in the IBM Research

❛❛ Ellison turns 80 this summer, and shows no signs of slowing up. His work ethic won’t allow him to ❜❜

Journal provided by Oates. Ellison wanted to make Oracle's product compatible with System R, but failed to do so as IBM kept the error codes for their DBMS a secret.

SDL changed its name to Relational Software, Inc (RSI) in 1979, then again to Oracle Systems Corporation in 1983, to align itself more closely with its flagship product Oracle Database. The name also drew from the 1977 CIA project codename, which was also Oracle's first customer. At this stage, Bob Miner served as the company's senior programmer. On March 12th, 1986, the company had its initial public offering.

In 1989, Oracle moved its world headquarters to Redwood City, California. In 1995, Oracle Systems Corporation changed its name to Oracle Corporation officially named Oracle, but is sometimes referred to as Oracle Corporation, the name of the holding company.

On July 15, 2013, Oracle transferred its stock listing from the Nasdaq to the NYSE. At the time, it was the largest-ever U.S. market transfer. In an effort to compete with Amazon Web Services and its products, Oracle announced in 2019 it was partnering with former rival Microsoft.

The alliance called that Oracle Cloud and Microsoft Azure would be directly connected, allowing customers of each to store data on both cloud computing platforms and run software on either Oracle or Azure.

By 2020, Oracle was the third-largest software company in the world by revenue and market capitalisation. The company sells database software (particularly the Oracle Database) and cloud computing. At the end of the year, it moved its base to Austin, Texas, where is resides today.

Successive Forbes Lists, especially during the 2010s, saw Ellison consistently in the US – and world – top 10. In March 2010, Ellison as the sixthrichest person in the world and as the third-richest American, with an estimated net worth of US$28 billion. In September 2011, he had risen to fifth richest man in the world with a net worth of about $36.5 billion. A year later, he was again listed on the Forbes list of billionaires as the third richest American citizen, behind Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, with a net worth of $44 billion.

Since those figures were published, the graph’s direction has been one way, with that net worth today now estimated to be $141bn.

LIFESTYLE

Ellison has been married and divorced four times – Adda Quinn from 1967 to 1974; Nancy Wheeler Jenkins from 1977 to 1978; Barbara Boothe from 1983 to 1986, and the latest thus far, Melanie Craft, from 2003 to 2010.

Ellison made a brief cameo appearance in the 2010 movie ‘Iron Man 2’. In 2010, Ellison purchased a 50% share of the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament in California’s Coachella Valley and the Indian Wells Masters tournament for $100 million, and has subsequently invested another $100 million into the club.

He owns many exotic cars, including an Audi R8 and a McLaren F1. His favourite is said to be the Acura NSX, which he was known to give as gifts each year during its production. It must be nice to

have that kind of change lying around. Ellison sold his share of Rising Sun, the 12th largest yacht in the world, in 2010. This made record producer David Geffen the sole owner. The vessel is 453 feet (138 metres) long, and reportedly cost over $200 million to build. He competes in yachting through Oracle Team USA. Following success racing Maxi yachts, Ellison founded BMW Oracle Racing to compete for the 2003 Louis Vuitton Cup.

In 2013, Ellison's Oracle Team USA defeated Emirates Team New Zealand to win the 34th America's Cup in San Francisco Bay, California. The Oracle team came from trailing 8–1 to win 9–8, in what has been called "one of the greatest comebacks in sports history". Oracle Racing subsequently lost the 2017 America's Cup to Team New Zealand.

POLITICAL INVOLVEMENT

In 2012, he donated to both Democratic and Republican politicians, and in late 2014 hosted Republican senator Rand Paul at a fundraiser at his home.

In 2020, Ellison allowed former president Donald Trump to have a fundraiser at his Rancho Mirage estate, though Ellison himself was not present.

The Washington Post reported in May 2022 that Ellison participated in a conference call, days after the 2020 presidential election that focused on strategies for – unwisely –challenging the as-yet evidencefree illegitimacy of the vote. Other participants on the call included Fox News host Sean Hannity, Senator Lindsey Graham, Trump personal attorney Jay Sekulow and James Bopp, an attorney for True the Vote.

TODAY

Among the myriad projects he is involved with, in March this year, Larry Ellison’s Oracle team and fellow multi-billionaire, Elon Musk’s SpaceX programme, announced they were teaming up to bring AI to farming. The project will create an AI-powered mapping application for governments. The tool creates a map of a country's farms and shows what each of them is growing.

Ellison stated said the tool could help farms assess the steps needed to increase their output, and whether fields had enough water and nitrogen.

"We're doing that again in concert with Elon Musk and SpaceX to do this kind of mapping," he continued. The billionaires go way back. Ellison and Musk are very close friends, according to the Oracle boss. From 2018 to 2022, he was on the board of Musk’s Tesla company, being a significant investor.

Ellison turns 80 this summer, and shows no signs of slowing up. His work ethic won’t allow him to. Indeed, the public face he wears today won’t even allow him to be 80. Perhaps the coveted top five berth in Forbes’ List is enough to keep him going.

Larry Ellison and Maria Bartiromo

London Gatwick and VisitBritain welcomed a delegation of Chinese tour operators to the South East of England

London Gatwick strengthens ties with China

In April, London Gatwick collaborated with VisitBritain, Guanxi - a China specialist PR agency - and local tourism agencies to host a select delegation of Chinese tour operators on an immersive seven-day trip showcasing the best of Sussex, Surrey, and Kent.

This trip is an essential part of the airport's ongoing strategy to enhance connections between China and South East England, with the aim of raising awareness and enhancing appreciation of the region's distinctive attractions, ultimately encouraging tourism from high-spending Chinese visitors. This initiative aims to fuel both economic development and cultural exchange between the two regions.

The delegation comprised nine senior product managers from prominent Chinese tour operators, including CYTS Tours, China Bamboo Garden International, 6renyou, Henan I-Travel, HCG, Shanghai Eastern Air International, and Shanghai Bravo Tour.

❛❛ This trip is an essential part of the airport’s ongoing strategy to enhance connections between China and SouthEast England ❜❜

Emma Colyer, Trade and Tourism Business Development Manager, London Gatwick said: "It was fantastic to welcome this group, some of whom had never visited the UK. We're dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between cultures and are excited about the potential for future collaborations.”

The itinerary provided the delegation with an opportunity to experience the region’s history, and gastronomic highlights, alongside interactions with local artisans, historians, and conservationists.

The group began by visiting Hever Castle in Kent, where they enjoyed a private tour, followed by a forest bathing experience. They then stayed overnight in Leeds Castle, greeted with traditional British hospitality by footmen upon arrival.

Continuing their journey, they explored East Sussex, meeting the traditional Town Crier of Rye and venturing to the

chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters with the guidance of local experts at Brighton & Beyond Tours.

In Brighton, they immersed themselves in the city’s thriving food and drink scene, and toured the Royal Pavilion.

The itinerary further extended with visits to Arundel Castle and RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey, along with a stay at the Ashdown Park Hotel and Country Club.

Helena Beard, Managing Director, Guanxi said: “Chinese visitors are looking for authentic experiences, which is what the

South East, with its blend of heritage, countryside and coastal charm, offers so effortlessly.

“By curating bespoke experiences that resonate with the preferences of Chinese travellers, we can create lasting impressions and forge enduring connections.”

A dedicated part of the itinerary highlighted the ease of connectivity between London Gatwick and central London, with delegates impressed by the speed of processing through the airport and ability to reach central London in just 30 minutes via the Gatwick Express.

Find out more via www.gatwickairport.com

NEW ROUTES: CONNECTING THE SOUTH EAST TO CHINA

This summer, London Gatwick will introduce ten additional weekly flights to China, thanks to new routes by leading airlines Air China and China Southern. Commencing from June 1st, Air China will operate daily flights to Beijing Capital Airport on A330-300 aircraft. Shortly after, on June 20th, China Southern will begin flying three times per week to Guangzhou using Boeing 787-8 aircraft.

These additions will complement existing services to Shanghai (China Eastern and Air China) and Zhengzhou (China Southern). In total, from mid-June, Gatwick will offer passengers 33 weekly flights to China, reinforcing its commitment to advancing international connections.

ECONOMIC IMPACT AND TOURISM POTENTIAL

The impact of these new routes extends beyond aviation. In 2023, the UK’s exports to China surged by 11.9%, reaching an impressive £37.5 billion. These flights are expected to stimulate the local tourism industry, with Chinese visitors having spent an average of £1,937 per visit to the UK, totalling £1.71 billion in 2019, as reported by VisitBritain. London Gatwick is currently applying to bring its Northern Runway into routine use. If plans are successful, the airport will be able to host an increase of long-haul routes providing a significant boost to the national and regional economy by supporting trade, tourism, and new jobs.

London Gatwick joins Sussex Six campaign

London Gatwick has officially joined Natural Partnerships CIC’s Sussex Six campaign, pledging to increase local produce on shelves and menus across the airport.

The first four new products – a range of Ridgeview wines – are now available for passengers to purchase from World Duty Free stores.

The vineyard, located near Burgess Hill in Mid Sussex, already supplies wine in London Gatwick’s restaurant and bar, Vagabond, and South Downs – a premium sparkling wine bar - with the new retail offering now enabling passengers to try before they buy – and fly.

The Sussex Six team also brought a range of local produce – including from Horsham – to present to the airport’s restaurants and retailers.

London Gatwick will add further locally-produced food and drink to its vast

array of restaurants, bars and retail outlets over coming months.

Richard Lennard, Economic Partnerships Manager, London Gatwick said: “We are delighted to join this exciting campaign to support the local Sussex economy, by adding more local food and drink producers to our supply chain at London Gatwick.

“It’s important to us at the airport to support the Sussex community, and we are delighted to help our passengers discover the wonderful local produce that is grown and made across the region.”

The Sussex Six Campaign is organised by Natural Partnerships CIC with support from Horsham District Council and the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Over 50 local shops, restaurants, pubs and cafes have signed up committing to take on six or more local products. The premium South Downs Bar opened

in London Gatwick’s South Terminal in June 2023 to showcase local produce, while the airport already stocks Sussex food and drink including Nyetimber wine in its World Duty Free stores.

Cllr Ruth Fletcher, Horsham District Council said: “We are thrilled London Gatwick has agreed to join the Sussex Campaign, providing a fantastic opportunity for local food and drink producers to reach the huge audience passing through the airport.

“This is the start of a fantastic partnership which will allow us to showcase the superb range of Sussex food and drink we produce to an international audience.”

Mardi Roberts, Director of Communications, Ridgeview said: “London Gatwick is Sussex’s gateway to the world. They have been incredibility supportive of Sussex Wine Tourism and champions for our visitor economy. We are thrilled that Ridgeview sparkling wine will now be available for holiday makers to take on their celebration travels and spread the word about the quality of our Sussex produce.”

Details of supporting businesses can be found on the Sussex Six pages of sussexfoodanddrink.org - the online directory for Sussex produce. Businesses wishing to join the campaign can also sign up on the website.

Find out more via www.gatwickairport.com

Millie Green of MDHUB met up with Founder of Brighton-based bespoke market research company Aviatrix, Helen Bailey

MASTERING THE ART OF PERCEPTION IN BUSINESS AND LIFE

When I first met with Helen, the interaction began with a shared moment of unexpected humour. Attempting to enter a local coffee shop for the interview, we both struggled with a deceptively tricky door, missing a vital ‘push’ sign: a small yet telling detail that Helen, with her keen researcher’s eye, did not overlook.

We watched several others repeat our mistake. Helen pointed out the flaw with a mix of amusement and professional critique. “This door isn’t just a physical barrier, it’s a psychological one too. It’s essentially setting visitors up for embarrassment. For a business, that’s a subtle yet significant deterrent.”

❛❛ While Helen explains that she works hard, she has routines. She has her holidays and her personal time-out moments, but not in a formulaic way ❜❜

This is Helen Bailey; analytical, perceptive and funny, and a serial entrepreneur in what she calls the fun part of life –leisure, travel and hospitality – for over 30 years.

She founded Aviatrix (literally ‘female pilot’) as a solo project in 2012. She immediately signed up for MDHUB, finding the support on offer in the early days as crucial.

Reflecting on her initial experiences at MDHUB, she recalls the daunting challenge of adopting a leadership persona. “You had to talk as if you were actually an MD. One of the main benefits of joining MDHUB is you have to take your spot. Even if you’ve got yourself in the position of MD or director, you often feel you aren’t one,” she explains.

This candid admission highlights the often-overlooked emotional and psychological aspects of leadership. MDHUB’s facilitated workgroups provided Helen with a space to talk about her business, hear other people talking about theirs, as well as providing a chance to try her thoughts out on other people. As Helen put it, “Being an MD is a really lonely business. A lot of things you feel shame about, you can bring to an MDHUB group to have a safe and confidential space to discuss.”

With the growth and success of her business, MDHUB’s Managing Director Fiona Shafer invited Helen to join the MDHUB team as a facilitator and later, the MDHUB board. With decades of experience as a qualitative researcher, Helen had long facilitated groups, making it a seamless transition to use her skills to help leaders gain insights from one another.

She sees workgroups as an ideal form of business support. “It is vital within a group that everybody who turns up has a sense of belonging, and everybody has their turn so that they get a return on their investment of time, which is such a limited resource for most leaders.

“If an MD has an issue, they must be attended to so everyone can learn from their each other’s experiences. Ensuring that people feel safe is the most important thing and that there is no judgement.”

Facilitation is an essential part of the MDHUB groups, and it’s a role that Helen feels needs to be played quietly. Talking about what a successful group looks like, she explains, “It looks like you’re not needed, and the group comes together like old, trusted colleagues who care about each other.”

❛❛ Helen anticipates personal and professional transitions, viewing them as opportunities for growth and adaptation ❜❜

One of Helen’s workgroups centres on the four-day working week, though she doesn’t work one herself. While Helen explains that she works hard, she has routines. She has her holidays and her personal time-out moments, but not in a formulaic way.

A four-day week for Helen and her business would be a challenge, so she finds her own way of making sure she gets her ‘my time’ in during any given week; something she says she used to be bad at. She feels that business isn’t about one single management approach, it’s about making sure you get the time to do the things you love alongside running your business.

Looking forward, Helen anticipates personal and professional transitions, viewing them as opportunities for growth and adaptation. “Even though I’m not fully conscious of it, I think I’m going through a massive transition – as a menopausal woman, as a woman who’s just crazily decided to work with my husband, and as someone who is trying to build a business post-family that is going to serve my eldership.”

For someone as dedicated to work as Helen, slowing down isn’t an option. ”I understand that to keep your brain alive the best advice is to keep working in some form. That’s my intention –without becoming an old stiff – by constantly learning and applying that learning to my business and my life.”

www.aviatrix.co.uk www.mdhub.co.uk

Email MDHUB Directors: Fiona Shafer: fiona@mdhub.co.uk or Phil Green: phil.green@mdhub.co.uk

By Abigail Maino, Partner, Employment DMH Stallard

TO WHAT EXTENT ARE MENOPAUSAL WOMEN PROTECTED UNDER LAW?

In February 2024, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) issued the guidance which set out an employer’s legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 to workers going through the menopause.

The guidance from the EHRC comes off the back of an increased campaign of awareness about the impact of the menopause on employees, and the extent to which employers should be supporting employees who may be struggling with symptoms.

However, there are still many employers who are uncertain as to whether the menopause itself is protected under the Equality Act 2010, and whether businesses could be discriminating against women or exposing themselves to other legal risk by not offering adjustments or other forms of support.

Whilst this article refers to women experiencing menopause, employers should bear in mind that menopause is related to the menstrual cycle. Therefore, anyone with a menstrual cycle may experience menopause. In addition to women, this may also include people who do not identify as women, which can include trans and non-binary people.

IS MENOPAUSE REALLY A BUSINESS ISSUE?

Aside from legal obligations as an employer (see below), a Government report on menopause has identified that menopausal women are the “fastest growing workforce demographic”. Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that the employment rate for women aged 50 to 64 has increased from 46.9% in 1992 to 67.2% in 2023. Supporting this demographic (and those outside this age range who may also be impacted by symptoms) is therefore an increasingly important issue for businesses of all sizes. Most employers do not want to lose a large and experienced pool of talent if it can be avoided.

❛❛ There are still many employers who are uncertain as to whether the menopause itself is protected under the Equality Act 2010 ❜❜

LEGAL OBLIGATIONS

The symptoms associated with the menopause can vary between individuals. The NHS lists a number of symptoms including hot flushes, headaches, low mood and anxiety, palpitations and joint pain. It estimates most symptoms last around four years, though one in four women will experience them for up to 12 years.

If symptoms are severe and have lasted, or are likely to last, for a period of 12 months or more, then it is possible that the individual could meet the definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means that, amongst other things, an employer has a duty to make reasonable adjustments. This point is highlighted in the EHRC guidance.

Historically, the numbers of employment tribunal claims based on menopause have been low given the numbers of women affected by symptoms and facing difficulties at work. Many women do not want to describe themselves as ‘disabled’ due to going through a natural stage of life and are therefore put off from bringing a disability discrimination claim, thinking this is the only/main path for a claim given that direct menopause legislation has to date been resisted by the government.

However, even if the symptoms of menopause do not meet the definition of disability, but performance is impacted due to the effect of symptoms, an individual could have a successful claim for unfair dismissal and/or sex or age discrimination. This would be if the impact of the menopausal symptoms are not given due consideration if it can be shown it would have made a difference to the ultimate outcome.

A persistent failure to support menopausal women – particularly if adjustments could be made which are reasonable for an employer to implement, or cultural attitudes and assumptions exist which negatively impact a woman’s treatment in the workplace – could also give rise to a constructive dismissal situation.

❛❛ The numbers of employment tribunal claims based on menopause have been low given the numbers of women affected by symptoms ❜❜

HOW TO HELP

There are a number of things that employers could do to support staff experiencing the effects of the menopause:

n Encourage openness. In the past, the topic may not have been discussed in the workplace. Promoting a culture where individuals feel comfortable discussing the subject will help employers support menopausal women.

n Be flexible in your approach to work Depending on symptoms, it may be helpful to consider adjustments in hours or location of work.

n Signpost support. Some women may prefer to talk to mental health first aiders, HR or external bodies rather than their immediate line managers.

n Have clear policies. The EHRC guidance encourage employers to adapt their policies and practices accordingly, to ensure fairness and inclusivity in the workplace.

The increased awareness and guidance linking employers’ legal obligations and menopausal rights is to be welcomed and may change the numbers of women speaking up about the issue in the workplace. Employers who support their workforce are likely to see the benefits through lower sickness absence, higher retention and fewer employee relations issues.

How Aspiring is transforming organisations by revolutionising leadership and growth. By Liz

Beck

IMAGINE BETTER

Leadership coaching and HR solutions provider Aspiring wants businesses to defy the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. For Aspiring, it’s not about a business’ profit margins or shareholder returns; it’s about the legacy that will be left behind and the leaders who will inspire the next generation.

Liz Beck, the Founder and CEO of Aspiring, cuts through the corporate jargon with a simple truth. “We’re interested in how a business leads and what it is creating for the next generation. We’re not here to settle for mediocrity, but to revolutionise the way businesses operate.”

❛❛ In a world where conformity can be the norm, Aspiring is encouraging companies to step out of the shadows and be different to the rest ❜❜

In a world where conformity can be the norm, Aspiring is encouraging companies to step out of the shadows and be different to the rest.

“At Aspiring, we have made it our mission to ignite the spark of possibility in every individual,” says Liz. “We are passionate about supporting companies with our agile and effective HR solutions and leadership coaching, offering them the quality of our wide skill range without the prohibitive cost of a full, experienced team. We want to work with companies to create environments where brilliance thrives and every voice is heard.”

Liz continues, “Our approach is simple yet revolutionary. We provide gamechanging coaching, high quality and innovative HR partnerships, and learning programmes that ignite imagination and unlock potential. We’re not just about helping a business to fill a role; we’re about ensuring they are nurturing talent from within, developing an environment where people can learn and flourish, delivering their best contributions.”

❛❛ Leadership isn’t about being in charge. It’s about inspiring others to explore, learn and grow ❜❜

Aspiring’s ethos extends beyond the boardroom. The whole team believes business can be a force for good, where companies consciously champion diversity and inclusivity, knowing it makes their organisations stronger, and where leaders are defined by their ability to inspire and motivate their employees.

“Leadership isn’t about being in charge,” says Liz. “It’s about inspiring others to explore, learn and grow. We don’t want companies to settle for the status quo; we want leaders who will challenge it. We believe in clear and shared ambitions, and in outcomes that benefit everyone involved.”

American scholar, poet and activist Maya Angelou once said, “When you know better, you do better.” Aspiring is committed to taking companies on a continuous improvement journey, to help them learn from their experiences and evolve with the challenges they face.

HOW DOES ASPIRING DO IT?

Aspiring has crafted its approach to encompass key elements.

n Game-changing coaching: It provides transformative coaching experiences that empower leaders to unlock their full potential and achieve their professional goals.

n CEO partnership: Aspiring collaborates closely with CEOs to align organisational objectives with the vision of creating better workplaces.

n HR partnership: HR partnerships are built on trust and collaboration, ensuring HR practices are relevant, effective and aligned with the organisation’s goals.

n Learning that sparks imagination: Aspiring’s leadership programmes go beyond traditional training, sparking creativity and innovation while unlocking hidden talents.

n Find and grow the best people: Talent plans are designed to identify and nurture top talent, ensuring businesses have the right people in the right roles to drive success.

n Development that enables internal growth and fulfilment: Aspiring helps businesses to encourage internal growth and fulfilment for both individuals and organisations, through targeted development initiatives.

n Resolve disputes with integrity: Aiding companies to handle conflict resolution swiftly and with integrity, ensuring issues are addressed in a fair manner.

In addition to these strategies, Aspiring prides itself on its commitment for:

n No jargon

n No restraints

n Clear and shared ambitions

n Great outcomes for everyone

HOW IT ALL STARTED

Aspiring’s journey began with a passion for exceptional leadership – the kind that nurtures growth and sees potential where others see none. From Liz’s early struggles to find her voice, she learnt to imagine a world of possibilities with the help of great mentors, and from there she unlocked her love of learning and personal growth.

Liz’s journey echoes the struggles many face in finding their place in the world. But it was the guidance of remarkable leaders that drove her forward, helping to shape her belief in the power of mentorship and empowerment.

Today, Aspiring is the go-to consultancy for like-minded companies and leaders. It is a movement towards a more inclusive future where talent is nurtured, potential is realised, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Working with Aspiring, businesses can imagine better, learn more, and grow beyond their expectations.

Find out more about Aspiring by visiting www.aspiringhr.com

Aspiring can be contacted by calling 01903 477950 or emailing hello@aspiringhr.com

COMPANY FORMATIONS SURREY

NEW BUSINESSES IN SURREY

Platinum presents the first in a series of company formation statistics covering the South East. We will be covering Hampshire, East Sussex and West Sussex in the forthcoming issues. One of the things to note is the rate of dissolved companies against the newly formed ones and, on each occasion, the ‘dissolved’ number is slightly less than the formed number – but not by much in most cases. In the South East, Surrey is certainly leading the way.

12,018

109,469

10,260

THE LAST FIVE YEARS

How the total number of companies in Surrey has changed over the last five years as new companies have been formed and some existing companies dissolved

TOTAL COMPANIES 2023 LEAGUE TABLE

The counties in England where most existing companies were based at the end of 2023 and how Surrey compares to them

Source:

Business Development Consultant

Partner in Accounts, Outsourcing and Business Services

Business and supplier relationships are crucial for success, say John Walsham, Business Development Consultant and Rachel Emmerson, Partner in Accounts, Outsourcing and Business Services at Kreston Reeves

BUSINESS CREDIT SCORES MATTER

It is a relationship defined, amongst many other factors, by payment terms, credit control and, in some instances, offering customers a line of credit.

But not all businesses are created equal, and it can be difficult to determine how a relationship might develop. For all businesses beginning a new commercial relationship, business credit scores can provide a valuable indicator of how you might want to work together.

Their value, given the continued uncertain economic conditions with business failures on the increase and businesses often taking longer to pay suppliers, cannot be understated.

A business credit score is a representation of a company’s financial stability and creditworthiness. These scores are used by lenders, suppliers and business partners to assess the potential risks associated with doing business with a company and should shape payment terms.

Credit scores are determined by the financial results of the company and certain behavioural traits. Do they, for example, file their financial statements on time, and do they pay suppliers within agreed payment terms? They are a valuable indicator of creditworthiness and can help a business make informed decisions around the financial relationship they wish to have with a particular business.

A business with a low credit score might mean the risk of that business failing is greater than one with a high credit score. Here, a supplier may want to think carefully about offering extended credit terms.

A business with a high credit score, on the other hand, might suggest they are more financially stable and payment terms can reflect that.

It should be noted, however, that credit scores can change rapidly, so when reviewing payment terms it can pay to recheck a business’s credit score.

❛❛ A business credit score is a representation of a company’s financial stability and creditworthiness ❜❜

John Walsham,

Rachel Emmerson,

❛❛ Credit scores are determined by the financial results of the company and certain behavioural traits ❜❜

WHY CONSIDER A FULL COMPANY CREDIT CHECK?

In addition to company credit scores, it is often sensible to consider a full company credit check. This will include the credit scores of a business but will also flag any legal notices against a business, such as a County Court Judgment, that might indicate financial difficulties.

Every business owner will recognise that a positive cash flow is the lifeblood of a business. Cash that is tied up with customers for extended periods can have a detrimental impact on a business and keeping on top of credit lines and the creditworthiness of customers and suppliers is essential.

Not every business will pay attention to the credit scores of their customers –or indeed their own credits scores – and that can be a mistake. Monitoring and improving your credit score may enable your business to obtain better supplier terms assisting cashflow and help alleviate the need for interest bearing debt. Understanding the credit scores of your customers may save you thousands by avoiding irrecoverable debt.

To help monitor and understand how credit scores can help your business, please contact John Walsham or Rachel Emmerson:

Call: +44 (0)33 0124 1399

Email: enquiries@krestonreeves.com Visit: www.krestonreeves.com

Corporate Commentary

Welcome to this monthly series for business owners, where myself and my team aim to demystify the corporate market and highlight trends in a non-technical manner

Jonathan Grant Partner and Head of Corporate

M&A MARKET

I have highlighted below some useful trends to be aware of in the M&A market, as we move toward a period of improved confidence and increased value.

DIRECT APPROACHES

Business owners are still receiving direct offers, which is both encouraging, and flattering. It remains important to understand what experienced buyers will expect, and to ‘play your hand’ well.

Price will be based on a multiple of earnings, adjusted for surplus cash, after debt and working capital have been provided for. However, buyers are still wary, leading to the following:

n the definition of debt may be wider than you expect;

n working capital requirements may include investment for future growth;

n more of the price may be moved into a deferred earn-out.

❛❛ M&A advisors continue to encourage auction processes to create competition and increase prices ❜❜

AUCTIONS AND HYBRID DEALS

M&A advisors continue to encourage auction processes (multiple buyers bidding for a target), to create competition and increase prices. However, experienced buyers in the current market refuse to be rushed, which can produce a ‘hybrid’ process.

Instead of a preferred buyer completing quickly, having based their ‘best and final’ offer on a seller diligence pack, many preferred buyers are insisting on time for additional diligence. This extends the deal process, and allows more time for negotiation.

As fear of missing out increases, deal times will reduce, and sellers position will strengthen.

PREPARATION OR OPPORTUNISTIC?

Buyer confidence can still be impacted by many things, some unrelated to the target business (cost of their own borrowing, or shifts in global supply chains). Sellers need to have resilience and determination to find the right deal, but here are some issues to think about:

n there can be real value in controlling your own data (which can be re-used/ updated);

n it is easy to be drawn into a poor deal by an unsolicited offer;

n persistence, and clarity of thinking, will win the day;

n if you are unprepared to receive a great offer, because you don’t recognise it as such, you may lose the opportunity.

If you would like to discuss any of these themes further, please get in touch with either:

Jonathan Grant Partner and Head of Corporate Mobile: +44 (0)7912 087173 E: Jonathan.Grant@dmhstallard.com

By Richard Taylor-West, Housemaster of Red Cross and Teacher of REP

Modern boarding – getting them ready for the world

Boarding schools have long been part of our educational furniture. From Tom Brown’s School Days to the likes of Malory Towers and Harry Potter, these hallowed halls have captured the imagination of generations. We are all familiar with tales of children shipped off to fairytale-like surroundings, left to their own devices as they seek to navigate the trials and tribulations of adolescence. Whilst they make fantastic stories, Mr Thwackum would not pass muster for the Safeguarding Team today. Thank goodness.

So, what are boarding schools really like today? Gone are the quasi-spartan methods of the Victorian era—‘gruel and a grilling’ is, thankfully, no longer thought of as the best educational medicine. It has been replaced by something entirely different. The ethos of the modern boarding school revolves around the needs of today’s younger generation as they continue to experience the lasting effects of the pandemic and the ever-mounting dangers posed by the digital world. Modern boarding is a privilege, for staff and pupils; one that encourages young people to develop skills and a moral character that will serve them well long after they fly the nest.

❛❛ The ethos of the modern boarding school revolves around the needs of today’s younger generation ❜❜

Key to the success of modern boarding, I believe, is a pupil’s ‘school family’ –their peers, tutors, matron, Houseparent, and even, if they’re lucky, the house pet. A golden labrador is on duty in Red Cross. As part of this tight-knit community, pupils develop a keen

sense of house loyalty and become a mutual support network that transcends different year groups, right through from Shell (Year 9) to Lower Sixth (Year 12).

Whether enjoying regular house socials or participating in inter-house competitions, in vertical house teams, pupils learn and grow as young people together. They respect each other’s boundaries and form real-life connections far removed from the increasingly distorted world of social media.

They say that ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ and I like to think of the boarding experience as, in a sense, a village in itself. One of the great advantages of boarding, with its naturally longer school days, study periods, and evening socials, is time. There is more time for staff to meet with pupils: to discuss projects, manage deadlines, and assist them in structuring their work.

If the wheels come off, as they do every now and then, tutors and house parents are always there to help put them back on. There’s more time, too, for pupils to engage in all kinds of exciting co-curricular endeavours. At Hurst, our Red Cross boys recently raised an impressive £5,500 for Off The Fence, a local charity serving the homeless; one of many initiatives devised by the boys themselves simply during downtime together in house. It involved a lot of hair dye for me!

What’s different about modern boarding, too, is that children remain connected to their family lives beyond school. Boarding is not about replacing any family but gaining another one. In Red Cross, I think of child, parent, and house as forming a ‘golden triangle

of communication’; my weekly newsletters update parents on all that their boys are up to, and I look forward to catching up with them at all sorts of events—be that on the touchline, in the theatre, or over a glass at one of our house socials.

At Hurst, all boarders return home on weekends to spend quality time with their family, having worked incredibly hard during the week. The house becomes a place where pupils develop all of the personal, social, and academic skills that boarding offers, without having to sacrifice their lives beyond it or their natural ties with their parents and siblings.

As boarding staff, we encourage pupils to be confident but not arrogant, to be effective collaborators but also open and generous leaders, and all that with the emotional intelligence to make space for others and their ideas. ‘Right time, right place, right way’. The Red Cross boys will have heard me voice this mantra countless times, but for me it’s what boarding – and education more broadly – is all about.

We want them to leave their houses, and eventually the College, with charged batteries, ready for action. That’s when we know that we have done our jobs right. They are ready for the world and the world will benefit greatly by having them.

❛❛ One of the great advantages of boarding, with its naturally longer school days, study periods, and evening socials, is time ❜❜

www.hppc.co.uk

Bill Collison will be a keynote speaker at Brighton Chamber’s annual Brighton Summit on 23 October at the Corn Exchange at Brighton Dome

MEET BRIGHTON SUMMIT 24/7’S OPENING KEYNOTE

BILL COLLISON Founder of

ME AND TWO VEG (OR MORE)

Bill’s Restaurants

If you’ve been to one of the monthly Brighton Chamber Breakfasts over the last four years, you’ll have heard of this keynote speaker – even if you don’t know his surname.

Bill Collison is the Founder of Bill’s, which now has more than 45 restaurants across the country. And that includes one in Brighton, where we have our networking breakfasts.

With a farming background, Bill was always used to working anti-social hours. His family owns a fruit farm and, as a schoolboy, he spent his summers picking fruit in Kent. Bill says he’s

picked just about every fruit and every vegetable out there. Small wonder he became obsessed with them.

When he was just 21, Bill opened a small greengrocery in his hometown of Lewes. In 2000, Bill’s shop was among 600 properties that flooded when the River Ouse burst its banks. It reopened months later as Bill’s Café & Produce Store, a colourful and vibrant celebration of seasonal fruit and veg.

The café was an immediate success locally, and soon people were travelling to eat and shop at Bill’s. Nowadays, Bill is still involved with the overall direction of the business, as well as overseeing the interior and exterior appearance of every restaurant.

As a keynote speaker at Brighton Summit 24/7, Bill will talk about growing up locally, his mum’s amazing home cooking, and how it all led to the birth and growth of Bill’s. He’ll look forward to the next chapter of the business, and reveal what it’s like to be part of the 24/7 hospitality industry.

www.brightonchamber.co.uk

ABOUT BRIGHTON SUMMIT 24/7

Now in its eleventh year, Brighton Summit is a place where ideas are born, businesses are forged and connections are made.

It’s an inspiring event to fuel your personal growth and business development as 500 businesses come together for a full day of topnotch speakers, inspiring keynotes, workshops and unparalleled ways to connect, get thinking, networking, and doing business differently. Bill Collison will be our opening keynote for Brighton Summit 24/7, and we’ll be announcing more brilliant sessions over the coming weeks.

So, join us for Brighton Summit 24/7 on 23 October at the Corn Exchange at Brighton Dome to supercharge your business, and your professional development.

Find out more and get your ticket at brightonchamber.co.uk/event

Brighton Summit is run by Brighton Chamber, a dynamic and welcoming membership organisation for businesses of all sizes.

To get the latest Summit updates straight to your inbox, head over to the Chamber website to sign up to our mailing list.

WITH THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS: Galloways Accounting, Recorra, Alirity, Brighton Dome & Festival, EMW LLP, EQ Investors, Plus X Innovation, University of Brighton and Help to Grow.

Brilliant branding by Visual Function, with captivating copy by The Sentence Works and Sherlock Studio.

MEDIA PARTNER Platinum Media Group

PRINT PARTNER Lollipop

WEB PARTNER Madison Solutions

PLATINUM MEDIA

By Joseph Bradfield, Sussex Innovation

THE GRANT FUNDING ROUND-UP: SUMMER 2024

Sussex Innovation’s team of advisors is constantly scouting for the best upcoming funding prospects for their community of start-ups. In this round-up, it has compiled some of the most intriguing funding opportunities that are open to applications in the coming months, from major national competitions to smaller seed rounds.

NEW INNOVATORS IN COMMUNICATION NETWORKS 2024

Grants for innovations in networking technology.

What is it? Innovate UK is offering a share of up to £500,000 to projects developing affordable, adoptable and investable innovations in the domain of communication networks, as part of its Telecoms Technology Missions Fund. Who is it for? UK registered micro or small businesses with total project costs of between £25,000 and £50,000.

Deadline: June 12th 2024

DCMS CREATE GROWTH PROGRAMME COMPETITION 3

Grants for new products, services or IP in the creative industries.

What is it? UKRI plans to allocate around £3 million to innovation projects and tailored support for high-growth creative businesses, enabling them to scale, establish investor networks, and realise their full potential. Who is it for? UK registered micro, small or medium sized businesses that are registered or operational in one of twelve regions including the South East coast. Eligible projects must have a total grant funding request of between £10,000 and £30,000, and must last between three and five months.

Deadline: June 19th 2024

JORDAN SINNOTT FOUNDATION TRUST

Grants for community organisations that promote sports for vulnerable young people.

What is it? Grants are available to clubs, community groups or teams in the UK to encourage vulnerable and underprivileged children and young adults to get active and enjoy taking part in sport. Individual and Community grants are offered, with the maximum award around £5,000. Who is it for? UK Registered Charities, Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs), Non-Profi t Organisations. The Jordan Sinnott Foundation Trust will also consider proposals from charities that are established outside the UK and non-charitable organisations that are established either in the UK or elsewhere.

Deadline: Open Indefi nitely

GREEN HALL FOUNDATION

Grants for special projects and equipment for UK registered charities.

What is it? The Green Hall Foundation has opened grant applications for UK registered charities that need support funding special projects or purchasing equipment that will benefit their charitable purposes. Preference will be given to appeals that will make a tangible difference to the relevant charity. The typical size of a grant is in the region of £1,000 to £10,000. Who is it for? Only UK Registered Charities can apply.

Deadline: September 2nd 2024

WOMEN

IN INNOVATION AWARD 2024/25

Grants for women entrepreneurs.

What is it? Innovate UK is offering up to 50 Women In Innovation awards of up to £75,000 plus bespoke business support for entrepreneurs who are relatable role models for women from all backgrounds, and are solving pressing societal, environmental and economic challenges in a variety of innovation areas. Winning projects will be able to demonstrate that they are at a critical stage where the award will accelerate the growth of their business. Who is it for? Women founders, co-founders and senior decision makers in micro, small and medium-sized UK enterprises.

Deadline: July 10th 2024

G-FORCE CLIMATE SEED PROGRAMME

Grant and investment support for climate tech start-ups.

What is it? This programme is run by the Founders Factory Tech Network and aims to provide grant and investment support to climate tech start-ups. The programme includes cash investment alongside operational and grant support, and is focused on areas such as decarbonising the grid, fixing food and agriculture, electrifying transportation, cleaning up industry and buildings, protecting nature and removing carbon. Who is it for? Pre/seed stage companies with scalable technology, early traction and an impact-led mission. Accepting applications from all locations worldwide, with a particular focus on companies that have an EU interest.

Deadline: Open Indefi nitely

LOOKING

SUSSEX COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Grants to support community impact in Sussex.

What is it? The Sussex Community Foundation addresses four funding priorities in the region; reducing poverty and disadvantage; helping people live longer and healthier lives; providing skills education and training; and taking local action for the climate. Grants range from £1,000 to £10,000. Who is it for? Most grants are awarded to not-for-profi t volunteer-led organisations whose annual income does not exceed £2million.

Deadline: September 6th 2024

www.sussexinnovation.co.uk

FOR THE RIGHT FUNDING FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

Sussex Innovation maintains a curated grant opportunities fi nder with an expansive array of the best national and local opportunities across different sectors at sussexinnovation.co.uk/funding-fi nance/grant-funding

The expert consultancy team can also help you identify different funding routes for your organisation that suits your business model and aspirations to grow. Whether you’re looking for bespoke grant funding opportunities, support with writing bids and tenders, or advice on preparing your pitch deck for investors.

Get in touch at sussexinnovation.co.uk/contact-us

By Pam Loch, Loch Associates Group

IS A RADICAL REFORM OF EMPLOYMENT LAW ON THE CARDS?

In their Green Paper ‘A new deal for working people’, the Labour Party announced proposals for transformational changes to employment law, placing a particular focus on ‘pay, security, inequality and discrimination’. Given the outcome of the local elections appear to support the likelihood of a Labour Government in the upcoming General Election, it raises the question of whether a radical reform of employment law is now on the cards.

Labour’s proposals would certainly swing the pendulum of power towards employees and workers, with the plan to create a single status for employees and workers, and the creation of employment protection from day one, an increased minimum wage, and more family-friendly rights and protection. Labour also plans to change the employment landscape by banning firing and re-hiring, and giving employees the right to disconnect.

Could these proposed reforms change the employment environment and create a nation of responsible, progressive employers, and positively impact talent attraction, productivity, and staff retention? Or are these measures going to impose greater risk and financial burden on small and medium sized businesses that are already stretched to their limits?

SINGLE EMPLOYMENT STATUS

At present, there are three main categories of employment status –employees, workers and self-employed – each with differing rights assigned to them. Labour proposes to create a single ‘worker’ status to apply to both workers and employees, while retaining a separate category for the self-employed.

Whilst there could be some merit in creating a more simplifi ed approach, the creation of a single category could have quite significant consequences

for businesses and industries who work with casual workers and consultants, who may not qualify as self-employed under Labour’s proposals.

While these groups do not currently qualify for benefi ts such as holiday and sick pay, pension, parental rights, and protection under unfair dismissal, they could if Labour goes ahead with its plans. As a result, businesses who may be impacted by this will need to review the status of their staff, and budget for the fi nancial ramifi cations of more individuals acquiring rights that they do not currently have.

CHANGES TO UNFAIR DISMISSAL RIGHTS

Protection from unfair dismissal was originally introduced under Edward Heath’s Conservative Government in 1971, with employees currently qualifying for this protection after almost two years of service. Whilst this qualifying period has changed several times, Labour’s pledge to remove the qualifying period altogether, and give workers this protection from day one, could have signifi cant consequences for businesses, placing more focus on recruitment due diligence and people management once employed.

It is worth keeping in mind the potentially signifi cant financial risks a successful claim by an employee can create for a business. Whilst the removal of the cap on compensatory awards for unfair dismissal, as proposed in the Green Paper, would only apply to employers who find themselves liable, it is likely to result in employers being more risk averse, especially around dismissals.

Directors may also find themselves exposed as Labour plan to hold Directors personally liable for any unpaid money awarded to workers, meaning in the event of a potential business liquidation, workers could bring claims against the Directors’ personal wealth.

BANNING ‘FIRE AND REHIRE’ PRACTICES

Labour have also set out proposals to tackle the ‘fire and rehire’ of employees, a practice where a business dismisses someone who has refused contractual changes and then re-hires them under the new terms. The Green Paper identifies three areas that need to change to stop this practice, including:

1

improving information and consultation procedures to ensure workers are involved in the contractual changes;

2

making changes to trade union notice and balloting to allow for defensive action to be taken when this action occurs; and

3 adapting dismissal and redundancy legislation to prevent dismissals based on the non-acceptance of contractual changes.

FURTHER REFORMS

The Green Paper also calls for an increased minimum wage, a right for workers to disconnect from work and employer communications, day one statutory sick pay, extension of paternity and maternity rights, and pregnancy protection with regard to return to work – all of which could have huge consequences for small and independent businesses.

PREPARING FOR NEW LEGISLATION

At Loch Associates Group, we can help you map your business through these potential reforms. Our leadership and management training packages from Loch Training and Wellbeing offer courses focused on ensuring the right recruitment and retention of staff, and workshops designed to upskill managers to be able to understand HR best practice and know how to effectively manage their teams.

Our legal team at Loch Law can help to ensure your business is compliant and provide an added layer of protection with our Employment Tribunal insurance, which is likely to be even more signifi cant to have in place should Labour’s reforms be implemented.

Protect your business, train your team, and let us guide you through the employment law changes that potentially lie ahead.

Email info@lochassociates.co.uk to fi nd out more.

A NEW DEAL

The Green Paper clearly states Labour’s intentions to strengthen employee rights, reset the balance of power and place the onus on the employer to protect all employees from day one of their employment.

Whilst it will be interesting to see whether Labour fulfil their commitment of introducing a bill within 100 days of gaining power, (and when the changes then become law), it’s important that businesses get up to speed with these potential changes and are aware of the steps they would need to take to be legally compliant.

Creative Pod, an award-winning leader in digital marketing and design, recently celebrated a significant milestone in its journey – its 18th birthday

CREATIVE POD TURNS 18!

Founded by the well-connected entrepreneur Matt Turner, Creative Pod has become synonymous with innovation, creativity, and excellence in the industry. Over the years, the company’s drive to deliver creative marketing with a Michelin-star service to shout about has earned it a stellar reputation. And it is firmly on its way to being the leading and most-loved marketing agency in the South East.

To mark this special occasion, Creative Pod hosted a spectacular birthday party at none other than the Brighton Palace Pier. In iconic Creative Pod-style, clients and business partners were invited for a fun afternoon to enjoy the pier’s fantastic food and drink, as well as its rides and amusements!

The event was more than just a birthday party; it also served as a great networking event. As a marketing agency with such experience and depth in connections,

the guest list was filled with a fantastic blend of characters and personalities from a huge range of industries spanning from Coral Production to Cyber Security to Fertility.

Highlighting the afternoon was a speech delivered by Founder and CEO, Matt Turner. Matt shared stories from his remarkable journey, engaging the audience with tales ranging from the humble beginnings of Creative Pod to encounters with royalty. Highlights from the 18 years included Matt’s appointment as Export Champion for the Cabinet Office in 2023 and the numerous awards and accolades of Creative Pod, including becoming a Google Partner Agency and a Drum recommend agency for three years running, reaffirming its industry leadership.

These achievements are a testament to the dedication and expertise of the talented team, led by Marketing Director Sarah Lyons, who was named Employee of the Year at the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2023.

Reflecting on the company’s growth over the years, Matt expressed his excitement about entering Creative Pod’s ‘adolescence’ years. Recent times have witnessed significant milestones and growth for the company, driven by a dedicated team and commitment to excellence. In Matt’s own words,

❛❛ The event was more than just a birthday party; it also served as a great networking event ❜❜

“Creative Pod’s 18th birthday is not just a celebration of the past; it’s a testament to our resilience, creativity, and unwavering dedication to our clients.

“As we look back on how far we’ve come, we also look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Our journey is far from over, and I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”

In addition to the 18th birthday party, this year the company branding has also undergone a temporary refresh. Demonstrating the design excellence and creativity of the team, the brand’s digital assets have been temporarily overtaken by the 18th Birthday design which reflects Matt’s passion for street art combined with the young and rebellious feel typically associated with turning 18.

❛❛ Matt and all of Creative Pod would like to extend their thanks to everyone who has supported the company over the years ❜❜

Matt and all of Creative Pod would like to extend their thanks to everyone who has supported the company over the years and to all those who joined them for the celebrations on the day. It truly was a memorable event in the Creative Pod history and there is no doubt there will be another celebration when the company hits the momentous age of 21. So, here’s to Creative Pod - 18 years young and brimming with potential. The best is yet to come.

If you’re on the search for Creative design and marketing, head to Creative Pod’s new website and explore the fantastic and broad range of Creative Services it delivers.

www.creativepod.uk.com

Smiles all around from Stephanie Prior and James Turner, Head of Commercial at Creative Pod

By Paul Bates, Managing Director, Cleankill

A strong case for leaving bird proofing to professionals

Cleankill Pest Control surveyors visit many different types of premises every day and are often shocked at what they find. This was certainly the case when Surveyor Sam Boylett visited a building in Hove, East Sussex. He was specifically asked to look at an emergency fire escape that had been ‘proofed’ by the building manager.

The building manager had received a quote for bird proofing from a competitor they thought was excessive and so decided to take matters into their own hands.

Poorly installed netting had not stopped birds entering and there was excrement everywhere. In addition, there was evidence of birds getting tangled in the netting.

The ‘door’ that was installed using CDs as a ballast weight is against regulations as it may cause people to get caught in it in the event of a fire. A door opening both ways should be installed. Pigeons take advantage of the warmer weather to sit on ledges and pipework while their foulings fall to the floor below. In this case, the foulings have created a dangerously slippery surface on the fire escape. If the residents had to use the stairs in an emergency, it could be extremely dangerous. Bird spikes have been installed on hand rails which could cause injuries to users if there is a fire.

Cleankill

Pest

Control Managing Director

Paul Bates says: “It’s important for building managers and owners to consider the consequences of not

❛❛ Pigeons are the most unhygienic and messy birds, and actually carry more diseases than rats ❜❜

using a professional service in order to save money. In this case, there could have been a danger to life and the person responsible may have found themselves in hot water if the worst had happened. We were pleased to be called in for our professional advice and to quote for sorting this problem out. We always advise obtaining several quotes.”

Pigeons are the most unhygienic and messy birds, and actually carry more diseases than rats. They nest on their poo and attract mites. Nearly all pigeons carry the bird mite - a tiny insect that feeds off the bird, but will also makes humans itch and scratch. Pigeon fouling and nest materials also provide a home for many other insects such as clothes moths, carpet beetle and mealworm beetles. They breed prolifically and a breeding pair can produce young three or four times a year.

If a building has been netted to prevent birds nesting the following season, the birds will look for the tiniest gap and will be back in residence before you know if the netting has not been fitted properly. Legally, once they have started nesting, the birds cannot be disturbed without a licence and a good reason.

The only sure way to deter pest birds is with expertly fitted and maintained netting. Professionally fitted netting should barely be visible and can be combined with tools like bird spikes which don’t harm the birds but prevent them from landing.

As registered waste carriers, Cleankill can carry out full scale removal of bird fouling, as well as contaminated goods and furniture, from infested properties.

Cleankill has been solving pest problems for commercial and domestic customers since 2005. For a free quote or cost comparison go to www.cleankill.co.uk

THE END OF DEMOCRACY AS WE KNOW IT

By Maarten Hoffmann

DISCLAIMER: All views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of this publication

On May 7th, the government tabled a motion as part of the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill that will enable them to have unfettered access to anyone’s bank account in the UK. No longer will your banking details be private as, at the drop of a hat, the government can order any bank to give them access to your accounts.

If you are not highly alarmed by this then l doubt your sanity.

The sanctity of our finances is paramount to a free and democratic society and NO-ONE should be able to access such details without our express permission. But this Bill will allow them to delve into all your accounts at any time they choose. If l thought this was right in any way, l would move to Beijing.

They are cloaking this as their need to see if welfare claimants are fairly claiming benefits. But if you are taken in by that bullshit, then you deserve such a government.

They ‘claim’ that they will only spy on the disabled, sick, caregivers, jobseekers, landlords AND ANY OTHER ASSOCIATES. They can also spy on anyone connected to any of the above such as parents, partners, landlords AND OTHER ASSOCIATES.

There have always been powers in place to look at one’s bank accounts IF you are suspected by the police of fraud, and that is right. However, this Bill, under the words ‘ANY OTHER ASSOCIATES’ means they will be able to go into any bank account without your knowledge. One day you will get

a letter asking you to justify where that £250 deposit just came from AND they are going to use AI to do it. There will be another Post Office Horizon scandal coming up as they prosecute people for not declaring money they have in their account, leading to wrongful prosecutions, financial ruin and reputational damage.

Why? Because they are so inept that they cannot work out who they are paying welfare to – especially when it’s those who should not be receiving it. But that’s their job - pay to those that need it, and not to those skivers that don’t. A Bill like this is the largest of hammers to crack the smallest of nuts, and all because they are incompetent and can’t do the job.

We already suffer working our entire lives and paying taxes on all of it – and then we get clobbered again when we die with Inheritance Tax. The government, whether it’s this one or the next as they are all as bad – just a new cast of awful characters – are so dreadfully inefficient with our money, that they need more to oil the wheels. And this is their next wheeze.

❛❛ If you are not highly alarmed by this then I doubt your sanity ❜❜

ANGER MANAGEMENT

❛❛ I wonder if our representatives in parliament will have their bank accounts perused in order to find out if anyone is abusing the system ❜❜

A letter signed by 20 MPs and Lords, and sent to the government in April warns that this Bill would require banks to “sift through tens of millions of bank accounts to identify people in the welfare system, around 40% of the population,” and it warns that: “Searching for such signals without reasonable grounds for suspicion would reverse the wellestablished presumption of innocence.”

The letter says: “We note the tragic events of the Post Office Horizon scandal in which innocent people suffered wrongful prosecutions, financial ruin and reputational damage following data used from faulty software in algorithmic systems. We cannot condone powers that risk replicating this disaster on a much broader scale with vulnerable people, many of whom live on the poverty line.”

Ten million pensioners who receive the state pension, as well as welfare payment recipients, such as mothers who receive children’s benefits directly, will be among those whose personal accounts will be secretly scanned to check for welfare fraud under plans

that have been described by senior politicians as ‘a snoopers’ charter’.

Silkie Carlo, director of Big Brother Watch, described the move as ‘dangerously authoritarian’. She said it would treat millions of innocent pensioners, disabled people, parents and carers ‘like criminals’, intrude on the wider population’s financial privacy and reverses the ‘British presumption of innocence’. Ms Carlo added that the ‘mass algorithmic surveillance’ of the public risked a miscarriage of justice similar to that which occurred to staff working for the Post Office, and was likely to recoup only 3% of the annual amount lost to fraud.

Furthermore, the group claims these powers will likely breach Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which gives Britons the right to privacy without Government interference. The civil liberties organisation suggests the DWP’s proposed new powers could expose people’s locations, movements, opinions, medical information and impact freedom of expression, though the DWP disputes this strongly.

And as we know, if the banks don’t like something they see, they can de-bank you.

This shocking Bill will remove a huge swathe of freedom from UK citizens, and is the very thin end of a very thick wedge that will follow, putting us in servitude to a careless, incompetent and hugely wasteful Big Brother government – what we spend our money on and why. Is this a world you want to live in?

Is this a world you want to live in?

And if you cannot believe that such an intrusive bill will get through, we thought that about the Investigatory Powers Bill – that passed and now the government can look at ANY social media post, telephone call or email you have sent in the last 12 months, on demand from the service supplier.

Whatever you do, scream, shout, protest and demonstrate about this before they ram it through – or it is end of the UK as we know it.

One good thing to come out of the shock election announcement is that the Conservatives failed to get this Bill through in time but be alert as l am quite sure Labour will try to bring it back.

By Tess de Klerk

SHARM EL-SHEIKH, SOUTH SINAI

I have a special place in my heart for deserts, and I love scuba diving but even that couldn’t make up for the noisy, over developed disappointment that is Sharm El-Sheikh. Thinking of visiting? Think twice – then think twice again.

Perhaps things would have gone differently if we had stayed at one of the international resorts around Sharm but we booked a decent looking four-star hotel in the heart of Naama Bay (the beating heart of Sharm) since that gave us the easiest access to the dive shops. I also ordinarily like to experience an area and its people by taking part in daily life, as opposed to spending the majority of my time in a hotel resort but in the case of Sharm el Sheik, I would have preferred the latter.

Naama Bay was noisy. I’m not talking about normal life hustle and bustle –I wish. I’m talking about too many hotels stuffed into too small a space, with many of those hotels having ‘entertainment’ from late afternoon to morning hours. Blaring music, each speaker doing its best to out-blare the humongous speakers of its neighbours. Think Western, Arabic and Russian pop, all around 100 decibels, coming from everywhere. The stuff of nightmares.

❛❛ Thinking of visiting? Think twice – then think twice again ❜❜

Russian pop, you ask? Yes, when we were there, around 80% of visitors were Russian, and speaking to staff, it seems that it has been that way for years. After the Arab Spring in 2010, Western tourists stayed away. Therefore, Sharm started to actively market all-inclusive deals in Russia. Nothing wrong with that, but the place has lost all balance, so much so that when I bought an authenticated artwork, the certificate was only available in Arabic or Russian.

Foodies will be disappointed too. Plenty of hotels offer all-inclusive packages but we prefer to get to know local cuisine and had breakfast only at our hotel. It was okay but most definitely left me grateful for not having to eat more than breakfast there. Consequently,

El Sahaba Mosque

❛❛ The diving improves the further you move from the coast meaning that Ras Muhammed and the Tiran islands still offer good diving ❜❜

we tried a number of restaurants in Naama Bay; unfortunately, I can’t recommend any. Desperate, we thought we would try Hard Rock Café where they, of course, also had their own entertainment – a bad singer butchering old classics so loudly that the waiter got my order wrong. I politely asked him for the right order and he seemed livid. I had stomach issues for the next two days. Coincidence? I suspect not.

The diving was meant to be some of the best the world has to offer but in reality, it was slightly disappointing. Perhaps I was expecting too much, having listened to stories of fabled diving over the years.

There were plenty of colourful clown fish, angel fish and other pretty little creatures but we didn’t encounter much of the larger sea life I was expecting. There was plenty of coral but colours were subdued with a layer of what surely had to be builders dust smothering the life out of them.

Sharm el-Sheikh is basically miles and miles of over-development. Miles of

monstrous hotels, many of them seem to have been left halfway built while others continue to mushroom. I can’t for the life of me imagine that all those rooms will be occupied but still, on goes the building and the polluting.

The diving improves the further you move from the coast meaning that Ras Muhammed and the Tiran islands still offer good diving. As far as snorkelling goes, you’ll find good snorkelling by taking a boat trip to the best spots.

We had hired a car, intending to explore the area. We would have liked to have visited Sharks Bay but it was completely

closed off due to the development of a massive marina, with plans showing even more hotels. Sharm’s Old Town has also had a refurb so it’s hardly recognisable as an Arabic old town. The El Sahaba Mosque was worth it though.

I regret not having booked an excursion to St Katherine’s Monastery, on Mount Sinai. By all accounts, it is very special and I would have gotten to explore more of the Sinai desert. There are plenty of excursions available, from visiting a Berber camp to a one-day trip to Jordan to explore Petra – all at very reasonable prices.

I would definitely say that the number and variety of excursions from Sharm El-Sheikh is a big positive, as well as the absolute guaranteed sunshine, of course. If you are considering going, make sure you don’t book a stay in Naama Bay and that you choose your resort very carefully. Plus, don’t expect much culture.

n Return flights from Gatwick to Sharm El-Sheikh are around £400 in June.

By Maarten Hoffmann, Motoring Editor

Mercedes-Benz EQE

Mercedes is flying with its range of EVs – and the EQE is no exception. Size-wise, consider it an E-Class rather than the larger S-Class.

What’s different about this model is that, rather than building it on an existing model, the EQE sits on a bespoke platform, therefore allowing the engineers to build it from scratch –without compromise – so this should be interesting. This model is really up against it as it competes with the Audi e-tron GT, BMW i5 and the Porsche Taycan.

❛❛ At motorway speed, it is settled and smooth and is an excellent cruiser, and feels very well put together ❜❜

Therefore, there are several models to choose from – the entry model is the EQE 300, offering 242bhp with a rear mounted motor giving it a rather sluggish 7.3 seconds to 62mph.

The EQE 350 offers 288bhp and cuts the 0-62mph time to 6.4 seconds. If your wallet would stand the strain, l would go for the impressive AMG EQE 53, with two motors offering 616bhp and 0-62 in 3.5 seconds. That’s faster than the BMW, but a tad slower than the Taycan – but then, the Taycan.

I really like the interior, everything is well placed, with a large, sloping centre screen rather than the upright Tesla screen. The steering wheel is adorned with controls that are a tad intimidating at first but totally natural after a few miles. If you like the latest tech, you’ll be interested in the Hyperscreen, which is available as an expensive option on the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 (Mercedes

has hinted that it’ll be available on other versions eventually). It effectively turns the entire face of the dashboard into a screen, giving the driver and passenger control over their own separate areas.

Even without the Hyperscreen, there’s a lot of visual glamour thanks to the big screens, wood detailing (available on higher trims) and ambient lighting.

PLATINUM

❛❛ The steering wheel is adorned with controls that are a tad intimidating at first but totally natural after a few miles ❜❜

Still, some of the EQE’s fixtures and fittings feel disappointingly cheap or flimsy, particularly around the infotainment system and centre console.

More positively, interior storage is impressive, with plenty of places to put your everyday gubbins, including two large storage cubbies in the centre console and some big door bins.

The interior is quite spacious but the rear seats are set at an odd angle, leaving the rear passengers with their knees in a rather awkward position, while the swooping roofline slightly restricts taller passengers. The boot is a good size, and the 40/20/40 split arrangement makes it highly versatile.

It can be a tad unsettled on twisting roads. However, this can be fixed by selecting the air suspension option, and Sport mode will resist any cornering lean. Going up the trim models can

also give you rear-wheel steering, and then the turning circle is truly impressive although l hear that the rear-wheel steering might not be available in the UK, which would be a real shame.

At motorway speed, it is settled and smooth and is an excellent cruiser, and feels very well put together – and pretty much bullet-proof.

TECH STUFF

MODEL TESTED:

EQE 350 215kW Exclusive Luxury

POWER: 288bhp

SPEED: 0-62 - 6.3s

TOP: 130mph

RANGE: 324 miles

PRICE FROM: £89,290

As with all specifically designed EVs, rather than those with the engine ripped out, and motors and batteries stuffed in, you will have to get used to the looks. You will also have to get used to the amount of tech they have crammed in – it’s not for everyone but if you just leave it all alone and let the computer work it all out, it is rather effortless.

Switching to the Mercedes-Benz electric range says so much about your business, as well as your ambitions to be more sustainable. And now’s the right time to switch as we have great offers available across selected Mercedes-Benz electric cars.

Thanks to an impressive range, zero Vehicle Excise Duty, low running costs and a low BIK, you can enjoy the benefits straight away.

Explore our latest offers across the range and use our online tools to see how electric can work for your business.

To find out more, please scan the QR code or contact the team at Sandown Mercedes-Benz on 0330 178 1801.

0330 178 1801

Labour’s SEN time bomb

PLUS X

Impactful Innovation

MOTORING

Fiat Abarth EV

TRAVEL

The clever VPN hack

Baroness Floella Benjamin

BIG STORY

Baroness Floella Benjamin

Inclusivity champion, Windrush spokesperson, motivational speaker, and Humpty’s friend, Dynamic chronicles the life of a national treasure 10

18

Labour’s VAT time bomb Labour needs to listen to families with children with special education needs ahead of its plans to remove VAT exemption from fee-paying schools

You called… and we came poem by Professor Laura Serrant, about the Windrush generation

28

HEALTH & WELLBEING Understanding GABA A

occurring amino acid –and what it can do for you

1,027

Number of passengers on Windrush’s only migration voyage, 1948

REGULARS

News

6 Upfront: The top international news stories involving women in business

20 In The Right Direction: Good news stories from around the world

22 Spotlight

22 Highlighting two professional businesswomen whose work deserves greater attention than it currently receives

30 Further Reading

30 Reviews of books by Petra Velzeboer and others on the subject of mental wellbeing Art Scene

32 Kellie Miller discusses the works of Mary Jones – aka ‘The Brick Thief’ Travel

34 Acquiring a VPN can not only disguise your IP address, but save you money when booking a holiday Fine Dining

36 Fumi – high quality Japanese cuisine in central Brighton

What’s On

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

FEATURES

8 Business exit strategy

Samantha Kaye from Wellesley points out that the proceeds from selling your business may affect your loved ones too

14 Celebrating the ‘wow’ factor

Rachel Watkyn OBE, the CEO of Tiny Box Company, has been inspired by the women at the Dynamic Awards

15 ‘No hard feelings’

Beth Warner of FRP Corporate Finance, was honoured to be involved in judging at the recent Dynamic Awards

16 Plus X Innovation

Innovation is one of the most essential tools businesses can have, says Natasha Kingdom

CHARITIES

24 Kreston UK Charities Report 2024

The Kreston UK Charity Group has produced a report into the financial condition of the UK charity sector. Dynamic offers a snapshot of its findings

26 Rockinghorse

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity is fundraising to create a new Wellbeing Service to support thousands of children and families

❛

❛ Getting some clarity, any clarity, would be incredibly welcome

Nick Pietrek, headmaster of Stafford Grammar school on Labour’s VAT plans

GIRL TORQUE

38 Fiona Shafer, MD of MDHUB, road tests a ‘cheeky little Italian motor’ – the Fiat Abarth 500e

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

DYNAMIC

Register for our Finance focus webinar

An essential technical update for finance teams and business owners.

Topics will include:

• Economic update

• Financial reporting and the future of audit

• Corporate tax update and changes on the horizon

• ESG and sustainable reporting

• Research and development and share schemes

• Business valuations – understanding the implications of the accounting standards

Join us on Wednesday 25 June 2024 at 09:30am - 11:00am.

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For more than accountancy, business and wealth advice.

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Visit: www.krestonreeves.com

EDITOR’S NOTE

We are delighted to share this edition of Dynamic with you, carefully curated for your reading pleasure.

In this month’s Big Story, we tell the life story of the talented Baroness Floella Benjamin, who has done so much for race relations, working tirelessly for diversity, inclusion and equality. A life led with passion and purpose.

Kreston Reeves brings us the Kreston UK Charity Report 2024, while we hear from the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity about its latest initiative. We also look at what Labour’s proposal for removing the charitable status of private schools may mean to the families of children with special educational needs.

Our magazine is, as always, full of remarkable women including Rachel Watkyn from Tiny Box who offers her support and guidance to people in business through the Tiny Clinic. In Spotlight, we feature Tanya Houston of the marketing agency Wildwood Plus as well as Mary Cullen, who shares her unusual journey with us.

You will find plenty more in our regular features, including a hack to save money on your next holiday booking on page 35, and plenty of reading material for sunny days on page 28.

We hope that you enjoy this month’s Dynamic.

Editor, Dynamic Magazine tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk

ONGOING PROBLEMS FACED BY WOMEN LEADERS

Women leaders in male-dominated industries shared their experiences and insights at a forum at Bayes Business School, London recently. The panel discussion, chaired by Dr Janina Steinmetz, who leads the Bayes Global Women‘s Leadership Programme, explored the challenges facing women in sectors such as transport, real estate and finance – and the campaign for a gender-balanced House of Commons. Janina said: “Globally, we see more women in leadership positions, and that makes a lot of sense because we now have a lot of research evidence that diversity in leadership positions actually benefits organisations.

“However, most of this progress has happened in industries that tend to be female-dominated. Even the few women who rise to leadership positions in male-dominated sectors, report problems such as impostor syndrome or even sexual harassment and other forms of discrimination due to gender stereotyping.”

UPFRONT

THE LATEST BULLETINS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

BUMBLE MUMBLES AN APOLOGY

Dating app Bumble, founded by Whitney Wolfe Herd, has apologised for adverts that critics said shamed women who were not sexually active.

The marketing campaign included messages such as “A vow of celibacy is not the answer” and “Thou shalt not give up on dating and become a nun”.

Bumble said the ads were supposed to bring humour to “a community frustrated by modern dating”. But critics said the adverts were tasteless and ran counter to the company’s stated aim of empowering women.

“In a world fighting for respect and autonomy over our bodies, it’s appalling to see a dating platform undermine women’s choices,” wrote Jordan Emanuel, a model and actress who has talked publicly about her decision to refrain from sex for a year.

❛ ❛

I am learning every day to allow the space between where I am and where I want to be to inspire me and not terrify me

Tracee Ellis Ross

UPLIFTING AWARD FOR UPTON

Justine Upton, a business mentor from Worthing, has picked up two awards at the National Mentoring Matters Awards 2024. She received the Best Mentor Award, and the Outstanding Contribution Award for the outstanding work she does to help businesses to unlock their growth potential; a double in a set of very prestigious awards.

Justine launched and ran her own recruitment business for 25 years before exiting in 2021. Since then she has gained her qualifications in Mentoring and Coaching and has set up her eponymous business to share her knowledge with entrepreneurs who are at a crossroads with their company and need a helping hand.

She joined the Help to Grow: Management course in 2023 and has already mentored eight business leaders on the course.

FRENCH MOTORISTS

TO ‘DRIVE

LIKE

TOLD

A WOMAN’

In a bizarre twist of positive discrimination, a French road safety association is urging people to “drive like a woman” to reduce the number of traffic deaths.

Victimes & Citoyens, a group which supports the victims of road accidents, has launched a campaign to debunk the misogynistic stereotype that men are better drivers than women.

Using data from France’s National Interministerial Road Safety Observatory, the campaign noted that 84% of fatal accidents in 2022 were caused by men, while 88% of young drivers were killed by men, and 93% of drunk drivers involved in accidents were men “When we look at the figures, they are clear: to stay alive behind the wheel, the best thing for men to do is adopt the same behaviour as women,” the campaign’s website says.

❛

❛

The beauty of being a feminist is that you get to be whatever you want. And that’s the point

Shonda Rhimes

❛ ❛

Always concentrate on how far you have come, rather than how far you have left to go. The difference in how easy it seems will amaze you

Heidi Johnson

SHARP RISE IN WOMEN LEAVING WORKFORCE

Rising NHS waiting lists are being blamed for more than 1.5m women leaving work due to ill health.

Musculoskeletal issues, such as back and neck pain, were the biggest driver of women leaving the workforce due to ill health, while depression, anxiety and mental illness contributed to a large increase in the number of women classed as economically inactive - neither in work nor looking for work.

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “We need a proper plan for dealing with the sharp rise in long-term sickness.

“It means dealing with the chronic staffing shortages across the NHS and social care that are delaying patients from being seen when they need to.”

NEW BOSS AT LONDON CITY AIRPORT

London City Airport Chief Operating Officer Alison FitzGerald has been appointed CEO. She has been COO since 2016 and co-CEO alongside Chief Financial officer Wilma Allan since January 2024.

She joined London City 10 years ago as Chief Information Officer and, since then and in her role as COO, she has been responsible for leading the airport to become one of the first in the UK to fully deploy new CT security scanners.

She has also overseen the implementation of the world’s first major digital air traffic control tower, and has worked with aircraft manufactures and airlines to enable the introduction of next generation aircraft into the Docklands airport.

The proceeds from selling your business may set the scene for a secure financial future –so take the time to think about your loved ones too, says SAMANTHA KAYE from Wellesley

BUSINESS EXIT: STAGING IT RIGHT

When your thoughts turn to selling or exiting your business, getting the sale over the line may seem like the most pressing concern – but it’s essential to plan ahead.

You’ll hopefully receive a significant cash sum for this new chapter in your life. Before you seal the deal, it’s essential to plan what you intend to do with the money to ensure you’re doing the best thing for yourself and your family, both now and in the future.

TAXING MATTERS

It’s true to say that the earlier you start planning your exit, the more options will be open to you. Th is is particularly relevant if you’re considering gifting your business, because if you intend to pass your wealth on to support your loved ones, how and when you do so could have tax implications for them.

A trading business generally qualifies for business relief and is therefore free of Inheritance Tax (IHT). However, once the business is sold, the cash proceeds will be assessed for IHT. Look at what you’ll likely have available, how much you need and what you can do with any remainder.

THE BIG PICTURE

Smart estate planning before an exit uses all available exemptions in an overarching fi nancial plan and tends to involve the whole family. Th is is called a holistic estate plan.

Your plan should also include a decumulation strategy showing how to draw retirement income efficiently from your various assets. For example, pensions are IHT-free, so creating an income stream that draws as little as possible from your pension can help you pass on wealth efficiently.

You might wish to consider gifting shares in your business to family members – either directly or through a trust – before you exit. Alternatively, you can remove money from your estate by gifting dividend income you don’t need.

Your plan should also look at factors such as IHT relief for married couples, which allows individuals to pass assets to their spouses during their lifetime or on death without tax exposure. A fi nancial adviser can help you with what is needed to make your Will IHT efficient.

It’s

true to say that the earlier you start planning your exit, the more options will be open to you

Before you seal the deal, it’s essential to plan what you intend to do with the money

MOVING ON

If you want to discuss your exit plans and work out the most tax-efficient ways of gifting your business or some of the proceeds of its sale to loved ones, I’m here to help. Contact me today for a no-obligation review. Whatever life after an exit holds for you, you can look forward to the future with Wellesley.

Samantha Kaye Chartered Financial Adviser

Wellesley House, 50 Victoria Road, Burgess Hill, West Sussex, RH15 9LH

T: 01444 849809

E: samantha.kaye@sjpp.co.uk www.wellesleywa.co.uk

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances.

Trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Please note that advice with regard to exit strategy planning may involve the referral to a service that is separate and distinct to those offered by St. James’s Place.

Wellesley is a trading name of Wellesley Investment Management Ltd. 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/about-st-james-place/our-business/our-products-andservices.

The ‘St. James’s Place partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Wellesley Investment Management Ltd: Registered Office: 44 The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, England, TN2 5TN. Registered in England & Wales, Company No. 06530147.

Receiving the BAFTA Fellowship Award last month put one of the nation’s favourite entertainers front and centre once again.

To millions, Floella Benjamin is a kindly aunt who kept a generation of children entertained in the 1970s and 80s. To others, she is a leading campaigner for the Windrush generation; a campaign that should never have needed to happen, and a champion for the empowerment of women.

To business people of today, she is a motivational speaker, talking from the head and heart about courage and love. To others still, she is a Liberal Democrat peer in the House of Lords.

Dynamic tells the story of a national treasure…

Baroness Floella Benjamin LOOKING THROUGH EVERY WINDOW

Floella Karen Yunies Benjamin, better known today as Baroness Benjamin, OM, DBE, DL was born on September 23rd 1949, in Pointe-à-Pierre, Trinidad and Tobago, one of six siblings, with one older sister, three younger brothers and a younger sister.

Her father, “a policeman and a talented jazz musician,” decided to emigrate to Britain, with her mother later joining him along with Benjamin’s younger sister and youngest brother. This led to a brief family separation, with the four older children – including Floella – left in the care of family friends. The ‘family friends’ looking after Floella and her sister were secretly abusive. She and her sister tried writing to their parents to tell them about the abuse, but the letters were always intercepted before they were sent.

In 1960, the rest of the children went to join their father in Beckenham, in those days in the county of Kent. Floella has talked of the racist experiences she had when arriving in Britain as an immigrant, such as with neighbours and at school.

After leaving school, she went to work in a bank. While working there, she studied for A-Levels at night school. She had a spell as a stage actress in West End musicals, including appearing in Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Black Mikado and The Husband-In-Law, as well as several pantomimes.

On screen, she appeared in the 1975 horror film I Don’t Want to Be Born and starred in the 1977 film Black Joy. In 1976, she began the role for which millions of then children, now 40 and 50-something parents and grandparents will always remember and cherish – presenting children’s television programmes, most notably Play School for the BBC.

According to TV fan site, TVCream, “Floella vaulted over childhood ambition to become a pioneer of cultural diversity in mainstream entertainment, breaking down cultural walls by sheer weight of hyperactive force and singing calypso-lite, reggae-inflected songs about global themes to audiences who were too young to know any different. She also later waved aside further pointless taboos by continuing to present the show whilst extremely heavily pregnant.”

Floella fought for representation in the stories she read out in every programme, persuading producers to let her read tales featuring children from every race, so the audience at home could see people who looked like them and no-one was left out.

“Childhood lasts a lifetime”: Floella Benjamin, sporting her trademark beads and smile, during her Play School days, which lasted from 1976 to 1988

Floella vaulted over childhood ambition to become a pioneer of cultural diversity in mainstream entertainment, breaking down cultural walls by sheer weight of hyperactive force

Children are not born racist, it’s a cultural phenomenon they pick up, in varying degrees, depending on their life influences as they grow older. Floella was there to deflect as much toxicity coming children’s way as she could, all the while offering fun, love and inclusion.

TVCream also pointed out that Floella Benjamin, “added an enthusiastic touch of awareness of other cultures, delivered with frighteningly limitless reserves of energy, matched only by the number of beads in her hair.”

She lasted on Play School for 12 years, finally calling it a day in 1988. In those intervening years, her television credits reads like a who’s who of programmes of the period, including Angels, Crown Court, The Gentle Touch and Dixon of Dock Green. She appeared in the first episode of Bergerac.

Post-Play School, she continued to appear in television programmes, including Dr Who spin-off, The Sarah Jane Mysteries, as well as narrating a variety of television, audio stories and educational programmes.

WINDRUSH

As someone who came to Britain in 1960 as part of the ‘Windrush generation’ (albeit not on the Windrush itself), Floella was subject to racist abuse both in school and out of school.

In 2019, she wrote on the Black History Month website of her first experiences in England. “I remember at least a dozen police officers stood poised by the ‘For Sale’ sign at the gate of the house my mother, accompanied by her six children, were viewing.

“The neighbours had rung 999 saying black people were stealing the fixtures and fittings from the empty house in white middle-class Beckenham. Thankfully, the first policeman on the scene was sympathetic, he was married to a black woman and explained this kind of thing happened all the time. He waved his eager colleagues away, saying it was a false alarm.

“My wonderful, determined and charismatic mother defiantly folded her arms across her ample bosom, stared at the group of neighbours who stood watching and said loudly, ‘We are going to buy this house’. She and my dad lived there for 40 years until she died of bowel cancer, which is why I am patron of Bowel Cancer UK.”

Floella has written over 30 books and, in 2016, the 20th anniversary edition of her memoir ‘Coming to England’ was chosen as a ‘Guardian Children’s Book of the Year’. For over two decades, it has been used in schools and universities as a tool to explore the Windrush journey, and to teach children about British post-war social, political and racial history. It was made into a television film by CBBC in 2005.

Today, she is Chair of the Windrush Commemoration Committee – a role she took up in 2018 – to create a lasting memorial to celebrate the contribution to Britain made by the Windrush Generation.

She featured in the 2023-24 New Year’s Eve fireworks display in London, reciting the poem “In This World” by the late Benjamin Zephaniah as part of the segment celebrating the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the HMT Empire Windrush.

+ WHAT WAS THE WINDRUSH SCANDAL?

The Windrush was launched in Germany as the MV Monte Rosa, in 1930. In 1945, it was confiscated by the British as a trophy of war, and renamed HMT Empire Windrush. She continued to be used as a troopship until March 1954, when she caught fire and sank in the Mediterranean Sea.

The Windrush herself only ever made one immigrant-bearing voyage into the UK, landing at the Port of Tilbury on June 22nd 1948. There were boats before and after, but the Windrush caught the imagination. Today, the ‘Windrush Generation’ has become the go-to phrase for post-war immigration.

The 1971 Immigration Act gave Commonwealth citizens living in the UK

indefinite leave to remain; the permanent right to live and work in the UK.

However, in April 2018, it emerged that the UK Home Office had kept no records of those granted permission to stay, and had not issued the paperwork they needed to confirm their status. It had also destroyed landing cards belonging to ‘Windrush’ migrants, in 2010.

Those affected were hence unable to prove they were in the country legally and were prevented from accessing healthcare, work and housing. Thousands were threatened with deportation; at least 83 people who had arrived

before 1973 had been wrongly deported, with many others wrongly detained and denied legal rights.

The subsequent inquiry announced that the scandal was both “foreseeable and avoidable”, and criticised “a culture of disbelief and carelessness” in the Home Office. It made 30 recommendations, which were accepted in full. However, in January 2023, then-Home Secretary Suella Braverman announced the Home Office was arbitrarily dropping three of them.

The farcical scandal continues today, and Dame Floella Benjamin is at the forefront of the campaign for justice.

The Benjamin family, 1952. Floella is front, right

Play School’s Humpty about to address the Brighton Summit with his friend Dame Floella Benjamin, 2022

EDUCATIONAL AND CHARITABLE INTERESTS

Floella is vice-president of NCH Action for Children and Barnardo’s, and was in the NSPCC’s Hall of Fame. She runs the London Marathon to raise funds for Barnardo’s and the Sickle Cell Society.

Floella is a patron of the charity Beating Bowel Cancer, having lost her mother to the disease in 2009. She was a cultural ambassador for the 2012 Summer Olympics.

HONOURS

Floella has rightly been awarded many honours and accolades, including for her television work, her work with children, women’s rights, the Windrush generation and tackling racism.

She was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2001 New Year Honours for services to broadcasting. At that time, she was chairperson of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). She has also won a Special Lifetime Achievement award from BAFTA.

She was chairperson of the Women of the Year Lunch for five years and a Millennium Commissioner. She is president of the Elizabeth R Commonwealth Broadcasting Fund and a governor of the National Film and Television School. She was a governor of Dulwich College, where her mother once worked, and her son had attended.

In 2020, Floella Benjamin was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for services to charity. In 2023, her stature as a much loved national figure was underlined when she received what was almost certainly the biggest television audience of her career – carrying the sovereign’s sceptre with dove as part of the procession at King Charles III’s coronation.

She says the reaction from the public afterwards was overwhelming. “They said when they saw me, on the screen, entering Westminster Abbey, they remembered their childhood. They remembered Play School. And they went ‘yes’, and they felt part of the coronation, too.

In May 2024, Benjamin was presented, to two standing ovations, with the BAFTA Fellowship award at the 70th British Academy Television Awards. Of the honour, BAFTA stated, “Floella is an unstoppable force for good with a determination to create opportunities and positive role models for future generations that has seen her effect a tremendous amount of positive change over 50 years and counting.

“She is deservedly a national treasure and we can’t wait to celebrate the impact of her work to date at the BAFTA Television Awards.”

For her part, Dame Floella Benjamin responded. “I feel blessed as I stand on the summit of the lion’s mountain, looking back at my adventurous journey sparkled with affection, but also with challenges and adversities. I’ve been told ‘shut up, or you’ll never work again,’ when I spoke out. But my mission over the last 50 years has been to get broadcasters and organisations to have diversity and inclusion in their DNA.

Remember, wherever you go, and whatever happens to you, there will always be somebody who loves you. And that’s me, Floella

“I am so proud of my work for children, making them feel loved, confident, hopeful, worthy, as I took them through the windows of imagination inspiring them to grow up and make a difference for others. Childhood lasts a lifetime.

“How I wish my beloved mum and dad were alive to celebrate this part of my family’s Windrush journey.

The University of Exeter awarded her an honorary degree in D.Litt. (Exon) for ‘contributions to the life of the United Kingdom’. She succeeded Lord Alexander of Weedon as Chancellor of the University of Exeter. She famously hugged graduates instead of traditionally shaking their hands during the graduation ceremonies. She remained in post until 2016.

There is a statue of Floella outside the University of Exeter’s student guild. This was the first public statue of a named living black woman in the UK.

In the 2010 Dissolution Honours List, she was appointed a Liberal Democrat life peer, being created Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham, in the County of Kent.

In her maiden speech in the Lords, she spoke of choosing Beckenham to reflect the legacy of her mother and father, and the importance of childhood. She also spoke of the NSPCC, Childline, and Barnados, and their work to protect and support the health and wellbeing of vulnerable children.

“Thank you for blessing me with this incredible accolade, recognising someone from the children’s television world. And remember, wherever you go, and whatever happens to you, there will always be somebody who loves you.

“And that’s me, Floella.”

Baroness Floella Benjamin of Beckenham, receiving her BAFTA Fellowship Award, 2024

The National Windrush Monument in the main hall of Waterloo Station, London

Rachel Watkyn OBE is the CEO of Tiny Box Company, a Sussex-based environmentallyprogressive packaging company, which was a sponsor at the recent Dynamic Awards

CELEBRATING THE ‘WOW’ FACTOR

As CEO of Tiny Box Company, I was delighted to have sponsored and attended the Dynamic Business Awards. Th is event does an incredible job of recognising women in business across the South East, and being part of a community that supports women in business is a privilege.

These women in business events acknowledge our achievements, and by supporting one another, doors are opened for other women to feel they have a voice to be heard.

There’s

plenty more to do in making

sure women are recognised for their achievements but the Dynamic Business Awards opens the door

It was an experience to see everyone in one room, and watching Dee Mathieson win the Lifetime Achievement award was an inspiration, along with having the chance to see Katharine Archer win the award for Professional Services, and Julie Kapsalis, who won Employer of the Year.

Having had the opportunity to hear about what these ladies do and seeing them be awarded for their achievements really was a ‘wow’ moment for me. Although there is still a long way to go, I believe we’ve come so far, and celebrating our achievements and supporting one another is vital. By encouraging women in business, we are, in turn, encouraging our future generations to get involved and recognise the need to be heard.

We want to welcome female entrepreneurship, and by celebrating one another’s achievements this is a great way to create a network and form the connections we need to move forward in business. Over the last few years, we’ve seen a significant increase in the number of UK companies built and run by women, which means we are on the right trajectory.

As a woman in business, I want to offer my support and encouragement to anyone who feels they need advice or guidance. As part of the Tiny Box Company, we offer the Tiny Clinic, and you can book on to speak with us through the Tiny Box Company website.

There’s plenty more to do in making sure women are recognised for their achievements but the Dynamic Business Awards opens the door for this and being a part of an evening celebrating women which was a privilege and an honour.

E: Hello@tinyboxcompany.com www.tinyboxcompany.com

By Beth Warner, Manager at FRP Corporate Finance

NO HARD FEELINGS The personal aspect of the dealmaking process

It was an honour to be part of the judging panel at the recent Dynamic Awards, which celebrated remarkable businesswomen from across the South East.

One of the key aspects that drew me to a career in corporate finance was the opportunity to work closely with inspiring business owners to help them to thrive and, judging by the rest of the field, it’s clear that the South East is benefitting from a wealth of ambitious and experienced leaders.

Corporate finance advisor is an inherently technical occupation – yet the passionate and supportive atmosphere on the night reminded me of the personal investment I see wrapped up in the trials and tribulations of M&A and business exits.

THE PERSONAL SIDE OF DEALMAKING

Deal success is often measured quantitatively, be it through multiples, sale price or cash at completion. It can often be easy to forget the personal impact selling a business can have on its owner and the people around them.

Many of the businesses I advise are owner-managed, with the owner having poured much of their life and energy into making it a success. The business has likely been a key part of their lives for a long time and, in some cases, may feel akin to a member of the family. Because of this, selling a business has the potential to bring a cocktail of different emotions to the fore, from celebration and joy to anxiety and doubt which, without the right support, can easily derail efforts to secure a positive deal outcome.

HOW CAN ADVISORS SUPPORT CLIENTS?

From the outset, insight from an advisor brings the advantage of impartiality. By being one step removed from the process, a third party can provide the independent, objective thinking that helps provide clarity - particularly during the negotiation process, the emotions of which can often cause owners to lose focus or make poor decisions.

However, for this advice to truly resonate, open and effective communication is crucial. From the outset, advisors need to build a relationship where they are equipped to provide an open and honest assessment of the situation. Th is can help to avoid many of the potential pitfalls that arise during the dealmaking process.

One example scenario I often see is when difficult information, such as a dip in trading results, needs to be passed to the buyer at a sensitive stage. When effective relationships have been established with both seller and purchaser, the

advisor can better contextualise this information with the necessary analysis and narrative to mitigate deal disruption.

A GOOD MATCH?

Support from an advisor that is a good emotional match can be a game-changer. Of course, technical expertise and credentials are a non-negotiable requirement for every advisor - yet trust, rapport and chemistry should not be underestimated in helping to secure a positive outcome.

We support our clients through the lifecycle of the transaction; from the development of an initial strategy and negotiations to the celebrations of completion. Th is can often be a long process, so it’s important for business owners to choose an advisor that they feel comfortable with. With this in mind, I would always encourage business owners to start discussions with advisors in the very early stages to help build a strong foundation for an effective relationship.

Of course, dealmaking is a multi-faceted process, and this forms just one of the many aspects that advisors must manage throughout the timeline of a sale. However, taking the time to build a positive relationship based on communication and honesty creates a strong foundation that can underpin a successful outcome for all involved.

Innovation is one of the most essential tools businesses of all sizes can have in their arsenal. It’s the key ingredient to ensuring longevity, brand recognition, and team productivity.

BY NATASHA KINGDON

Having an impact with innovation

WHAT COULD YOU ACHIEVE WITH INNOVATION?

The list may seem endless. And its impact cannot be underestimated. However, contrary to popular belief, innovation is not reserved for industry giants with colossal budgets.

But to sustain an innovation mindset, the practice must be embedded in your business’s daily operations, which might mean seeking support or finding a space that energises and exercises your innovation muscles.

Home to some of Sussex’s most ambitious businesses, here at Plus X Innovation, we have honed our expertise to provide the proper support to ensure that businesses in our community strike the right balance to be innovative whilst maintaining the day-to-day.

Contrary to popular belief, innovation is not reserved for industry giants with colossal budgets

TAKE FOR EXAMPLE, COSARIS

Transformation agency Cosaris is part of the Plus X Innovation Brighton hub, and is the perfect example of an impact-driven company that has used innovation to drive a brighter, more sustainable future.

Founded in 2014, Cosaris experienced accelerated growth during the pandemic. It connects organisations with all their internal and external stakeholders for better understanding and collaboration. It helps align an organisation’s strategy and purpose, organisation and culture, information and systems, as well as experiences and relationships. It also guides them to evolve into a company that creates a positive impact through its entire ecosystem.

WHAT HAS HELPED THEIR INNOVATION JOURNEY?

Space: Cosaris originally joined Plus X Innovation looking for a private studio to accommodate its rapidly growing team and operations. To be innovative, you must be able to have the space to explore ideas, host your team and really get out of your old ways of thinking.

Programmes: Cosaris’ Co-founder, Marina Schneider, is a part of the Leaders’ Circle Programme at our Brighton hub, where founders from the community join forces to create a powerful peer-to-peer network and provide mutual support. Innovation programmes that support business owners, challenge them and provide new ways of looking at the world are critical to growing as a company.

Community: In addition to attending our member events programme, Cosaris has collaborated directly with other businesses in, and close to, the Plus X Innovation Community, including SimplerWithAI and FSUK. It even collaborates with students from the neighbouring University of Brighton, running a study on UK Business Transformation. As Marina so powerfully says, “We cannot change the world all by ourselves.” For true innovation, you must cultivate collaboration and understanding like Cosaris does daily.

Marina also comments, “Moving in with Plus X Innovation broadened our horizon, not only in terms of how we can work together as a team, but also in terms of what we trust ourselves to achieve and how big we dare to think. It is very inspiring to be part of the community, and everyone feels good about coming into the office for work. We also benefit from all the great facilities at Plus X Innovation, which help us deliver excellence for ourselves and our customers.”

SO HOW CAN YOU, LIKE COSARIS, HAVE AN IMPACT WITH YOUR INNOVATION?

Meaningful innovation needs time and space to happen. Here are some simple tips to get you started:

1

Mix up your space

If you’re stuck physically, your creativity will be the same. If you find you and your team are in an innovation rut, change your scenery. Get out in nature or find another inspiring space to work from for the day.

2

Utilise external opportunities

If you need help to make the time, or need to learn how to be innovative, consider challenging yourself by joining a programme or formal accelerator to get started.

3

Build a support system

Surround yourself with a great community of people on a similar path and find ways to hold each other accountable to your goals and dreams.

Immersing yourself in an innovative ecosystem will impact your thinking and, inevitably, help you and your team become more creative in your business.

If you want to take the plunge and commit to adopting an innovative mindset, we are hosting a free week of Coworking in June at our hubs in Slough and Brighton. There’s space for teams in private studios and hot-desking spots. So whatever your size, it is a great opportunity to discover what an innovative community looks like.

Find out more about how Plus X Innovation can support you on your innovation journey or sign up for your free week of flexible office space and coworking at www.plusxinnovation.com

By Tess de Klerk

According to experts, the parents of more than 100,000 children with special educational needs are likely to face an unfair tax burden due to Labour’s private school policy. As reported by The Telegraph in May, approximately 20% of all students in private schools currently receive specialist support, yet most lack the necessary written certification that would exempt their families from paying VAT on school fees.

The Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), issued by local authorities for students with significant additional needs, can take years to obtain – a delay worsened by increased demand following the Covid-19 lockdowns. By law, the EHCP process should not take more than 20 weeks (excluding holidays) but local authorities say that it is not that simple and that the process regularly takes much longer than that.

Labour’s proposed policy states that only those with an EHCP would be exempt from the 20% VAT on school fees, should the party come into power. Data from the Independent Schools Council (ISC) reveals that 111,154 pupils, or 20% of all students in its schools, receive Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) support.

Of these, 7,646 students, or 6.9%, have an EHCP for conditions such as dyslexia and dyspraxia. Clearly, many parents have opted for private schools to provide their children with the needed support, bypassing the protracted official assessment process or seeking interim assistance while awaiting an EHCP.

Labour’s plan will tax SEND families

Julie Robinson, CEO of the Independent Schools Council, highlighted the potential disruption, noting, “Over 100,000 children and young people without an EHCP receive specialist SEND support in our schools. VAT on their parents’ fees will disrupt education for thousands of them, placing further strain on state SEND provision, which is already in crisis.” She stressed that without a comprehensive impact assessment, Labour cannot accurately foresee the immediate repercussions of its policy on SEND services and local councils, raising concerns that the policy might unintentionally worsen existing problems.

By law, the EHCP process should not take more than 20 weeks (excluding holidays) but local authorities say that it is not that simple

The proposed VAT changes would significantly impact families of children with special educational needs. Private schools would become significantly more costly with the addition of VAT. A school charging £20,000 per year could see fees rise to £24,000, a substantial financial burden for families already managing the high costs associated with raising a child with special needs.

SEND

Unlike private school students, many SEND students do not have viable alternatives within the state sector. Many state schools lack the necessary facilities, expertise, and support staff required to cater to their specific needs –much of that due to cost cutting of successive governments. Consequently, some families already sacrifice plenty to be able to scrape together private school fees to ensure their special needs children can be educated in a supportive system that they require. What will happen to these families?

Wealthier families might absorb the cost more easily but middle-income families will be disproportionately affected and will find themselves forced to make untenable sacrifices. The added financial pressure and the potential decline in education is likely to contribute to increased stress and mental health issues among parents and students alike, compounding the existing challenges faced by families of children with special needs.

Keir Starmer has been criticised for not adequately considering how increased costs will push more SEND students into an already overstretched state system, potentially exacerbating the challenges these schools face and leading to a decline in the quality of education and support for all students, across the board.

Ensuring that the voices and needs of all

families are heard and addressed will be essential in crafting a fair and balanced approach to education policy

Starmer has committed to enforcing VAT on private schools “straight away” if Labour wins the general election. Rachel Reeves, Labour’s shadow chancellor, has indicated that this policy would be included in her fi rst budget.

While the Labour Party’s intention is noble; to address educational inequality and generate additional public funds, it feels clumsy and heavy-handed. It has not thus far considered the unintended consequences for all SEND children and their families. Without careful planning and targeted mitigations, this policy could inadvertently place an unfair strain on vulnerable families, undermining the very principles of equity and support that it says it promotes.

As the debate continues, ensuring that the voices and needs of all SEND families are heard and addressed will be essential in crafting a fair and balanced approach to education policy. Policymakers must recognise the unique challenges faced by families of special needs children.

The financial and emotional burdens are already significant, and any policy changes that increase these pressures could have far-reaching consequences. The Labour Party’s proposal must be carefully examined and adjusted to ensure it does not create new disparities or exacerbate existing ones. The goal should be to support all students and families, providing equitable access to quality education without imposing undue hardships on those already navigating the complexities of special needs care and education.

❛ ❛

It is not easy being a mother. If it were easy, fathers would do it

Dorothy Zbornak, The Golden Girls

GENDER-DIVERSE SURGICAL TEAMS LEAD TO IMPROVED OUTCOMES

A major study has found that patients experience better post-operative outcomes when at least a third of the surgical team are women. Researchers at the University of Toronto, Canada, examined over 700,000 elective surgeries in Ontario from 2009 to 2019. The study revealed that hospital teams with more than 35% female surgeons and anesthesiologists had improved post-operative results, including a 3% reduction in illness within three months. The researchers emphasised that increasing gender diversity in operating rooms is crucial for optimising performance, not just for representation or social justice. They concluded that healthcare institutions should actively promote gender diversity in surgical teams to potentially lower major morbidity, enhance patient satisfaction, and reduce costs.

IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

GIRLS’ EDUCATION IS IMPROVING

UNESCO’s 2024 Global Education Monitoring Report highlighted significant progress in achieving gender parity in education. The report indicates that more girls are attending school than ever before, with notable increases in enrolment at both primary and secondary levels in low-income countries. This progress is attributed to targeted interventions, such as scholarship programmes, community awareness campaigns, and improved school infrastructure, which have collectively reduced barriers to education for girls. Additionally, the report underscores the importance of sustained policy efforts and international support in maintaining and accelerating these gains, ensuring that girls continue to have access to quality education globally.

PREVENTATIVE CANCER TREATMENTS MOVE A STEP CLOSER

Imagine intercepting cancer before it develops. Research indicates that cancerassociated proteins can appear in blood over seven years before diagnosis. University of Oxford academics identified 618 proteins linked to 19 cancer types, including 107 proteins in individuals whose blood was collected at least seven years pre-diagnosis. These findings suggest that these proteins may be involved in the earliest cancer stages. Dr. Karl Smith-Byrne, senior molecular epidemiologist at Oxford Population Health, stated, “This research brings us closer to preventing cancer with targeted drugs – once thought impossible but now attainable.” His team will explore these proteins’ roles in cancer development, detection, and prevention.

DIGITAL TOOLS REVOLUTIONISE WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE

Digital tools are being increasingly used to improve women’s health and promote gender equality, according to a WHO report. These tools are helping to bridge the gender gap in healthcare access and outcomes, providing women with better health information and services, and empowering them to make informed decisions about their wellbeing. From mobile apps offering personalised health insights to telemedicine platforms facilitating remote consultations, innovations are enhancing the overall quality of care for women worldwide. According to the report, by harnessing the power of digital solutions, societies can foster greater inclusivity and ensure that women receive the support and resources they need to thrive.

❛ ❛ Even I don’t wake up looking like Cindy Crawford

Cindy Crawford

MEXICO’S NEW PRESIDENT

Claudia Sheinbaum has become Mexico’s first female president, in a historic landslide win. The 61-year-old climate scientist, the ruling party candidate, won with between 58% - 60% of the vote. The former mayor of Mexico City thanked her mentor, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who was elected in 2018, for his support and has vowed to continue his policies including a universal pension for the elderly and a programme paying youths to undertake apprenticeships.

Ms Sheinbaum, who is Jewish, is the first woman to win a general election in the US, Mexico or Canada.

FINDING A WAY FORWARD FOR FOOD ALLERGIES

A groundbreaking oral immunotherapy trial is profoundly impacting the lives of children with milk and peanut allergies. This pioneering approach trains their bodies to develop tolerance to allergens, representing a significant transformation. Five NHS hospitals have joined the £2.5m trial, thanks to funding from the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation.

Natasha Ednan-Laperouse died in 2016 after suffering a severe allergic reaction to sesame baked into a Pret baguette. Her parents set up the foundation hoping to cure allergies with research.

During the trail, daily doses of the allergen are consumed under strict medical supervision. Observations reveal children on the trial are now able to consume and tolerate foods that previously induced severe allergic reactions. “We are very pleased with the results we are seeing so far,” said trial lead Prof Hasan Arshad of the University of Southampton. Ultimately the goal is to find a therapy that will free people from the constraints of avoiding allergenic foods and the fear of accidental allergic episodes.

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

SP OTLIGH T

Tanya Houston

Horsham-based marketing agency Wildwood Plus is celebrating 30 years in business this month. The independent company was founded by Tanya Houston in 1994 and has only gone from strength to strength

”I started Wildwood as a sole trader in the back bedroom of our home in Southwater, West Sussex back in 1994. I can’t believe that it was three decades ago!

“I had a vision of creating a B2B PR & Marketing organisation that delivered great results for clients, but with minimum bureaucracy and a focus on fair terms of work. Two years later, things were booming and too big for me to cope with alone.

“Happily, an ex-colleague, Jeff Hayward, was able to join the business, and shortly after that my now husband, John joined us full-time. Together, we have built a fantastic team, who all go the extra mile, are a pleasure to work with, and who embody our core values.

“Turning 30 years-old in business is an exciting milestone and it has given us the opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come, and to celebrate with our talented team. But we won’t be resting on our laurels. We have ambitious plans to continue to grow and we’re looking forward to the future.”

Together, we have built a fantastic team, who all go the extra mile, are a pleasure to work with, and who embody our core values

From an original focus on public relations, the business evolved from its origins as Wildwood PR, to offer a wider range of marketing services including digital marketing, media buying, event management, video production, podcast services and more – leading to a 2023 rebrand as Wildwood Plus.

Wildwood Plus has a team of 20 staff, with a mix of full and part-time, office-based and remote team members, as well as an international network of partners, who make up a highly skilled team of communications specialists, focussed on delivering outstanding results for clients.

“There are many things that make Wildwood remarkable, but our committed, resilient and lovely people really make it a special place to work. Together, we make great things happen.” says Tanya.

wildwoodplus.com

Mary Cullen

Mary Cullen runs a successful property investment company, Gold Prime Property, alongside an holistic coaching company, The Vortex Entrepreneurs. This is her story...

Mary has walked a unique path. She left her native Ireland for London at the tender age of 19 where she worked to the point of burn-out, only to find herself with nothing much to show for it. Something had to change.

Eventually, she found her way to her dream in the sun, moving to Montenegro and becoming a multi awardwinning property developer. Her developments over eight years included opulent villas and even a palace, but her success drew envy and anger from the local organised crime syndicates who endeavoured to ruin her and her business. Their methods were extreme, even sinking so low as to physically assault Mary on site, which forced her to leave the country with her young family. At this point, broke and alone, her marriage did not withstand the pressure.

In 2023, she founded a transformational training company to help women become creative entrepreneurs, aligning their passions and their businesses. Mary says, “I believe we are the future employers of our children and to empower more woman to create businesses will truly change the world. Women need to get richer in all areas of their lives and I know I have the skills to help them do that.”

No one tells you what to do when you’re living your dream and then it falls apart

Back in the UK, Mary’s fighting spirit helped her dig deep while she worked three jobs to pay the bills and keep food on the table. As she says, “No one tells you what to do when you’re living your dream and then it falls apart.”

She now greatly values that period of her life as she learnt how the human spirit has the endless capability to adapt and that new dreams can be forged from ashes.

Soon she started offering her property development and management services for free to gain traction and opportunities in the industry. By 2019, Mary had returned full-time to property and went on to build her UK property investment business.

She has also created the Women who Love Property and Travel breakfast club, held monthly in Hove.

goldprimeproperty.com thevortexentrepeneurs.com

The Kreston UK Charity Group has produced a report into the financial condition of the UK charity sector. Here is a snapshot of its findings

KRESTON UK CHARITIES REPORT 2024

The Kreston UK Charity Group, which works with over 2,000 charities across the UK, has surveyed 80 charities on the financial outlook for the sector, the challenges and risks being faced, and attitudes surrounding subjects such as diversity, recruitment, digitisation and sustainability.

The key findings are:

• Almost half of charities believe their financial outlook is positive for 2024.

• Charities are increasingly exploring options to diversify their income streams.

• 81% of the charities have seen wages rise in the last 12 months, 76% have seen energy costs rise and 78% have seen insurance costs increase.

• 54% are finding it difficult to recruit and retain employees and 29% believe it has become harder in the last year.

• Increasing salaries is the most popular incentive used to attract and / or retain employees in the last year.

• 51% have difficulties finding volunteers and 23% believe it has come harder in the last year.

• Most charities will not be focusing on more ESG/ sustainability in 2024.

Despite the uncertain economic times, it is good to see that many charities are confident with

their fi nancial outlook

• HR and IT are the skills that charities are most likely to be missing amongst their trustees.

• 59% believe the Labour Party will have the greatest impact on their charity if they come into power after the next general election.

The contribution all of these charities make to our communities up and down the UK is vital, and we should all play our part in supporting their work

Despite the uncertain economic times, it is good to see that many charities are confident with their financial outlook. Many charities are experiencing pressure on their income streams and 67% of those surveyed are exploring options to diversify. Th is includes growing major donors, grants, trusts and foundations, legacies, and corporate giving.

The fact that charities are struggling with recruitment and retention could be due to the risks associated with the sector. Charity boards are acutely aware of the risks involved with running a charity, and a third of those surveyed now review their risk register at every board meeting.

Of the charities surveyed, 86% have not been affected by a cyber-attack in the last 12 months. However, the risk of this remains high and can have a significant effect on the charity’s ability to deliver services. They need to remain vigilant and be well equipped to deal with this type of threat.

The political uncertainty which a General Election brings is frustrating for many charities and the majority believe a change of government will make no difference to their

charity, suggesting the sector has fallen out of political favour in recent years. Back in 2010, the ‘Big Society’ was a key pillar of most party manifestos.

Sam Rouse, Partner at Kreston Reeves comments: “It is good to see that charities are remaining resilient and, despite all of the challenges of the last few years, 80% believe they have the capacity to deliver their required services in 2024. The contribution all of these charities make to our communities up and down the UK is vital, and we should all play our part in supporting their work, volunteering and where possible making a donation to those causes close to us as we will really miss them if they were no longer there.”

You can download a full copy of the report at www.krestonreeves.com/sectors/ charities/#related-resources

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity is fundraising to create a new Wellbeing Service to support thousands of children and families who currently access support through the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital

New initiative from Rockinghorse Children’s Charity

Th is dedicated service, developed with the help of an expert steering group, will expand on many of the wellbeing projects that the charity has funded over the last few years, such as sea swimming courses, art therapy, music therapy and woodland wellbeing days.

But the crucial difference is that it will bring them all in-house and be able to offer them to a much wider group of children across more paediatric departments within the hospital. Th is will mean that these impactful services will support thousands more children and families.

Wellbeing has an incredibly important role to play within the healthcare sector and actively impacts the health outcomes of children and young people. If children feel brave enough to go to the appointment they are so frightened to go to, fewer appointments are missed or delayed, and children and families have a less anxiety-provoking waiting time to undergo the treatment they so desperately need.

Or for older children, feeling they have a place to talk about what’s going on for them, somewhere where they don’t feel like the different one, or the ill one, but just a normal kid dealing with a health condition they don’t want and never asked for.

Wellbeing projects within the children’s hospital contribute to the holistic care of paediatric patients by addressing emotional, psychological, and social needs. By enhancing the overall quality of life for children and their families, these projects indirectly support medical treatments, improve resilience, and contribute to positive health outcomes.

Far from being a nice addition to their treatment, these additional services provide crucial support at the darkest times

Dr Oli Rahman, Rockinghorse Chair

Wellbeing has an incredibly important role to play within the healthcare sector and actively impacts the health outcomes of children and young people

Dr Oli Rahman, Consultant Paediatrician and Chair of Trustees at Rockinghorse explains why supporting wellbeing is an important part of treatment. He says, “Imagine being a paediatric patient, especially if you have a long-term illness like cystic fibrosis, diabetes or asthma, it’s really daunting and can leave long lasting emotional scars. Th is is where the wellbeing projects step in; offering a glimmer of hope and comfort in the midst of adversity.

“These projects will provide a much-needed distraction from the challenges of the medical treatment. They offer joy, laughter and creativity, and children can momentarily forget their pain and fears. They also help children to engage with their treatment, comply with their medication, improve their mental health, and support their overall holistic care.

“Th is empowerment is invaluable and boosts their resilience in difficult times.”

Far from being a nice addition to their treatment, these additional services provide crucial support at the darkest times.

Hannah Peckham’s son Bodhi is five years old. Two years ago, he was diagnosed with leukemia, and since then, he has been receiving treatment at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital.

During that time, Bodhi and Hannah have had fi rsthand experience of the impact that our wellbeing services can have on children and families spending time in the hospital.

Spending weeks at a time on the wards can make it really difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. And it’s boring. But having toys to play with activities to enjoy,

or things to take their minds off their situation makes all the difference. It means that they are able to cope with such an enormously difficult situation, be able to take their minds off the fear and pain and feel like a normal family.

Hannah says, “You can’t take the hand of a child frightened to attend an appointment or give back what they have missed out on. You can’t take away the grief and loss of all that our little fighters and their families have had to go through. You can help to put a smile on a child’s face even when they face the unknown which in turn helps them and the parent feel held and supported.”

Donna Holland, CEO of Rockinghorse, adds, “We are so excited to be launching this ground-breaking new project. Wellbeing has a vital role to play in the care of so many children spending time in hospital.

“It helps children learn about, understand and manage incredibly difficult and complex conditions. Having children who are better able to manage their treatment also saves waiting and treatment times, meaning NHS staff can treat more children more quickly and effectively.

“It supports families to get through the biggest challenges of their lives. It saves the NHS time and money. And it saves lives.”

To learn more or donate to this new campaign, visit the Rockinghorse website at www.rockinghorse.org.uk.

The Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital

Hannah and Bodhi

Supplementing with Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is becoming common amongst people who are looking for ways to modulate stress, anxiety and sleep issues. Dynamic investigates the over-the-counter supplementation use of GABA

Understanding GABA

WHAT IS GABA AND WHAT DOES IT DO?

GABA is a naturally occurring amino acid. It is a neurotransmitter, which means it delivers a message through your nervous system from one neuron to another. GABA, in particular, is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Its primary role in the brain is to promote relaxation and reduce neural excitability.

INCREASING GABA NATURALLY

Drink tea with high GABA content. Green tea, white tea, and oolong tea naturally have high amounts of GABA.

Try yoga to naturally increase GABA activity. During one study, participants practiced yoga 60 minutes a day, three times a week for 12 weeks. Scans showed an increase in GABA in their brains.

You might think of GABA in your nervous system as brakes on a car. The right amount of pressure on the brake pedal slows your car down. Similarly, the correct amount of GABA slows information in your nervous system to keep a person from feeling overwhelmed.

Practice meditation and deep breathing every day. Research shows that meditation can increase the production of GABA in your brain, as well as boost its activity. To get this boost, meditate for at least 20 minutes

every day.

Th is slowdown in message transition may be helpful in modulating mood and anxiety. In other words, GABA calms your nervous system down, so you don’t become overly anxious. Specifically, GABA affects how the body reacts to feelings of anxiety, fear, and stress, and it allows the nervous system to better process information.

+ COMMON USES OF GABA

GABA is prescribed for various conditions such as schizophrenia and epilepsy but non-prescription use is mainly for:

1 ANXIETY AND STRESS RELIEF

GABA is used for relaxation.

3 IMPROVING MOOD AND COGNITIVE FUNCTION

Engage in vigorous exercise. Moderate exercise is great for your health, but it takes a little more effort to stimulate GABA production – exercise at about 85% of your maximum heart rate, to be exact. Research shows GABA production in your brain increases after an eight to 20-minute session of vigorous exercise. Eat more foods that contain GABA, or boost GABA production. GABA isn’t really found in a lot of foods unless they’re fermented foods (like kimchi or kefi r). But there are foods that naturally boost the production of GABA in your body. These include cruciferous veg, lentils, fava beans, grains and sweet potatoes.

2 SLEEP AID GABA is crucial for promoting sleep and regulating sleep patterns. By inhibiting neural activity, it facilitates the onset of sleep.

Research indicates that GABA supplementation may have positive effects on mood and cognitive functions.

Some studies suggest that increasing GABA levels can improve focus, reduce symptoms of depression, and enhance overall mental performance. There is, however, some question of how much of these supplements actually cross the blood-brain barrier and are ultimately available to the brain.

You might think of GABA in your nervous system as brakes on a car. The right amount of pressure on the brake pedal slows your car down

SAFETY OF GABA

While GABA supplements are widely available and generally considered safe for use, it is important to consider several factors regarding safety and efficacy:

• Dosage: The appropriate dosage of GABA can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Common dosages range from 250 to 750mg per day. It is recommended to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it to assess tolerance and effectiveness.

• Risks of raising GABA levels: GABA activity and/or production can be affected by alcohol and other drugs. These substances can be abused by people trying to self-medicate. Alcohol, for example, promotes GABA receptor activity. Th is can create a temporary feeling of calm and relaxation. But the effect is artificial and risky. You won’t get the same effect over time. People may build up a tolerance, which makes the body require more of the substance to achieve the same feeling. Overdosing or taking multiple GABA-modulating drugs and alcohol can result in respiratory depression (slow breathing) due to increased GABA signalling in the brain stem.

• Side effects: GABA supplements are generally welltolerated. However, some individuals may experience side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, or drowsiness. These side effects are usually mild.

GABA is well worth considering in the treatment of anxiety related issues but

first have a discussion with your healthcare provider

• Drug interactions: GABA can interact with certain medications, particularly those that also affect the central nervous system. For example, combining GABA supplements with benzodiazepines or other sedatives may enhance their effects, potentially leading to dangerous levels of sedation.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of GABA supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been thoroughly studied.

• Long-term use: There is limited research on the longterm use of GABA supplements. While short-term use is generally considered safe, the effects of prolonged supplementation are not well understood.

GABA is well worth considering in the treatment of anxiety related issues but fi rst have a discussion with your healthcare provider, particularly if you are taking any other medication.

FURTHER READING…

Petra Velzeboer is a renowned mental health expert, psychotherapist and author of ‘Begin With You: invest in your mental wellbeing and satisfaction at work’. She works with organisations to create mentally healthy workplaces

How to make sure your wellbeing strategy is having a direct impact on your people’s mental health and performance.

When people think of wellbeing many think of bubble-baths, spas, long country walks and perhaps meditating and finding your zen. The reality is, in a fast-paced world, wellbeing at work has to be so much more than that.

It’s not just about giving people breaks and giving them access to perks or benefits for when things go wrong; a wellbeing strategy is about helping people thrive and perform at their best. Mental Health, according to the World Health Organisation, is: ‘a state of wellbeing in which an individual realises their own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life and can make a contribution to their community.’

PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY

(HBR EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE SERIES)

by Harvard Business Review Harvard Business Review Press (2024)

Help your people feel more valued and motivated at work. Psychological safety is at the heart of an effective team. Without it, people would feel stifled. Individuals would fear speaking up, taking risks, failing, or even bringing their full selves to work. But with psychological safety, your team can reach new levels of performance, growth, and inclusion. This book offers leaders an understanding of the concept of psychological safety. Using key themes of emotional intelligence, including empathy, compassion, and self-awareness, it provides expert advice on how to assess the level of psychological safety of your team.

So, in a work context it’s about giving people space to boost their resilience, which could look different to different people, and crucially aligning your wellbeing strategy with the notion of realising potential and contributing to a community.

Here’s three things to get you started:

1Align your wellbeing strategy with your business objectives

So often we miss out on connecting the dots between our business objectives and wellbeing plans. Showing your exec level team the connection between the two is essential to ensuring wellness improves performance and isn’t just a ‘nice to have’ when the business is in peacetime.

THE 4 STAGES OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY: DEFINING THE PATH TO INCLUSION AND INNOVATION

By Timothy R Clark Berrett-Koehler Publishers (2022)

Timothy R. Clark brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the subject of psychological safety in the workplace. This book offers a framework for understanding and cultivating an environment where employees feel safe to express themselves, learn, contribute, and challenge the status quo. Clark introduces the concept of psychological safety through four progressive stages: Inclusion Safety, Learner Safety, Contributor Safety, and Challenger Safety. Each stage builds upon the previous, providing a clear roadmap for leaders to foster a culture where innovation and collaboration thrive.

2

Lead by example

So many people that I speak to say they know what to do but they never do it themselves. Instead they wait until they are on the brink, burnt-out or unable to deliver on a task. An athlete knows that they can’t red-line all the time, instead they think about all of their needs holistically that will play a part in helping them perform.

WELL AT WORK: CREATING WELLBEING IN ANY WORKSPACE

By

Esther M. Sternberg MD Little, Brown Spark (2023)

Staying healthy at work has never been more prevalent than it is today. But staying healthy isn’t the same as staying well. Staying well at work isn’t just about the germs and toxins that impact how we feel; it’s also about the many aspects of the environment that affect our stress levels, mood, focus, and productivity. Whether you work in a traditional office or a corner of your bedroom, healthy workplaces need not be a luxury. Well at Work reveals how to design these spaces for wellbeing across the seven domains of integrative health: stress and resilience; movement; sleep; relationships; nutrition; spirituality; nature and the air we breathe.

3

Talk openly about performance and mental health

We need to say out loud how wellbeing, mental health and performance are linked together. That means it’s all good having it in a strategy (that’s a great start!) but we now need to bring that strategy to life in behaviour and conversation.

REIMAGINING WORKPLACE WELL-BEING: FOSTERING A CULTURE OF PURPOSE, CONNECTION, AND TRANSCENDENCE

By Jessica Grossmeier PhD Modern Wisdom Press (2023)

As employers step up their efforts to address workplace culture and employee wellbeing in the fight for top talent, it’s time to invest in an approach that is grounded in science, steeped in ancient wisdom practices, and tested in leading organisations. Author Jessica Grossmeier, PhD, integrates proven best practices from workplace wellbeing research with decades of management science research on workplace spirituality. This book will help you strengthen your blueprint for employee wellbeing efforts that yield business results.

By KELLIE MILLER

IN THE MOMENT THE ARTWORKS OF MARY JONES A.K.A. THE BRICK THIEF

Mary Jones is a ceramic artist otherwise known as ‘The Brick Th ief’. KMA Gallery was the fi rst to showcase her characterful sculptural heads. Since then, Mary has been headhunted by designer Paul Smith to produce a collection for his new art venture.

Her work is a response to conversations she encounters with people in her everyday life. She is particularly interested in dialogues with strangers on public transport. She gathers these heart-to-hearts with visual information and returns with them to her studio.

Mary emphasises expressions and feelings by pressing broken shards of crockery into the clay structure of the sculpted faces. These shards represent memories, triggering the emotions embedded in our personalities.

Mary says, “The idea behind my work is to capture human emotions and moments in time, representing the spirit of individuals. I’m very interested in people and their emotions and, as an artist, I aim to capture these precious moments shared between us while in conversation, in clay.”

She is in her element when chatting with people, and embraces sombre conversations if that is what is needed. She oscillates between smiling, laughter, sadness, and sincerity in her exchanges and has identified that people often enjoy talking about their stories or daily routines. It’s the essence of these encounters that she aims to capture.

The idea behind my work is to capture human emotions and moments in time, representing the spirit of individuals

Mary Jones

Returning to her studio, she creates portraits of the people she was talking to in clay. She records their expressions and emotions with colour and mark-making, mainly using coloured slips and oxides in an expressive, painterly manner. She introduces broken recycled crockery and embeds it into the clay while in the making. Th is offers an added dimension to her work, like structure, shapes, patterns, and colours, enhancing the personality of the piece and the person it’s representing.

Her pieces have a playful, simple quality that is incredibly difficult to replicate. The titles are a significant aspect of her work, too. Each piece circles back to the conservations she had by naming snippets from that engagement.

Her works can be viewed at Kellie Miller Arts, Brighton.

Kellie Miller is an artist, curator, critic and gallery owner. www.kelliemillerarts.com

Her pieces have a playful, simple quality that is incredibly difficult to replicate

The Teacups Are Called Beryl

My kisses are his daily feast

My joy and hearts delight

SAVE WITH THIS TRAVEL HACK

People in the UK are being charged hundreds of pounds more than some overseas customers by travel firms presenting higher prices on UK websites

From car hire and cruises, to ferries and theme parks, consumers are frequently being presented with wildly different prices depending on where they log on. For example, using the Indonesian website, Agoda.com resulted in a £461 saving on a two-week holiday in Bali – meaning that UK users are paying 35% more. Researchers used virtual private networks (VPNs) to make it look to websites like they were not in the UK. They discovered savings across a range of well-known travel sites such as Hotels.com, Booking.com and Agoda.com, for a variety of countries, including Greece, France, Indonesia and Australia.

A VPN disguises your IP address, while improving privacy and security. You select a country, and the VPN ensures that’s where websites think you are. VPN users are then able to

see the differing content — and prices — shown to overseas consumers.

Using a VPN, a two-week stay for two adults at the Ayodya Resort in Bali booked on the Indonesian Agoda.com site cost £1,314; that’s £461 cheaper than the £1,774 quoted for users on the UK site. The biggest saving came from booking a trip for a family of four to Disneyland, Paris, through the Disneylandparis.com French site. The two-week trip cost £17,342 – £1,540 less than the £18,822 price quoted to users of the UK site.

Once you’ve found your perfect hotel, run the site through a local VPN to the country you are visiting and do a side-by-side comparison

+ COST OF ITEMS BOOKED THROUGH UK VERSUS

LOCAL WEBSITES

Agoda.com Indonesia

Hotels.com Greece

Booking.com France

Agoda.com Australia

Hotels.com Mexico

Booking.com France

Two adults staying at the Aug 14 to

Ayodya Resort Bali Aug 28

Two adults and two children July 17 to

staying at the Iberostar July 31 Selection Creta Marine

Two adults and two children June 6 to £1,237 £1,077 £160 13% staying at Novotel Paris June 10 Center Gare Montparnasse

Two adults staying at June 11 to £1,224 £1,089

Surfers Beachside Holiday June 25 Apartments in Gold Coast, Australia

Two adults staying at the Sept 12 to £1,525 £1,362 £163 11% Cyan Cancun Resort Sept 26 & Spa in Mexico

Two adults and two children June 6 to £912 £825 £87 10% staying at Citadines Bastille June 10 Gare de Lyon Paris

Disneylandparis.com France Family of four staying July 4 to £18,822 £17,342 £1,540 8% at the Disneyland Hotel July 18

Source: NordVPN

Using the Greek site of Hotels.com to book a family holiday at the Iberostar Selection Creta Marine Hotel in Crete would cost £4,612 – a 14% saving on the £5,355 price offered by the UK site.

The research was commissioned by NordVPN and conducted by an external company between April 2nd and 12th, 2024. Simultaneous searches were made for identical products being sold by the same vendor using numerous country servers. Currencies were exchanged via xe.com. Th is is the second consecutive year carrying out the vacation pricing research, and Brits are still being shown different prices to people elsewhere in the world.

When conducting the research, there were cases when prices offered to consumers in different countries were similar. However, for illustration purposes, this article and table (above) present some of the deals with the biggest differences in price.

Marijus Briedis, Chief Technology Officer at NordVPN, said: “Millions of us have got used to hunting for a vacation and booking our holiday car hire online, but not all customers are treated equally when it comes to the price.

times you visit a website, and how your search fits in with the school holiday schedule, can all influence the price you’re offered.

“The best way to fight back is to shop around with the same provider using a VPN and see if you can find hidden savings offered to customers overseas. As our research shows, it could save you thousands of pounds on a trip.

the

“Online tracking used by travel websites means that they can tell what holiday we’re looking for before we do, while algorithms can adjust holiday prices to the spending power of different countries.

“Never assume you’re getting the same deal as everyone else. Your location, the number of

“Once you’ve found your perfect hotel, run the site through a local VPN to the country you are visiting and do a side-by-side comparison. You can use an online currency exchange to help in your search.”

FUMI BRIGHTON

Tucked away in Circus Street in Brighton, you’ll find Fumi – a space dedicated to quality Japanese cuisine and harmonious interiors.

By Jasmin Jetchev

It is a beautiful space. Rooted fi rmly in Japanese culture and traditions, with clean lines, neutral colours and minimalist design. The natural beige colours and dark wood furniture are complemented with strategic lighting and impressive murals, while the space is used cleverly, by having a food bar style section as well as tables for

Fumi focuses on the seasons. All produce is sourced locally with nothing mass produced –farm to table

face-to-face dining. The space creates a feeling of sanctuary and calm, and was particularly welcome after the hustle and bustle of the surrounding Brighton streets. We were seated without fuss, even though we hadn’t made a reservation.

Fumi focuses on the seasons. All produce is sourced locally with nothing mass produced - farm to table. Th is extends to the substantial wine list where you’ll fi nd mostly small, often organic wineries. For dinner, you can choose between the traditional menu or the Omakase menu, directly translated to ‘I’ll leave it up to you’ where the chef makes all your dining decisions – you sit back while being served four or six courses, paired with the perfect wine or cocktails. The chef will take care of your dietary requirements too.

Omakase is not what we chose on this evening, mostly because we were too tempted by the dishes on the menu. I really like sharing plates, it assures the glutton in me that I am getting to try the most dishes possible! And we went all out.

Starting with small plates we went for the Tuna tataki with tosazu wasabi and ponzu slaw that came with perfectly seared tuna, the sear ensuring a subtle smoky flavour. Tosazu is a vinegar-based sauce, the combination of tosazu and wasabi created a harmonious balance of acidity, heat and umami, making each bite of tuna more complex.

Service was friendly and helpful but a little on the slow side. But then again, Fumi aims to be a restaurant where slowing down is encouraged

Added was the crunchy slaw for freshness, vibrancy and textural contrast.

The Kagoshima Wagyu A5 beef tataki with ponzu was another good choice. The beef was exquisitely marbled, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and perfectly complemented by the tangy, citrusy ponzu sauce.

Of course, we couldn’t not sample the tempura! Tempura moriawase it was (mixed tempura platter), all delightfully light and crunchy but we didn’t want to skip the sushi either, anticipating high-quality nigiri, which is exactly what we got.

Small plates/starters done, we were impressed. The kitchen (the whole restaurant, really) clearly values attention to detail – the food presentation was just beautiful.

My partner opted for a main of yakisoba noodles with glazed roasted squash with the squash lending

a sweet, caramelised depth to the savoury noodles, while my roasted black cod was perfectly flaky, enhanced by miso and the nutty, earthy contrast of black rice.

We are both sake fans and were pleased with our choice of Nanbu Bijin umeshu, which is made without any added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Looking at tables around us, it was clear that the same attention to detail is paid to cocktails as it is to the plates.

Service was friendly and helpful but a little on the slow side. But then again, Fumi aims to be a restaurant where slowing down is encouraged.

Fumi 1 Circus Street, Brighton BN2 9QF www.fumi.restaurant

DYNAMIC

A cheeky little Italian motor

(that might raise an eyebrow or two...)

By FIONA SHAFER, Managing Director MD HUB

Having happily hopped around in a Fiat 500 last year, though not so happily in a Fiat 600, I was intrigued to see how Fiat’s brand new Abarth 500e, its fi rst ever electric model, performed alongside its distant cousins.

Recently awarded the highly prestigious Best Small Car for 2024 at The Car Experts Awards, I had very high expectations of this cheeky little Italian motor.

My fi rst meeting with the Abarth 500e in ‘Acid Green’ got off to a rather inauspicious start as I actually thought there was something wrong with it when it pulled into my drive. It was making a very odd sound, neither roar nor rumble – more terminal, and in need of a mechanic.

For such a small car, a whole new-world reality opens up with ample room for leggy six footers like me

I should have known better really, Fiat’s designers always like to keep their customers on their toes with the most extraordinary and unusual array of bings, bongs and general ice cream van siren noise – and the Abarth is no exception.

Seeing my pained expression, the delivery driver explained that it was the Abarth sound generator that had been developed for the 500e using an external speaker mounted underneath the car. It is meant to reproduce the sound of an Abarth petrol engine. Except it doesn’t.

TECH STUFF

MODEL TESTED: Abarth 500e

POWER: 152 bhp

SPEED: 0-62mph 7 secs

TOP: 96 mph

RANGE: 135-142 miles

PRICE FROM: £34,195

YAY

• Great value for money – starting at £34,195

• 85kW charging: 0-80% in 25 minutes

• It lives and breathes the Abarth brand

At least I had the option to switch it off if I wanted to. So, with apologies to the brand’s late, great pioneer, Carlo Abarth, born under the strong and powerful sign of Scorpio, that is exactly what I did.

For the Abarth enthusiasts amongst you, worry not, as it got a whole lot better after that. I don’t quite know how the designers of the Fiat 500 series do it but I always find that it is akin to getting inside a Tardis. For such a small car, a whole new-world reality opens up with ample room for leggy six-footers like me.

The Alcantara seats are super comfy and the steering wheel is a joy to behold. Being Italian, of course, it is going to be good looking, both inside and out. It has a new electrified scorpion logo, scorpion ‘claws’ integrated across the car and a new sportier bumper, all beautifully complimented by 18” diamond cut titanium grey alloy wheels. The design of the headlights made me laugh as they look like eyes with eyebrows, and I half-expected to be winked at.

NAY

• The infotainment system was rather slow and a bit clunky

• No automatic closure on boot

• Silly Italian seat belts that drag on the floor when unclipped

• The sound generator – personal choice, of course

So, has Fiat managed a successful transition with the Abarth from petrol to an EV? You bet it has, and should be applauded for doing it. It’s fabulous, fun and the easiest EV I have driven to date and likely up there in my top five cars reviewed thus far.

9/10

Fitted with an IP titan steel bracelet, it also features –wait for it – the sound of the iconic Abarth roar (sound generator) – which can be heard once when you scan the QR code on the bracelet. It will set you back the princely sum of €499.00, and likely give the person next to you a heart attack when activated.

Meanwhile, back on planet earth, its performance is pretty impressive, and it handles brilliantly with great corner entry and exit. I have not had so much fun in a long time, effortlessly nipping about, in and out of traffic.

It has three driving modes – Turismo (comfort), Scorpion Street (sport performance) and Scorpion Track (Sport performance without one pedal drive). It will take you from 0-62 mph in seven seconds, which is 0.3 seconds faster than the Abarth 595. Indeed, all of Fiat’s acceleration data for the Abarth 500e show that it appears to be stealing a significant march on its elder petrol siblings quite considerably.

So, has Fiat managed a successful transition with the Abarth from petrol to an EV? You bet it has…

The Abarth comes in five colours, all aligned to the classic characteristics of a scorpion – ‘Antidote White’, ‘Venom Black’, ‘Adrenaline Red’, and the new ‘Acid Green’ and ‘Poison Blue’. Just make sure you don’t get bitten by one.

If you are an uber-fan, you can even get a watch to match the colour of your Abarth. Fiat has teamed up with Milanese watchmaker, Breil, to design just 999 limited edition watches.

The first question I am only ever asked about EVs is what the realworld range is. Fiat claims 157 miles, but the reality is more likely to be closer to 135-142 miles. You do have to be careful with the Abarth as it is easy to get carried away with the thrill of driving it as, before you know it, you are looking for a EV charging station.

Not for the first time did I think, “oh, this is a bit thirsty,” a term usually reserved for petrol cars and it was especially noticeable when the air conditioning was on.

GLYNDE LOVE SUPREME FESTIVAL

The Love Supreme Jazz Festival is a three-day greenfield jazz festival held at Glynde Place. It is the first full weekend camping jazz festival in the UK but also welcomes day-trippers and non-camping weekend visitors.

DJs and club nights, talks and lectures, panels, classic album playbacks, films, dance classes, kids areas, VIP experiences, camping, and fairground... it’s an immersive musical weekend which has quickly built a loyal and dedicated following.

Glynde Place, Nr Lewes July 5th-7th https://lovesupremefestival.com

WHAT’S ON...

A brief snapshot of art and culture in Sussex and Surrey

EASTBOURNE ROTHESAY INTERNATIONAL TENNIS

Devonshire Park once again plays host to the Rothesay International (Eastbourne) WTA tournament, the curtain-raiser to Wimbledon, with some of the world’s finest female tennis talent playing. Some of the legends of the game, including Martina Navratilova, Chris Evert, Virginia Wade, Kim Clijsters and Lindsey Davenport have played in this tournament.

Devonshire Park, Eastbourne June 22nd-29th www.lta.org.uk/fan-zone/international/ rothesay-international-eastbourne/

HAYWARDS HEATH BORDE HILL GARDEN FESTIVAL

Celebrate life in full bloom at Borde Hill Garden Festival, where the splendour of nature meets aspirational outdoor living. Over 40 stalls of artisans, specialist growers and lifestyle trends, with guest speakers, fringe events and live music, all nestled in the heritage-listed Garden.

Borde Hill Gardens, Nr Haywards Heath June 22nd-23rd

https://bordehill.co.uk/events/borde-hillgarden-festival

UCKFIELD FOOD, DRINK & MAKERS’ FESTIVAL

An event in our beautiful grounds to showcase local makers and suppliers of local produce in collaboration with Chailey Heritage Foundation. Come along and enjoy the live music, face painting, raffle and demonstrations from crafters and local producers, and fun for all the family!

East Sussex National Hotel, Nr Uckfield June 29th

https://eastsussexnational.co.uk/whats-on

BRIGHTON FEMME FATALE PAINT AND SIP

Mysterious? 4 Beautiful? 4 Brave? 4 Colourful? 4 Wait, is this artwork you?

Femme Fatale is all about expression and bringing your most authentic self to canvas. Whether you are red and fiery, yellow and charismatic, orange and creative – play with colours that represent you, your vibe, your soul.Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks will be available.

The Grain Store, Brighton June 15th www.pinotandpicasso.uk/brighton/session/ femme-fatale-6

HOVE IBIZA PROMS

The Ibiza Proms comes to Hove seafront for the first time with a 50-piece orchestra to take you on a musical journey to the White Isle! Expect a carefully selected mix of the most iconic Ibiza Dance anthems paired with more recent hits performed like you have never seen them before

Hove Lawns

June 29th

www.seetickets.com/event/ibiza-proms-onbrighton-seafront/black-rock/2845279

PULBOROUGH SUSSEX DAY

Parham House hosts another ‘Sussex Day’. This delightful event will showcase local produce, crafts and art in the setting of the Pleasure Grounds at Parham House. Guests can enjoy the festivities without any additional charges as the normal garden admission grants access to the event.

Parham House, Pulborough June 16th www.parhaminsussex.co.uk/sussexday-2024

CHICHESTER CHICHESTER FESTIVAL

This year’s Festival of Chichester is a celebration of all things arts, incl. music in a variety of genres, theatre, art exhibitions, spoken word and poetry, literary talks from best-selling authors and much more. There are over 100 events taking place across the four weeks so make sure you catch your favourites.

Across Chichester June 15th - July 21st https://festivalofchichester.co.uk/

Wiston Estate Winery, Washington First Saturday of the month www.wistonestate.com/product/ vineyardexplorer WASHINGTON VINEYARD EXPLORER TOUR & LUNCH

BUXTED THE GREAT GATSBY WEEKEND

A guided 4.1km walking tour of our vineyards, hidden away in the South Downs, incorporating a tasting of our award-winning English sparkling wines and a picnic lunch in the vineyard. The tour will head out into the vineyards, and the beautiful South Downs National Park.

Step back in time to the glamorous 1920s for this exclusive Great Gatsby event at Buxted Park Hotel. Indulge in a weekend of luxury, entertainment, and revelry worthy of Jay Gatsby himself. Transport yourself to the Jazz Age with the finest food, drink and entertainment.

Buxted Park Hotel, Buxted July 6th-7th www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/the-greatgatsby-experience