Government Business 22.3

FLEET MANAGEMENT

IFSEC PREVIEW

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 22.3

Business Information for Local and Central Government CIH 2015 PREVIEW

HOUSING IN ORDER Experts to debate the post-election housing landscape at the CIH’s Housing 2015 event

GIS / ENERGY

ENERGY INNOVATION Geographic technology to highlight energy awareness

FACILITIES SHOW 2015

INSPIRING FM EXCELLENCE Your questions answered at this year’s Facilities Show

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Business Information for Local and Central Government CIH 2015 PREVIEW

HOUSING IN ORDER Experts to debate the post-election housing landscape at the CIH’s Housing 2015 event

GIS / ENERGY

ENERGY INNOVATION

Comment

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Does a rotten affair mean a rotting political system?

How is it possible to strengthen the public’s trust in politicians, when at every level, tales of greed and corruption are just around the corner?

Has our political system been cracked more times than a ringmaster’s whip? What on earth is going on behind the doors of democracy?

Geographic technology to highlight energy awareness

FACILITIES SHOW 2015

INSPIRING FM EXCELLENCE Your questions answered at this year’s Facilities Show

d6 G-Clou test e la plus th logy techno 9 p7 news

Tower Hamlets has been rocked to the core by a political scandal that we are yet to discover the full extent of. And will we ever be truly able to understand its consequences?

Back in November 2014, a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers uncovered a “worrying pattern of divisive community politics and alleged mismanagement of public money by the mayoral administration”. Disgraced Mayor Lutfur Rahman was accused of telling local Muslims during his re-election campaign that it was a ‘religious duty’ to vote for him.

PLUS: PAYROLL | SECURITY | PROCUREMENT | HEALTH & SAFETY

This April, a High Court judgment ruled that council elections which took place in 2014 were corrupt and illegal, and Rahman was thrown out of office. Since then I have seen many statements on social and mainstream media, both from members of the public and from those that hold political office of some description, defending Rahman. Unfortunately, it is highly doubtful whether those that quickly rush to defend his actions, and those of his cohorts, are in possession of the facts.

Egged on by Rahman, Councillor Rabina Khan, Tower Hamlets Cabinet Member of Housing, initially announced that she will stand as the Tower Hamlets First candidate. Now, on 11 June, she will stand as an independent. This is a politician who has billed the taypaxer £120 for a two mile journey. “All I have achieved so far is because of Lutfur Rahman,” said the councillor at a recent rally.

Events such as the above do irrepairable damage to the political system. For the general elections on 7 May, literally hundreds of police officers were drafted in to guard Tower Hamlet’s polling stations. A sorry state of affairs, with a rotten backstory.

Danny Wright

P ONLINE P IN PRINT P MOBILE P FACE TO FACE If you would like to receive 6 issues of Government Business magazine for £150 a year, please contact Public Sector Information, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055, Fax: 020 8532 0066, or visit the Government Business website at:

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226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk EDITOR Angela Pisanu PRODUCTION EDITOR Richard Gooding EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Michael Lyons, Sian Nagle PRODUCTION CONTROL Jacqueline Lawford, Jo Golding WEB PRODUCTION Reiss Malone EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Danny Wright ADVERTISEMENT SALES Steve Day, Nichola Halle, Michael Marius, Bernie Miller, David Morgan, Mark Ohanaka, Jeff Reed, Paul Taylor PUBLISHER Kelly Scott ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich, Charlotte Cassar, Vickie Hopkins REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

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CONTENTS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS 22.3 07

07 GOVERNMENT BUSINESS NEWS

Ousted Tower Hamlets mayor plans to appeal landmark corruption ruling; devolving power to key cities could save £12.5bn over five years, says think tank

17

54 ENERGY

Government Business analyses the new Fuel Poverty Strategy, which aims to tackle energy inefficient homes in the UK

57 INSULATION

11 PAYROLL

The National Insulation Association outline the latest service for local authorities and housing associations

17 PROCUREMENT

The CIH’s annual conference and exhibition in Manchester on 23-25 June will discuss what changes UK housing may face under a new government

The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals discuss the changes due this year to payroll practice Jonathan Askin analyses the changes effecting procurement law matters in the latest Public Contracts Regulations

23 MARKET RESEARCH

The Market Research Society write about how government can use market research to improve its services to citizens

25 FLEET MANAGEMENT

59 HOUSING: CIH PREVIEW

69 SECURITY

The British Security Industry Association write about the latest developments in security that influence and concern the government sector

71 IFSEC PREVIEW

When watching finances, using whole-life costs to select new vehicles is crucial

A preview of IFSEC International which focuses on the products and services protecting people, places and assets

31 CONFERENCES & EVENTS

75 HEALTH & SAFETY SHOW

The Meetings Industry Association discuss the benefits and services of the Accredited in Meetings standard

Contents

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Government Business previews this years Safety & Health Expo, taking place 16‑18 June at London’s ExCeL Centre

37 FACILITIES MANAGEMENT 77 PLANTWORX The Building Futures Group writes about government procurement of services, training and development

45 FACILITIES SHOW 2015

Facilities Show 2015 returns on 16-18 June 2015 at London’s ExCeL, delivering access to knowledge, innovation and solutions from the facilities management sector

51 GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION 25

A preview of the GEO Business Show, with the latest geospatial technology and services and conference programme

Plantworx 2015 takes place from 2-4 June and will feature live construction applications and working machinery

79 GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY NEWS

EU plans to break down digital barriers with new Digital Single Market strategy; LGA launches ‘Digital Councils’ resource

80 G CLOUD 6

Andrew Maybin, of digital infrastructure and web hosting firm Tibus, looks ahead to what the next five years might hold for

59 ISS

Turn to UE 13.3 p latest age 79 for t g h techno overnment e logy ne ws

80 Government Business

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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COUNTER FRAUD

COUNCIL CORRUPTION

CIPFA focuses on improving counter fraud culture

Ousted Tower Hamlets mayor plans to appeal landmark corruption ruling Lutfur Rahman, who was elected as mayor of Tower Hamlets with a 3,000 majority last year, has been found guilty of corrupt and illegal practices. The 2014 election has been declared void and now will be re-run.

Four voters took legal action against Rahman, who they alleged used “corrupt and illegal practices” in the council election last year. Rahman, who denied the allegations, was found guilty of bribery, corruption and other offences. The elections of Rahman’s party, Tower Hamlets First, have also been declared void.

The Metropolitan Police received 164 complaints of electoral malpractice at Tower Hamlets in the lead up to, during and after the election on 22 May 2014.

Rahman was found not guilty of an additional charge of voter intimidation, but Richard Mawrey QC stated: “People felt intimidated at polling booths – not all the time, not at all polling booths, but it was enough intimidation to alarm voters.”

However, he said that in order to prove voter intimidation there needs to be a demonstration of “a serious level of violence before it will prompt an election to be voided - it falls short of reaching this level.”

Rahman, who was also ordered to pay £250,000 costs, has consistently denied any wrongdoing and will now challenge the ruling. At a rally on 30 April, he asked supporters to donate up to £5,000 each to pay his legal bills.

A petition in favour of Rahman and calling for an end to the ‘anti-democratic coup in Tower Hamlets’ has achieved over 6,000 signatures. A rally against the ruling took place in early May, days before the general election with Rahman himself speaking to protesters.

In a statement, Tower Hamlets First claimed: “The integrity of the court system was marred by the bias, slurs and factual inaccuracies in the election judgment.”

In 2008 Rahman (then a Labour councillor) won the leadership of Tower Hamlets council with the close help of an Islamic extremist group, the Islamic Forum of Europe (IFE).

In secret filming, IFE activists described

how they exercised “influence and power” over the council. Rahman has repeatedly given character references for convicted criminals, including a sex attacker.

Meanwhile, a fresh voting scandal in the ‘rotten borough’ of Tower Hamlets has been unearthed. According to the Telegraph, postal ballot papers for the 7 May general election were sent out to a block of flats – owned

by Tower Hamlets council – which has been a building site for months, council records seen by the Telegraph confirm. None of the people who supposedly applied for the votes live at the property and at least one is dead.

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles has appointed two new commissioners, including a high-ranking police officer, to supplement two that are already in place overseeing the financial decisions of Tower Hamlets Council. They have already alerted Whitehall that documents were missing, and intend to prevent further documents and emails being shredded or deleted ahead of a possible wider and deeper investigation into the mismanagement of the Town Hall.

Pickles has now proposed boosting the intervention powers of government commissioners sent into the town hall last year, while raising the number of officials taking charge of services and inspecting leadership. Measures would see Tower Hamlets forced to take ‘any steps’ that are thought necessary to ensure good governance and sound financial management.

Proposed directions will be enacted for ‘as long as necessary’ but could be lifted by 31 October 2015 or earlier if appropriate.

The election for Tower Hamlets Council will take place on 11 June. Rabina Khan, a former Labour candidate, will stand as an independent, having previously been aligned to Rahman’s Tower Hamlets First party.

Mark Baynes, editor of LoveWapping website, said of Khan: “I and many others have no doubt that Rabina Khan will, if elected, perpetuate all the corrupt practises that READ MORE: have recently tinyurl.com/n9jykvb become public.”

GB News

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The first cohort of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy’s (CIPFA) Counter Fraud Centre (CCFC) has completed a specialist qualification in countering fraud and corruption in public services.

The qualification comes as the CCFC continues with its commitment to helping organisations to better detect, prevent and recover fraud losses.

The CIPFA Accredited Counter Fraud Specialist qualification (CACFS) focuses on improving the anti-fraud culture within organisations from across the public services.

Head of the CIPFA Counter Fraud Centre, Rachael Tiffen commented: “I am delighted that the first cohort has completed the qualification with such success. The positive feedback we received hammered home the fact that the Centre is offering services that ensure public sector workers are well‑equipped in the fight against fraud and can now better understand the ever-changing landscape that threatens our services.

“CIPFA has long argued that it is important for counter fraud work to be recognised

as an intrinsic part of an organisation’s good governance. This first cohort of professional counter fraud officers is now equipped to use the most up to date techniques, analytics and tools taught in new qualification to serve the public interest in the organisations they work for.”

The qualification is accredited by CIPFA and by the University of Portsmouth’s Counter Fraud Professional Accreditation Board. The Board was set up with ministerial backing with strong support from the NHS Counter Fraud Service; it has overseen over 14,000 accreditations across the public sector from Councils and the Department for Work and Pensions to HM Revenue and Customs. The delegates will be the first to be automatically included on the Professional Register of Counter Fraud Specialists held by the Counter Fraud Professional Accreditation Board.

CIPFA launched the CIPFA Counter Fraud Centre (CCFC) in July 2014 to lead and coordinate the fight against fraud and corruption across the public services. Headed

by Rachael Tiffen, former deputy director of the National Fraud Authority, it is dedicated to helping counter READ MORE: fraud in the UK tinyurl.com/pnb4ztx and abroad.

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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FISCAL DEVOLUTION

NEWS IN BRIEF

GB News

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Wales seeks financial data on council mergers

Devolving power to key cities could save £12.5bn over five years, says think tank According to a report by ResPublica, devolving power to Britain’s group of 26 Key Cities could see their contribution to the national economy soar.

The report aims to prove that key cities such as Sunderland, Cambridge and Plymouth could be transformed into economic powerhouses if they managed their own budgets. Power, people and places: A Manifesto for devolution to Britain’s Key Cities estimates that the freedom to set and retain local taxes could potentially save £12.5 bn over the next parliament.

Economic forecasters Oxford Economics say key cities could realistically aspire to reducing their combined contribution to the government’s borrowing requirement by somewhere between one third (down from £8.2bn to £5.6bn) and one half (down from £8.2bn to just £3.4bn) over the long-term.

If achieved, this would move cities like Preston and Southampton from being in net receipt to the exchequer to becoming net contributors.

Report author and director of ResPublica Phillip Blond said: “To carry on growing and for that growth to benefit the entire population, Key Cities need greater freedom and flexibility from national policies and

centrally driven funding. Our report shows that if Key Cities get devolved powers the whole country will gain as the revenue generated for the Treasury will be staggering.”

In the report, ResPublica is calling on the next Government to agree five-year funding settlements with the key cities in its first Comprehensive Spending Review. This would allow the cities to invest in training, infrastructure such as roads and enterprise parks, as well as linking social care and the NHS. Dr Dave Smith, Chair of the Key Cities Chief Executive Group, said: “With a more stable financial settlement from central government and new fiscal powers, Key Cities can be an important part of building a new economy based on high skilled jobs and high-value added production. Now is a critical moment to seize this generational opportunity for our cities and our country. The next government must provide our members with the devolutionary powers needed to support local businesses and communities. Only then will we be able to fully maximise READ MORE: our global tinyurl.com/mae3dhv competitiveness.”

Welsh Assembly members have called for more detail on the costs and benefits of local authority mergers.

In a report on provisions in the Local Government (Wales) Bill to allow authorities to merge voluntarily by April 2018, the Assembly’s finance committee said there needed to be clarity on likely costs and benefits.

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/om48b72

LGA signs up to Plotr to help promote local government careers The Local Government Association (LGA) has signed up to Plotr, an employer-led careers website that builds bridges between education and work in order to help councils recruit the best young people.

Plotr’s mandate is for 11 to 24xyear‑olds, with a strong focus on targeting the 14-19 age group. The GA deal means individual councils will be able to create employer profiles which will provide young people with more localised information and details of job opportunities within councils.

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/mxjqsc3

FINANCIAL STRATEGY

Early intervention programmes could unlock £2bn, says EIF The Early Intervention Foundation, a coalition of more than 50 charities, think-tanks and public finance experts has called for the next government to prioritise investment in early intervention programmes. According to the foundation, this could make savings of nearly £2bn by 2020.

The group, which included CIPFA chief executive Rob Whiteman, Children’s Commissioner for England Anne Longfield and NSPCC chief executive Peter Wanless, has issued an open letter calling on early intervention spending to be prioritised to both help children and boost the economy.

Early Intervention Foundation (EIF)

chief executive Carey Oppenheim said such schemes were crucial amid the tight public spending constraints planned in the next parliament. The EIF has previously estimated almost £17bn a year is spent on late interventions, and has forecast that 10 per cent of this spending could be saved by 2020 with more effective and earlier services.

Oppenheim said: “Prioritising and investing in early intervention will not only save money but will give a generation of children, young people and their families the best READ MORE: chance of tinyurl.com/q6nh46a thriving”.

Bristol criticised over 1m long yellow lines Bristol City Council has been criticised for sets of double yellow lines that are less than a metre long. The scheme was introduced by elected mayor George Ferguson and has divided public opinion.

Campaigner Michael Owen said the lines were “over the top”, but the council said the lines were there to ensure vehicles did not park unsafely.

Clifton East is the latest zone to be rolled out as part of mayor Ferguson’s city-wide plan to stop commuter parking, due to go live on 1 June.

READ MORE:

tinyurl.com/mzpcptb

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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LEGISLATION CHANGES

Karen Thompson, of The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals, looks at the year ahead and acknowledges notable industry developments that are lingering on the horizon The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP) is the Chartered Institute for payroll and pensions professionals in the UK and is dedicated to raising the profile of payroll within businesses.

It has approximately 10,000 individuals enjoying membership benefits. Its education portfolio has been developed based on business and individual needs to ensure that is providing the most relevant training in the market. The policy and research team represents CIPP members and the payroll profession at government consultation forums in relation to the 160 pieces of legislation which impact payroll and pensions to ensure that the members know the most up to date information.

The CIPP is the only Chartered Institute for payroll professionals working in the UK alongside government department consultation forums, which allows us to advise the government about issues that will impact employers, in particular payroll departments, on behalf of our members.

We also provide all of our members, students and course delegates with the most up to date information on changing legislation.

In recent months we have seen fundamental changes such as real time information (RTI) and automatic enrolment affecting both payroll and pensions. And we are now seeing the introduction of shared parental leave legislation which will impact heavily on payroll processes.

ental m a d n u F s change time l rea such as on (RTI) and ti informa tic enrolment automafect both af and payroll ns pensio

WHAT IS ON THE HORIZON FOR 2015?

April has been a busy month for the payroll and pensions professional. We’ll start by looking at Shared Parental Leave, which has dominated the headlines over recent weeks and months.

Shared Parental Leave and Pay will be available for eligible couples from 5 April 2015, but, as it is not expected to be very widely taken up, not all payroll software will include the functionality to process Shared Parental Pay.

Written by Karen Thompson, The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals

THE CHANGING PAYROLL AND PENSION HORIZON

It’s important to note that payroll professionals need to plan ahead to ensure that they know how they will deal with any requests, should they receive one, if their software is not able to perform the calculations.

On a similar vein, there is an imminent change in regulations which will allow the DWP to issue a Direct Earnings Attachment, deducting at a maximum rate of 40 per, cent rather than the current maximum of 20 per cent in cases where the person has been prosecuted for the offence which gave rise to the benefit overpayment.

Whilst the regulations came into force from 8 April 2015, the DWP will be working closely with the CIPP and the BCS that represents the payroll software industry on its implementation. Whilst Ministers would like to utilise the new regulations as soon as possible, they do recognise that without updated payroll software this would be difficult for employers to administer and it is therefore likely, that software will not be ready until April 2016.

In addition, April 2015 also saw the Employment Allowance (up to £2,000 per annum National Insurance savings) extended to carers. Staying with National Insurance savings, all those employers employing staff under the age of 21-years old will have a zero rate employer National Insurance contribution rate, up to the Upper Earnings Limit.

Those working in payroll will have also noted that April 2015 saw a revision in respect of tax codes. Previously a 50 per cent limit was placed on those codes prefixed with K, this rule now extends to all codes.

There’s also little escaping the general election of 7 May 2015. The CIPP has looked at each party election manifesto closely, to see how each of the proposals will impact on the payroll and pensions professional. It is the role of the CIPP to monitor changes in legislation and communicate the impact of these changes to members thus informing them of the latest developments.

Payroll

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

SAVE THE DATE! It’s also fair to say that April 2016 promises to be just as busy. Payrolling of benefits, which according to PricewaterhouseCoopers will save employers £20m per year, is due to come into force from April next year, along with the recently delayed trivial benefits legislation.

The industry will be saying goodbye to the P9D from April 2016, which means the abolition of £8,500 threshold for all, except Ministers of Religion who earn at a rate of less than £8,500 per year. E

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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LEGISLATION CHANGES

Payrolling of benefits, which according to the PwC, will save employers £20m per year, is due to come into force from April next year  Then there’s the matter of automatic enrolment. Some 135,000 companies are set to stage in January of next year prompting fears of a capacity crunch for the industry. There will be more small and medium enterprises staging, simplification rules and of course the new pension reforms for the consumer to name but a few. It promises to be an incredibly busy time. The CIPP will continue to offer advice for those yet to complete the automatic enrolment process through its Friends of Automatic Enrolment seminars.

The Friends of Automatic Enrolment is the CIPP’s clarion call to all the payroll, pensions, software and advisory organisations to work better together so that employers have a better chance of handling their employer duties compliantly.

Its central aim is to be ‘a capacity crunch task force’ and is open to any organisation that wants to help prevent the failure of automatic enrolment, including employers that wish to find support and guidance on how to overcome the automatic enrolment challenges they face.

GUIDANCE EVERY STEP OF THE WAY The CIPP offers its members access to an advisory service which is one of the most popular membership benefits.

The service offers members speedy, accurate and authoritative advice on payroll and pensions topics. Further still, all calls made to the advisory service are treated in absolute confidence.

Another popular member benefit is the CIPP Payroll Assurance Scheme that has been developed to provide payroll departments with assurances. Their payroll and associated processes are fit for purpose and comply with government legislation They have the right payroll activities in place.

They have suitable processes in place for picking up and preparing for legislative changes. The Payroll Assurance Scheme will also highlight areas for development and improvement and help organisations prepare for an HMRC audit.

The CIPP is the only Chartered Institute for payroll professionals in the UK, and as such has close links with government which enables our Payroll Assurance

Payroll

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Scheme assessors to provide up to date and informed support to organisations with regards to their PAYE processes.

Whilst the PAS is one way to ensure that payroll professionals are keep informed of changes in legislation, the CIPP News online service and its Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward magazine provides an informed and detailed look at some of the latest industry changes and how it will impact on the payroll and pensions professional.

The magazine features regular updates from the Policy team and it lists information about upcoming events designed to help communicate changes to those working in the payroll sector.

The CIPP hosts a series of national forums events, running in various locations across the country between May and July. The CIPP national forums – free to members – are the perfect opportunity to ensure existing knowledge is up to date with legislative developments in payroll and pensions. The forums also provides an opportunity for payroll and pensions professionals to network and learn more about other challenges facing professionals in the industry. There is also scope to find out more about how fellow professionals working in the industry are coping with changes in legislation. L FURTHER INFORMATION cipp.org.uk

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Counsel for Council Counsel.

www.lexisnexis.co.uk/governmentbusiness

RISK MANAGEMENT

MAKING SOCIAL MEDIA WORK FOR YOU, NOT AGAINST YOU

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As a provider of legal information services for almost 200 years, LexisNexis understands the importance of complying with the law and helping government bodies discharge their duties legally and effectively.

The Local Government Association recognises the importance of social media to help elected members serve the people who live and work in their area better and is in the process of drawing up guidance for elected members.

Using social media to engage with citizens can provide government with fast and effective ways of responding to issues and concerns via a medium that many citizens feel comfortable with and understand. However, these rewards have to be balanced against the attendant risks such as reputational damage or unauthorised distribution of personal data.

As a provider of legal information services for almost 200 years, LexisNexis understands the importance of complying with the law and helping government bodies discharge their duties legally and effectively.

Social media can generate widespread interest engagement for an organisation.

However, it also has the potential to be detrimental in a number of ways, including by: being used as an online ‘vent’ site for defamatory statements about organisations by disgruntled employees or other critics; providing an additional outlet for widespread disclosure of confidential or commercially sensitive information or personal data, and; inappropriate or indiscriminate use of social media by an organisation diluting rather than strengthening its brand.

EMPLOYMENT LAW ISSUES Organisations should clearly explain to their employees in their social media policies that the organisation may suffer reputational damage as a result of individual staff making disparaging remarks about the organisation or its customers online. Employees should be requested not to represent their personal views as being those of the organisation.

Employees may see social networking sites as an outlet to vent their personal grievances but, due to the public nature of such sites and the wide potential audience that such comments may reach, the damage that can potentially result to the organisation or person that is the subject of such comments can be considerable. Such damage may be exacerbated where controversial comments are ‘Retweeted’, ‘shared’, ‘reposted’ or go viral.

Any social media policy should go on to detail the consequences for the employee of making such statements, eg that this may result in disciplinary action being taken against the employee. However, the ACAS guidance advises that any response by an employer to such comments made ‘on social networking sites should be proportionate to the perceived offence’ and the damage that the employer has actually suffered as a result.

DATA PROTECTION AND CONFIDENTIALITY Organisations should also be prepared for the fact that disgruntled employees (or former employees) or hackers may attempt to use social media sites as a forum for posting commercially sensitive information about them, which may be potentially damaging in terms of generating adverse publicity.

Although in some instances such employees may be protected by whistle-blowing legislation (where disclosure is in the public

interest), this may be done for purely vindictive or other personal motives, so the organisation should consider: having in place a strategy for containing or minimising the potential impact of such incidents; ensuring that all employees are bound by appropriate confidentiality terms and conditions in their employment contracts, which incorporate the organisation’s policies regarding confidential information, privacy and use of social media including a reasonable period post-employment.

Employers themselves also need to be careful that they do not disclose personal data about their employees via social media (or other means), eg regarding salaries, disciplinary proceedings or political or religious

beliefs of employees, in contravention of the Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA 1998).

USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO RESPOND TO BRAND MANAGEMENT CRISES Social media can be used to give an instantaneous response to either a wide readership or specific strategic targets. How this response should be handled, by whom and via which media should form part of an organisation’s overall brand management strategy. Organisations should consider whether legal department sign-off is required.

For instance, depending on the nature and gravity of the crisis, the size of the organisation and the power of its brand, the organisation may choose to respond by: using the same media in which the most detrimental publicity against it has appeared (eg using a quick, punchy yet carefully crafted Tweet, possibly linking to a more detailed blog post or press release); addressing its established online community through the media in which they

are used to receiving branded communications (eg a post on their Facebook page), or; launching an all-out online charm offensive utilising a variety of forms of social media to reach as broad an audience as possible.

However, there may be situations when an organisation takes a view that it is best to say nothing at all, as it may consider the maker of derogatory statements to have little credibility or the issue to be of little interest to most citizens. L FURTHER INFORMATION Please contact Tom Laidlaw at tom_ laidlaw@lexisnexis.co.uk or learn more at www.lexisnexis.co.uk/governmentbusiness

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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CONTRACT REGULATIONS

Procurement

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

RECOGNISING THE LATEST REGULATIONS The Public Contracts Regulations came into force on 26 February 2015, transposing EU Directive 2014/24 into UK law and will now need to be complied with by all Contracting Authorities (CAs). These arrived ahead of schedule, as the government wanted to introduce what they see as substantial benefits in the new regime.

The new Regulations apply only to procurements commenced on or after 26 February 2015. They do not apply retrospectively and so procurements commenced prior to this date will continue to be subject to the Public Contacts Regulations 2006. This means that most CAs will be running procurements under two sets of procurement rules at the moment. Some reforms included in the new Regulations, such as those that support the move to electronic procurement procedures, will not come into force until 2018.

Broadly, a procurement will have ‘commenced’ when: an advertisement, contract notice or equivalent has been

made (whether OJEU or otherwise); expressions of interest from a supplier are sought; or a CA responds to an unsolicited expression of interest or offer.

MAJOR CHANGES There are several major changes to be aware of. Firstly, all contracts with a value estimated to be greater than £25,000 (£10,000 for central government) have to be advertised on Contracts Finder (which was also re-launched on 26 February 2015). This requirement doesn’t just apply to contracts between £25,000 and the European threshold, it also applies to notices published in OJEU – so CAs will now have to advertise on both systems. Just to add to the complexity and to make sure the process isn’t a simple one – CAs are not allowed to advertise on Contracts Finder until it has been published in OJEU. Secondly, all procurement documents will now need to be available online at the same time that the contract notice or advertisement is published. The term

‘procurement documents’ is defined very broadly and includes the initial call for competition, full technical specifications and service descriptions, pre-qualification documents, invitations to tender, the terms and conditions of contract and all the supporting documents. This new requirement could trigger material change issues if the CA has to put out draft contract terms from the outset of all tender processes. This would leave the CA open to challenge from unsuccessful bidders. However, changes to the contract terms will be allowed in certain circumstances and so this process needs to be managed carefully.

This will be a significant change to CAs current processes and preparations which will previously have been more of a staged approach. E

Written by Jonathan Askin

Jonathan Askin, a partner at Brachers, analyses the changes effecting commercial, contractual and public procurement law matters in the latest Public Contracts Regulations

CAs king are loo ith the w to work sector to private cialise new r comme and services s producthis is a great and t rtunity to oppo lore exp

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CONTRACT

REGULATIONS

 Changes to the contract terms can take place where the changes (no matter what the monetary value) have been provided for in the initial procurement documents in clear, precise and unequivocal review clauses. These must state the scope and nature of possible modifications or options as well as the conditions under which they may be used, and do not provide for modifications or options that would alter the overall nature of the contract or the framework agreement.

Other contract changes are also allowed under the new Regulations – such as ‘necessary’ additional ‘works, services or supplies by the original contractor’ if a change in supplier is not possible for ‘economic or technical reasons’ or would ‘cause significant inconvenience or substantial duplication of costs’ to the CA. Changes can also be made if they are ‘not substantial’, if such changes could not be ‘foreseen’ by ‘a diligent contracting authority’, if the changes do not effect ‘the overall nature of the contract’ and if it does not result in a 50 per cent price increase from the original arrangements.

ADDITIONAL CLAUSES Clauses will also now need to be included so that CAs can terminate substantially amended contracts that should have led to a new procurement procedure.

Instead of Part B services, a ‘light touch regime’ will be established for certain services (to include health, education and social services) where the contract value is over £750,000.

Under the ‘light touch regime’, CAs will be able to determine the procedures that will be applied to those procurements – but must ensure transparency and equal treatment of bidders through a call for competition, award procedure and reasonable and proportionate time-limits.

This ‘light touch regime’ does not yet apply if the contract is for services within the scope of the NHS Regulations.

CAs should be thinking about designing a skeleton process and procedure for procurements falling within the ‘light touch regime’ – to ensure that it does not become a burden on both administration time and costs.

The Regulations have confirmed, codified and expanded on the so-called ‘Teckal’ and ‘Hamburg’ exemptions allowing in‑house awards and inter-authority co‑operation in certain circumstances.

Greater flexibility has been added to existing procurement procedures that you will already be familiar with and new procedures have been introduced. There will also be accelerated forms of open, restricted and competitive procedure with negotiation available where there is evidence of urgency.

INNOVATIVE PARTNERSHIPS Further, in most cases, timescales for the stages of the procurement procedures

Procurement

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CAs now have a statutory obligation to ‘have regard to’ guidance – so make sure you are updated at all times. Update your internal procedures and policies are shorter. Sub-central CAs also have the flexibility (in certain circumstances) to agree the time period for submitting tenders with bidders. If a CA intends to do that, make sure that all bidders agree.

In particular, the ‘Innovative partnerships’ procedure offers a real alternative procedure for CAs to follow. The aim is to enable both the development and purchase of an ‘innovative’ work, service or product from the same supplier. Proposals would be submitted during the competitive process and then the ‘innovative’ solution would be developed after the award of the contract. This gives much more flexibility than the competitive dialogue procedure where discussions have to continue with the bidders until the CA decides on the final solution.

We know that CAs are looking to work with the private sector to commercialise new products and services and this is potentially a great opportunity for CAs and suppliers to explore.

There is a ‘mutuals’ carve out. This means that there is a right for CAs to hold competitions limited to mutual type organisations in certain circumstances and where certain criteria is met.

PRE QUALIFICATION QUESTIONNAIRE There have been many important changes to the Pre Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) stage.

There is now a much simpler process of assessing the credentials of suppliers. There should be greater use of supplier self‑declarations and only the winning bidder will then have to submit various certificates and documents to prove their status. It is thought that the UK will implement the use of the European Single Procurement Document (which will cover most of the standard PQQ questions) in most circumstances and hopefully suppliers will then be able to re-use the same form.

A turnover cap has been introduced to assist with SME participation. Unless there is specific justification, CAs should not set company turnover requirements at more than two times the contract value.

There are new discretionary and mandatory exclusions. These include poor performance under previous contracts and offences under the terrorism and serious crimes acts. CAs will still find it difficult, in my opinion, to exclude bidders on the basis of previous poor performance.

INVITATION TO TENDER There has also been substantial changes to the Invitation To Tender stage.

CAs can now take in to account full life‑cycle costs when awarding contracts.

The hope is that this will encourage better value and more effective procurements.

This means that CAs need to think about long term quality and link these to social, environmental and sustainability issues.

The social and environmental aspects that can be taken into account in tenders are much clearer. The main change is that in addition to environmental – social aspects can now be taken into account in certain circumstances. CAs will also have the power to ask for evidence of social/ environmental characteristics and will also be able to refer to factors linked to the production process used. However, these must be reasonable for all potential bidders.

This also links in to the Public Services Act 2012 where certain CAs must consider the social good offered by bidders – in addition to price and quality.

CAs can now take into account, at the award stage, the relevant skills and experience of individual staff members – where it is relevant.

TOP TIPS CAs are likely to have procurements running that are governed by the different regimes.

Make sure you manage these carefully.

Update your precedent documents and numbering. This includes checking selection and award criteria and ensuring that all are still compliant; Make sure that the revised and expanded grounds for exclusion replace the existing grounds; Remember that ‘Most Economically Advantageous Tender’ (MEAT) has a slightly different meaning to its meaning under the 2006 Regulations and that the new term ‘best price-quality ratio’ has been introduced. If you are proposing to use life cycle costs – check you’ve included all the≈information required; Amend timescales, terminology, numbering of Regulations and references; Check the content – have you included all the procurement documents that you need to and the relevant content?

CAs should prepare a checklist to follow!

Remember the new record keeping and reporting obligations. Be ready for further guidance – look out for Cabinet Office guidance (there is now some published) – as CAs now have a statutory obligation to ‘have regard to’ guidance – so make sure you are updated at all times. Update your internal procedures and policies. L FURTHER INFORMATION tinyurl.com/pcrvmeb

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

19

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22

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

07/04/2015 20:26

MARKET RESEARCH

MAKING INFORMED GOVERNMENT DECISIONS

Reliable, ethical and representative evidence is vital to decision-making. It provides government with valuable insight into the motivations of the electorate, and is especially vital at moments when policy and its justification are under scrutiny. As important decisions continue to be made, research helps departments to understand where resources are needed most, and ensures that they are spent efficiently. Issues of accountability, public opinion on policy decisions, justification of fund allocation and return on investment can be better managed when policy is firmly rooted in research.

NUMBER CRUNCHING The census creates an authoritative data source for decision making. For example, insight into the age and socio-economic make-up of the population can be used to underpin health and social policy, supporting decision making on where new hospitals and care homes should be located. Information collected on travel and car ownership contribute to policy on roads and public transport, and help local authorities in understanding and legislating for pressures on traffic systems. However, across the public sector it is clear that quantitative data alone cannot provide sufficient insight, and that research into public motivation, opinion and behaviour is essential to supplementing and accurately interpreting information.

The past few years have thrown up numerous examples of policy decisions based on seemingly logical assumptions about the general public, which have run into trouble when public reaction was not as expected.

In February 2014 we saw the Care.data scheme postponed as a result of the public’s reaction to the proposals to share personal data. This is an area where trust is vital and the public’s reaction could perhaps have been anticipated through qualitative research on issues surrounding data security. This would have allowed an appropriate communications campaign to be developed to educate the public on the benefits of the scheme.

Similarly, when the last benefits and credits scheme was developed, policy was formed on a belief that flexibility of payments, in response to changing circumstances, would be preferable to certainty of payment delivery.

However, it soon became clear that people were failing to report changes in their circumstances, and so efficiency and costs

invaluable in understanding the nature of the relationship between ordinary people and the government itself. Effective policymakers need to develop t s a cogent understanding of The pa have s r the nature of the public’s trust. a e y s few rou e m Whilst easily lost, trust is u n up rarely pro-actively managed, thrown les of policy p perhaps in part due to n m exa ns based o how difficult it is to define. o i s al c i deci g were immediately To return to the example of o l y gl adversely impacted.

Care.data, the NHS’ original seemin ions about t It emerged that assumption that citizens assump general people were in actual would trust them enough e h t fact loathe to report that they would automatically public things that they viewed as move to the new system private, such as a relationship did not recognise that trust would ending. Subsequent insight work not extend to commercial third parties. indicated that for people on a restricted budget, certainty of payment was more COMMUNCIATION important than flexibility. When planning The programme is now being ‘trialled’ as pilot delivery of complex new policy, time spent schemes in six areas covering over 250 GP exploring motivations can save costs and surgeries across Hampshire, Berkshire, Leeds improve efficiency. Whilst the temptation and Somerset. For the scheme to be successful, is perhaps stronger for government communication is vital. The pilots must use bodies to use research as retrospective social research to track confidence – to reach justification for decisions already made, it is a level of trust where data sharing is accepted, becoming clear that decision makers must robust feedback mechanisms need to be put use research in the policy-making stage. in place to demonstrate that the public’s concerns have been both recognised and BEYOND THE FIGURES acted upon. Communication is also central With reliable guidance now relatively easy to the effective functioning of the NHS more to obtain, case studies demonstrate that widely. It allows healthcare professionals to insight at this stage can provide significant mitigate problems, demonstrating how insight long-term value. When the Department for plays an important role not just in decision Constitutional Affairs (now the Ministry of making at the most senior level, but also Justice) was developing options to in the everyday decisions made on the ground. improve outcomes for those experiencing Statistics can only be used to their full domestic violence, they examined whether potential when placed in context, analysed, further criminalisation was the most effective and considered in light of the unpredictable. solution. More criminal sanctions might Integration is central to modelling relationships, seem logical, but the DCA’s qualitative creating broader views of behaviour and studies showed that as a course of deepening understanding in ways which action it was not necessarily effective in would not be possible from single data achieving optimal outcomes. The research sources. Insight provides the human element found that victims were far from keen to which can so often be missing from decisions criminalise their partners or to stigmatise made based purely on facts and figures. their children by criminalising a parent. The Policy and operations need to look at insight revealed that what victims actually lead indicators like trust, not just rely on wanted was a quick and straightforward output data which is, by its very nature, escape route, and felt that resources should out of date. Ultimately, market research is be concentrated on rapid re-housing and a valuable tool for timely and intelligent speedy access to necessary benefits. policy and everyday delivery. L As well as understanding the motivations and opinions which dictate public reaction FURTHER INFORMATION to any given policy, insight is also www.mrs.org.uk

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Written by Jane Frost CBE

Jane Frost CBE, CEO of the Market Research Society (MRS) explains how market research can be used to support decision making at both a local and national level

Market Research

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FLEET FINANCE

BUYING A NEW BREED OF VEHICLE

Cost on reducti fleet a remains-makers’ decisione so using PLUG-IN GRANTS key issu costs as the The government has ife announced extensions of whole l to select new the existing plug-in car s i y s e k ba a s and vans grants giving i s vehicle meter up to £5,000 off the price of a car and £8,000 para

Cost reduction remains fleet decision-makers’ agenda-topping issue so using whole life costs as the basis to select new vehicles versus existing models is a key parameter in the detailed analysis that must be undertaken alongside the wider business need.

Finance, especially for the public sector, remains under the microscope so procuring the most cost-effective vehicles is essential whilst also ensuring that they are fit for purpose in meeting the business requirement.

Today’s range of vehicles available from motor manufacturers has never been wider with established internal combustion engine models – petrol and diesel fuelled – available alongside the new breed of hybrid, plug-in‑hybrid and pure electric zero-emission models.

The government has made millions of pounds available – and continues to support – the uptake of plug-in vehicles, but it remains ACFO’s belief that petrol and diesel power will form the bedrock of both public and private sector fleets for the foreseeable future.

Nevertheless, fleet decision-makers across the public sector should assess the business benefits of the new breed of ultra low and zero emission vehicles against both the cost and day-to-day operating criteria of their existing vehicles to see if there is a place for them within their transport operation.

on a van. Additionally, the government is putting millions of pounds aside to fund a national network of recharging points. The Department for Transport says that demand for such vehicles is “rising sharply” with more than 25,000 plug-in car and van grants claimed since the scheme began five years ago.

Although data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reveals that 6,697 pure electric cars were registered last year, up from 2,512 in 2013 (+166.6per cent), the figure represents a tiny percentage of the almost 2.5 million new cars registered in 2014. Registrations of electric vans totalled 673 last year (2013: 187) out of 321,686 units registered. However, many experts believe support for pure electric vehicles and hybrids from global car makers has now reached a crucial tipping point with models from mainstream manufacturers including Audi, BMW, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Renault, Toyota and Volkswagen helping to support credibility and drive interest in the sector.

What’s more, manufacturers are launching an ever expanding range of zero-emission electric and ultra low emission plug-in hybrid models.

GREENING PUBLIC SECTOR FLEETS The government is also putting its money where its mouth is – and is encouraging public sector fleets to do the same – by ensuring that zero and ultra low emission models feature on their fleets.

Fifteen government departments have launched reviews of their fleets and, as a result, this year around 140 plug-in vehicles, such as the British-built all-electric Nissan Leaf, will enter service with the likes of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Ministry of Defence, Home Office and the Government Car Service, which provides cars for ministers.

Transport Minister Baroness Kramer, who described the move as an important step, said: “These cars will save taxpayers money on running costs and will bring low emissions benefits to our fleet.”

To encourage the wider public sector – including the police, fire service, local authorities and NHS – to follow suit the government has also made £5 million available to enable 35 organisations to add more than 200 plug-in vehicles to their fleets.

The government’s vision is for almost every car, van and bus in the UK to be an ultra low emission vehicle by 2050 and Baroness Kramer said she wanted to see “the public sector lead by example” on the drive to introduce electric vehicles to fleets with running costs from 2p a mile.

Written by John Prior, ACFO

Cost is key for fleet decision-makers, so using whole-life costs as the basis to select new vehicles is crucial, alongside assessing whether they are fit-for purpose. ACFO’s John Pryor examines what to consider when looking at buying low-emission and alternatively-fuelled vehicles

Department figures show that 25 car models and seven van models are currently eligible for grant aid with a further 40 expected to come to market over the next three years.

Fleet Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

THE RIGHT USE Fleet managers are typically risk adverse, but operating plug-in vehicles requires a change of mindset. Finding the right use for the right vehicle is key in all fleet operations and that is no different with electric and plug-in hybrid models. Put to the right use and they can cost no more than a standard diesel vehicle and in some cases less, it is claimed.

However, it is critical to calculate the whole life costs of all vehicles over their fleet lifecycle. The list price of plug-in vehicles, notwithstanding the government subsidy, is significantly higher when compared with petrol and diesel models.

However, supporters of the ultra low and zero emission vehicles point to fuel savings when compared with the price of petrol and diesel as critical in the lifetime cost savings.

While government subsidies are available to help offset the upfront cost of zero-emission cars and other fiscal incentives include zero road tax, exemption from the London Congestion Charge and 100 per cent first year capital allowances, scheduled increases in company car benefit-in-kind tax could hit demand.

A QUESTION OF TAX Zero and other low emission vehicles (50g/km and below) have been 0 per cent E

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

25

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

Fleet Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

FLEET FINANCE

With the average price of petrol currently around 6p per litre lower than the average price of diesel, the time has perhaps come for more fleets to consider petrol models if they fit into their whole life cost profile  rated for benefit-in-kind tax, but in 2015-16 they move into the five per cent bracket, rising to seven per cent in 2016-17, nine per cent in 2017-18, 13 per cent in 2018-19 and 16 per cent in 2019-20.

Meanwhile, company cars with CO2 emissions of 51-75g/km will gradually rise from nine per cent of their P11D value in 2015‑16 to 19 per cent in 2019-20; those with emissions of 76-94g/km will increase from 13 per cent to 22 per cent over the same period to a maximum of 37 per cent at 165g/km and above.

Therefore, the most significant increases in company car benefit‑in‑kind tax are in the very sector of the market that the government is trying to encourage. However, it could have been worse. In the recent March Budget, Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne said: “To encourage a new generation of low emission vehicles we will increase their company car tax more slowly than previously planned, while increasing other rates by three per cent in 2019-20.”

That comment was, initially, perplexing. However, a look back to Budget 2014 and the Chancellor announced that it was his intention that in 2019-20 there would be a two percentage point differential between the 0-50g/km and 51-75g/km and the 51-75g/km and 76-94g/km bands.

That would have resulted in the 0-50g/km band increasing by five percentage points in 2019-20 to 18 per cent and the 51-75g/km band increasing by four percentage points to 20 per cent. The impact of the increasing the two band rates more slowly – by three percentage points – means the 2019-20 rates for 0-50g/km cars is 16 per cent and for 51-75g/km is 19 per cent.

Therefore, the Chancellor can claim that through the company car benefit-in-kind tax system he is encouraging demand for ultra low emission vehicles.

Nevertheless, tax rates for company cars with emissions of 50g/km or less will still increase by 1,600 per cent (0-16 per cent over the five years to 2019-20 compared with a rise of nine percentage points for cars with emissions of 76 g/km or more.

OTHER IMPLICATIONS Such rises will clearly increase costs for businesses – Class 1A National Insurance at 13.8 per cent must be paid on all benefit-in-kind – and their employees.

ACFO is therefore disappointed that benefit-in-kind tax rates on ultra low emission vehicles are increasing. Given the government’s focus on encouraging demand for electric and plug-in cars through a range of incentives, notably grants but also capital allowances, ACFO would have expected the Chancellor to reduce company car benefit-in-kind tax rates, not increase them, on these vehicles.

Additionally, ACFO believes it would potentially encourage company car drivers to increasingly turn to ultra low emission vehicles if they paid benefit-in-kind tax on the P11D value of the vehicle after taking into account the plug-in-grant Under present rules company car drivers receive no benefit from choosing a car that is subject to a plug-in-grant, which only benefits the vehicle owner. It is something that ACFO continues to raise in its discussions with HM Treasury and HM Revenue and Customs.

However, the marketplace is changing so electric vehicles have to be a factor on fleet managers’ radar. ACFO believes electric vehicles will always be a niche within fleet operations, although they will be a large niche rather than a small niche.

IS PETROL BACK IN FAVOUR? With the average price of petrol currently around 6p per litre lower than the average price of diesel, the time has perhaps come for more fleets to consider petrol models if they fit into their whole life cost profile.

The fuel efficiency of petrol engine models has increased significantly in recent years compared with only ‘moderate’ improvements on diesel models, which typically carry a price premium.

Therefore, for public sector fleet with the ‘right’ mileage profile now could be the time when diesel power’s dominance of the fleet sector starts to be reined in. For a particular group of drivers, petrol power may deliver much sought after cash savings in fuel and this year benefit-in-kind tax – all-be-in that in 2016-17 the existing three per cent tax surcharge on diesel models is dropped.

Meanwhile, confirmation from Transport for London (TfL) and Boris Johnson that the world’s first ultra low emission zone will be introduced in the centre of London on 7th September 2020 requires fleet manager working in the capital to focus as they make their vehicle choices.

TfL and Boris Johnson have given fleets a five-year warning to prepare for the introduction of the zone, which will cover the same central area of the capital as the existing congestion charge, or pay a daily charge.

Designed to improve air quality in the capital with a specific focus on cutting nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM10) from vehicle exhausts, fleets must operate Euro 6 emission diesel cars and vans or Euro4 petrol equivalents to escape the £12.50 daily charge.

Whatever an organisation’s fleet procurement strategy is currently, the future is clearly signposted. Fleet operators must drive down the green road or else they will find their under the spotlight budgets accelerating out of control. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.acfo.org

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Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

27

32 MILE ELECTRIC RANGE

148 MPG

Compare the tax savings of running a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV as your company car against these market leaders.

510 MILE COMBINED RANGE

LOW COMPANY CAR TAX

OUTLANDER PHEV GX4H AUTO

HONDA CR-V EX AUTO

BMW X3 XDRIVE 30D SE AUTO

AUDI Q5 S-LINE PLUS AUTO

MERCEDES E-CLASS E250 CDI AUTO

COST OF THE CAR - P11D VALUE

£37,8997

£33,605

£39,860

£38,235

£36,765

GOVERNMENT GRANT REDUCTION

£5,000

£0

£0

£0

£0

ADJUSTED FINAL PRICE

£32,899

£33,605

£39,860

£38,235

£36,765

CO2 EMISSIONS G/KM

44

180

156

159

129

BENEFIT IN KIND RATE

5%

32%

27%

27%

21%

£758

£4,301

£4,305

£4,129

£3,088

VEHICLE BENEFIT CHARGE WITHOUT FUEL PROVIDED THE EXTRA TAX YOU PAY VS PHEV (40% TAXPAYER) VEHICLE BENEFIT CHARGE WITH FUEL PROVIDED THE EXTRA TAX YOU PAY VS PHEV (40% TAXPAYER)

–

£3,543

£3,547

£3,371

£2,330

£1,192

£7,079

£6,648

£6,473

£4,911

–

£5,887

£5,457

£5,281

£3,719

Discover how. Search PHEV. Visit: mitsubishi-cars.co.uk to find your nearest dealer

WE HAVEN’T JUST MADE HISTORY

WE’RE MAKING IT CHEAPER TO COMMUTE IN A LUXURY 5 SEAT 4WD SUV The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is cutting costs across the country - and now you can save £1,000s a year on your commute1. This intelligent hybrid decides when it’s more efficient to use petrol or electricity, giving it the ability to deliver a staggering 148mpg2 and creates a fraction of the CO2 emissions of a conventional car. Business users only pay 5% Benefit in Kind rather than the 25%+ that most pay, plus it’s exempt from road tax and the London Congestion Charge3. In full electric mode it has a range of up to 32 miles, so it easily tackles the UK’s average daily commute on a single charge, meaning petrol consumption is minimal. Its battery can be charged in just a few hours via a domestic plug socket4, a low-cost home Charge Point5 or one of over 7,500 Charge Points found across the UK. For longer journeys the 2.0 litre petrol engine helps out, giving you a combined range of over 510 miles6.

There’s even £5,000 off the list price through the Government Plug-in Car Grant, which means an Outlander PHEV will cost you from just £28,2497, the same price as the Outlander Diesel – and it comes with a 5 year warranty8.

We’ve made history, you just need to make time to find out how we can save you £1,000s. We call this Intelligent Motion.

Compare the corporation tax savings of a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV against a typical company car.

PROFIT BEFORE TAX (PBT)

TYPICAL VEHICLE

OUTLANDER PHEV

£100,000

£100,000

SMALL BUSINESS TAX

20%

20%

LIST PRICE OF VEHICLE

£33,000

£32,899

8%

100%

CAPITAL ALLOWANCE CAPITAL ALLOWANCE (£)

£2,640

£32,899

TAXABLE PROFIT (ON £100,000 PBT)

£97,360

£67,101

CORPORATION TAX (NO VEHICLE PURCHASE)

£20,000

£20,000

CORPORATION TAX (WITH VEHICLE PURCHASE)

£19,472

£13,420

£528

£6,580

SAVING DUE TO CAPITAL ALLOWANCE

THE UK’s FAVOURITE PLUG-IN HYBRID

BUYING A PHEV WILL SAVE YOU A TOTAL OF £6,052 IN CORPORATION TAX (YEAR 1)

1. Outlander PHEV GX4h compared with Honda CR-V, BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes E-Class – average saving £5,330pa for a 40% taxpayer. The savings for business drivers with a company fuel card are higher. 2. Official EU MPG test figure shown as a guide for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. 3. Congestion Charge application required, subject to administrative fee. 4. Domestic plug charge: 5 hours, 16 Amp home charge point: 3.5 hours, 80% rapid charge: 30mins. 5. Government subsidised charge points are available from a number of suppliers for a small fee - ask your dealer for more information. 6. 32 mile EV range achieved with full battery charge. 510 miles achieved with combined full battery and petrol tank. Actual range may vary depending on driving style and road conditions. 7. Prices shown include the Government Plug-in Car Grant and VAT (at 20%), but exclude First Registration Fee. Model shown is an Outlander PHEV GX4h at £33,399 including the Government Plug-in Car Grant and metallic paint. On The Road prices range from £28,304.00 to £40,054.00 and include VED, First Registration Fee and the Government Plug-in Car Grant. Metallic/pearlescent paint extra. Prices correct at time of going to print. For more information about the Government Plug-in Car Grant please visit www.gov.uk/plug-in-car-van-grants. 8. All new Outlander PHEV variants come with a 5 year/62,500 mile warranty (whichever occurs first), for more information please visit www.mitsubishi-cars.co.uk/warranty

Outlander PHEV range fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Full Battery Charge: no fuel used, Depleted Battery Charge: 48mpg (5.9), Weighted Average: 148mpg (1.9), CO2 Emissions: 44 g/km.

Bring your team to Wembley With a capacity of 90,000, Wembley is the largest stadium in the UK and home the biggest football events of the season, the NFL, Rugby World Cup and various music concerts throughout the year. In addition to this, beneath the imposing arch, there is a variety of fantastic spaces available to hire for all types of events ranging from small executive board meetings in a private box, to large conferences and exhibitions in the impressive Great Hall or an elaborate cocktail reception and gala dinner in the exclusive Bobby Moore suite.

In all spaces delegates are guaranteed state of the art facilities, world class cuisine, and impeccable service in an iconic venue that will be hard to forget! There are opportunities to impress guests further with pitch-side access, and private stadium tours where they see the royal box, changing rooms and even walk out of the players’ tunnel.

For event enquiries or to book a Venue Viewing Experience, please contact the special events team on 020 8795 9660 or specialevents@wemblystadium.com

ACCREDITED IN MEETINGS

FOR WHEN ONLY QUALITY WILL DO, AIM HIGHER

The Meetings Industry Association discuss the benefits and services of the Accredited in Meetings standard, which can provide all the information required when hiring a venue Benchmarking and quality assurance standards are important considerations for anyone involved in the procurement process, whether it is purchasing real estate or even organising the staff Christmas party.

Nowhere is this truer than in the public sector. After all, you wouldn’t purchase new office space without having it surveyed, would you? Procuring for meetings, conferences and events is no different.

With the current UK venue and hotel offering so extensively populated, meetings organisers, bookers and buyers need assurance that any potential venue or supplier is fit for purpose. Essentially, a safe option for their delegates, guaranteeing return on investment; crucial in a climate of stringent budgets and increased transparency.

MEETINGS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Introduced by the Meetings Industry Association (MIA) in The Grand Brighton

2007, Accredited in Meetings (AIM) is the UK’s only nationally recognised quality standard for venues and suppliers to the meetings and events sector. It immediately highlights to professional conference organisers and event planners a venue’s compliance to industry standards. This includes codes of practice, legalities and ethical business operations, in addition to competence, quality of facilities and overall fitness for purpose.

There’s a great deal to consider when securing meetings, events and accommodation spaces and there is a risk that the process can become fragmented. Working with an AIM venue avoids this, giving peace-of-mind to buyers of meetings and conferences through many different avenues.

Firstly an AIM venue provides accountability, an ethical CODE of conduct means venues committed to ethical business dealings. Additionally, it provides assurance

To attain a n AI accredit ation, v M enues have to u n d e r go a rigorous and exa inspection m of their ination whole site

of legal compliance, especially in health and safety, and a consistent provision of fit-for-purpose facilities.

Furthermore, AIM ensures that quality products result in satisfied organisers and delegates, and incorporates a robust complaints procedure to support meetings and events buyers. Gary Payne, the recently appointed chair of the AIM Development Group, highlighted its importance to public sector procurement.

He said: “Risk management and return on investment are high on the agenda for government institutions and associated services. Placing business with AIM accredited industry suppliers means dealing with organisations they can instantly trust, with proven and effective management of their business from enquiry to completion.”

A recognised accreditation, such as AIM, is a strong indicator of a venue where organisers can expect unrivalled levels of service and facilities when booking their event.

Conferences & Events

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

MEETING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS To attain an AIM accreditation, venues have to undergo a rigorous inspection and examination of their whole site. Inspectors will take into account everything from accessibility, legal compliance and quality of event facilities right through to ethical codes of conduct and standardisation of best practice.

The assessment involves 50 stringent grading criteria and includes: the location and accessibility of the meeting rooms and facilities; the suitability of the lighting and heating in meeting rooms; the levels of security; how often the rooms are cleaned and decorated; whether the space and furniture are adequate and suitable; the provision E

Secret summer garden at The Brewery

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

31

VA LU E SERVICE COURTESY

meetings

wedding receptions

conferences

seminars

parties

cocktail receptions

the first london venue to be accredited with the Aim Gold award Victory Services Club is a charity for military personnel and their families. Revenue generated is invested back into the Charity to support its two key objectives of providing esprit de corps activities and Respite and Welfare breaks for members of the UK Armed Forces.

To speak to a member of our Events team today, please contact us on 020 3819 6277 or events@vsc.co.uk Victory Services Club, 63-79 Seymour Street, London W2 2HF www.vsc.co.uk victoryservicesclub

@VictoryServices

linkedin.com/company/victory-services-club

ACCREDITED IN MEETINGS Centreparcs Woburn Forest

Conferences & Events

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

One Great George Street

Courtyard at The Brewery

 of in-room services such as power sockets; what is supplied at no extra charge and how transparent the published prices are.

Compliance with ten separate legal acts are also required by prospective venues in order to become accredited.

This includes Health & Safety at Work and Fire Safety; Disability Discrimination; Employers Liability; Data Protection; Sale & Supply of Goods; Trade Descriptions; Consumer Protection; Weights & Measures; Race Relations, Sex Discrimination, Disability Discrimination and Age Discrimination; and Licensing Laws.

Center Parcs has first class meetings and events facilities across all its sites – Longleat Forest, Sherwood Forest, Elveden Forest and the recently opened Woburn Forest

EVOLVING AND IMPROVING To date there are over 500 accredited venues and suppliers across the UK adhering to a tiered system which encourages venues to continually improve, under the AIM Higher scheme.

Separate from the entry-level status, AIM Higher comprises of AIM Silver and AIM Gold, applicants to these two accreditations are subject to a higher degree of scrutiny against a much tougher set of criteria.

Venues that have been awarded AIM Higher have completed a much more rigorous process, covering 50 pieces of criteria, a ten‑section self-assessment, produced a portfolio of evidence in support of their application and have been visited by an independent assessor who determines whether the venue is worthy of the accreditation and, if so, whether either of the higher standards should be awarded.

AIM Silver or Gold offers the highest level of credence to support a venue’s claims about

PROSPECTIVE BUYERS AND BOOKERS AIM is fast becoming a recognised benchmark across both the public and private sector, ensuring quality and excellence across the board; combining the exceptional service and facilities that all buyers should expect when choosing a venue.

The advantages of hiring an AIM accredited venues are tenfold to the book. It ensures business with venues that care and have integrity, as well as events and meetings where delegates are well looked after as commitment to service excellence is paramount.

Additionally, AIM accredited venues ensure hosting an event where the facilities and event spaces are fit for purpose and of high quality standards, and accountability through an ethical code of conduct. AIM accreditation assures clients know every element of the venue’s costs in advance, and establishes industry-approved

its facilities, as assessed by industry experts.

Any venue that achieves this standard must be re-assessed every three years, this is to encourage continual improvement and is key to the AIM message of maintaining high standards in the meetings and events industry.

contracts and terms and conditions.

Doing business with credible, legally compliant venues is of prime importance and the accreditation makes sure that there is a standardisation of best practice, that all procurement boxes ticked, and that a stress free venue selection is on offer.

AIM’S SUMMER HOT VENUE SPOTS AIM offers a selection of hand-picked, chosen locations that are recommended for summer conferences and events.

The selected best are listed below.

THE GRAND BRIGHTON Situated on Brighton’s famous seafront, The Grand Brighton is a luxury Victorian hotel, designed and built in 1864. The historic hotel is only a 10 minute walk from Brighton rail station, with services running into London Victoria in 55 minutes and Gatwick Airport in just 30 minutes.

With 13 recently refurbished meeting spaces that can accommodate up to 900 delegates, as well as award-winning catering, state of the art AV technology and luxury bedrooms, The Grand Brighton is an ideal location for both large scale exclusive events, as well as smaller more intimate meetings. E

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

The Grand by Thistle Broad Street, Bristol BS1 2EL T F E W

0871 376 9042 0871 376 9142 letsmeet.bristol@thistle.co.uk www.thistle.com

Thistle Bristol, The Grand – an elegant Victorian building in the heart of the city, refurbished to blend Victorian charm with a contemporary feel. A choice of 10 meeting/function rooms to suit any occasion, from one-to-one interviews to a full sit-down banquet for 430. We have an exciting choice of lunch and banqueting menus, including healthy options.

We provide a dedicated specialist Meetings & Events team, who will work with you at every stage of your event. The hotel has high speed Wi-Fi free of charge throughout the hotel, and boasts an on-site car park, as well as full leisure facilities, including a swimming pool. All 182 en-suite bedrooms are air-conditioned, with comfortable beds, and furnished to a modern design with a warm restful ambience. The hotel has a choice of restaurants – our Tyrell’s Restaurant and Marlow’s Cellar Bar. The hotel is 1 mile from Bristol Temple Meades train station and is 8 miles from Bristol Airport.

The Bridgewater Hall is not only one of Manchester’s most iconic music venues, but also an AiM accredited conference and events facility, home to unique spaces, catering options and AV equipment. With stunning foyers overlooking the City Centre, modern conference and meeting rooms, and the magnificent Auditorium, we can hold events for up to 1800 delegates.

Contact the Conference & Events Team on 0161 950 0000 or email conferences@bridgewater-hall.co.uk www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk

90x124 Hilscort Advert_Layout 1 04/02/2013 14:54 Page 1

THE OBVIOUS CHOICE OF CONFERENCE VENUE Set in the beautiful Lickey Hills on the outskirts of Birmingham, Hillscourt offers a unique venue for conferences, exhibitions or training courses. l

l l

l l l l

Superb catering at affordable prices 25 acres of attractive grounds Seven conference rooms (for up to 150 delegates) 55 en-suite bedrooms Ample free secure car parking Excellent AV facilities 90-seat restaurant HILLSCOURT Hillscourt, Rednal, Birmingham B45 8RS. Tel: 0121 457 6100 Fax: 0121 457 6111 Website: www.hillscourt.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

Conferences & Events

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

ACCREDITED IN MEETINGS  THE BREWERY The Brewery has announced its summer events package for 2015, with the return of its secret summer garden.

Offering a secluded events space in the heart of the City of London, this year’s idyllic secret garden has been expanded from one to two structures, increasing outdoor capacity to 800 people. It is set to be an even bigger hit with city dwellers this year.

Priced from £80 per person, all inclusive packages include full event management support, gourmet street food, cocktails and Pimms on arrival, unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks as well as access to an after party inside The Brewery.

CENTER PARCS Center Parcs has first class meetings and events facilities across all its sites – Longleat Forest, Sherwood Forest, Elveden Forest and the recently opened Woburn Forest.

Each site has The Venue, a dedicated and purpose built conference and event facility which can accommodate up to 600 delegates. For smaller meetings, the Villages also have boardrooms set in the same woodland setting as The Venue.

These are suitable for AGMs, strategic away days and add an extra element of quality for VIP delegates or guests.

Center Parcs specifically tailors its rates for

86x125_HI_Cardiff_Meetings_Ad_Mar2015_v4.indd 1

a variety of delegates, and offers both a day delegate rate – including meeting room hire for the day, lunch, access to the Subtropical Swimming Paradise – and a 24-hour rate which adds overnight accommodation, a three course dinner and cycle hire.

Center Parcs offers distinctive expertise in conferences and events, presenting solutions for everything from intimate board meetings to large conferences and team building activity days. In fact, Center Parcs is now widely known for its teambuilding options which large number of delegates book as an add on to their meeting, capitalising on its outdoor setting and refreshing environment.

ONE GREAT GEORGE STREET One Great George Street is a premier conference, events and meeting venue in central London close to the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and opposite the Treasury Building. Set in a magnificent Grade II listed, four-domed, Edwardian building the venue is home to the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).’ It was constructed in 1910 and became an established events venue in 1987.

There are 21 function rooms which offer flexible space for a wide range of events.

The stunning Great Hall with marbled columned walls, ornate gold lead and embellished ceiling, can hold up to 400

guests for a reception and 240 people for an awards dinner. There are two lecture theatres, each with tiered seating and capacities of 106 and 204; both are fully equipped with state-of-the-art audio visual technology.

In addition to these larger rooms there is also space for more intimate meetings or private dinning events for 18 to 22 people.

WELL-EARNED REPUTATION The venue has built a well-earned reputation for providing flawless service in impeccable surroundings. The renowned in-house executive chef, kitchen and catering team have the experience and knowledge to work with you on your specific requirements to produce a bespoke menu for the perfect event. Expertly‑trained sommeliers are on hand to suggest suitable wines to complement each dish.

The venue has an in-house audio visual team from Eclipse Presentations who are permanently on hand to provide all stage and technical production services. Sustainability and accessibility are extremely important to One Great George Street. The team are always looking at ways to improve and enhance the venue in order to make sure the highest standards are met.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.aimaccredited.co.uk/venuedirectory

15_0201 Ghyll Conference qtr Ad.indd 1

30/03/2015 12:09

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

28/04/2015 15:42

35

from

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WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT

Facilities Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Written by Sarah Bentley, chief executive, The Buildings Future Group

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT: A FORCE FOR CHANGE

Sarah Bentley, chief executive of the Building Futures Group, explores the drivers within Facilities Management and how to create a workforce with the right skills to ensure a strong future Facilities management is one of the fastest growing professions in the UK. Attracting new people and developing clear career routes has been central to the work of the Building Futures Group. As the new trade body for Facilities Management, its job is to make sure employers can access up-to-date training and vocational qualifications at a time of constant change brought by new technology and environmental concerns.

Facilities managers are those

behind‑the‑scenes people who look after our office buildings, shopping centres, universities, schools, hospitals and sports stadiums. They oversee the reception desk, catering, cleaning, security, heating, air conditioning and grounds maintenance, as well as numerous other areas. They ensure the environments in which we work, live and play operate smoothly and efficiently.

At the Building Futures Group one thing we encounter time and again is the

Facilities Management faces a demographic time bomb. Established leaders over the next five to ten years will be retiring, the wealth of knowledge, leadership skills and deep perspective will be lost, all unless the Facilities Management workforce is provided with the appropriate education and skills

number of facilities managers who find themselves in the job by accident. For a long time, Facilities Management has relied on attracting people from other sectors. There were few options for young people to enter as a career of choice. The Building Futures Group, the result of the merger between sector skills council Asset Skills and the Facilities Management Association, has spent its first year working with the industry to professionalise Facilities Management, raise awareness and open it up to new recruits.

DEVELOPING THE FM WORKFORCE The challenge for staff in facilities management is in being aware of new legislative and technological changes in order to do the job well. Whether they are starting out or responsible for managing several sites, they will be expected to understand a number of different subjects at the same time.

Traditionally Facilities Management has had an older age profile and it is now sitting on a succession planning nightmare. The number of experienced people leaving over the next 

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT

 decade will present a significant challenge that if goes unchecked will mean a significant loss of skills and experience to a relatively new industry. Having the right qualifications in place and promoting the profession as a career of choice are essential in order to address the issues of the ageing workforce.

We believe the low numbers of people with a specific qualification in facilities management is one of the barriers to raising its profile. Because it is a new profession, vocational qualifications have been more limited than in other equivalent sectors in terms of range, levels and pathways. Qualification options have started at higher levels - typically someone would be looking at a foundation degree or post graduate qualification.

TRAINING TO HELP RAISE THE PROFILE There has been a need to develop new qualifications at entry levels and flexible, up-to-date and relevant training programmes for more experienced employees. This is even more pressing given the ever-shifting role of the facilities manager in light of environmental targets and new technology.

There are now structures in place that offer new entrants at all levels a route in

to the sector and the chance to undertake qualifications to progress their career.

Our predecessor, Asset Skills, developed apprenticeships in Facilities Management at intermediate, advanced and higher levels which offer employers the opportunity to recruit young people onto excellent training schemes or improve the skills of their existing workforce through the higher level programmes (4 and 5).

Through our training arm, Asset Skills Training, the Building Futures Group is also promoting a range of other FM training including the Building Futures Group Certificate in Facilities Management which can lead to entry onto the MBA. The certificate is a good all-round programme providing students with a theoretical understanding of facilities management and an opportunity to develop an appreciation of the principles and procedures used within the industry.

Like many sectors in the UK, Facilities Management faces a demographic time bomb. Established leaders over the next five to ten years will be retiring, the wealth of knowledge, leadership skills and deep perspective will be lost, all unless the workforce is provided with the appropriate 

s Facilitie ent m Manage n older a has hadofile and age pr sitting it is nowccession on a su ning plan re a nightm

The Workplace Conversation has a winning idea Following three months of online discussion the creation of an online, neutral, knowledge sharing community for workplace professionals has been selected by a panel of experts as the winning idea in The Workplace Conversation; a joint research project between the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) and CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development.

Author of the idea, Dan Pilling, from Pick Everard and BIFM Workplace Committee Member, posted the suggestion for a Workplace Wiki. Pilling suggested that the Wiki would open up workplace terminology, demystifying techniques for measuring and improving the workplace, knowledge sharing and promoting best practice in all its forms. His idea would enable strands of facilities management (FM), human resources (HR), IT, design and culture to co-exist, and enable active workplace professionals to quickly diagnose challenges and find solutions right for their organisation.

Commenting on the winning idea, project lead at BIFM, Chris Moriarty, said: “We’ve seen so many great contributions to this conversation, congratulations to Dan on being selected for his winning idea. The concept of collaboration was at the heart of this initiative so to arrive at an idea that looks at how we improve collaboration is great to see.

“What this project has shown us is that there are whole host of different angles we can approach this challenge from and many of them came out, particularly in the early stages of the project. There are lots of people out there with some excellent views on how we push this debate forward, which is really encouraging.

“Over the next few days we’ll be taking a view of what we’ve learnt during the process, presenting those at the ThinkFM conference next week and then producing a report in the early part of June. That will include looking at how we might be able to take these ideas forward and see how they might be applied.”

The Workplace Conversation saw over 280 people discuss over 100 ideas on how facilities management and HR, and other professional communities, can work together to create better workplaces.

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

39

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

CLEANING & SUPPORT SERVICES

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WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT

 education and skills. These skills must not only insure the Facilities Management industry from an ageing leadership crisis, but also enable today’s staff to deal with unprecedented developments within the workplace. But to understand our future we need to look at lessons from the past.

EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY In the 1960s, then Prime Minister, Harold Wilson announced in a speech that the UK was experiencing the ‘white heat’ of a scientific revolution. The development of the transistor and technological advancements led to the first computers being used by companies, they took up whole rooms the size of the typing pool in the same building.

Whilst technicians loaded reels of magnetic tape into these machines, and army of typists, administrators and clerical workers would beaver away helping to keep businesses and government functions running. Little would those workers realise that in a matter of twenty years their roles would no longer exist. Instead those workers would adopt different roles reflecting the changing nature the UK economy from industry to a predominantly tertiary services based economy.

Wilson’s commentary about technology marked a time of optimism and novelty, as the traditional hard industries declined the uptake of technology radically changed the nature of the workplace, and Facilities Management has had to not 

Facilities Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

FM must adapt to the ‘Nation of Now’ Economic volatility, the digital revolution and greater workforce diversity need to drive a seachange in the perception of facilities management. The suggestion, made by a team of representatives from the infrastructure management business AECOM, came in a presentation at FM & Property event at Celtic Manor.

Hillary Jeffery, workplace strategy director, believes that facilities managers needed to stop focusing on cost reduction and day-today operational tasks, instead seeking to outsource tactical delivery in order to focus more on organisational strategy.

Jeffery said: “People, process and place are becoming joined up.

As well as affecting how people work, technology is also changing attitudes to work. People’s tolerance for complexity is reducing pretty rapidly. We’re becoming a nation of now. We expect everything to be on demand. There’s also a growing culture of workplace personalisation, that’s increasingly important.”

Jeffery continued that the impact of having four generations in one workplace and the impact

of globalisation seeing more multicultural working teams also have an effect on the broadening nature of the FM role.

Craig Little, AECOM’s head of asset strategy consulting, said that the likelihood of ongoing economic volatility means that organisational stability will be continually challenged by the fight to retain talent – “one of biggest challenges our industry is facing.”

He said: “Good FM done properly should be enabler for attracting and retaining the best talent. If you focus solely on cost reduction you get poor service – and that’s a false economy.”

Organisational development professional Shira Johnson proposed the concept of ‘experience design’ a framework “that puts user experience at the centre of the design process”. Instead of traditional and shared service models, an ‘employee experience hub’ would see managers becoming responsible for end-to-end processes, bringing in specialists in payroll or HR as required. Such managers would get to understand the entire employee lifecycle.

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530,000 reasons for choosing ISS With more than 100 years of experience in the service industry and 530,000 devoted employees, we provide the ‘Human Touch’ to those important jobs that our clients outsource. Which is why we are very proud to be serving customers throughout the Public Sector, in healthcare, local authorities, central government, defence and education.

Every day ISS employees work as an integrated part of each local organisation, ensuring that service value is created through The ISS Way of customising and delivering our service solutions. ISS is one of the largest Facility Service companies in the world with an ambition to lead Facility Services globally, and being the market leader in service provision throughout the Public Sector.

Operating in over fifty countries ISS provides services within six different areas: Catering, Cleaning, Property Services, Security and Support Services and Facility Management.

For the 2nd consecutive year ISS is currently ranked the World’s #1 in IOAP’s Global Outsourcing Top 100 as published in Fortune magazine.

To find out how you can benefit from the experience and skills provided by our 530,000 service professionals, visit www.uk.issworld.com or contact us at ISS.Goverment@uk.issworld.com

ISS Facility Services, ISS House, Genesis Business Park, Albert Drive, Woking GU21 5RW - www.uk. issworld.com - Phone: +44 845 057 6300

FACILITY MANAGEMENT | CLEANING | SUPPORT | PROPERTY | CATERING | SECURITY | uk.issworld.com

WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT  only keep up with this ever evolving workplace, but has also shaped it. To the uninitiated Facilities Management can often be seen as manual hard labour, and whilst there is a distinction to be made between ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ Facilities Management, the truth is that yes, many tasks can be manual but they rely on a mental dexterity and intelligence to deliver complex services and functions which are so good we only notice them when they are not working.

Today’s Facilities workers now have to contend with remote working, mobile technology and the traditional office base is declining. Like the typing pool of the 1960s, it is likely the traditional nine to five working day will become a thing of the past. We are already seeing provision of flexible working for employees, our work and leisure times are blurring, smart phones enable continuous connection to the workplace 24/7.

Added to this is the emergence of Generation Y in the workplace, who do not necessarily see a delineation in ‘work time’ and ‘leisure time’, which adds additional pressures to those working in Facilities Management. Now services must deliver services to traditional office based services and also ensure that mobile and home workers are adequately supported.

It is more important than ever before for the sector to continue to not only maintain but also introduce innovative services for their clients. Only through ensuring that FM personnel are adequately trained and educated can the sector keep up with advances in the workplace and ensure that the services FM provides to keep the UK economy functioning and able to compete in a competitive global market.

TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS Over the last decade technological developments have radically altered how we work. We sit on the cusp of a work place revolution or some believe we are actually experiencing a work place revolution. The advances in technology are fast and furious, and Moore’s Law still stands with processing power doubling every two years and since the development of the transistor we have seen exponential growth in the ability of processing and computing power.

How and what does this all have to do with FM? Using Moore’s law as an analogy for technological advancement and recognising the changing nature of the workplace, those responsible for the procurement of Facilities Management do need to ensure that they don’t fall prey to cutting ever decreasing margins of Faciltiies Management providers.

Such a ‘race to the bottom’ helps no one. Facilities Management companies frankly need decent margins on their work to ensure that they have the resources to train and develop their staff in the latest technological advancements.

Failure to do so will lead to a decline in innovation provision, services and environment. Such a decline benefits no one.

NECESSARY INVESTMENT Investment in Facilities Management services is inextricably linked to increased productivity. From the basics of clean buildings helping to reduce the transmission of diseases like flu and colds, to ensuring essential services run continuously in our hospitals, schools and businesses ensuring that workers are productive and can work efficiently.

With an increasingly competitive global economy and a flatline in productivity since the global economic crisis in 2008, the role of Facilities Management must be better valued by those who procure its services and the sector must invest in skills, training and education for its employees. Failure in these areas is likely to lead to declining services, productivity and decrease in the competitive advantage the UK can muster in the world.  FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 7920 9632 info@thebuildingfuturesgroup.com

Facilities Management

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Nu Look specialises in all aspects of Industrial, Commercial and Domestic Cleaning.

Nu Look tailored cleaning services allow standards to be maintained and deadlines met, with trained and DBS checked operatives if required. We are confident that given the opportunity we have the resources, experiences and competitive attitude to deliver the best services in the industry.

Summary of our Support Services offer by Nu Look Ltd: Office Cleaning  One-off Cleans  Builders’ Cleans  Window Cleaning High level Cleaning  End of Tenancy Cleans  Washroom Hygiene Services Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning  Clinical Cleans Janitorial Supplies  Insecticide Treatment We are committed to providing the highest standard of work at an affordable price. A very flexible company and therefore able to meet your requirements and provide a complete customer satisfaction. Nu Look recognises that not all businesses have the same requirements so we ensure that each contract or job is assessed on the individual needs of the customer quoting accordingly. 





Head office telephone: 0203 489 0909 www.nu-lookltd.co.uk Nu Look Ltd, 96 Park Lane, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 1JB

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are you responsible for the lifts in your building? are you up to date with how to fulfil your responsibilities? clear on what should your lift service provider be doing for you?

register Now for your

free

training session

Join us on Wednesday 17th June at the Facilities Show for a FREE ‘Lifts: your questions answered’ training session on lift maintenance and more.

The session will be no more than one hour, but will leave you with up-to-date information on the latest regulations – in particular the EN81 family and the latest update of EN81-20, health and safety issues and a ’what happens if?’ overview.

Register now at www.stannahlifts.co.uk/facilities-training If you haven't already, make sure you register for the 2015 Facilities Show.

Meet the family

Passenger Lifts

Escalators and Moving Walkways

Platform Lifts

Goods and Service Lifts

Lift Refurbishment

Bespoke Lifts

Lift Service and Repair

www.stannahlifts.co.uk

EVENT PREVIEW

INSPIRING EXCELLENCE AT THE FACILITIES SHOW

Facilities Show 2015

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Facilities Show 2015 will open its doors from 16-18 June 2015 at London’s ExCeL, delivering access to knowledge, innovation and solutions from across the facilities management sector

Held in association with British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) along with partners The Building Futures Group, The Chartered Institute of Building Service Engineers (CIBSE), International Workplace and Mitie, amongst others, the Facilities Show 2015 will provide three days tailored to the complex and ever‑changing needs of facilities managers with a comprehensive programme created in consultation with the industry.

As the professional body for facilities management, BIFM will host the BIFM Careers Zone for the first time in 2015, hosting a series of advice clinics, workshops and seminars that will focus on the key career challenges for FM professionals. International Workplace will

The s Facilitie 15 0 Safety and Health Show 2 e three Expo and Service d i v o Management Expo, will pr ailored to providing solutions days t plax and to all security, fire, m the co hanging safety & health or ever‑c facilities service management f requirements. needs onagers Gareth Tancred, CEO, BIFM, ma said: “The role of facilities

run an exclusive Learning Hub that will focus on workplace regulation in international markets.

Other highlights at this years Show include the Meet the Buyer Programme, the new Intelligent Buildings Zone and Theatre, an expanded Interiors Zone Theatre and the Keynote Theatre.

With the ever expanding remit of facilities professionals, attending Facilities Show in London also gives access to 4 co-located show, IFSEC International, FIREX International,

managers continues to professionalise with more and more of our members seeking representation on the board. We are really excited to launch the BIFM Careers Zone at Facilities Show this year, offering a new platform that E

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Facilities Show 2015

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

CIBSE Energy Centre: Advice for energy reduction in your building The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) is rapidly gaining traction as more assessors register to become ESOS Lead Assessors. CIBSE Certification’s register of ESOS Lead Assessors has passed the 200 mark and continues to grow.

ESOS requires large organisations to have a detailed audit of their buildings, industrial processes and transport, to find out how they can make energy savings. CIBSE’s major focus is on the energy performance of buildings and CIBSE Certification was one of the first professional bodies to be approved by the Environment Agency to operate a register of ESOS Lead Assessors.

CIBSE also provides assessors with experience in other sectors which means customers can find a suitable ESOS Lead Assessor whatever your energy mix.

CIBSE’s head of certification Andrew Geens will be chairing a session on ESOS in the

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

keynote theatre at the Facilities Show on Tuesday 16 June, 15:40 - 16:10, supported by Sebastian Gray, a CIBSE ESOS Assessor who will present an ESOS assessment case study.

Members of the Certification team will also be on stand R990 over the three days, alongside the CIBSE Facilities Management Group, offering a wealth of knowledge in building services and energy management.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +44 (0)20 8772 3649 epc@cibsecertification.org www.cibseenergycentre.co.uk

EVENT PREVIEW  will assist facilities managers to create a clear career path. Over the three days, BIFM will be able to provide invaluable advice, support and practical help for those seeking formal training, CPD, management skill and greater career opportunities within facilities management.”

Facilities Show 2015

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

EXHIBITORS AT THE SHOW Facilities Show 2015 will once again bring together the latest innovations, newest products and services to assist end users in their short and long term objectives. The show stands as the world’s largest dedicated facilities management event and continues to grow.

The event unites facilities management professionals from all sectors and geographies with suppliers, advisers and specialists with suppliers already signed up to exhibit from waste management, energy solutions, winter maintenance and environmental services, to office management, fire solutions and managed services.

Following the success of previous years, the Building Futures Group Village is back at Facilities Show 2015. The Village will provide a space for visitors to network and learn from several innovative exhibitors that are members of Building Futures Group.

SEMINAR THEATRE The Facilities Show Seminar Theatre will provide all the latest insight, trends and developments in facilities management from a host of industry leaders.

The programme begins with Planon’s Erik Jaspers discussion on ‘Trends in the Workplace’, and precedes BIFM’s chair, Julie Koreans, seminar which compiles an update on the facilities management industry in her seminar ’State of the Nation’. At 13:10, Ian Adams and Martyn Freeman of Mitie, discuss ‘The modern workplace – what do people really think?’

Following on from the company’s research, Adams and Freeman will present their findings on people working across various sectors and what they understand about their organisation’s workplace strategy. At 14:40, CIBSE chairman Geoff Prudence and vice-chair Stuart Carrick provide an insight into their Guide M policy through their ‘Implementing Effective Maintenance Strategies’ seminar.

Day Two contains Linda Hausmanis’ seminar on ‘The journey in professionalising an industry’, and Simon Cohen’s ‘Bad day at the office?’ speech, which will provide an insight into Condeco’s method on how to significantly improve working life for you and your colleagues.

Day Two also will involve The Building Futures Group’s Sarah Bentley examining whether ‘FM in danger of becoming a utility?’ and Charlie Kortens of FMJ discussing ‘The Talent Gap’, which raises the question ‘How prepared is the facilities management industry to meet the challenges ahead?

Facilities Show 2015 will once again bring together the latest innovations, newest products and services to assist end users in their short and long term objectives. The show stands as the world’s largest dedicated facilities management event In addition to this, during the afternoon session of Day Two visitors will be able to hear the stories of two successful apprentices in the ‘Young Managers’ Forum’ at 16:10, which will be followed by a question and answer session and peer-to-peer networking.

On the final day, Mitie’s Jamie Hall speaks about ’Smart Technology and Innovation in the Built Environment’, examining data’s impact on building management and enhancing the customer experience. This is followed by BIFM conducting ‘The Workplace Conversation’ and Steve McDonald addressing ‘Service versus Margins’. The session closes with Steve Malkin, CEO of Planet First providing a seminar on sustainable property.

FM LEARNING HUB International Workplace will be running an exclusive Learning Hub to run alongside the Facilities Show. There will be four half day conferences run on the 16 and 17 June

which will provide valuable insight into workplace regulation in international markets.

Session A – ‘Into FM: Compliance and standards’ – provides an introduction to various aspects of compliance that fall within the remit of facilities management. Covering everything from managing and maintaining buildings, through to plant, equipment and machinery, statutory inspections, and the selection and control of contractors.

Session B will focus on ’Sustainable Business’, examining the facilities management role in creating a culture of sustainability. Session C is orientated around ‘Health and Safety’, providing essential guidance on the principles and practice of health and safety, with a focus on people in facilities management roles. It provides an introduction to the regulatory framework in the UK, with an update on recent changes in law and practice.

Lastly, Session D regards ‘Information E

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EVENT PREVIEW  Management’. Information management is the term that broadly covers the design, construction and management of buildings, and the role that people and technology play in bringing everything together to create intelligent outcomes. In plain English, building information management can potentially mean more efficient buildings, improved quality of use, and more productive workplaces throughout their lifetime.

FAMOUS FACES The complimentary education at Facilities Show offers you the opportunity to benefit from a wealth of knowledge in the feature

Sir Ranulph Fiennes and Sir Chris Hoy. At 11:30 on Day One of the event, business personality Karen Brady will be using her experience in leadership to conduct a session designed to help visitors drive their strategic performance forward. At 14:30 on Day Two, Ranulph Fiennes will aim to inspire the audience by drawing connections between nature’s most dangerous and difficult challenges, and the day-to-day hurdles we all face. Fiennes is the first person to reach both the North and South Poles by foot, and also made it into record books by completing seven marathons on seven continents, and becoming the oldest

At 14:30 on Day Two, Ranulph Fiennes will aim to inspire the audience by drawing connections between nature’s most dangerous and difficult challenges, and the day-to-day hurdles we all face and seminar theatres. At the forefront of expertise, this year’s programme of content will bring you innovations, inspiration and guidance to effectively manage your organisations facilities and energy usage.

One of the highlights of this years show is the Inspirational Speakers at the Protection & Management Series. Spread over the three days, the series contains three big named Keynote speeches from Baroness Karen Brady,

Briton to conquer Everest at the age of 65.

Closing the series of Keynote speeches, Chris Hoy, the most successful cyclist in history, and Britain’s most acclaimed Olympian, looks at the team culture and psychology that helped his success, alongside the importance of team self-belief. Designed to inspire your leadership skills, this session will be a must-attend for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge of the psychology of successful teamwork.

All three speeches will be taking place at the IOSH/SHP Arena.

ALSO ON OFFER Attending the Facilities Show, visitors will be able to browse an extensive range of products and services to ensure you are using the best suppliers at the most competitive prices. Additionally, visitors will remain fully informed on the most critical issues facing today’s facilities management professional and the most effective way to manage premises through our free to attend, fully comprehensive education programme.

Visitors will also benefit from source solutions for businesses from across security, fire, safety and service management at the four co-located events. The event will also enable visitors to participate in the ‘Meet the Buyer’ business matchmaking service to find new suppliers for your business. Back for a second successive year, the ‘Meet the Buyer’ programme gives visitors the chance to pitch their services to the procurement teams from some of the UK’s largest facilities management outsourcing businesses.

This offers the chance for face to face access with the key decision makers.

Find out about CPD, formal training, management skills or career opportunities at the Careers Zone in partnership with BIFM. Facilities Show is part of UBM Live’s

Banner has been awarded a new office supplies contract, RM3703, to supply the wider public sector Banner is an established supplier to the public sector, and the new RM3703 award includes stationery, office paper, computer consumables, small business machines, protective clothing and other added value products and services.

The RM3703 Framework Agreement is available to a wide variety of public sector bodies including Local Authorities, Police Forces, Schools, Universities, Charities and Third Sector organisations.

“

We’re delighted to be awarded this significant new contract Richard Costin

“

Facilities Show 2015

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Managing Director Banner and Supplies Team Solutions.

Contact us at bebanner.co.uk or call for more information on 0845 2264 708

Protection & Management Series taking place from 16-18 June 2015 at the ExCeL Centre, London. The Protection & Management Series attracts 45,000 visitors and more than 1,600 exhibitors.

Your Facilities Show badge gives you free entry to all of the shows in the series, including the Service Management Expo, Safety and Health Expo, Firex International and IFSEC International.

CAREERS ZONE For those in the industry looking at CPD, formal training, management skills or career opportunities, the BIFM Careers Zone is being designed to provide advice, support, and practical help. BIFM will be hosting and coordinating a series of advice clinics, workshops and seminars, together with training partners, careers experts, skills coaches and specialist recruiters.

• Stationery • Office paper • Computer consumables • Small business machines • Protective clothing

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Stannah Lift Services will be delivering two training seminars on lift maintenance and servicing for facilities and premises professionals at this year’s Facilities Show on 17 June. Stannah has built up over 150 years of knowledge and expertise in maintaining and servicing lift products. The company has over 90,000 lift products in its maintenance portfolio; including lifts from other manufacturers, not just its own.

The Stannah team will be delivering two ‘Lift: your questions answered’ training sessions. Each session will be no more than one hour, but will leave delegates with up-to-date information on standards and the legal implications, health and safety legislation and a ’what happens if?’ and an overview of the latest regulations.

This will be followed by an opportunity to ask questions. Those who attend will leave the session with a certificate of attendance and a copy of the ‘Lifts: Your questions answered’ booklet. L

Tuesday 16 June: 10:00 hrs - 17:00 hrs Wednesday 17 June: 10:00 hrs - 17:00 hrs Thursday 18 June: 10:00 hrs - 16:00 hrs FURTHER INFORMATION www.facilitiesshow.com

be smart be confident be inspired

Facilities Show 2015

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Professional 3D scanning, inspection and reverse engineering services.

Scan to 3D CAD modelling services Scan to CAD inspections Portable onsite laser scanning service Large volume to sub-millimetre scanning Laser tracking service Geomagic partner – software sales, training and support  Mantis vision partner – handheld scanners  API partner – laser trackers      

To discuss your 3D project, call us on +44 (0)1691 777 774 Email info@or3d.co.uk Visit www.or3d.co.uk

GIS / ENERGY

A SMARTER WAY TO LOOK AT ENERGY

Against the backdrop of volatile prices and increased pressure for the adoption of renewable sources, the challenges facing the energy sector have never been greater.

These extend beyond those directly engaged in the field to also have wide implications for Government and the Public Sector.

Location and use of geographical thinking is often the central co-ordinating component in this complex system of networks. It is this that allows the connections between numerous stakeholders and a vast array of technologies to enable us to form a holistic perspective. It brings a platform for common understanding and straightforward implementation.

SMART ENERGY Throughout 2015, the Association for Geographic Information (AGI) is exploring five themes where the geographic information industry is having an impact.

The connection between all of these is a need for security and resilience. The first of these themes – “Smart Energy” – was the focus of an event held in Edinburgh in March 2015, which brought together a wide range of stakeholders. It provided fascinating insight into the opportunities and challenges for use of geographic information for Smart Energy applications.

Chris Stark, Head of Energy for The Scottish Government, has a clear view of the

Written by Abigail Page, AGI

The use of technology to optimise all parts of the energy system from supply and storage to the consumer is driving a new wave of innovation. This brings with it a need for better understanding to shape policy, a role which is increasingly being aided by the use of geographic information, writes Abigail Page of the Association for Geographic Information

Geographic Information

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

and In Scotle been av there h changes e l notab tribution of is in the d Wind energy . supply redominant is the p onent of comp able renew y energ

equilibrium that policy is seeking to strike.

He describes this as a trilemma – the need to balance the three objectives of managing carbon emissions, security of supply and consumer costs.

This is a particular challenge when set against the context of an aging infrastructure that requires significant levels of investment, and increasing demand for energy and a changing global supply market.

In Scotland there have been notable changes in the distribution of supply. Wind energy is increasingly the predominant component of renewable energy, dwarfing the contribution of a legacy of hydroelectricity. It is anticipated that during 2015, Scotland will be providing the equivalent of 50 per cent of domestic energy demand from renewable sources – with a target of 100 per cent by 2020.

This is the paradigm shift that The Scottish Government is shaping policy around. New insight from organisations such as the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation (ECCI) is influencing this. Andy Kerr, director at ECCI, describes that: “We do not lack good ideas. What we lack is the practical delivery of these ideas, at scale”.

In an era of increasing access to data there are new resources becoming available

to assist in energy planning. Scotland’s Heat Map (heatmap. scotland.gov.uk) is just one such resource that is currently being used to understand network capacity against predicted demand. This is highlighting the constraints of the current network infrastructure whilst being used as a tool for master planning and development.

However, Andy Kerr states that trying to make meaningful use of data remains hugely challenging An example of this is the difficulty in bringing together disparate datasets from across the private and public sectors. Energy usage data from suppliers is often not available due to issues of privacy – but without this, Local Government have constraints on their ability to plan development. Adequate anonymisation and release of data, with a co-ordinated approach between all stakeholders is not yet happening.

AN INTEGRATED APPROACH Supply and production are themselves subject to innovation in new technology. There is no longer a straightforward top-down picture of a few large operators generating at scale, but a landscape of distributed, small energy generators. Smart Energy E

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Capture Your World…

We provide simple and secure mobile apps, cost-efficient devices and integrated sensors for Public Sector applications including;    

Civil Enforcement  Highways Streetscene  Housing Environmental  Planning and Services Development Highways For more information please visit www.mgiss.co.uk/products Call our sales team on 0151 329 0820 for a demonstration, Register your details or see us at an Geo event near you soon!

SmartPlanes provide civilian high quality Unmanned Aircraft Systems, UAS, for aerial surveying, remote sensing and surveillance, equipped with GPS and high resolution cameras or other sensors that form an easy-to-use and efficient tool for aerial surveying.

The company’s core competence and products are used in city planning, real‑estate development, forestry planning, imaging of agricultural crops, environmental monitoring, search and rescue, and volume measurement of construction sites, quarries, biofuel piles, open‑pit mines, dump sites and more.

The robotic aircraft flies automatically over pre-defined areas of interest and takes photos on a regular grid. The resulting high‑resolution photos are processed to produce orthophotos and surface models (DSMs) with very high accuracy; typically a vertical accuracy of 5cm or better.

Customers will benefit from cost efficiency, flexibility, ease‑of‑use, and up to date/real time information. The solution is utilized by numerous customers and industries worldwide, and proven through thousands of flight missions. SmartPlanes’ solutions focus on enhancing its customers’ productivity by providing reliability, accuracy and performance.

FURTHER INFORMATION

contact@smartplanes.se ›› www.smartplanes.se +46 910 36260

Scarab Sweepers is a global frontrunner in the design, manufacturing and supply of compact and truck-mounted road sweepers.

Scarab products are all designed and built to a high standard at our manufacturing headquarters in Kent, England.

Our truck-mount models are built on a vehicle manufacturers chassis of your choice from 7.5 tonne to 18+ tonne GVW. Operators can select the type of transmission and power delivery system that best suits their needs.Hopper capacities available from 5.2m3 to 8.2m3 fitted alongside water tanks between 900 and 4200 litres.

If you need something out of the ordinary our design team will work with you to build a bespoke sweeper to your requirements.

Tough on the Streets - Easy on the Environment www.scarab-sweepers.com

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

GIS / ENERGY

Fuel poverty is not always related to income poverty, but also to poor energy efficiency in homes. The UK has amongst the highest rates of fuel poverty in Europe. Research carried out by Ryan Walker, University of Ulster, identifies new area based approaches for targeted improvement in housing stock  systems will be a continuous retrofitting and re-imagining of the current infrastructure.

Planning for this new technology is key, from a local urban level to a regional level with broader dimensions. Understanding of the landscape and the potential to support new infrastructure is vitally important.

David Howard, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, believes that although energy is a complex system, we also have to accept that it is just one of many inter‑connected complex systems. For example, others may include food production, water management, even the economy and society itself. Effective decision making requires an understanding of the entire eco-system. Making decisions in isolation runs the risk of causing unintended consequences.

HOW PEOPLE VALUE SPACE Geographic modelling of the ‘energy-scape’ aids in understanding the total system. This develops a record of an area’s complete energy requirements and potential to meet them. The resultant cost of this can then be related to stakeholders’ willingness to meet this. This is evaluated based on analysing their perceptions of existing facilities and services, essentially how people value space relative to their home, work or school: all inherently geographic questions.

Renewable sources of energy by their very nature are subject to fluctuations in supply.

The flexibility to manage these mixed sources and predict supply is critical. An example of an integrated approach to managing the supply network is evolving through Smart Grid technologies, the most visible consumer element of this being the Smart Meter.

REMOVING WASTE Testament to the requirements for geographic information to deliver, Ordnance Survey has been heavily involved in support of the Smart Meter roll-out. Martin Shaw, Utility Sector Lead, describes the part played by the UK National Mapping Agency in ensuring the roll-out programme was economically achievable by removing waste (through abortive or repetitive visits) through the simple use of data modelling to identify optimum installation programmes depending on the location, type of building and network connection.

The Smart Meter as a tool for the consumer

has perhaps missed opportunities in the UK, according to Andy Kerr at ECCI, with often an unfriendly interface and lack of opportunity to access data directly. As a tool for the industry though, it provides highly valuable information which can be used to understand the network in real-time.

One of the biggest drivers of Smart Metering is decarbonisation. The distributed sources of renewables, such as solar panels, often now need to pass surplus energy back to the grid. This is fundamentally changing the way the grid works. Smart Metering allows suppliers to influence consumer behaviour and bring them into the process of managing demand. Geospatial technology is an integrated part of network models, enabling the co-ordinated usage of meters and sensors to aid demand forecasting.

THE CITIZEN The citizen considerations of smart energy are far beyond the data provided to maintain our networks. As more data is collected and visible in decision making, the increasing transparency agenda is creating a demand for this data to be open and available. The use of online display of geographic information can be an engaging platform to encourage public participation.

Projects such as the San Francisco Solar Map (http://sfenergymap.org/) and closer to home the Glasgow Energy App (https:// www.glasgowenergyapp.org/) are being used to both inform behaviour as well as gather valuable data from the public. Paul Georgie, of consultancy GeoGeo, emphasises that in order for this engagement to be successful that well designed solutions are important. There are also opportunities for new visualisation technology such as augmented reality, gaming technology (http://www.cityzen‑smartcity.eu) and applications such as home based sensors having the potential to help citizens engage with a low-carbon lifestyle.

Of course, it is not only transparency and empowerment policy that are important to the citizen in the energy debate. More critically, the politics around fuel poverty are increasingly having an elevated profile. Fuel poverty is generally defined as the need to spend more than 10 per cent of income to maintain a stable and warm household temperature.

Fuel poverty is not always related to income poverty, but also to poor energy efficiency in homes. The UK has amongst the highest rates of fuel poverty in Europe. Research carried out by Ryan Walker, University of Ulster, identifies new area based approaches for targeted improvement in housing stock. Ryan describes that this method to use geographic information to pinpoint these areas allows economies of scale in making interventions, whilst providing opportunities for urban regeneration.

In all areas however, there remains a need to ensure that the citizen is informed and has a good geographical understanding. This is required whether to apply knowledge in future technologies to drive a low-carbon vision, or to play a role as an active citizen.

Prominent Scottish science communicator Prof Stuart Monro calls for continued investment in geographical education. Location technology and sense of place are key components in delivering Smart Energy solutions.

Geographic Information

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

THE ROLE FOR THE GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION INDUSTRY Of course, use of geographic information in areas such as energy is nothing new.

Established over 25 years ago to promote the benefits of geographic information, the Association for Geographic Information (AGI) is now seeing an unprecedented interest in the industry. In the UK, the industry was estimated to be worth around £1.23bn in 2011.

The areas in whicπh Geographic Information is having an impact will continue to grow. The increasing emphasis on Future Cities, Big Data, Collaborative Information Management, Open / Transparency and Location Policy are all major issues in 2015. The industry has much to bring to these challenges, both to inform policy makers and play a part in solutions for a low-carbon future. L

About the author Abigail Page is a Geospatial Consultant for a global IT firm and also serves as a Director of the Association for Geographic Information (www.agi.org.uk). She chaired Geo:The Big 5 Smart Energy in February 2015, from which much of this material is drawn.

In 2015, the AGI are staging Geo: The Big 5, a UK wide series of events focussed on issues where the industry is making an impact – from Smart Energy to Future Cities and Big Data. The series culminates in a two day conference in November entitled Resilient Futures.

More details are available at www.geobig5.com

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Energy

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

CUTTING THE COST OF KEEPING WARM

Government Business examines a government policy that makes it clear that those on the lowest incomes should not be left to live in the coldest, least efficient homes Struggling to meet the cost of keeping warm is not a new issue for low income households.

For example, of an Act of Parliament in 1811 led to the establishment of a charity which provided coal or other fuel to the poor.

In more recent history, concerns about affordability were particularly stark in the 1970s, undeniably linked to the developments in the oil price at that time.

It is not simply the cost of keeping warm that was of concern: those taking an interest in fuel poverty wanted to understand the reasons why some households faced particularly high costs. Attention was focused on the quality of housing. The impact of living in cold

homes was also a major driver of concern.

It has long been understood that certain people, such as the very young, the oldest pensioners and people with long‑term disability or illness, are particularly at risk of poor health from cold homes.

WARM HOUSES AND ENERGY CONSERVATION ACT In 2000, David Amess MP brought forward a Private Member’s Bill that, with all party support, became the Warm Homes and Energy Conservation Act. This established a seemingly simple target: to eradicate fuel poverty by 2016 as far as reasonably practicable. The debate in Parliament at the

time suggested that many thought this not only a good target but also a reasonable one.

At least in hindsight, while eradicating a long-standing social problem was an admirable ambition, it was never likely to be as straightforward as originally thought.

The Act characterises fuel poverty as the problem of someone on a ‘lower income [living] in a home which cannot be kept warm at reasonable cost’. These terms have never been specifically defined. But the first UK fuel poverty strategy, adopted in 2001 as a statutory consequence of the Act, set out the way fuel poverty would be measured in practice. This was the 10 per cent indicator under which a household was fuel poor if it needed to spend more than 10per cent of its income (measured before housing costs) on energy in the home.

One key feature of this definition is that it rightly focused on energy requirements, rather than actual energy spending. This is appropriate because in many low income households actual expenditure on energy falls short of what is needed to provide adequate lighting, heating and appliance use.

Of course, this approach requires an understanding of how much energy a

household should use in order to achieve an adequate standard of warmth and so on.

The 10 per cent indicator was therefore underpinned by a methodology that allowed energy requirements to be modelled on the basis of dwelling characteristics (such as construction type and heating system type) and household characteristics (such as occupancy patterns and household size).

This methodology continues to exist today.

FUEL POVERTY STRATEGIES Future governments will now, for the first time, be required by law to tackle fuel poverty by making the coldest, leakiest homes in England more energy efficient.

This new Fuel poverty strategy – the first for over a decade – outlines challenges and actions for the next 15 years to ensure future governments take the right steps to tackle fuel poverty and get help to those who need it most.

A new legally binding target, in force since December 2014, is at the heart of the new strategy. It requires a minimum standard of energy efficiency (Band C) for as many fuel poor homes as reasonably practicable by 2030.

Early measures to tackle the problem of fuel poverty and hit the new target include new regulations so that from April 2018 private landlords cannot rent out energy inefficient properties (homes with Energy Performance ratings below ‘E’).

Additionally, tackling the problem of fuel poverty in off gas grid properties with a new £25 million fund to help people install central heating systems for the first time. Plus, extending the successful ECO scheme to 2017, so that a further 500,000 properties will be made cheaper and easier to heat, building on the one million homes that ECO and the Green Deal have helped in the last 2 years.

THE 10 PER CENT INDICATOR The 10 per cent indicator allowed fuel poverty to be measured at a national level. In 1996, in England, there were some five million fuel poor homes. This had dropped to around one million (an 80 per cent fall) by 2003/04.

In the years to 2010, however, fuel poverty quickly rose again, reaching four million by 2009. During this time considerable investment was being made in the housing stock, through schemes such as Decent Homes and Warm Front, but their impact on fuel poverty appeared limited.

It became increasingly clear that the 10 per cent indicator was very sensitive to energy prices. Indeed, high prices were bringing some people who were reasonably well-off but lived in large, inefficient homes into the fuel poverty statistics.

There was a danger of both underplaying the effectiveness of support schemes and undermining good scheme design.

LOCAL PROJECTS The strategy prepares the ground for future new measures with a series of pilots focused on priority areas, ranging from health aspects of fuel poverty through to specific housing types like off gas grid properties and park homes.

A £3 million pot for such pilots will see £1 million released immediately to scale up local ‘warmth-on-prescription’ projects to help primary healthcare professionals such as GPs play a much larger part in tackling fuel poverty. In the coming months

Energy

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

this Government to continue – so that cold homes are gone for good.

“That’s the future we’re presenting, alongside our ambitious targets, so even more households can join the one million homes already reaping the benefits of lower energy bills and warmer homes this winter.

Last month, the government laid draft regulations to introduce minimum energy efficiency standards that will see up to 1 million people renting from private landlords benefit from warmer and cheaper to heat homes. Many of the poorest tenants

Future governments will now be required by law to tackle fuel poverty by making the coldest, leakiest homes in England more energy efficient.

This new Fuel poverty strategy – the first for over a decade – outlines challenges and actions for the next 15 years to ensure future governments take the right steps to tackle fuel poverty and get help to those who need it most up to £2 million more will be released to support innovation pilots, not just in health but also for off gas grid, park homes and community energy approaches.

Unveiling the strategy, Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey said: “Today marks a crucial step towards a future free from cold homes and bloated energy bills in England. We now have a legally binding commitment to plug our draughtiest houses – adding to the 1 million homes we’ve made warmer and cheaper to heat.

“From tackling fuel poverty in the private rented sector to facing up properly to the challenges of rural off gas grid fuel poverty, this strategy marks a significant change from the old approach. Yet even as we implement new regulations and new spending priorities to make homes warmer, we are planning for the next phase of cutting fuel poverty, with a series of key pilots, especially into the link between improving health and cutting fuel poverty.

“Households in fuel poverty in the least energy efficient homes (Bands F and G) typically face energy costs that are £1,000 more than those in higher quality homes. To help focus support where it is needed most, the strategy introduces interim milestones to get as many as fuel poor homes as reasonably practicable up to a minimum energy efficiency rating of Band E by 2020 and Band D by 2025.”

FUEL POVERTY STANDARDS Minister for Energy and Climate Change Amber Rudd said: “We want the fall in levels of fuel poverty seen under

will benefit and, with government support, landlords can improve their properties at no upfront cost – and landlords will only have to make improvements that are cost‑effective. This will be backed by a new law to give tenants the right from April 2016 to request consent for improvements that the landlord cannot unreasonably refuse.

“Nearly 2 million heating and energy efficiency measures have already been installed across the country. With ECO being extended to 2017 an extra half a million people will be able to keep warm for less, including many low-income, vulnerable households. This is on top of half a billion pounds of investment in energy efficiency schemes over three years, including the Green Deal Home Improvement Fund.”

TURNING POINT Dr Tim Ballard, Vice-Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said: “The Royal College of GPs welcomes this new fuel poverty strategy. It marks an important turning point in acting on what we have known for some time: that cold homes contribute to the most vulnerable people being unhealthy and can even be lethal for them.

“The new strategy provides a long-term framework in which the health sector has a vital role to play, in partnership with Government. The new funding for health-related pilot projects is especially needed and will help build the case for more investment to cut the cost of warmth and help reduce the burden of cold homes on the health service.” 

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Insulation

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

contrasting finish which dramatically uplifted the worn out exterior of this two storey building.

Sherwood Court was built in 1972 and was certainly failing to meet current building regulations. With the application of EWI it upgraded the building from starting u-values of 2.1W/m2K to an impressive 0.29W/m2K.

INSULATING FOR ENERGY SAVINGS

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Written by the National Insulation Association

RADIAN’S EXTERNAL WALL INSULATION Radian wants its residents to enjoy a better quality of life now and in the future, and is committed to sustainability and energy saving.

As part of its objective to profoundly improve people’s lives, Radian identified a number of properties that were in desperate need of improvement. The properties in Windsor were unusual in that they were cavity Sherwood Court, Nottingham construction to the ground floor and single leaf blockwork to the first floor. Some were ‘Wimpey no-fines’ houses; others were ‘Reema’ houses, built using prefabricated reinforced concrete panels. The residents reported that their houses were cold and suffered from condensation; Radian also had concerns that the fuel bills in these properties were particularly high and still continuing to rise.

The solution for all of the houses was to install The National Insulation Association discusses the benefits of External Wall Insulation, and Radian chose insulation for energy consumption, and showcases two of its case InBuild to carry out the work. Jeremy Wood, Radian’s Sustainability Manager, looked at some studies, inclusing Sherwood Court and Radian of the Company’s previous installations and was impressed by the quality SHERWOOD COURT, NOTTINGHAM The National Insulation Association (NIA) of workmanship and Many local authorities throughout the has announced the introduction of a attention to detail.

UK are now choosing EWI insulation new service for local authorities and Customer service e h t With n of as an energy efficient measure to housing associations looking for insulation was another o i t a c i upgrade their raging housing stock companies to work on their projects. important l p ap ood w r in order to meet the government’s With the cuts to the Energy Company consideration e h S , m a EWI h g Decent Homes Standard.

Obligation (ECO) announced by the in selecting n i t Not n i Sherwood Court, a two government last year, an increasing number a contractor t g r n i u t o r C ta s m storey sheltered housing of local authorities and housing associations in order o r f K went of 2.1W/m2 complex in Kirby‑In-Ashfield, are now unable to secure ECO funding for to make s has recently benefitted from insulation programmes and are therefore the process u-value impressive as smooth government funding, allowing funding these from their own budgets. As a n a o t m2K clients Ashfield Homes to begin result the NIA is increasingly being contacted as possible for 0.29W/ their major refurbishment on reducing by them asking for help in finding local the residents. In unnecessary heat loss and CO2 emissions. installers to carry out work on their behalf. addition, InBuild was Main contractors Keepmoat were instructed by Neil Marshall, chief executive of the able to provide access to Ashfield Homes to carry out works on Sherwood NIA commented: “Local authorities and good levels of funding through its partnerships Court and worked alongside WBS Recognised housing associations can provide us with industry specialists and funding providers.

Contractors; Hamilton (Building Contractors) with the details of their projects and we The tenants are delighted with the results which delivered the application of EWI. will then issue expressions of interest and Radian has already recorded savings A Wetherby Epsicon EWI system was and tender requests on their behalf to in fuel bills from March to May; these the perfect, cost effective solution to a our members through our electronic savings are expected to be even more project that would reduce energy usage communication system. This provides the significant over the winter months. and carbon emissions whilst protecting benefit of avoiding the need to contact lots Jeremy Wood, sustainability manager the external fabric of the building. of different companies and is immediate. at Radian, commented: “Radian strives to The system build up consisted of a layer of “The NIA is the lead trade body for deliver excellent local housing and support 60mm Phenolic Insulation that was mechanically insulation measures in the UK and our services to create strong and sustainable fixed to the substrate of the building. Following members can provide multi measure solutions. communities where people flourish. Excellent the application of a strengthening scrim In addition, our members are required to customer service and quality of workmanship mesh, embedded into a scrim adhesive, a meet our robust membership criteria and were key drivers in our decision to appoint layer of White Dashing Mortar was applied at adhere to our strict code of professional InBuild to install EWI on our properties, the a thickness of 8-10mm. Whilst still wet, the practice meaning our members provide benefits of which will be appreciated by our two aggregates chosen, WBS Polar White and additional reassurance and peace of mind.” residents for many years to come.” L WBS Westberg were thrown into the mortar, The NIA provides Government Business ensuring an even distribution of chippings. The with two case studies which exemplify the FURTHER INFORMATION combination of the two aggregates gave a need for insulation in housing projects. www.nia-uk.org

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Housing

CIH HOUSING 2015

GETTING HOUSING IN ORDER

Falling just weeks after the UK general election, the CIH’s annual conference and exhibition will see professionals from all corners of the industry gather in Manchester on 23-25 June to discuss what the new government means for UK housing David Cameron’s promise to allow housing association tenants to buy their homes at a discount harks back to 1979, when the right to buy council houses was a key part of the manifesto that took Margaret Thatcher into Downing Street. Over 30 years of neglect, a chronic supply crisis has enveloped Britain, particularly in the South East, sending prices soaring beyond the incomes of most ordinary buyers.

In December, Chancellor George Osborne introduced a stamp-duty overhaul that benefits 98 per cent of home owners. The extension to the shared equity and loan guarantee scheme, Help to Buy, and accompanying Isa, plugged at the Budget in March, along with a promise to discount homes for first‑time buyers, also shows the Conservatives trying to appeal to a young generation of renters desperate to get on the ladder.

Labour, meanwhile, has promised to unleash a building boom, pledging to build 200,000 homes a year, along with introducing a mansion tax. The Liberal Democrats go one better, wanting 300,000 new homes a year, while Ukip is proposing a £1 billion brownfield site revolution, axing stamp duty on the first £250,000 for new homes bought on brownfield sites. The Green Party, however, has taken the opposite tack and would scrap Help

to Buy, reducing buyers and therefore prices. The Green Party also aims to build 500,000 social rented units, by quadrupling spending and allowing councils to borrow more money.

Labour, d to mise has pro a building millions of people – from the ‘clipped unleash, pledging wing’ generation m o bo ,000 0 0 stuck living with 2 d l i to bu year, along mum and dad to a families putting up homes troducing a with poor conditions n with i sion tax in parts of the private man rented sector, people

MOST WOULD BACK NEW HOMES More than half of the English public would support the next government borrowing money to build more affordable homes, according to a new poll.

The survey, carried out by Ipsos MORI for the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), found that 54 per cent of adults in England would support government borrowing to fund more affordable homes for people to buy or rent. A fifth (21 per cent) were opposed while a quarter (24 per cent) said they would neither support nor oppose.

Support was strongest among renters and people living in London, with 60 per cent and 66 per cent respectively backing government borrowing for affordable housing.

The poll was carried out at the end of March.

CIH head of policy Melanie Rees said: “There is a desperate shortage of affordable homes across the country which is being felt by

stuck on the waiting list for social housing and homeless people trapped in poor quality B&Bs. “So it’s no surprise that a majority of the public would support the next government borrowing money to build more affordable homes. We need a long‑term plan to end the housing crisis in a generation – and the lesson of history is that we have only built the number of homes we need when the government has played a direct and active role.

“Investing in housing not only helps those who are struggling to access a decent home at a price they can afford, it also makes long‑term economic sense – the most sustainable way of bringing the housing benefit bill down is to build more homes. And it offers an excellent return on investment, creating jobs and boosting economic growth.” E

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CIH HOUSING 2015  Ben Marshall, research director at Ipsos MORI, said: “Other Ipsos MORI polls have shown the public recognises the housing crisis and wants government action, especially on affordability and supply. This survey shows a majority instinctively back borrow-to-build, but we should appreciate the possibility that support could be conditional on its extent and implications.”

NEW INITIATIVES Gavin Smart, interim chief executive of the CIH, comments: “The challenges the sector is facing are changing all the time, so retaining great people is a key focus for organisations across the industry. This year we’re running a new initiative at Housing 2015 – ‘Delegate of the future’ – to give young professionals who have never attended the conference before the opportunity to come along for free on Thursday 25 June (1000 free places have been made available).

“In addition to the main conference programme, the exhibition promises to be busier than ever. Over 300 suppliers will be present and taking part in a series of informative seminars through the Ideas Exchange.”

NEW CIH CHIEF EXECUTIVE This year will provide delegates with a chance to meet the CIH’s new chief executive, Terrie Alafat, who took up her new role in mid-April. Terrie has worked in the civil service since 2003, covering various housing policies including homelessness, supporting people, affordable housing and housing supply. Before moving to the UK 30 years ago she was involved in educational research and evaluation in Chicago schools.

Terrie started her UK career in the social services policy development at a local authority and went on to become director of housing and corporate strategy at Kensington and Chelsea until 2002, before moving to the Government Office for London where she was responsible for housing and local government.

Terrie said: “I am delighted to join CIH and I look forward to working closely with members, colleagues and the board to support the housing profession to deliver decent, affordable housing across the UK and further afield.”

CIH governing board chair Turlogh O’Brien said: “We’re very happy that Terrie has joined us. I know that she has the right skills and experience to lead CIH’s growth strategy, to make sure that we are providing the best possible support for housing professionals and to make sure that we continue to place our members at the heart of everything we do.”

CIH president Steve Stride said: “Terrie is joining us at an incredibly important time for housing as the general election approaches in May and as we continue to debate the extent and impact of further devolution. Her wealth of strategic experience will guide us through this period and I’m

Housing

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

This year will provide delegates with a chance to meet the CIH’s new chief executive, Terrie Alafat, who took up her new role in mid-April. Terrie has worked in the civil service since 2003, covering various housing policies including homelessness, supporting people, affordable housing and housing supply

looking forward to working with her.”

Terrie replaces Grainia Long, who is returning to Ireland to become chief executive at the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. Grainia left CIH in mid-February. Deputy chief executive Gavin Smart took up the role of interim chief executive until Terrie’s arrival.

OPENING KEYNOTE The conference kicks off on the morning of June 23 with an opening keynote entitled ‘The New Political Reality’. Chaired by Reeya Cjakrabarti, social affairs correspondent at the BBC, the session will explore the political landscape just seven weeks after what promises to be one of the closest elections in history. The panel features three leading commentators from across the political spectrum: Tim Montgomerie, founder and editor, Conservative Home; Miranda Green, journalist and former liberal democrat advisor and Andrew Harrop, director of the Fabian Society.

Day one will continue with a second keynote entitled ‘Will the Programme for Government solve the housing crisis?’. Fielding the

questions will be CIH deputy chief executive Gavin Smart; Sir Bob Kerslake, permanent secretary, Department for Communities and Local Government; Sir Robin Wales, mayor, London Borough of Newham, and; Adam Challis, head of residential research, JLL, which will also launch its research on post‑election solutions to the housing supply crisis.

The new permanent secretary for the Department of Communities and Local Government will be interviewed in the opening days’ other keynote.

DAY ONE THINK TANK AND MASTERCLASS SESSIONS The private rented sector is becoming a hot topic central to the housing market. The ‘Think Tank’ sessions will be kicked off by a session geared towards the private rented sector entitled: “PRS - where are we today? And challenges / opportunities for the future”.

Chaired by Steve Trusler of developers Laing O’Rourke, speakers include Paul Beardmore, director of housing at Manchester City Council.

Day one will continue with a ‘Masterclass’ session chaired by Reeya Cjakrabarti and entitled: “The Big Data question – getting E

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 the best out of your data”. Organisations are increasingly using their data to design and deliver more targeted products and services with an emphasis on value for money. In this session delegates will hear from Alex Lowe of Google; Sarah Thomas, executive director of customer services at RHP, and; Richard Blundell chief executive of Housing Partners on how they are using data to predict behaviours, design services and deliver value for money. An alternative masterclass session taking place at the same time will examine how to unlocking global growth through affordable housing. Chaired by Robert Grundy, head of housing at Savills Housing Division, the session will see contributions from Dr Jan Mischke, author at the McKinsey Global Institute; Andrew Carter, acting chief executive, Centre for Cities, and; Jeremy Blackburn, head of UK policy and parliamentary affairs, Royal Institute of Chartered Surveys (RICS).

LOCAL HOUSING DELIVERY VEHICLES In the years leading up to the recession, UK house building failed to deliver the homes needed. Through and beyond the recession, house building contracted further. In the Elphicke-House Report (a review of local authorities’ role in housing supply released at the end of 2014) it was argued that local authorities should take a more central role in providing new homes. But in reality how do they make the shift from being statutory providers to housing delivery enablers?

A Think Tank session entitled ‘Local Authorities and New Delivery Models’ will focus on how authorities can proactively identify housing need, growth and opportunity and how private/public sector partnerships can collaboratively offer solutions to unlock

Housing

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Through and beyond the recession, house building contracted further. In the Elphicke-House Report (a review of local authorities’ role in housing supply released at the end of 2014) it was argued that local authorities should take a more central role in providing new homes land and deliver more homes. To discuss delivery vehicles, a further Think Tank session will feature contributions from Ian Doolittle and Scott Dorling, partners at Trowers & Hamlins, and Natalie Elphicke, chairman of Million Homes Million Lives and co-author of the Elphicke-House Report.

FUTURE ECONOMIC TRENDS The financial crisis of 2008 damaged the housing market. Lending decreased, as did the supply of homes. With wages expected to increase above inflation this year, and with interest rates set to remain at 0.5 per cent it looks like this might be a good period for consumers, homeowners and first time buyers. However, while CPI and RPI report lows of 0.3 per cent and 1.1 per cent respectively, there is potentially an increasing divergence between real world inflation and asset price inflation. The Bank of England highlighted that the housing market poses the biggest risk to the UK’s economic recovery – something which the government has tried to mitigate through the Help to Buy scheme and giving the Financial Policy Committee new powers to guard against potential house price bubbles. Wednesday June 24 kicks

off with a keynote where Duncan Weldon (Economic Correspondent, Newsnight) and Dr Gerard Lyons (Chief Economic Adviser, Mayor of London) will analyse how current economic trends are affecting the housing market and look ahead to the future.

Gavin Kelly, chief executive of the Resolution Foundation, will continue with a session which examines how the labour market has changed, and if a lack of skills in the construction industry has been responsible for deepening the housing crisis. An Interview with the Welfare Reform Minister will wrap up the days’ keynotes.

MORE POWER TO CITIES Second Day masterclasses begin with a session entitled: “More power and devolution to cities: A threat or an opportunity for housing?” will bring together three core cities; Manchester, Bristol and Newcastle, to debate and discuss what the transfer of power and funding really means in practice and whether it provides an opportunity to increase the supply of good quality housing. Chaired

by Emma Maier, editor, Inside Housing, the session will include contributions from Tony Travers (director, Centre for London, LSE), E

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Manchester Central exhibition & conference centre

 Mike Emmerich (chief executive, New Economy Manchester), George Ferguson (mayor, Bristol City Council) and Pat Ritchie (chief executive, Newcastle City Council).

Second day masterclasses continue with a session further exploring the role of local authorities in house building. Translating planning applications into homes built is essential if housing supply is to increase to a level which will meet need. The legislative levers created by the Localism Act 2011 have given councils the freedom to think innovatively. A masterclass session entitled ‘The role of local authorities in house building’ brings together organisations which are making good use of these freedoms to increase capacity in their local areas, while also looking at the future role of local government in solving the housing crisis.

Chaired by Isabel Hardman, assistant editor at The Spectator, the panel will feature Eamonn Boylan, chief executive, Stockport MBC and lead chief executive, Planning and Housing, Greater Manchester Combined Authority; Nick Cross, head of housing services, Southampton City Council; Eamon McGoldrick, managing director, National Federation of ALMOs. WHAT DO WE WANT FOR HOUSING? With housing gaining more importance in the run up to the election, the opening session of the final day sees five of the sector’s leading

Housing

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

ing Translatng planni ons ti applica s built is me sector. In conversation into ho l if housing with Cathy Newman, a essenti to increase to the Minister will s set out what supply ievel which the new government al et wants for housing, will me and what housing d nee professionals should

thinkers address what the sector wants from the new government.

Chaired by Cathy Newman, political correspondent at Channel 4 News, the panel comprises Ann Santry (chief executive, Sovereign Housing), Nick Murphy (chief executive, Nottingham City Homes), Piers Willamson (chief executive, The Housing Finance Corporation) and David Cowans (chief executive, Places for People). The keynote which follows will be the first opportunity for the (new?) Housing Minister to address the

expect for the future. We will also hear from the CIH on their vision for the housing profession.

The closing keynote, entitled “What does the new reality mean for housing?” will bring together the views of three former housing ministers (including Nick Raynsford) E

P

d e an Se st on 75

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Housing

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Promoting public The smart choice for procurement to save money heating and hot water and create social outcomes Dutch

Fusion21 is a social enterprise that promotes public procurement as a means to save money and create social outcomes.

As well as generating social value, Fusion21’s business model improves efficiency in the procurement process and generates significant cash savings for clients.

Fusion21 has gained national recognition for its collaborative approach; delivering c£50m savings through the procurement process and creating over 1700 permanent jobs.

The company’s aim is to help create the conditions where it is easier to deliver efficiency savings, to control costs,

create jobs, train people and share best practice. Fusion21 works by collaborating with social landlords, other public sector clients, residents, local agencies, contractors and suppliers to deliver a wide range of procurement frameworks which make a difference.

The company’s frameworks include high rise, roofing, facilities management, consultancy, heating, lifts, kitchens, void management, painting, repairs and lots more.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 308 2321 info@fusion21.co.uk www.fusion21.co.uk

manufacturer Intergas Heating has designed a boiler with the potential to lift people out of fuel poverty by lowering energy bills and improving efficiency, while helping local authorities and social housing organisations save £millions.

The boiler is so uncomplicated, installation and servicing are hassle-free and, with only 12 components, including four moving parts, there’s less to go wrong.

Then there’s the Intergas revolutionary aluminium twoin-one heat exchanger which removes the need for a diverter valve, valve motor, hot water plate heat exchanger, air vent and air pressure switch – all sources of possible breakdown.

Redditch Borough Council estimates that it will save over £16 million over a 30-year period by installing Intergas boilers. Previously

it had been replacing boilers every ten years, but some models weren’t even lasting that long. The Intergas boilers are expected to last at least 15-20 years, which means they will only have to be replaced once over the same period. Since installations began 12 months ago there has been a 33 per cent reduction in breakdowns and tenants’ energy bills have been cut by a third from £60 to £40 a month.

Redditch is not alone; Intergas is already providing the ultimate retrofit solution for local authorities and social housing associations across the country.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01527 - 888000 www.intergasheating.co.uk

Recruitment specialists in Eco-friendly rubbish the built environment and clearance for domestic and social housing sector commercial customers Bromak is a leading built environment and social housing recruitment consultancy with a proven track record of supplying permanent and temporary candidates into some of the sector’s best known organisations. Established in 2003, Bromak has six offices across the UK including: Bolton, Durham, Sheffield, Liverpool, Lichfield and Watford.

Bromak’s strength lies in the ability to understand its clients’ needs, ensuring that they meet them first time. The company provides candidates across all areas of the industry including house building, community regeneration, property services, construction, facilities management, civil engineering and shop fitting.

Bromak supplies office and site staff at all levels, from trades, labour and plant operatives to company directors. It can supplement

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permanent workforces by supplying temporary staff or find permanent employees with specialist skills and experience.

Health and safety, the environment, quality management, training and excellent customer service are just as important to Bromak as they are to its clients. Bromak is proud to be accredited with the Investors in People Silver Award as well as being ISO 9001 quality assured and holding the ISO 14001 environmental management certification.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01204 532500 info@bromak.com

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

Clearabee is a nationwide business providing on-demand junk clearance and rubbish removal services to thousands of domestic, commercial and public sector customers. It already provides 34 local authorities across the UK with a reliable and cost effective solution for removing bulky rubbish.

Clearabee’s prompt and professional rubbish removal teams can take away almost all waste streams quickly and safely. The company is frequently called on by local authorities and housing associations to clear illegal fly-tips and remove junk from social housing properties whose former tenants are unable

or unwilling to do so themselves.

Clearabee is licensed by the Environment Agency, accredited by the Contractors Health and Safety scheme and is an affiliated member of the Chartered Institute of Waste Management as well as being ISO 9001 and 14001 accredited.

More than 85 per cent of the waste collected by Clearabee is recycled or reused. The company actively chooses zeroto-landfill waste processing partners wherever possible.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0330 088 1000 info@clearabee.co.uk www.clearabee.co.uk

Housing

CIH HOUSING 2015

Nick Hewer

Show highlights

 to offer an evaluation of what they believe new political reality means for housing.

FOURTH YEAR IN MANCHESTER This will be the fourth year that the CIH’s Housing event has taken place at Manchester Central. A new health, social care and housing conference will be focusing on solutions around the integration of health and housing. This will run alongside the main programme on Wednesday and Thursday and will be fully accessible to all delegates.

The ‘Delegate of the Future’ feature is aimed at housing staff who haven’t attended the conference before. These delegates will be able to attend the conference for free on Thursday 25 June with up to 1000 free places available.

There will be a mixture of interactive debates and launches with platforms for organisations to challenge views and perceptions. ‘The fringe’ will be located on the exhibition floor and will be free for all delegates and visitors to attend.

HOUSING HEROES On the Monday evening before the conference, the CIH ‘Welcome to Manchester’ dinner incorporates the Housing Heroes’ awards.

Launched in 2009, this years’ event will be hosted by Nick Hewer, TV presenter, entrepreneur and former right hand man to

Alan Sugar in the BBC series The Apprentice.

Hewer is also currently presenting Channel 4’s flagship Countdown quiz program.

The housing sector is characterised by the commitment, passion and flair of the people who work in it, and the Housing Heroes awards aims to ensure those ‘unsung heroes’ are recognised and rewarded for their contribution. Last year’s ceremony attracted almost 800 people including representatives from the main trade and professional bodies, government ministers and experts from across the housing sector. This year, the winners will be drawn from some 14 categories, including ‘Inspirational Leader of the Year’ and ‘Lifetime Achievement in Housing’. The judges include Vanessa Howell, head of professional standards at the CIH; Emma Maier, editor, Inside Housing, and Helen White, chair, Knowsley Housing Trust. L FURTHER INFORMATION For further information on all exhibitors, seminar sessions and to book places, visit www.cihhousing.com

Homeseal – Professional insulation installers Homeseal Energy Savings Ltd was established in 1995 as a trading division of the Workspace Group, a social enterprise based in Mid Ulster.

With 20 years experience in the insulation industry, Homeseal now provides a range of insulation services which include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and cavity extraction for the retrofit and new build markets.

The company’s experience in the insulation industry ranges from supplying insulation for private households to partnerships with education boards, utility providers and acting as the single largest insulation supplier on the Warm Home Scheme (Northern Ireland’s programme to help tackle fuel poverty).

Homeseal’s teams of installers, surveyors, supervisors and administrators are highly trained and contribute to a highly committed and effective service for its customers.

As an ISO, BBA, NIA and SafeTCert accredited company, Homeseal follows rules and regulations of the highest standards giving its clients the satisfaction and security that the company provides a quality insulation service from the initial survey stage to the installation stage.

With its experience and knowledge, Homeseal can advise you on the most cost effective insulation measures for your business or project.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 028 796 27474 www.homesealni.co.uk

Ideas Exchange Situated in the main registration area, the Ideas Exchange hosts free seminars across the three days open to all attendees at CIH Housing.

PfH Live Co-located with the CIH Housing Conference and Exhibition, PfH Live brings together hundreds of housing professionals for three days of masterclass seminars, leading supplier showcases and invaluable networking.

Communities Initiative Cafe Showcasing six community initiatives across the three days, the Community Initiatives Café hosts a daily competition between two community groups, to win money from Pinnacle PSG’s Community Piggy Bank.

Technology Zone Organisations will be offering technology solutions for the world today and into the future throughout the exhibition.

Ark Housing: Delivering positive change for affordable housing Ark Housing Consultancy and Ark People and Communities form an innovative and credible partnership specialising in affordable housing. A multidisciplinary team with extensive experience working across the public, voluntary and private sector, Ark has a reputation for innovation and creativity.

Ark provides a team of specialist, experienced senior housing professionals whose skills and backgrounds span all housing functions with the aim of delivering positive change for the benefit of it’s customers.

Ark Housing Consultancy focusses on development, regeneration, asset management and organisational change and provides client-side project and interim management to support clients to improve and increase their housing stock.

Ark People and Communities provide a complimentary range of people and community

services with particular strengths in social enterprise, business creation, governance, restructuring, training, people and housing services.

At this years Manchester Conference, Ark will be showcasing its proven asset grading model and process which assesses stock from the perspective of cost, quality, people and place. Now in use with clients throughout England and Wales, the process is proving to be a valuable tool for HAs, LAs and ALMOs. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0121 515 3831 www.arkconsultancy.co.uk www.arkcommunities.co.uk

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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reintec.com / 08456 02 82 71 Safety / Value / Availability / Support

SAFER CITIES

With the IFSEC International exhibition fast approaching, James Kelly, chief executive of the British Security Industry Association, addresses the topic of ‘Safe Cities’ during the show There is little doubt, with the complexity of modern cities that there is the potential for the unexpected to happen at any time, as recent terrorist attacks in Paris, Ottawa and Sydney, illustrate all too starkly. Alongside this the widespread public disorder associated with the London riots, and the events that took place in Baltimore, Maryland, last month flag-up just how quickly situations can, and do, escalate in a social media savvy world where large numbers of individuals may be drawn onto our city streets in a relatively short space of time. Beyond these headline‑grabbing situations which, seemingly, appear ‘out of the blue’, cities are also the location of choice for planned events like the Olympics, protest marches, and music festivals where those taking part, and the wider community, need to be kept safe and secure.

VIRTUAL THREAT Of course, it is not just physical disruption which cities should have on their radar. There is also the whole cyber security aspect which, increasingly, has to be factored in to any safe cities equation.

Mike O’Neill, chairman of the BSIA’s Specialist Services Section, is keen to discuss some of the risks that can emerge as the operation of cities, including their transport infrastructure, becomes ever smarter and more centralised.

He said: “The key challenge that strikes me is that with the drive for connectivity, and interconnectivity, comes a lot more vulnerability.

“This could be hackers from their bedrooms for fun, terrorist groups, or government actors and their proxies who may be seeking to cause asymmetric confusion. If you think about a city, that has interconnectivity, the vulnerability is huge so that is one of the things I think that we need to be much more aware of moving forward.”

JOINED-UP THINKING For his part, Geoff Zeidler, the Police and Security Group Initiative (PaS) Lead on behalf of the BSIA, feels that collaboration between the police and the private security industry is a pivotal element in making cities safer. As part of the Safe Cities Academy at IFSEC International he will be outlining how, in this context, best practice

is being developed across London.

Police and industry partnerships have become much more prevalent in the past few years. Project Griffin was the first significant engagement between the police and the private security sector with a focus on training; and more recently national celebrations such as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games created unprecedented demand for collaboration. This was a catalyst for the Cross-Sector Safety and Communications (CSSC) project, designed to cascade important information relating to security to partners; which was then developed as a legacy project and replicated in Scotland for last year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Putting the PaS Initiative into context, Zeidler reveals that it was first considered by the BSIA and Metropolitan Police after the Olympics, but found new impetus as a result of the Mayor of London’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) Business Crime Strategy. PaS is focused on finding ways to build effective collaboration, starting in London, but also aims to ensure consistency across the UK. Zeidler said: “We launched a consultation to identify what all the ‘capability’ participants see as the enablers and barriers to success and this generated an excellent response, the detailed results of which we are about to release. The other steps were to map existing local and national collaboration projects to improve coordination and identify best practice; and then to develop of a ‘roadmap’ that establishes what success looks like and the steps needed to achieve this.”

Written by James Kelly, British Security Industry Association

MAKING CITIES SECURE AND CITIZENS SAFE

This landmark document sets out welcome guidance on the searching of individuals, areas, buildings, vehicles, and with dogs.

Wilson will be exploring the wider lessons that came out of the Olympic Games search procedures; the importance of having a standard for personnel carrying out searches and why this has the potential to unlock greater police and public confidence in the private security sector and the ability to provide support at major events.

Tackling security searches, specifically, Wilson believes that a Code of Practice also offers a measure of reassurance for the security officers themselves.

He said: “Of course we are never going to completely stop crime or other unwanted activity but if we can deter individuals through the application of best practice from targeting places where their activities are likely to have the most impact that is a good outcome.”

Commenting on the subject of what the BSIA seeks to address, Wilson replies that one area which immediately stands out relates to the use of CCTV in search areas: “This is now something that is part of a key recommendation. It makes sense in a person-to-person search situation, for example, to have a secondary individual with oversight and this is recorded in an area with CCTV.” Looking ahead, Wilson is optimistic that the Code of Practice will eventually become a British standard and, in fact, this is part of the reason for promoting it so strongly at this year’s IFSEC. He said: “In my view we have an extremely good document at this stage – there is a lot of detail and information in there. Some of the expertise that has been instrumental in developing this is from ex-military people who have experience with searches in some of the most testing environments you can think of. Only after a fairly stringent analysis, and assessment, has it a chance of reaching the goal of a recognised standard.”

Security

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

The keythat ge challen e is that m strikes e drive for with th tivity, and connec nnectivity, interco a lot more comes rability vulne

SAFER SEARCHES Dirk Wilson, vice chair of the BSIA’s Police and Public Services Section, is planning to offer his thoughts at IFSEC on how to support safe cities and major events in the context of security searches. This is especially pertinent at the moment as the BSIA has just developed a new Code of Practice for Security Searches.

ADDING VALUE So to conclude, given the challenges which today’s cities face to maintain a safe and secure environment, the message has to be that it makes sense for municipalities, and other public sector bodies, to unlock the expertise which the private security sector can offer, whether that be through partnership initiatives, the development of best practice guidance, or to keep up to speed with the latest criminal and terrorist threats and, crucially, the techniques that can be applied to bridge potential security gaps. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.bsia.co.uk.aspx

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IFSEC International

EVENT PREVIEW

IFSEC: SECURING PEOPLE, PROPERTY AND ASSETS

Taking place on the 16-18 June 2015 at the ExCeL London, IFSEC International is the largest event for the security industry, bringing together the entire security buying chain in one place IFSEC International covers every area of security. This includes Safe Cities, Intelligent Buildings, IT & Cyber Security, Video Surveillance & Intruder Alarms, Integrated Security Solutions, Access Control, Perimeter Protection and Physical Security. Each area has dedicated exhibitors showcasing their latest solutions and products, education session from leading industry figures, and the opportunity to network peers.

Attracting more than 24,000 visitors, over 650 leading manufacturers, suppliers and distributors from 100 countries, over four days, this leading event is one to ensure you don’t miss. With the leading manufacturers, distributors and suppliers launching the latest technologies and solutions, you’ll be certain you’re spending your valuable time in the best way.

SAFE CITIES The need for global city hubs to future proof, upgrade and plan has never been greater, with collaboration from global business leaders, mayor’s office, first responders and local and central government.

Safe Cities utilises a multi‑agency approach, led by the government to protect the population, the infrastructure and a city’s economy against the threat of terrorism,

criminal activity and natural disasters.

City authorities are under enormous pressure to cope with common, expected and unexpected security threats. The planning to counteract or to minimise such threats, such as disaster management plans and business continuity initiatives, are increasingly making local authorities important stakeholders in promoting national security, a role that historically has been limited to the central government.

With a focus on four key areas - the city’s infrastructure, cyber security, counter terrorism, and public order – the Safe Cities conference and exhibition will provide education, solution and technology providers for global governments, public sector officials and companies to secure their cities from threats and attack.

Safe Cities is an integral part of IFSEC International 2015. Driven by education from leading experts in the field and leading technology and solution providers showcasing the latest innovations, Safe Cities is dedicated to the security requirements of a city rather than the individual component parts that make up the city.

Discovering how to protect vital international cities and hubs from attack, with a key

focus on business continuity and resilience, this area will showcase companies and industry pioneers who have the expertise, experience and knowledge to guide governments and industry to plan for the protection of their cities.

INTELLIGENT BUILDINGS This area will create a combined fire and security area for both events, focusing on the common area of systems integration and convergence. Unlike other features, it is not a showcase of new products, it’s about holistic solutions. In a nutshell, Intelligent Buildings – Fire & Security opens up opportunities for inter-operability and information sharing between fire, security, IT, data and building management systems. And it opens up opportunities for you to reach the crucial decision-makers within these areas.

IT & CYBER SECURITY The IT & Cyber Security area represents the ever changing landscape of the security industry’s primary sectors – physical security, video surveillance, access control, and intruder alarms. These areas have either moved from analogue to digital transmission and control, or are in the process of doing so.

Online crime costs the UK economy between £18 billion and £27 billion a year according to the National Audit Office (NAO).

A secure cyberspace is of immense importance for the UK. In 2010, UK’s Internet‑based economy stood at £121 billion, the biggest proportion recorded for a G20 country. The UK was also ranked first based on its ability to resist cyber attacks.

Despite this cyber attacks featured among the top four threats to the UK economy in 2010, while, in 2011, the number of online assaults globally reached one billion.

The Internet presents great opportunities for economic growth and improvement in public services but its potential is also being increasingly exploited by malicious agents.

In the Convergence Theatre, Dan Solomon of Optimal Risk Management and Mike E

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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RUN Milestone Mobile AND DOCUMENT ANY EVENT WHILE IT HAPPENS

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POSSIBLE STARTS HERE

EVENT PREVIEW  O’Neill, Chairman of BSIA’s Specialist Services Section, will take a session on the current and emerging cyber threats. They will discuss the need for robust countermeasures and the importance of upskilling IT professionals to meet evolving cyber threats.

Jim McHale, founder of Memoori Business Intelligence, will present on the Internet of Things in Buildings (BIoT) and the part security will play in this. He will look at the current status of the Internet of Things in Buildings and how it contrasts with our vision for a future BIoT. There will also be a cyber security master class from David Emm from Kaspersky Lab UK, who will review the threat landscape in 2015, assess the malware evolution and give predictions for the future.

Covering all aspects of video surveillance and intruder alarms, this dedicated product area will feature the very latest products and services in the industry, including video surveillance, central control rooms, and the innovations with high definition technology. Other products on display include ANPR, IP cameras, remote surveillance, thermal imaging, video

analytics, intruder alarm systems, detectors, keypads and control panels to protect your perimeters from outside threats.

INTEGRATED SECURITY To have an efficient and effective security system, you’ll want to ensure your systems are integrated. At IFSEC we’ll be focusing on how to ensure systems are integrated, so that each product doesn’t work in isolation. This purpose built area will provide you with access to providers whose job it is to ensure that each area of security is integrated and managed effectively.

Securing assets is a major focus for international businesses and collaborative efforts between security and IT managers are more and more commonplace when it comes to protecting both buildings and the equipment within them. Key to this is access control. Driven by rising concerns over public and private sector safety, the access control market is set to be worth a substantial $8.6 billion by 2018.

At IFSEC International, visitors can discover the key trends in this security market sector and learn about the latest techniques that will

Safe Cities d ate is dedic curity e to the s ents of m require er than the th a city ra idual parts indiv ake up that m city the

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Contact us: call us free on 0800 587 7811* (Fire & Security) call us free on 0800 011 3119* (Surveillance)

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help ensure your organisation develops a fully integrated access control solution.

Leading international companies will be showcasing their products including: door entry systems, smartcard technology, time and attendance software, biometrics and intelligent building management systems.

IFSEC International

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

PERIMETER PROTECTION AND PHYSICAL SECURITY Recent events like the diamond heist at Brussels International Airport have illustrated the importance of strong perimeter protection and other physical security solutions. Due to the heightened threat in today’s world, the importance of protecting property and assets is paramount to all security strategies.

The Physical Security & Perimeter Protection area allows visitors to see a range of products in physical security, such as perimeter protection, locking systems, safes and more, while the education programme will enable visitors to learn case studies and best practice to ensure success. 

Tuesday 16 June – 10:00 hrs - 17:00 hrs Wednesday 17 June – 10:00 hrs - 17:00 hrs Thursday 18 June – 10:00 hrs - 16:00 hrs FURTHER INFORMATION www.ifsec.co.uk

Want to see the future of video management software solutions?

Vista, the UK’s premier brand of CCTV equipment, is headquartered in Reading and focuses exclusively on the development of high quality, functionally rich and competitively positioned CCTV products. Offering an unparalleled product range reflecting the brand’s depth of market understanding, Vista products are sold into over 77 countries across five continents.

Vista’s customers form a wide ranging selection of highly professional installers, dedicated to ensuring successful and reliable installations in applications from retail outlets and town centres to sports stadiums and banking enterprises.

Visit the Vista stand at IFSEC to see the new qulu VMS 2.3 software. Offering the most efficient performance on the market today, this revolutionary system allows users to interact

with video like never before.

The software features video wall and failover functions, supporting over 1000 different makes and models. It also now supports integration with Paxton access control.

In addition, customers will be able to see the new qulu servers, developed in partnership with global leaders HP. Customers benefit from a three year next day business warranty on all servers.

Visit Vista at IFSEC 2015 at Stand D1300, on 16 - 18 June, at the London ExCeL. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0118 9125 000 www.vista-cctv.com

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

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EVENT PREVIEW

UNITING THE SAFETY AND HEALTH INDUSTRY

The largest UK event driving excellence for global health and safety is taking place on 16-18 June 2015, at the ExCeL, London with seminars and an exhibitor list for those in the field This years Safety & Health Expo will provide three days of unrivalled educational programmes, with a focus on peer-to‑peer knowledge sharing at ExCeL London.

The Expo has exciting things planned for 2015, including Safety & Health Live and a Fall Arrest Demo Zone, which allows people to witness exciting demos of the most effective fall arrest equipment.

Safety & Health Expo is part of UBM’s Protection & Management Series taking place from 16-18 June 2015 at the ExCeL Centre, London.

The Protection & Management Series attracts over 40,000 visitors and more than 1,600 exhibitors.

SEMINAR CONTENT On day one of the event, Tracey Boyle, director at Workplace Environment Solutions, discusses asbestos management strategies at the BOHS Worker Health Protection Theatre. Her talk is followed by BOHS’s Steve Perkins seminar on ‘Is Health & Safety toxic?’, opening a discussion on whether the title ‘Health & Safety’ has become contaminated. Perkins also speaks on day two of the event on ‘Prevention is better than cure, right?’, tackling the serious issue of ill health caused by workplace exposures.

Terry Woolmer, head of Health and Safety Policy at EEF, reveals the findings of EEF’s twelfth national survey which

looks at experiences of sickness absence across the Manufacturing and Engineering sector in his seminar on ‘Fit note blues: Tackling absence in your workplace’.

Commencing straight after Woolmer’s speech, Mike Slater of Diamond Environment introduces a discussion on ‘Call to arms’ – a collaborative approach to tackle lung disease in construction. The talk offers an introduction on a new collaborative initiative which aims to raise standards on the prevention of industrial diseases, and how to keep them high.

On the final day of the Expo, Adrian Hirst, president of BOHS, looks at ‘Occupational Hygiene – Vital but misunderstood’, Arco’s Paul Ness analyses how to construct a healthier site in his seminar on ‘Dust risks’, and Jane White, head of Research and Information at IOSH, examines ‘Occupational Cancer’.

Meanwhile at the Lone Working Arena, Nigel Heaton, a consultant at Human Applications, provides ‘A Practical Guide to Lone Working and the Law’. The session covers how statutory legislation impacts lone working; what should be risk assessed and what a good risk assessment contains; some practical tips for taking a proportionate approach to managing problems and reducing the risks.

Additionally, Sandra O’Brien of Peoplesafe provides a case study on how to implement a comprehensive lone worker solution from one of Peoplesafe’s key clients. At the close of the first day, Nicole Vasquez offers a seminar on ‘the application of Dynamic Risk Assessments for Lone Workers’. Vasquez, director at Worthwhile Training, provides visitors with ways to assist lone workers to make sound judgements and take positive actions about their own safety.

On the final day of the Expo, Patrick Dealtry of BSIA discusses what employers can do to prepare for those situations when measures to prevent anything happening to their Lone Workers fail.

Safety & Health Expo

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

PROTECTING OUR LANDMARKS The IOSH/SHP Academy seminar list includes discussions on ‘Fire safety leadership’ by David Gold, of Gold-Knecht Associates, ‘Compliance and fall protection safety for working at height’ by Stuart Linnet of Capital Safety, and ‘Protecting the landmarks of London’, a series of online videos and live debates, protecting London will reveal how the security, fire, safety and facilities functions operate within London’s most iconic and fascinating buildings; celebrating teams who keep them safe and the unique challenges they face.

At the Global Risk Management Theatre, Neal Stone of BSC analyses whether supply chain management is a global responsibility, which is followed by Lisa Fowlie’s seminar on the ‘Challenges of intercultural Communications’.

The theatre will also host seminars on managing the risk of slips, trips and falls, by Mark Thomas Consultancy, and risk profiling by Oliver Sanandres of City of London Corporations.  FURTHER INFORMATION www.safety-health.expo.co.uk

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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

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WITNESS THE WORLD OF PLANT IN ONE PLACE

Plant & Machinery

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Showcasing the UK’s biggest display of plant, machinery and construction equipment, Plantworx 2015 takes place from 2-4 June at Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome in Leicestershire, and will feature live construction applications and working machinery

Due to the success of the first Plantworx ABOUT THE ORGANISERS exhibition in 2013, which was held at The Construction Equipment Association Stoneleigh park in Warwickshire, the event (CEA) works to represent the construction returns this year with a heavily expanded equipment sector in the UK, and through event, and in just a few weeks, Plantworx Plantworx, facilitates a space where leading takes place over a much wider area at the brands can showcase their products to Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome in Leicestershire. audiences who are involved in purchasing This year, the event space will be filled with and operating construction equipment.

334 confirmed exhibitors, almost This year, TDL Equipment has revealed its double the amount in 2013 plans to exhibit Sany Excavators for the and occupying a space first time. TDL is the official UK dealer , r of 135 square meters of Terex heavy line construction This yeapace s t – 40 per cent larger equipment, Atlas material handlers n e v e the than last time. and Genie compact telehandlers. e b will 334 As the event Since the company announced h t i has expanded, its appointment with Sany filled w exhibitors, d so have the in December 2014, it has e m r confi ost double products become the UK distributors alm in that will be of Sany excavators products t n u o showcased. with five models, ranging the am cupying Many pieces of from 7 to 35 ton. The company 013, oc ace 2 equipment will will be allowing visitors to try a sp 2 be shown for the the machines on the TDL demo m 5 3 1 of first time and visitors area at Plantworx exhibition. will be the first to see and This year marks the anniversary of Clee potentially own them. For example, Hill Plant, the UK’s largest independent Takeuchi will be displaying its new TB230 compaction and surface dressing hire and TB240 compact excavators, which now concern. To celebrate half a century of deliver increased performance with the business, the company has placed an order new EPA Final Tier 4 computer‑controlled for over 130 machines from BOMAG, a Yanmar Engine. Redesigned exteriors, worldwide manufacturer and distributor progressive hydraulic functions and an of compact equipment, which amounts advanced operator station with pilot to £5m. The company will be attending controls are other enhancements.

Plantworx to display this new equipment Cautrac will be launching Morooka’s and celebrate its important milestone. breakthrough rotating tracked carrier.

This machine offers a payload capacity of AWARDS 11,000 kg and features a 3B Caterpillar Since Plantworx’s first appearance two years’ engine, various isolating devices, ago, the CEA has hosted the Innovation biodegradable hydraulic oil and an Awards to recognise exhibitors which have advanced rotating swivel bed that can broken new ground in the plant industry. rotate 360 degrees with a maximum load The Plantworx Innovation Awards were creating a much greater flexibility. announced in March at a ceremony in Central

London at the Gherkin. The Plantworx team were joined by the representatives of the winning companies, sponsors and the Judges.

The awards coincided with the equipment industry’s re-emergence from years of enforced concentration of research and development designed solely to make machines cleaner and greener.

The legislation-driven need to reduce emissions and fuel consumption to comply with EU Stage IV regulations tested the innovation muscles of the construction equipment industry. And some of the results – the development of hybrid-powered excavators, for example – have advanced the industry’s environmental cause.

INNOVATION UNLEASHED With OEM research and development budgets targeted almost exclusively towards the sole aim of making equipment cleaner and greener, wider ‘above-the-bonnet’ innovation has been stymied for a number of years. As a result, non-engine-related developments in the field of construction plant and equipment have generally been in the form of small, incremental changes and improvements.

With Stage IV regulations largely satisfied and the push towards Stage V still several years away, equipment manufacturers have emerged from a period of enforced focus. The result has been a surge in true innovation; a fact highlighted by the diversity of the entrants. While some of the entries remain engine-related, the way in which those engines operate or are being harnessed is totally new and unprecedented. L FURTHER INFORMATION See the Plantworx Awards winners: tinyurl.com/oj987ay Register for Plantworx 2015: www.plantworx.co.uk/ticket/

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Bringing puBlic sector Businesses into the 21st century From small beginnings in 1954 to becoming the largest UK-owned full lifecycle document management business in 2014, we have based our success with blue chip and public sector organisations on a robust set of values.

These values include expert, professional customer service, a willingness and the capacity to adapt and flex our business systems, and a strong spirit of innovation.

With most public sector bodies needing to reduce paper use through technology we have seen an upsurge in digitisation projects of all sizes. Restore customers can count on an unbroken chain of custody, daily scan capacity in the millions, leadingedge technology and knowledgeable, helpful staff at all our specialist facilities across the country.

Facilities and information teams all benefit from outsourcing their paper and digital management to Restore. Our professional and efficient approach to storing data under the right conditions, with tailored levels of accessibility and strict adherence to compliance means choosing Restore for full lifecycle document management could be the best business decision you ever make.

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Buckinghamshire County Council Saving historic records for everyday use 

We restored thousands of pages of disintegrating large-scale maps and unusual-sized documents for the Land Charges department, then used state-of-the-art large-format IBML scanners to create instant digital access. We have saved valuable local information and helped make room for new work stations in the council’s main office, in line with their strategic centralisation drive.

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EUROPEAN UNION

NEWS IN BRIEF

EU plans to break down digital barriers with new Digital Single Market strategy The European Commission has unveiled detailed plans to create a Digital Single Market, which aims to realise €250m of growth by 2024.

The Strategy includes a set of targeted actions to be delivered by the end of next year and is built on three pillars: Better access for consumers and businesses to digital goods and services across Europe; Creating the right conditions and a level playing field for digital networks and innovative services to flourish, and; Maximising the growth potential of the digital economy.

According to EU data, at present only 15 per cent shop online from another EU country; Only 7 per cent of SMEs sell cross-border, which suggests businesses and governments are not fully benefiting from digital tools.

The Digital Single Market aims to tear down regulatory walls and move from 28 national markets to a single one. A fully functional Digital Single Market could contribute €415 billion per year to the economy and create hundreds of thousands of new jobs.

One of the measures – a European ‘free flow of data’ initiative – aims to standardise data protection and consumer rules across member states.

Launching the strategy, Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said: “I want to see pan-continental telecoms networks, digital services that cross borders and a wave of innovative European start-ups. I want to see every consumer getting the best deals and every business accessing the widest market – wherever they are in Europe. Exactly a year ago, I promised to make a fully Digital Single Market one of my top priorities. Today, we are making good on that promise. The 16 steps of our Digital Single Market Strategy will help make the Single Market fit for a digital age.”

Vice-President for the Digital Single

G-Cloud Local Government sales increase

Market Andrus Ansip said: “Our Strategy is an ambitious and necessary programme of initiatives that target areas where the EU can make a real difference. They prepare Europe to reap the benefits of a digital future.

They will give people and companies the online freedoms to profit fully from Europe’s huge internal market. The initiatives are inter-linked and reinforce each other. They must be delivered quickly to better help to create jobs and growth. The Strategy is our starting point, not the finishing line.”

The strategy includes harmonised EU rules on contracts and consumer protection when good are bought online. Consumers are set to benefit from a wider range of rights and offers, while businesses will more easily sell to other EU countries. Also included is a plan to end unjustified geo-blocking – a discriminatory practice used for commercial reasons, when online sellers either deny consumers access to a website based on their location, or re-route them to a local store with different prices.

The Digital Single Market will be on the agenda of the European Council meeting on 25-26 June. The team aims to deliver on the different READ MORE: actions by the tinyurl.com/mqlo683 end of 2016.

SOCIAL MEDIA

LGA launches ‘Digital Councils’ resource The Local Government Association and Comms2point0 have launched ‘Digital Councils’, a hub for local government on all things social media.

The resource includes guidance on all elements of social media from getting to grips with Twitter and other social networks to building a digital strategy, providing a way for the LGA to work with a range of councils and councillors who can be moving at different speeds. It includes a mythbuster section as well as hints and tips pages specially designed to reflect the range of different roles in a council, such as officers and councillors.

LGA Chairman Cllr David Sparks said: “Many

GT News

IT & COMPUTNG FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR– www.governmenttechnology.co.uk

Local government purchases through the G-Cloud framework rose to £2.47m in March – up 28 per cent on the previous month. The sharp rise comes despite an overall fall in G-Cloud sales across all government organisations, including central government from £39.2 to £38.6m. The figure brings the cumulative total of local government purchases through the framework to £33.38m since it began in April 2012 – 5.97 per cent of the £559.22m total across all of government.

To date, 49 per cent of total sales by value and 58 per cent by volume have been awarded to SMEs across the whole G-Cloud framework. The government also announced that the cumulative total of purchases made through the Digital Services Framework (DSF) now stands at £14.8m.

READ MORE: tinyurl.com/qhxm98w

Cloud computing heavily trialled despite concerns Cloud computing is already in use or is being piloted in of the 103 local public service provider organisations responding to the recent Socitm IT Trends survey on cloud computing.

Factors cited by respondents as inhibiting take up include an underlying concern about the security of, and accountability for, the data and information held in/passing through cloud-based systems. 70 per cent said data protection regulations were discouraging take-up and nearly half said there are applications or IT services for which they would not use a cloud services provider.

Socitm head of research Andy Hopkirk said: “Service providers have work to do in convincing many Socitm members that their personal and corporate business risks are not increased by using cloud services to an extent that outweighs the benefits.”

councils have already got to grips with social media and are using it to communicate with their residents about things like bin collections, weather warnings and road closures.

“Digital Councils will give council communications teams help and advice as they discuss how to develop their social media presence. Councillors and councils are working at different speeds and this resource will provide a hub so we can work with everyone and learn from each other.”

READ MORE: tinyurl.com/nj8v9aa

READ MORE: tinyurl.com/owuwcyb

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Government Technology Written by Andrew Maybin, managing director, Tibus

IT & COMPUTING FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR – www.governmenttechnology.co.uk

G-CLOUD

GEE-ING UP

With a new government soon to form, Andrew Maybin, managing director of digital infrastructure and web hosting firm Tibus, looks ahead to what the next five years might hold for G-Cloud and cloud computing in the public sector A week is a long time in politics, as the old quote attributed to Harold Wilson goes. It is a trait undoubtedly shared by the technology industry. When the two sectors are combined, the landscape can change dramatically over the course of a single parliament.

You need only look back to the last general election in 2010 to hammer home that point.

At that time, ‘the Cloud’ had not really made a mark on the public consciousness and was yet to be fully embraced by government.

Arguably, it is still yet to be fully embraced by government, with the public sector often playing catch-up in the digital world.

That started to change in 2012 when the G-Cloud platform was established to streamline the public sector procurement

process for cloud computing. The Digital Marketplace – a platform through which government departments and other public sector bodies can easily buy cloud services from approved suppliers, of which my company is one, with confidence and without the need for a costly tender process – was introduced.

SO, WHAT DOES THE NEXT PARLIAMENT HAVE IN STORE FOR G-CLOUD? This article is being written without the advantage

of knowing the election result, but that might not be as big a factor as it would be in some policy areas.

Conservative MP Francis Maude had G-Cloud in his portfolio as Minister for the Cabinet Office. He feels it is not only more efficient but also more secure for public sector cloud services to be administered by approved suppliers.

“Doing things in the cloud is more secure than doing [it] ourselves. It is comforting to know where your data centres are – although in government we don’t always. But actually cloud providers live or die by their cloud security,” he said.

Tory minister pushes for private sector delivery might not seem like a massive surprise, but this goes beyond party political ideologies. Whatever the colour of the next government, it is hard to imagine a sea change in that policy.

For starters, the civil service is geared up to that way of thinking.

ly, Arguab is G-Cloudo be t still yetraced by b fully ement, with the m govern sector often c i in publ atch-up c g n i y pla ital the dig d worl

Magnus Falk, who was appointed as the government’s first deputy chief technology officer last year, used one of his first public speeches in the role to implore government to “get out of the data centre business”.

With that in mind, the first thing to expect in the next parliament is much more of G-Cloud. Total government IT costs were £4.3bn last year. Sales through G-Cloud from its inception until March 2015 were £559m. G-Cloud’s stated target was to account for 50 per cent of all IT spend by 2015. It has fallen short of that, but expect it to get much closer over the course of the next parliament, especially as long‑standing IT contracts start to expire.

LITTLE BUT MORE OFTEN In the digital age, consumers are buying little but more often. We buy a song, not the whole album. We buy an app for £1.99 rather than a computer program for £29.99. With the aforementioned IT contracts winding down, the public sector will be able to follow suit.

Multi-million pound investments in 15-year IT contracts belong to a bygone time. Expect to see IT procurement

Faster project delivery can be a big efficiency gain for the department involved. G-Cloud is designed to cut time spent on procurement and is well suited to offer fast delivery in comparison to the old way of doing things. It looks set to be the first port of call for government IT buyers wanting speed and efficiency over the course of the parliament move towards more flexible, a la carte purchases. G-Cloud is already geared up to these new consumption patterns.

In perhaps the most telling indication of the direction of travel for government IT, head of the Government Digital Service Mike Bracken wrote a final blog post on 29 March before the pre-election period came into effect on 30 March. The article was entitled: “Government as a Platform: the next phase of digital transformation.”

Bracken’s vision is for IT services to be built in such a way that those services work across government and are personalised for a specific department or requirement, whereas currently many systems are bought, built and used by a single department or entity under what he calls a “siloed” approach.

This leads to duplication and waste.

SINGLE PAYMENT SYSTEM The most obvious example of how the Government as a Platform (GaaP) idea works is payment processing. Under the GaaP approach, a single payment system would be at work whether you want to pay your council tax, dog licence or a speeding fine. The same philosophy would underpin case management, appointment booking and a host of other systems.

That is undoubtedly where we are heading.

How much of it we will see in the next parliament is a different matter. While the technology is there, it is difficult to imagine such systemic changes in five years.

Nonetheless, expect to see much more of that digital ethos becoming apparent.

Away from government, digital will continue to become less about ‘big, beige box on a desk’ computing. As citizens start to use their phones and tablets in increasingly sophisticated ways and embrace wearable computing, connected cars and the Internet of Things, this will fuel demand for public sector services to be equally accessible.

For example, the weather forecast was once something you waited to see after the news. It is now accessed immediately and on-demand via mass market apps.

That kind of ‘expectation escalator’ will have a profound effect on what citizens demand from government IT. This will be

Government Technology

IT & COMPUTNG FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR– www.governmenttechnology.co.uk

most keenly felt in local government and the agencies responsible for land, vehicles and childcare, where an expectation to adapt and deliver according to digital norms will be most apparent.

One way in which public sector bodies will be able to satisfy that demand is through personalisation. When reading the news or doing our shopping, we now expect the content to be tailored to us.

Things like our location, our previous purchases and our preferred choice of salutation all go towards creating a more personalised digital experience.

While core government IT systems cannot easily tailored to the individual, front end customisation would create this impression for the citizen. G-Cloud is the ideal tool for IT departments to have a presentation layer added to their core systems. This is a quick-win in terms of improving usability and meeting customer demand. The personalisation process is set to become more prevalent as GaaP takes hold but, as we’ve established, that could be beyond the next parliament.

FASTER PROJECT DELIVERY Finally, this parliament could see an end to – or at least a big reduction in – the dreaded delayed IT project. Time to deployment will go from being a source of professional pride for the departments, project managers and suppliers involved to a key benchmark in delivery assessment Faster project delivery can be a big efficiency gain for the department involved. Given the need for efficiency savings across the board, speed of delivery will go from being a nice bonus to a critical key performance indicator over the next five years.

G-Cloud is designed to cut time spent on procurement and is well suited to offer fast delivery in comparison to the old way of doing things. It looks set to be the first port of call for government IT buyers wanting speed and efficiency over the course of the parliament.  FURTHER INFORMATION digitalmarketplace.blog.gov.uk

Volume 13.3 | GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE

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G-CLOUD 6

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agileKRC is a training and consultancy company which specialises in agile approaches; helping customers transform the way their organisations manage projects, programmes and deliver business change. agileKRC has been around since the mid-nineties – in fact since before the birth of the agile manifesto. The company provides agile training and consultancy services to hundreds of organisations; from county councils to the Ministry of Defence, from The British Red Cross to British Airways.

Throughout this time it has been a pioneering company and has always led from the front, with KRC’s Chief Executive, Keith Richards, lead authoring three of the most popular agile project frameworks in the UK today: DSDM, Agile Project Management and more recently, PRINCE2 Agile. agileKRC is currently providing

In the current environment, those responsible for information security in organisations need to respond quickly to the problems of increasing cyber security threats.

This needs to be done against a background of significantly greater awareness of information security.

Therefore pressures to allow incidents that would damage the reputation and effectiveness of the organisation are removed.

Cornwell provides Security & Information Risk Advice and Information Assurance (IA) Architecture support for the design, development, accreditation and implementation of systems.

The companys contribution will typically include fitting business requirements for security into the agile agenda and mitigating any risks identified.

This ensures conformance to the relevant security policies, balancing information risk against cost of countermeasures ensuring a proportionate response to cyber security threats and SPF compliance.

Training and coaching for successful projects

agile training and coaching for Buckinghamshire County Council who had this to say about working with agileKRC: “Over the last year agileKRC have been instrumental in supporting Buckinghamshire County Council adopt an agile approach to project management. Their professional and collaborative approach has ensured that the training delivered is contextualised to our needs and delivered real value to projects across the organisation.”

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01934 710 332 www.agilekrc.com enquiries@agilekrc.com

Cyber security services for all business needs

G-CLOUD 6

G-CLOUD 6

IQ Public Sector, formerly known as Sand Resources, are experts in the provision of services to clients across the public sector.

The company has been supporting customers for over 15 years within healthcare, life sciences and research, central government, local government and the education sectors.

IQ Public Sector’s specialist consultants are aligned to each of these specific areas to ensure that the company’s service is always tailored to each client’s technical, cultural, project and individual needs.

IQ Public Sector is a part of InterQuest Group, an award winning specialist business focused on analytics, ecommerce and digital web technologies with an unparalleled understanding within the company’s areas of expertise.

InterQuest has recently been confirmed onto the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) digital marketplace, G-Cloud

Sequence is an ideas-driven digital agency specialising in transactional and mobile experiences. Operating for 20 years, the company has worked with organisations in government, procurement and tourism sectors.

With a team of 55 and offices in Cardiff and London, Sequence produces digital solutions that engage, excite and transact online, always with a focus on client return on investment. The agency boasts a strong technical pedigree, partnering with market leaders including Microsoft, Sitecore, Umbraco and Xamarin.

Building upon an extensive back office skill set, its awardwinning UX and creative teams are dedicated to designing remarkable user experiences which helps brands and businesses thrive online.

Coupled with a comprehensive hosting offering through Microsoft Azure, the company delivers full end-to-end solutions, ensuring that organisations have access

IQ Public Sector - Experts in provision of services

framework, for 13 different service offerings under Lot 4 - Specialist Cloud Services (SCS). Five of these are standard services with the rest being bespoke services put together for each of its specialist practices to include; Interim Management, Digital Strategy, Cloud Services, Mobility Services, Test Strategy & Consultancy, Business Intelligence & Information Management and ERP Transformation.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01892 553 203 www.interquestgroup.com linton.ward@itqps.com

Products & Services

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Services include the specification and support for remediation work to bring environments into line with compliance requirements, including preparation of the required documentation.

Cornwell prepares and updates Risk Management and Accreditation Documentation Set (RMADS) and SyOPs for presentation to the PGA and user departmental accreditors.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01372 454648 www.cornwellbc.co.uk dominic.cornwell@cornwellbc.co.uk

Sequence - Diverse digital solutions to help brands

to the best technology whilst speaking to their customers.

Combining this with ongoing client support and relationships, Sequence prides itself on keeping solutions ahead of the game.

Sequence differentiates itself through a focus on an audience first approach rather than device first. Focussing on cross-device digital solutions and cross-platform technology, Sequence provides the right solution for the right audience, transforming organisations through digital experiences.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: (0)207 043 4555 www.sequence.co.uk

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Products & Services

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

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eSynergy Solutions is a leading provider of IT resourcing services who operate within the public sector and assist delivering on technology and digital transformation projects.

The company offers these services directly to central and local government departments, through its partnerships with third party service providers and various open source and proprietary software vendors. eSynergy focus on five core areas: Digital and Technology Transformation, Development and Architecture, DevOps and Cloud, Big Data and IoT, and Cyber Security.

The company provide top talent to enable technology and digital transformation, as well as consulting services, with a focus on using open source and cloud technologies. eSynergy has a proven capacity to deliver talent with agile, lean, open source and infrastructure skills to assist in the transformation of leading organisations. eSynergy associates are flexible

Co-founded by Sir Bob Geldof, Groupcall was originally created to improve emergency communication between schools and parents and is now one of the market leaders in communication and data extraction tools.

The product portfolio has increased dramatically since its launch in 2002 and now includes automated data extraction, aggregation and provisioning tools; identity management solutions; complete school and business communication solutions; and Emerge, the powerful app enabling schools to have their school data instantly and securely available in the palm of their hand for access anytime, anywhere.

Groupcall takes data security and safeguarding issues very seriously, currently having over 5,000 schools, local authorities, businesses, charities and other organisations

Experts in open source and cloud resourcing

and security cleared to meet department requirements.

Within technology and digital transformation projects, eSynergy can provide resource for a portfolio of key services, these include: Cloud infrastructure services, open source development, database services, testing services, BI and big data services, architecture, product management and business analysis.

The company also offers delivery, programme and project management, security, support, service integration and management.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0207 444 4080 G-Cloud@esynergy-solutions.co.uk www.esynergy-solutions.co.uk

G-CLOUD 6

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Workpro helps organisations effectively record, process, track and report all cases, including complaints, enquiries, issues and HR casework.

The software improves service delivery, keeps costs in check and ensures procedures are correctly followed when handling potentially confidential and timesensitive cases. Crucially, it helps organisations pro-actively learn from casework, identifying trends, root causes and where savings and improvements can be made.

Workpro is developed by Computer Application Services, a long-standing supplier of case management solutions to the UK public sector. Workpro is the result of many years’ experience, with regular user feedback informing product development. Workpro is a secure, robust product with exceptional functionality.

Workpro Software as a

Next Ventures is a multi-award winning niche Large Enterprise Technology focused recruitment business headquartered in London.

Established in 2001, this pure-play IT focused recruitment business who delivers specialist contract and permanent staffing services throughout the world, has achieved impressive progressive year on year growth since its inception.

It has been added as a supplier of Specialist Cloud Services in the latest G-Cloud 6 procurement framework due to its proven provision of skilled technical resources to support the public sectors’ key digital initiatives in areas including Cloud, Infrastructure, Agile Development, Testing, Security and SOA. Next Ventures has 12 dedicated recruitment teams, comprised of Consultants who are technology

Case management and complaints handling

84

Working to improve communication in schools

Service (G Cloud 6 Lot 3) comes pre-configured with workflow, templates and reports, incorporating industry best practice case management ‘out of the box’. It models business processes to ensure efficiency, quality and consistency in the handling of all casework.

While the built-in features suit many organisations as is, it is an extremely flexible and scalable product which can be configured to exact business requirements.

Organisations looking for further configuration support can access Workpro Case Management Implementation Services (Lot 4).

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0131 449 7071 www.workpro.com

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

using their systems, with data on over six million students, parents, staff and other contacts. The company is ISO 27001 certified.

In addition, Groupcall provides the technology chosen by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection command of the National Crime Agency (CEOP) to power the UK Child Rescue Alert system which enables the UK police to immediately alert members of the public in the case of abducted children.

All the Groupcall solutions can be found on the G-Cloud Framework.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 8506 6190 sbaines@groupcall.com www.groupcall.com

Niche Large Enterprise Technology recruitment

experts respectively, focusing on niche Large Enterprise Technologies that include SAP, Business Analytics, Oracle Technologies, Business Intelligence, Data Warehousing and Big Data, SOA Middleware EAI and BPM, Salesforce, Infrastructure and Cloud, eCommerce Technologies Web and Mobile Development, Software Development and Testing, Embedded Software, Financial Services Applications, Senior Appointments Strategy and Architecture.

Enquiries on Cloud related recruitment services can be made at: https://www. digitalmarketplace.service.gov. uk/service/5797565882695680 FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0207 549 4030 gcloud6@next-ventures.com www.next-ventures.com

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G-CLOUD 6

Real world problems solved Enabling IT related by real world solutions change across the board ITAMS is a specialist in IT & software asset management services and solutions. Since 2002 the company has been delivering consulting, technology and managed services to a number of high profile public sector clients (including local and central government), and the private sector.

Through G-Cloud 6, ITAMS is delivering Software as a Service and Specialist Cloud Services This includes Enterprise Licence Management (ELM 360) - A portfolio of end-to-end services delivered via a cloud-based platform and which helps endusers reduce the risk and cost of managing software licences across disparate and often complex enterprises. These include tactical advice and full-outsource services, tailored to a client’s level of licensing maturity, internal resources, capabilities and priorities.

Additionally, ITAMS delivers Advisory Services - High value, low cost, short term engagements that are vendor and service

provider agnostic. These navigate a client through the challenges of initiating, rolling out and running a successful IT Asset Management or Licence Management service.

They include cloud implications and help end-users tackle software licensing challenges.

Finally, via SAM Training ITAMS run IAITAM authorised training courses for Software and Hardware Asset Managers which include advice on cloud implementations.

ITAMS also offers independent and specialist advice on technology, process, governance and resourcing challenges the public sector may face with a modern cloud-based infrastructure.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 08704 050508 www.itamsolutions.com

Atkins is a recognised supplier on the Crown Commercial Service’s G-Cloud framework, in addition to other frameworks. The company brings deep technical expertise and substantial experience of delivering ICT enabled change to a variety of clients across different market sectors.

Government is a crucial sector for Atkins. The company specialises in transforming government services as both a service delivery partner and as a client side consultant. Atkins bring unrivalled expertise across a number of central government service areas, spanning digital services, IT enabled change and procurement.

Atkins is unlike other management consultancies.

Because of its wider, real world expertise – delivering

G CLOUD 6

G-CLOUD 6

Specialist Interim Provider Alpine is an independent SME formed in 2003 to provide specialist interim and advisory services to the UK public sector.

Its approach is based on the company core values of integrity and transparency, for which it was awarded a CCG procurement efficiency award.

A known and trusted provider to the public sector with a reputation for delivery of high impact, strategic programmes across CCG, local government and regional bodies, Alpine was awarded “Gold” for the Procurement Standard for EDI and is accredited ISO27001, ISO14001 and ISO9001.

As a supplier to various public sector frameworks, including G-Cloud since 2012, its services are available under Lots 3 & 4 and include Managed Professional Services, Programme/Project Management, Architecture Design/

IntaForensics is the largest single provider of digital forensic services to the UK’s Law Enforcement community, and the fastest growing digital forensics company in the UK. As a major provider of services to the legal and corporate markets of digital forensic, investigation and litigation support services and consultancy, IntaForensics has grown substantially and continues to expand both its service locations and technical competencies.

IntaForensics’ services help organisations to combat the effects of cybercrime of all types, data theft and many forms of criminal activity which affect our society and organisations. Not only do IntaForensics provide fast, economical and effective forensic services, but it also offers a full range of advisory services and consulting alongside guaranteed service levels to help organisations prevent and remediate the impact of incidents.

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transformative projects and making strategy happen across public and private sectors – the company knows how to implement change in practice, not just on paper. Atkins get on board at the beginning of the project and see it through to the end, no matter the challenges.

Customers find that Atkins set high standards of integrity and ethics for its people, and the relationship that its consultants build with clients is essential in achieving the results organisations strive for. When you choose Atkins, you choose an approach that’s designed to fit you and your business perfectly.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +44 1372 752 180 www.atkinsglobal.com/mc mcsolutions@atkinsglobal.com

Providing Interim Solutions IntaForensics – Piecing to the public sector digital evidence together

Build, Digital Services, Advisory, Transition Management, Supplier & Commercial Lead, Cloud Strategy & Adoption, Organisational Design, Bespoke Leadership and Workforce Development and Business Analysis.

The vision formed in 2003 of creating a business where the “customer chooses to return” means that Alpine’s focus is primarily on delivering exceptional service. In almost 12 years of trading over 84 per cent of customers have returned more than once.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0203 478 1346 info@alpine.eu.com www.alpine.eu.com

The company’s large technical team work from its secure offices and laboratories in London, Leeds, Warrington and Warwickshire, conducting expert technical forensic investigations in line with international and UK standards economically and to the highest technical standards.

Whether it’s computer or mobile phone forensics, support with a cell site investigation, forensic data recovery or providing expert witness in court, IntaForensics has a highly regarded reputation for delivering thorough, detailed and accurate analysis.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0247 771 7780 info@intaforensics.com www.intaforensics.com

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G CLOUD 6

G-CLOUD 6

Reduce software risks and Everbridge – Unified embrace a world of devices critical communications Centre4 Testing is a specialist UK provider of software testing services. Since 2004, the company has helped clients navigate the minefield of risks when implementing new systems and integrating existing applications.

Centre4 Testing’s experts improve processes, support test management and help leverage test automation to underpin the quality assurance of critical programmes.

The company has an unblemished record in deploying hundreds of testers to work on successful public sector projects. Engagements are either on a consultancy basis, longterm managed service or, for web and app projects, its hugely popular On-Demand Cloud Testers solution.

What devices, operating systems and browsers are used to access your website or application?

How will it perform? With over 10,000 Android devices alone, it’s impossible to maintain a test lab or use simulators to prove real-world compatibility

testing on possible permutations.

Instead, clients use Centre4 Testing’s fully-managed Cloud Testers solution, where it designs test scripts and its burstable cloud of expert testers use every combination of device, operating system and browser required.

The company includes accessibility compliance and as the UK leader in using the SOASTA platform, can simulate up to one million concurrent users. Centre4 Testing will also produce real-time dashboards and comprehensive test results, proving the quality and performance of software.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 3697 1444 mail@centre4testing.com www.centre4testing.com

G-CLOUD 6

G-CLOUD 6

If they do, Bridewell Consulting is an ISO27001 certified, G-Cloud consultancy and an emerging force in the delivery of information security services to the public sector.

As its clients will be pleased to recommend, Bridewell Consulting delivers quality Information Security and Assurance, Cyber Security, IT and Information Risk, Data Privacy and Security Testing services at competitive prices.

What makes Bridewell Consulting unique is the employment of the best industry certified security consultants, its methods and tools, and cost efficient delivery model.

Bridewell consultants will have public sector exposure and most often experience gained from industry leading systems integrators and the Big 4. The company will have the experience of working through all phases of a project lifecycle; from design and development, to implementation and run, to reviewing and assuring and even to decommissioning.

IFS provides cost-effective software and services that helps public sector organisations to reduce costs and improve efficiency. The company focuses on the three core areas of enterprise resource planning (ERP), enterprise asset management (EAM), and enterprise service management (ESM).

Industry best practice is embedded within IFS Applications including; dynamic scheduling and mobile solutions to optimise the workforce in the field and a projectcentric approach driving efficient performance analysis, activity, cost and resource management.

For any software requirement to manage services, workforce operations, projects, assets, and financial management, IFS has a proven and cost effective offering.

As pressures on public sector budgets increase, efficient service and costs are key. IFS can assist organisations in reducing costs, predicting, forecasting and reacting to change, allowing improved agility and efficiency.

Do your security concerns keep you awake at night?

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Everbridge is the leading critical communications platform trusted by corporations and communities of all sizes to connect the right people for real-time collaboration and response. Connecting more than 100 million people and internet-enabled devices, the company assures that secure, compliant communications are delivered and confirmed, whether locally or globally.

When seconds count, organisations rely on Everbridge to notify people to evacuate, alert the right on-call team to fix an IT issue and safely share important patient orders. An informed and engaged community is a strong community. This is why Everbridge built the leading critical communications platform trusted to provide community outreach

Bridewell’s resources enable the company to effectively meet any security requirement customers have; no matter how big or small, simple or complex.

For example, Bridewell is currently engaged by a key central government department. Its is working in partnership, delivering information assurance audits across its IT estate, reviewing services developed and delivered by the department and its suppliers.

Bridewell Consulting is delivering the cost savings and efficiencies desired.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01189 255 084 www.bridewellconsulting.com bc@bridewellconsulting.com

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

and emergency notification capabilities that bring residents, educators, public safety, business and community leaders together.

Each week, Everbridge delivers millions of public safety calls, emails, texts and social media messages for over 8,500 public safety and government agencies.

When organisations need to communicate and collaborate during critical events, Everbridge provides the richest feature set on the market, with best-in-class integrated social media, threat, and weather monitoring and alerting; unmatched mobility; integrated GIS mapping; and globally-local call origination.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0800 035 0081 www.everbridge.com

IFS - Helping to reduce costs and increase efficiency

The IFS range of SaaS solutions for public sector, available via the G-Cloud Framework, can be run as a service or on premise and can be implemented quickly, enabling a quick return on investment.

Founded in 1983, IFS is a public company with over 2,700 employees. IFS supports more than 2,400 customers worldwide from its network of local offices and through a growing ecosystem of partners.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01494 428900 Tel: 01494 428985 www.ifsworld.com/uk

FLOODING

FLOODS

AquaticEngineering is an Isle of Wight company operating out of a modern 6000ft2 factory in which flood and rescue systems are fabricated and dispatched.

The company is a leading designer, producer and installer of silt curtains, booms, floating structures and other innovations for the civil engineering, utility and environmental sectors.

Production includes silt curtains, absorbent oil and pollution booms, water filled barriers, water filled coffer dams, inflatable door barriers, inflatable rescue pontoons and inflatable floating stretchers – all have application during times of natural disaster especially during flooding, making them ideal.

Offering a truly nationwide 24/7 emergency fabrication, response and installation service, makes the

Siltation, aquatic weed, invasive vegetation and erosion are all issues that arrive seemingly without much alarm and over time continually worsen resulting in serious problems.

When they reach critical levels and are dealt with in one go, the costs can be dramatic and add undesirable impacts to the site.

This includes increased disturbance to the landscape and the need to close more of the site from the public for extended periods.

Ebsford Environmental aims to reduce these concerns by implementing long term, targeted improvements to help break big problems down to manageable cost effective elements each year.

This is done with the ultimate aim of avoiding highly expensive lump sum projects now or in the future.

With a range of highly sensitive techniques for vegetation management and aquatic restoration, including vacuum suction and the innovative ‘Truxor’ machine, Ebsford always

Aquatic Engineering – on water support service

company your ideal first point of contact. Producing many kilometres of barriers each year makes the company the premier supplier for inland waterways and estuaries.

The company also fabricates some of the most innovative, effective and environmental sustainable solutions to flood contamination from a wide range of pollutants, whether water is a modest 30cm or so right up to almost 2m depths there is a product and solution available.

All systems are fabricated and many unique to AquaticEngineering and cannot be purchased from third party sources.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +44 (0) 1983 616668 info@aquaticengineering.co.uk www.aquaticengineering.co.uk

Aquatic restoration and vegetation management

FLOODS

FLOODS

Crocodile Flood Solutions is dedicated to providing its customers with the products and services they require. Its team of experts source some of the best, most reliable flood defence and protection products from around the world in order to help clients defend themselves, their personal possessions and their property from the devastating effects of flood damage.

Crocodile Flood Solutions offers a free consultation service anywhere in the UK to help identify solutions for reducing the risk of flooding in the future.

Whether clients require home flood solutions or commercial property flood solutions, the company’s team of experts are on hand to offer you 24/7 client support.

Gripple is the world-beating manufacturer of innovative wire joining and tensioning products. It is renowned for providing cuttingedge, cost-effective solutions including ground anchoring systems in erosion control and slope stabilisation applications.

The Terra-Lock™ system has been developed for fast, easy installation and immediate security and is provided in a ready-to-use kit specific to the project requirements and geotechnical conditions. The Terra-Lock™ Anchors are designed to provide drive efficiency and maximum load capacity across a wide range of applications.

The variety of Terra-Lock™ terminations acts to secure and maintain the tension within the system. The high load anchoring pin is designed to hold all types of turf reinforcement matting, erosion blankets, geotextiles and landscaping fabrics. Finally the variety of installation tools ensures that the Terra-Lock™ system is installed with ease and efficiency.

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fit the right tool to the job, whatever the project entails.

With changes in procurement now meaning local authorities can enter into ‘innovation partnerships’ with specialist organisations, now is an ideal time for government organisations to approach companies such as Ebsford Environmental and gain invaluable advice on flood prevention through low impact sustainable technology.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01924 802 190 www.ebsford.co.uk

Protection and top quality Ground breaking flood solutions solutions from Gripple

The prime objective of the company is to offer affordable flood solutions to anyone that needs help finding a solution to this ever increasing problem. One of its latest products is the New 4G Composite Flood Door which is a secured by design product and comes in a variety of colours and styles.

Crocodile Flood Solutions prides itself with excellent customer service, looking after its clients every step of the way – starting with a free site survey down to the installation and aftercare.

Please take a look at the company’s customer reviews on Trust pilot.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 094 1281 www.crocodilefs.co.uk

Gripple provides engineering design support to ensure you specify the optimum TerraLock™ system to meet your project requirements. Once ground characteristics have been established, our technical team can calculate anchor loads and design performance; whether through initial site evaluation, preparation of technical drawings, supporting submittals or onsite testing to validate designs.

The Gripple Technical Support Team can work with you at every stage of a project to realise the complete turn-key solutions.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0114 275 2255 www.gripple.com info@gripple.com

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FLOODS

FLOODS

Marsh Industries is a UK owned business making a big impact in the off mains drainage market.

From its base in rural Northamptonshire, Marsh now supplies major contractors, utilities and merchants across the UK construction sector.

Operating from a new purpose built production plant, the company heavily invested in EN12566 product testing and arguably holds the most comprehensive portfolio of CE marked products in Europe.

Employing over 30 people the family business has one of the most modern and cleanest production plants for GRP manufacturing.

Steve Boyer, managing director, says: “We needed to have an extremely flexible production plan with short lead times for our customers to secure business from their competition.”

This simple and effective approach has enabled the company to secure against fierce competition lucrative overseas contracts both in Europe and further afield.

The Hillblock represents a major advance in shoreline and river bank protection.

It’s a highly innovative and unique revetment block that uses proven technology.

The patented design of this concrete block is used to line slopes and it significantly reduces the impact of waves and wave run-up compared to existing types of shore protection.

The Hillblock’s shape and mass not only make it cheaper to produce but also ensure that the slope is more stable, making them better for the environment and easier to put in place.

Each revetment reduces wave run-up on the slope. But due to rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events, higher tides with bigger waves are becoming more common.

With high wave run-up on traditional revetment, the hinterland is often inadequately protected against the driving force of the water.

Marsh Industries impact mains drainage in UK

Lianda Phillips, commercial manager, says “Many of our competitors have reduced their sales and technical support over the last 18 months. We have done the opposite, there is nothing better than face to face contact, our RIBA and Barbour Index profile help engineers, when a contract is worth £20K plus personal touch is needed to ensure we fully understand the complexity of the projects.”

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01933 654582 www.marshindustries.co.uk sales@marshindustries.co.uk

FLOODS

Specialists in soil erosion control, bioengineering and soil stabilisation Greenfix employs a team of experts who specialise in all three disciplines of soil stabilisation, erosion control and bioengineering.

Established in 2007, Greenfix has designed and delivered solutions for a vast array of small building and large commercial projects across the UK and Ireland.

The Geoweb cellular confinement system is perfect for load support, tree root protection, slope protection and earth retention applications. The Greenfix range of bioengineering products provides solutions for watercourses, lagoon and lake construction, vegetation establishment and sediment control.

The company’s erosion control solutions are designed and delivered through a mix of Greenfix expert advice and product range including pre-seeded and nonseeded matting, turf reinforcement matting and erosion control mats.

With over 50 years combined expertise, Greenfix will work with

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customers every step of the way, be it advising on what materials will contribute to a successful project or working with customers using the company’s bespoke software to create vegetated and non-vegetated MSE designs based on the Geoweb system for reinforced slopes, and for gravity and geogrid-reinforced walls.

Greenfix provides an expert and personal service helping customers deliver the most effective solution within budget.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01608 666 027 www.greenfix.co.uk info@greenfix.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

The new standard in coastal protection

Hillblock has some very unique properties that make it far more appealing. Aside from the design producing stability, it produces wave run up reduction of up to 30 per cent. A stable dike using less concrete up to 50 per cent allows for a reduced environmental impact.

The combination of greater wave abatement and more stability makes the Hillblock perfect for reducing erosion.

FURTHER INFORMATION Hillblock B.V. Tel: +3110-2052770 www.hillblock.com info@hillblock.com

FLOODS

Family created flood protection solutions Flood Protection Solutions, established in 2012, is the sole UK distributor of the Water-Gate barrier. The company was set up after a Water-Gate barrier protected the family home from flooding in 2012. The family had previously suffered extensive flooding in 2007.

The barrier was designed by Daniel Dery, a brilliant industrial designer. Daniel has observed large scale flooding in Manitoba and he considered using the incredibly dynamic water to actually stop the water. Consequently, Water-Gate, a system of ingenious close-fitting tarpaulin in which water pours in, providing a self-deploying and incredibly strong stabilised water barrier was invented.

Daniel founded Mega- Secur in 1999 in Quebec and the WaterGate Flood Control Barrier is now marketed around the world.

The Water-Gate is unique in the way that once rolled out, it self deploys. The water lifts the top of the barrier and weighs the base down, forming a seal. The

weight of the holds the water back. By utilising this unique selfopening method, the Water-Gate reduces the effort and number of people needed to deploy the system, making this a truly rapid flood or water diversion barrier, which can even be driven over when deployed but not in use.

Contact the company via the details below, or email enquiries@ floodprotectionsolutions.co.uk.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 07850 498568 Tel: 07792 750791 www.floodprotectionsolutions.co.uk

INSULATION

DESIGN & BUILD

The Wall-Lag group of companies have been engaged in cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and draughtproofing since 1974, and more recently External and Internal Wall Insulation.

The company holds all of the necessary qualifications to deal with all kinds of authorities and housing associations, and can cope with contracts from £100 to £1 million pounds.

Based in Mold, North Wales, WallLag covers an area which includes Merseyside, Wirral, Cheshire, Shropshire and all of North Wales.

Other divisions of the group include a renewable’s department, which specialises in solar PV, air source heat pumps, solar thermal and boiler replacements.

Snowdonia windows and doors department are the oldest continuous manufacturer of PVC’U windows, doors, conservatories and orangeries in the whole of the UK.

The £22million remodelling and refurbishment of the 1930s civic building and 1970s office extension to Wiltshire County Hall in Trowbridge was undertaken to consolidate the majority of Wiltshire Council’s 95 offices into four hubs.

A major requirement was to reduce the energy consumption by 40 per cent. The project is one of the refurbishment projects within the UK on target for an ‘excellent’ BREEAM rating.

The designs needed to be engineered to meet thermal requirements. The solution for most windows was a matching balanced sash design that permits access to the existing window. Some of the windows were very large, up to 3.5m high and 1.6m wide, and a heavy duty frame from the Series 90 range was required to support the glass sizes. Most were glazed with a low emissivity glass that markedly improves the thermal efficiency.

Renewable energy and insulation specialists

It also provides and installs garage doors, shop fronts, fascia’s, gutters, cladding and insulated flat roofs.

Established now for over 40 years, this group of companies has been ISO 9000/2000 (with its predecessor BS 5750) for over 24 years for its management systems, and even employs its own inhouse EPC energy consultants.

Free no obligation surveys, advise and recommendations are available from industry experienced professional staff, who have been at the forefront of energy conservation projects for over 40 years.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01352 758812 www.wall-lag.co.uk enquiries@wall-lag.co.uk

Supreme energy efficiency for County Hall

EVENTS

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT

The Planning Convention 2015 is an event not to be missed. Taking place in central London on Tuesday 7 July 2015, the day will feature an inspiring line-up of expert speakers, with key note plenary presentations and break-out sessions.

The theme this year, The New Politics for Planning, will set the agenda at the start of what is likely to be another period of challenges, following the UK parliament election in May - and with other elections in the UK and Ireland due in 2016.

A packed programme will examine local and neighbourhood planning, sub-national strategic planning and cooperation, and the changing relationship between the UK’s nations and regions.

The Planning Convention will discuss and debate new forms of engagement, environmental protection and the global priorities for planning. Speakers and delegates will also reflect on

Filofile has a proven track record of offsite document storage and management services.

The company collects and registers boxes, stores, retrieves on a variety of levels and ultimately carries out the confidential destruction (with certificates of destruction) of records past their retention period.

Whether customers are short of space, moving, trying not to move, wanting to enhance data security, traceability or outsource records management to allow staff to concentrate on what they do best, Filofile can help.

Filofile works closely with the legal, financial and health sectors, and therefore understands that confidentiality and security are paramount. The company’s premises are linked to the police and fire services, and are monitored 24/7, with CCTV inside and out. For every document movement, there is a time, date and signature recorded.

Filofile also advises its clients on archiving matters, and where

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In the Council Chamber, which has some of the largest windows, a single monumental hinged casement design was chosen.

This was a big challenge as each casement weighs about 100kg.

The Series 50 range was specified with a bronze anodised finish to complement the panelling.

Selectaglaze is a leading specialist in secondary glazing. The company was established in 1966 and was granted the Royal Warrant in 2004.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01727 837271 enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk www.selectaglaze.co.uk

Planning Convention 2015 - Document management that thinks inside the box New politics for planning

the changes going on across the UK in terms of shifting powers and responsibilities, and provide attendees with intelligence on how these are likely to affect planning policy and practice.

Steve Quartermain from the DCLG also returns for a much anticipated interactive Question & Answer session with delegates.

Prices start from £195+VAT. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 3627 4605 info@rtpiconferences.co.uk www.theplanningconvention.co.uk

required the establishment of a records management procedure.

This allows companies and organisations to address their legal, professional, business and procedural responsibilities towards the Data Protection Act of 1998 and the Freedom of Information Act of 2000, not to mention legislation relating to your sector.

Filofile is secure, traceable, convenient, cost effective and caring. Filofile is thinking inside of the box.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 602 7006 www.filofile.co.uk

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ENERGY

ENERGY

Tadea UK provides specialist project management and advice services.

Established in 2002, the company’s expertise includes energy efficiency, renewable technologies, and sustainable transport.

In August 2013 Tadea became the first employee-owned company in Teesside, transferring ownership to employees to ensure that its staff members form the heart of the organisation’s decision-making processes.

Managing and delivering projects across the whole of the UK, Tadea works closely with individuals, communities, businesses and the public sector, helping them to reduce the amount of energy used at home, at work and whilst travelling.

The Tadea vision is to have an energy efficient world in which the sustainable use of resources is a way of life for all.

Consequently, the company’s

As a leading energy and building solutions provider, InBuild works in partnership with local authorities and housing associations to help them meet their carbon reduction targets in the most cost effective way. Support is provided to assist them in building a low carbon, sustainable future for their local area.

For most housing providers, the starting point for a carbon reduction plan is for InBuild to carry out an assessment of the existing housing stock.

Based on the results of this assessment, and in consultation with the housing provider, InBuild will suggest strategies for improving energy efficiency and carbon reduction, alleviating fuel poverty and developing renewable energy solutions.

Tadea UK - Helping you to live and work sustainably

mission is to work with individuals, communities and businesses to manage their use of energy and resources so that lives are improved, communities empowered and businesses can prosper.

As an employee owned organisation, Tadea is passionate about being ethical and caring in its approach to staff, customers and partners. It is innovative in its belief that there is always a better way, and considers itself as a valued partner because the best things happen when companies work together.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 602 9569 www.tadea.com

Building partnerships with UK housing providers

Potential funding streams are investigated and presented along with costs, projected energy savings and payback periods. Prior to implementation, InBuild ensures that community liaison is dealt with effectively and transparently so that tenants understand the benefits of the measures being installed.

Finally, InBuild will arrange the installation of those energy saving measures identified as being the most effective. By focusing on technical excellence, quality workmanship and exceptional customer service, InBuild is the partner of choice to housing providers looking to build a sustainable future.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01268 72 44 55 www.www.inbuild.co.uk

HOUSING

ENERGY

Boiler supply and expertise Delivering energy efficiency to everyone from Robey Wellman Companies across the globe are calling on the expertise of Robey Wellman Boilers & Furnaces to supply steam and hot water boilers on a hire basis.

The commercial and industrial boiler manufacturer operates an extensive hire fleet supplying boilers and all ancillary equipment required for a complete installation, with an increasing demand for its service coming from overseas.

Director Leigh Bryan said: “We provide a fast, efficient and professional service for planned or emergency boiler hire. Boilers, both static and trailerised, are available for long or short-term hire and can be delivered and installed in the minimum amount of time and at competitive rates – whether at home or abroad.”

Mr Bryan continued: “Our boiler hire is backed by a dedicated customer support team meeting the needs of clients. This is especially important when it’s an emergency. A hire scenario can arise when there’s scheduled

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maintenance on main plant, delays in build projects, or even because it’s a convenient way to control capital expenditure. All of those situations we can deal with.”

The company has teams of skilled service engineers, certified to industry recognised standards, who provide commissioning, servicing and maintenance of boiler plant and associated equipment.

Robey Wellman is also a worldwide supplier of boiler OEM spares; models include Sygnette, Ygnette, Euronox, Robey-Loos, Lincoln Imps, Danks, B&E, Optimagas and Allen Ygnis.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +44 (0) 121 543 0000 www.wellman-group.com

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

Sustainable Energy Scotland puts its energy into optimising domestic, retail and commercial energy efficiency. As official, experienced Green Deal assessors and installers, the company are part of the move to end fuel poverty and make the UK more energy efficient.

Whether customers are interested in making old properties warmer and more affordable, or building from scratch, the comapny’s start-to-finish service delivers quality assessment, advice and implementation customers can count on.

Going above and beyond the market norm, Sustainable Energy Scotland invests time in seeking out product innovations, funding opportunities and ways to deliver the best possible customer service;

helping to make the country’s homes, commercial buildings and businesses more comfortable, affordable and maintainable.

And, of course, the company is helping the planet too, which makes everyone feel a little warmer inside.

Specialising in internal wall, loft, cavity wall, room in roof and cellulose fibre insulation, Redwell heating and solar PV, Sustainable Energy Scotland is working with a growing number of councils, housing associations and public sector organisations who truly value the company’s professional, ethical, friendly and trustworthy approach.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 07825884917 graham@sescotland.co.uk www.sescotland.co.uk

HOUSING

HOUSING

Homeowners across the country are worried about the rising cost of their energy bills, but finding new products that can reduce their bills can be confusing. Energy Saving Trust Listed is an online directory of the most efficient insulation products for consumers and supply chain professionals.

The Energy Saving Trust is an independent and impartial organisation, trusted and recognised as an authority on energy usage and efficiency measures that works to help everyone save energy every day.

They work with industry and manufacturers to help improve supply chain and consumer understanding of the benefits of installing energy efficient home appliances, heating systems and controls, lighting, and insulation.

Energy Saving Trust Listed is an online database where buyers, specifiers, and housing and construction professionals can quickly find independently

Energystore has been trading for over 40 years, insulating thousands of homes with both cavity and loft insulation, helping to make homes warmer and reduce carbon emissions.

The company has plants both north and south of the border producing insulation bead, as well as its own installation teams in the north, and a network of installers throughout Ireland.

These teams work to the company’s accredited system design. Energystore is certified by all the relevant associations and bodies in the UK and Ireland, including the IAB and the BBA. Over the last few years, Energystore has conducted extensive research with UUJ and SERC, partially funded by Invest NI, into the effectiveness of cavity wall insulation present in the Northern Ireland housing stock.

This research is backed up by the use of boroscopes and thermal imaging to fully understand the performance of existing

Find energy efficient insulation easily

verified insulation products that help people save energy.

Energy Saving Trust Listed covers all insulation measures covering cavity wall, loft, external and internal wall insulation, roof and rafter, floor, pipe and hybrid wall insulations, as well as radiator reflector panels.

Find energy efficient insulation products you can trust with EST Online - the free, searchable database at energysavingtrust. org.uk/est-online.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 7222 0101 certification@est.org.uk www.energysavingtrust.org.uk

Providing warmer houses through loft insulation

HOUSING

HOUSING

Warmfill is an established market leader in the bonded bead market for Cavity Wall insulation. Warmfill manufactures airpop bead and supplies the United Kingdom market through its extensive network of partner installers.

As a company, Warmfill espouses a Fabric First methodology to maximise financial returns, energy savings and carbon reductions for its clients. Warmfill promotes best practice and has been to the fore with innovation in the sector and has extensive experience in both public sector and private sector work.

Warmfill’s status as a System Designer and Green Deal Provider, allows quality control of the supply chain to ensure its clients receive

South Coast Insulation was established in May 2010. The company’s two directors have over 60 years of experience in the field of thermal insulation between them, as they worked in the industry at a time when cavity wall insulation was a new and innovative process.

South Coast Insulation’s services include: Cavity Wall Insulation – Thermabead, Loft Insulation, Cavity Extraction, Roof Tile Ventilation, Internal Wall Insulation and Repointing.

The company operates across the southern part of England and its customer base covers the public and private sectors, the Ministry of Defence, as well as the commercial, trade and retail professions.

South Coast Insulation is committed to maintaining the highest industry standards and its qualifications and skills have been recognised by many organisations.

This includes Constructionline,

Warmfill - Cavity wall insulation market leaders

delivery of claimed performance and the appropriate warranties.

Warmfill has an extensive range of accreditations including BBA, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 18001. Warmfill is complaint with the new REACH regulations and benefits from CIGA cover.

Warmfills proven performance and BBA approved installation processes eliminate the risks of thermal slip and underperformance that is often associated with other insulants.

Please contact the company via the details below for technical queries or quotes.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 028 28 270319 www.sales@warmfill.com

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cavity wall insulation, making Energystore an expert in the field.

This expertise is used to provide project management and technical support for a number of major utilities and social housing providers within Northern Ireland, and Energystore currently runs several successful grant schemes for these utilities. The company continues to invest in technology and training to develop innovative solutions to improve our housing stock.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 028 90 301 500 www.energystoreltd.com

SCIS – the home of cavity and loft insulation

Exor, Achilles, SafeContractor, BBA CIGA and NIA. The company’s personnel are all highly qualified, many of whom have also worked in the industry for a number of years.

Good workmanship depends as much on human skills as on advanced technology and systems and the company’s staff training programme ensures quality and service.

Each technician has had intensive health and safety training and receives regular tool box talks and updates to ensure health and safety measures are carried out at all times.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01329 822845 www.scisltd.co.uk

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Green Deal Energy Consultancy (GDEC) provides impartial advice on energy saving measures, whilst delivering Green Deal Advice Reports and Energy

Performance Certificates.

GDEC is passionate about reducing carbon emissions and making the UK a cleaner and backed initiative that can help more energy efficient place to live. customers understand the There are different energy saving energy-saving improvements that measures that can be installed, can be made to homes. It can some of which include boilers, also help in finding companies glazing, insulation, solar PV, to carry out the work and give heat pumps, biomass boilers, access to a number of options for hydroelectricity and wind-turbines. paying for the improvements.

Feed in Tariffs can provide The Energy Company Obligation ongoing financial support for provides funding from the big six people generating electricity energy suppliers to support energy from renewable sources such improvements for people on certain as solar PV and wind. benefits, for those in solid wall Renewable Heat Incentive properties and for households in can provide customers with the poorest parts of the country. regular payments over seven years if they install an eligible FURTHER INFORMATION renewable heating system, such as Tel: 07748485546 biomass boilers or heat pumps. www.gdec.eu The Green Deal is a government lawrence@gdec.eu

GI is one of the UK’s largest renewable energy solutions providers. The company not only designs, engineers and installs, but it also manages and maintains its installed systems to enhance energy and CO2 savings for the end user.

GI Energy has innovative renewable heating and cooling systems, and its blend of skills and experience allow the company to deliver tailored solutions via a diverse technology portfolio. An intelligent control system can be set to optimise either carbon savings, or to optimise energy consumption, depending upon a company’s priorities; for most the latter is currently seen as the most important, although GI Energy is seeing an increase in targeting carbon savings.

The company’s partners include blue chip clients such as Costain, Sainsbury’s, and Crossrail, plus many more, where it now has

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Sustain Services business revolves around delivering energy reduction with the key principle of providing first-class customer service.

The company has built an impressive reputation for delivering high-quality projects across the United Kingdom.

Sustain Services is a privatelyowned company, drawing on the expert knowledge and experience of its staff to deliver projects in commercial and domestic heating and insulation solutions whilst diversifying into renewable technologies such as Biomass, heat pumps and solar technologies.

The company boasts a wealth of major clients, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s and ASDA alongside many local authorities and housing associations. Sustain Services’s success is built on its belief to produce quality work with attention to detail. It retains strong working partnerships and continues to recruit top-level staff which delivers quality projects on

SPSenvirowall leads the way in the supply of external wall insulation systems and high-quality decorative renders to the building and construction industry.

Suitable for all types of construction including system built houses and high rise blocks, these innovative insulation systems improve the thermal performance of the properties they are applied to, enabling them to meet current thermal regulation requirements for walls.

Additionally it can also dramatically improve their appearance.

SPSenvirowall’s products, which have been rigorously tested by the BBA, CERAM and the BRE have been used throughout the UK and continental Europe for over 30 years.

The company’s partnership

Green Deal - advice on energy saving measures

The UK’s leading large scale heat pump provider

successful systems in place.

With the Kyoto agreement deadline of 2020 looming close, many companies are looking for ways to cut carbon emissions. Integrated renewable heating and cooling systems offer companies many opportunities to do just that.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 02476 673131 www.gienergy.net

An energy saving experience Total rendering solutions from SPSenvirowall that doesn’t cost the Earth

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time and to budget, achieving a high level of repeat business.

As an independent installer, the company is constantly monitoring the fast moving marketplace so it can bring the latest, most efficient technologies to its clients.

Sustain Services includes the design, supply and installation of energy efficient biomass installations, solar PV, solar thermal, and commercial and domestic gas heating. It also includes air and ground source heat pumps, cavity wall and loft insulation, external wall insulation and commercial plant room insulation.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01284 752600 www.sustainservices.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

approach is to assist customers from the specification process right through to contractor selection, product application and completion of the works.

Ensuring that the products suit their purpose, SPSenvirowall also provides the best possible value for projects. The company also assists with the selection of experienced and approved contractors, ensuring that the application of its products are undertaken to the highest standard.

Contractor, specifier or architect, customers can expect exceptional service and the best technical support throughout their projects.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01535 661633 info@spsenvirowall.co.uk www.spsenvirowall.co.uk

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JUB is a leading manufacturer of thermally efficient External Wall Insulation Systems, renders and paints; established for 140 years and now producing within the UK. JUB has one of the largest ranges of renders and topcoat finishes in the UK. The company’s ability to provide silicone, acrylic, silicate, nanosil self-cleaning, mineral, winter application finishes and the new technology of JUB Trend which enables dark renders to be applied to EWI systems means that JUB has a quality solution for every project.

JUB is specified by many local authorities for thermal upgrading of existing housing stock as well being used on MOD schemes across the country.

JUB’s range of systems is also suitable for new build commercial development as well educational and healthcare projects where a greater attention to detail is required.

JUB’s sustainable manufacturing

The Isover Optima IWI System is a high performance solution for insulating new and older buildings from the inside.

Essentially, the system is an innovative dry lining system developed by insulation specialists Isover to significantly improve thermal and acoustic performance, whilst managing the issue of moisture.

Maintaining the principles behind traditional dry lining applications, the Optima IWI System utilises existing skills and products, ensuring the system is easy to install and requires little additional training.

The primary aim of the system is to improve the thermal performance of solid or hard to treat walls, in-line with, or better than, regulatory standards.

In a standard application of the Optima IWI System on to a 215mm solid brick wall, the thermal performance of the wall will typically reach 0.28W/m²k.

The system consists of proven

External wall insulation, Isover Optima IWI: Making render systems and paints retrofit more achievable

is at the heart of company’s philosophy with the extensive use of hydro and solar power as well as state-of-the-art robotic driven production.

JUB’s Technical Research Centre is one of the most advanced in Europe with 16 climatic chambers to thoroughly weather test all our systems for any climate.

JUB holds extensive British Board of Agrément, European Technical Approval and ISO certification.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 688 9866 www.jubrenders.co.uk

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components including; Isover glass wool insulation, Isover Optima supports - which reduce thermal bridging and installation time, Isover Vario Membrane which controls moisture within the system whilst enhancing air-tightness.

It also includes Isover Protect, an external wall treatment that prevents the ingress of moisture from external sources and British Gypsum metal profiles, fixings and gypsum boards.

Visit the company website for more information and to view Isover’s online video.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0115 945 1143 www.isover.co.uk

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Green Deal approved external Leading manufacturers of wall insulation installers specialist fixing systems

WRF Facades Ltd is based in Glasgow and mainly operates around Edinburgh, Ayr, Kilmarnock, but depending on the project can cover the whole area of UK. The company specialises in installation of External Wall Insulation (EWI) render systems and Rainscreen cladding systems.

The company was established in 2010, and since then has been working successfully on many prestigious projects including: New Southern General Hospital, Silverburn New Extension, University of West of Scotland in Glasgow, ACHA Sorba Estate in Oban, Holyrood Road Student Accommodation in Edinburgh and Marshall College in Aberdeen.

WRF Facades Ltd projects includes single properties to major housing refurbishments and developments.

The company is an approved applicator for all major EWI system suppliers. WRF Facades Ltd can carry out large scale improvement and insulation of external walls, adding value to the properties and energy savings. The company’s workforce is fully qualified to provide high standards to all works in accordance of health and safety regulations. WRF Facades Ltd is CITB, Constructionline, Achilles registered and CHAS certified.

The company is a member of NIA, SWIGA and BSI. It is certified as an approved PAS2030 Green Deal Installer and has access to Green Deal and ECO funds.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0141 270 9745 www.wrffacades.co.uk info@wrffacades.co.uk

For nearly a century since its foundation in 1919, the Rawlplug brand has been synonymous with innovation, reliability and safety in the development and manufacture of fixings.

Rawlplug is one of the world’s leading manufacturers with distribution in every continent.

Throughout its history, the company has been constantly embracing changes in the market place to improve and evolve its range of products, satisfying both customer’s requirements and those of the ever developing markets.

At Rawlplug, all areas of business are proudly supported with an extensive range of quality industry-approved products along with outstanding customer service and technical support.

The company’s mission prioritises high quality and innovation of its products. For many years now the company has been building its portfolio of middle and high-market products and has consistently been implementing product and process improvements, concentrating its competitive advantages on high quality and innovation.

While formulating its new mission, Rawlplug stressed its intention to satisfying the needs of demanding customers, including professionals, looking for new, reliable and sustainable solutions.

Find out more via the details below.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0141 6387961 sales@rawlplug.co.uk www.rawlplug.co.uk

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S and B EPS is a member of the NIA, which represents the insulation industry in the United Kingdom. The NIA members include installers and manufacturers who provide a wide range of insulation solutions for homes and businesses.

The NIA members are fully committed to maintaining and raising standards within the insulation industry. This ensures that ‘Peace of Mind’ comes as standard for S and B EPS customers.

The NIA has a Code of Professional Practice that members agree to follow to ensure that the public receive the highest possible level of customer service.

S and B EPS continuously strive to achieve the highest standards

Aran Services provides a solution for energy efficiency in homes and businesses nationwide.

Operating from the company’s purpose built office and showroom in the East of England, Aran provides a fabric first approach to improvements.

Since its formation in 2004, Aran has improved the efficiency of over 200,000 homes and businesses, reducing carbon emissions by over two million tonnes.

Having embraced the inception of both the Green Deal and the Energy Company Obligation, the company is able to offer assessments through its Green Deal Advice Organisation, finance and grant funding as an approved Green Deal Provider and installations as an accredited Green Deal Installer, with a network of approved partners providing many installations in their own locality.

It delivers programmes of improvement, including insulation, heating and renewable energy for more than 60 local authorities

S and B EPS – Expanded polystyrene insulation

in quality expanded polystyrene products and, as key suppliers to the building and engineering trades, the company works in partnership with its clients to create innovative, robust solutions throughout the whole of the UK. Products such as Lambdatherm®, a specialised low thermal conductivity EPS, designed for the external wall market is only one of the many approved products available. This is what makes S and B EPS Limited a leading manufacturer of EPS. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0191 250 0818 www.sandbeps.com company@sandbeps.com

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Hamilton’s has been at the forefront of the External Wall Insulation market for nearly 20 years and has an enviable reputation in the industry.

Here, the company focuses on one of its current schemes, a former Navy housing estate with some challenging issues.

The properties, which were built in the 1960s for the Navy, have received a full structural External Wall Insulation system, external fabric repairs, new flat roof system and solar panels which are connected to each property, delivering a much needed improvement to the energy efficiency of the building and helping to reduce residents fuel bills by as much as £450 per year.

Daniel Mackie, Business Development Director from Hamilton’s said: “As well as dramatically improving the efficiency of the properties, the block has a brand new look which continues the regeneration of the estate.”

Heat Insulation is a longestablished, family owned, home energy saving company based in Hull and servicing Yorkshire, North and North East Lincolnshire and most other area’s of the U.K. Since the company was founded 25 years ago, Heat Insulation has worked and continues to work with all local authorities, RSL’s and private landlords. We have access to funding from various organisations for energy improvement measures, which means Heat Insulation can offer cavity wall insulation and loft insulation ECO funding for most homes in the UK. The company has access to funding for external wall insulation which can be discussed upon application. Heat Insulation is also able to obtain Greendeal Finance

Green Deal approved external wall insulation

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Improving energy efficiency in houses and businesses

Daniel continues: “After being appointed by the client to design a solution to improve these properties, we also found the best way to fund this for the client. This is a great project to be involved in as the benefits for everyone are huge and Hamilton’s are delighted to be involved and working with everyone to make such a difference.”

FURTHER INFORMATION enquiries@hamiltonfirst.co.uk www.hamiltonfirst.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

and housing providers, alongside individual home owners.

Continuing to work closely with government bodies, energy suppliers and manufacturers, Aran ensures that best practice and value is offered to all its clients, from individual households to large corporate companies.

Numerous accreditations, outstanding levels of health and safety and customer satisfaction support the company’s commitment to provide a professional service to all clientèle. Aran Services would be happy to discuss any Energy Efficiency programme you may be progressing.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01284 812 520 info@aranservices.co.uk www.aranservices.co.uk

Heat Insulation: The local energy saving specialists

should its customers require it.

The full range of services include cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, draught proofing, external wall insulation, Energy Performance Certificates (EPC’s) and Green Deal Advice Reports.

With a reputation for high quality within the industry, a commitment to only employ local labour and a vast knowledge of insulation services, Heat Insulation really are ‘Your Local Energy Saving Specialist’.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01482 588591 www.heat-insulation.co.uk

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Stroma Certification provides a combination of government approved certification schemes and in-house developed software for installers working across the Green Deal, renewables and major installer trades.

Stroma ensures high quality installation standards are maintained across the public and private sector by providing and maintaining a supply of qualified installers into the industry.

The company’s additional and longstanding expertise in the energy assessment industry, in which it holds around 50 per cent market share as a certification body for energy assessors, means that Stroma Certification takes a holistic approach to the marketplace.

The company upskills and equips its members to gain a competitive advantage in the industry. It operates authorised certification schemes for Green Deal Installer (GDI), Microgeneration Certification Schemes (MCS) and Competent Person Schemes (CPS). These uphold

JMC Green is a South Midlands based Green Deal Accredited insulation company and also part of the Snug Network.

Its family run, dedicated team is passionate about the prevention of climate change and aims to help home and business owners, local authorities, schools, colleges and universities to take advantage of the savings available through green energy products.

With a fully trained local workforce offering the highest standards available, the company has all the relevant certification necessary and takes pride in all it does.

As a ‘one stop shop’ JMC Green is an expert in loft, cavity wall, solid wall and underfloor insulation, boiler replacement and draught prevention.

The company provides a start to finish service, free advice on current government funding, no obligation free surveys, and an expert JMC ‘TLC’ installation service.

Stroma Certification for installers and assessors

Green Deal standards, promote quality assurance for renewables and allow self-certification for installations across all major trades.

Stroma has an approved catalogue of measures which can be tailored by each member in accordance with their typical working practices. All schemes are supported by a plethora of membership benefits such as free Third Party Electrical Certification, business insurance, the Stroma Store and electrical certificate software, with regular special offers such as Part P membership for only £288.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 621 1111 www.stroma.com

JMC Green - A renewable energy solution provider

In addition, JMC Green work in partnership with Npower Energy Services to install their electric car chargers throughout the UK. Just this year, the company has installed into Robert Burns birthplace in Scotland and Meadow Hall Shopping Centre in Sheffield.

JMC Green provides a quality service at all times helping to cut CO2 emissions and energy bills.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01386 831 710 sales@jmcinsulationsltd.com www.jmcgreen.com

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Homeseal – Professional insulation installers

SCIS – the home of cavity and loft insulation

Homeseal Energy Savings Ltd was established in 1995 as a trading division of the Workspace Group, a social enterprise based in Mid Ulster.

With 20 years experience in the insulation industry, Homeseal now provides a range of insulation services which include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation and cavity extraction for the retrofit and new build markets.

The company’s experience in the insulation industry ranges from supplying insulation for private households to partnerships with education boards, utility providers and acting as the single largest insulation supplier on the Warm Home Scheme (Northern Ireland’s programme to help tackle fuel poverty).

Homeseal’s teams of installers, surveyors, supervisors and administrators are highly trained and contribute to a highly committed and effective service for its customers.

South Coast Insulation was established in May 2010. The company’s two directors have over 60 years of experience in the field of thermal insulation between them, as they worked in the industry at a time when cavity wall insulation was a new and innovative process.

South Coast Insulation’s services include: Cavity Wall Insulation – Thermabead, Loft Insulation, Cavity Extraction, Roof Tile Ventilation, Internal Wall Insulation and Repointing.

The company operates across the southern part of England and its customer base covers the public and private sectors, the Ministry of Defence, as well as the commercial, trade and retail professions.

South Coast Insulation is committed to maintaining the highest industry standards and its qualifications and skills have been recognised by many organisations.

This includes Constructionline,

As an ISO, BBA, NIA and SafeTCert accredited company, Homeseal follows rules and regulations of the highest standards giving its clients the satisfaction and security that the company provides a quality insulation service from the initial survey stage to the installation stage.

With its experience and knowledge, Homeseal can advise you on the most cost effective insulation measures for your business or project.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 028 796 27474 www.homesealni.co.uk

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Exor, Achilles, SafeContractor, BBA CIGA and NIA. The company’s personnel are all highly qualified, many of whom have also worked in the industry for a number of years.

Good workmanship depends as much on human skills as on advanced technology and systems and the company’s staff training programme ensures quality and service.

Each technician has had intensive health and safety training and receives regular tool box talks and updates to ensure health and safety measures are carried out at all times.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01329 822845 www.scisltd.co.uk

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FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

ENERGY

The prestigious Green Deal & ECO awards for London took place at the beginning of March in the plush surroundings of Lords Cricket Ground. Upwards of 250 of the biggest names in the industry were in attendance to enjoy a well organised event and to celebrate the very best RHI and Energy Efficiency schemes undertaken in London over the last 12 months.

Concordia Construction’s position as the premiere External Wall Insulation contractor in the capital was reinforced with the announcement that their Becontree Estate project in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham won the coveted ‘Project of the Year’ award.

The scheme, managed by Mulalley & Co, saw approximately 5000m2 of WBS EWI installed by Concordia to seven blocks of flats.

The runner-up Project, a 13,000m2 scheme in North London, managed by PC Lawtech

Reducing carbon emissions and fuel poverty has become a priority for many local authorities.

However, many councils are unaware of what support is actually available to help them achieve their energy saving objectives.

The government’s ECO and Green Deal schemes were designed to make home insulation and heating improvements affordable for householders – but many local authorities have been deterred by the complexities and common misconceptions surrounding both initiatives.

To address this, energy saving experts YES Energy Solutions has produced a free local authority guide, titled: What is ECO and Green Deal?

The main purpose of the guide is to strip down all the confusing technical jargon and simply explain how the schemes work, what they are trying to achieve and how local authorities can benefit.

It provides information on the funding criteria, the scope of

External and solid wall insulation contractors

Ltd, was also subcontracted out and delivered by Concordia’s skilled installers, adding further kudos to the company’s growing reputation as the number one go-to contractor for EWI services.

Business Development Manager Darren Greenwell was thrilled with the award. He said: “We’ve long been known as being one of the biggest EWI contractors in the UK, now we’re proud to be recognised as being one of the best.”

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01293 571664 Ext: 777 office@concordiaconstruction.co.uk www.concordiaconstructionltd.co.uk

A local authority guide to ECO and Green Deal

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

VINCI Facilities works right across every aspect of local and central government maintaining, managing and ensuring that a wide and diverse range of buildings, premises and spaces are fit for purpose by politicians, civil servants, local government officers as well as the public.

The company aims to create, deliver and maintain great places for people to live and work in.

VINCI’s teams have responsibility for landmark national parks in the centre of London, public libraries, schools, universities, police stations, courts, defence installations, hospitals and council offices right around the UK. Whatever the nature of the public sector building or space and its function, the VINCI teams combine its skills and knowledge as facilities, building fabric and design

Street lighting is a vital asset, and regardless of ownership – be it local authority, housing authority or private – it’s important to ensure that street or amenity lighting is maintained correctly.

Poorly maintained lighting portrays a negative image, and can increase crime and antisocial behaviour. It can also pose a safety risk to the public.

SparkX is one of the leading lighting contractors in the South East of England. Based in South Buckinghamshire, the company are ideally located to provide street lighting services across the UK. SparkX offers a full range of highway electrical services including maintenance packages, column installation and replacement, festive lighting and DNO consultancy

the supply chain and highlights why financial support varies from household to household.

By using the guide, local authorities will gain a thorough understanding of the benefits and pitfalls of ECO and Green Deal and how they can be used to help transform their communities.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01422 880104 www.yesenergysolutions.co.uk

Facilities management and Lighting the future building maintenance services in highway electrical

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experts to make sure the end-user experience is second to none.

The company works with its customers to advise and deliver on the right facility and property management approach. But the company understands it has a duty of care to the public as well as to its direct clients.

VINCI Facilities always ensures that government facilities deliver first class services for the electorate that is financing their upkeep via the public purse.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01923 478400 info@vincifacilities.com www.vinci-facilities.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

services. Most recently, the company has helped a large local authority save considerable maintenance and energy costs by replacing 35 per cent of their lighting stock with LED. SparkX has considerable experience of working with a wide variety of customers, and is exceptionally proud of its reputation for delivering on time, under budget and ensuring the company exceeds its customer’s expectations.

For more information on how SparkX can help with your lighting or to book an onsite meeting, contact SparkX via the details below.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01494 956392 sparkx@sparkxelectrical.com www.sparkxelectrical.com

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Already delivering over 100 million messages for the public utility sector alone, Radio Data Networks has demonstrated that it has the ability to slash the costs of monitoring remote assets across the UK. The company’s Ofcom licenced radio network can carry messages concerning all sorts of parameters including blockages in sewers and drains, flood levels, security breaches, equipment failure and spills from overflows. Further, the instantaneous nature of the data has permitted countless real-time control systems to be implemented where valves are closed and pumps held off in order to facilitate the mitigation of incidents in real-time.

Managing director and founder of RDN Brian Back stated: “We have been working with Radio Telemetry for over 25-years and still are astounded as to how many new applications we come across each year. Without a doubt sewer monitoring is the current vogue and as a result, our multi award winning BDT Blocked Sewer

Safe-Electric was born from an established electrical contracting company, offering expert knowledge and a wealth of experience and insight to the building services industry on a nationwide scale.

When electrical systems face an issue, they demand results, not merely a quick fix. The company carry out all types of electrical testing services to a very high standard. Complying with BS7671 and NICEIC Approved, Safe Electric’s staff are professional and experienced. The company aims to offer a complete electrical testing service across a range of general electrical installations.

An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) of a property consists of a visual inspection of the electrical installation together with live and dead testing of the installation by a suitably qualified electrician. On completion of the visual inspection and testing of the installation, a EICR is issued.

This shows if there are any faults

From sewer alarms to remote asset monitoring

sensor can be found deployed in all sorts of businesses from restaurants, schools, hospitals, office blocks through to universities.”

A major selling point of the Radio Data Networks’ systems is the ease of installation. The detectors can be installed without the need for cables and similarly the data can be integrated into a building’s existing SCADA or BMS via one of their Gateway Receivers.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01279 600 440 sales@radio-data-networks.com www.radio-data-networks.com

and if the installation is safe to use at the time of testing. If electrical faults are found, a price or quote for rectifying these faults will be received. All electrical installations should be tested and inspected at regular recommended intervals.

As professional industrial electricians, the company always works with its customers and suppliers in order to achieve the highest quality services at competitive rates.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0800 542 0638 sales@safe-electric.com www.safe-electric.com

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

Dedicated manufacturers of contract furnishings

Bridge Contract Interiors is a dedicated supplier of Fire Retardant curtains and blinds for hospitality, healthcare, student and social housing facilities.

The company offers an unrivalled service whether for proprietor, procurement manager, architect or contractor. Its team are on hand to help customers specify the correct products or work to specification. Customers can view its huge range online, or it will create a design bespoke to you.

Bridge Contracts products range from budget roller blinds and unlined curtains for social housing, through to bespoke designs for five star hotels. It supplies healthcare specific products as well as being accredited installers of the Kestrel Anti-ligature system

Specialising in all types of electrical testing services

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for curtains and blinds in prisons and mental health units.

Bridge Contracts only supplies Fire Retardant products, individually assessing requirements to ensure customers have products suitable for their facilities. Backed with its certificate of compliance for site records, Bridge Contracts service is from manufacture and supply-only through to installation where required, through its CHAS certified fitting team.

To find out more about Bridge Contract Interiors, visit the company website or give the helpful team a call for immediate assistance.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0800 619 6190 www.bridgecontractinteriors.com info@bridgecontractinteriors.com

Cubic Apple – Green thinking outside the box Cubic Apple’s clients cover the full building spectrum, from large portfolio to private sellers. With all of its clients, no matter how big or small, Cubic Apple acts professionally and aims to provide an unbeatable quality of service.

Working with a national network of assessors, surveyors, consultants and engineers, enables the company to match its client’s requirements to provide the most competent and reliable of services.

The company’s services include Air Conditioning Energy Assessments (ACEA), including an exclusive Cubic Apple Report Supplement (CARS). The company

also offers an Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS), an Energy Efficency Directive, Article 8. Now in Force with Financial Penalties Upward of £50,000.

Cubic Apple’s Display Energy Certificates (DEC), are required annually on all public buildings larger than 1000m2 and every 10 years on all public buildings larger than 500m2.

The company supplies Non Domestic Energy Performance Certificates (NDEPC), which are required on all commercial buildings. Finally, the company provides Solar PhotoVoltaic’s, Solar PV Installation with no upfront capital investment.

If you would like to discuss how Cubic Apple can help your organisation, please contact Lee Clements at your earliest opportunity.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01827 713 870 www.cubicapple.co.uk info@cubicapple.co.uk

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Products & Services

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IT

IT

Some people still think the digital world is a complex, mysterious place. It shouldn’t be.

Big Blue Door​is a digital development agency that specialises in delivering open source solutions across the public sector.

As the original founders previously worked in government, leading on the initial development of data. gov.uk, the company has a clear sense of what public sector clients require from digital partners.

Big Blue Door believes that one of the key ways in which central and local government can improve public understanding and uptake of the varied services at their disposal is through the development of accessible digital services.

The company specialises in developing these services for both the education and health sectors, working with a range of clients from Ealing Council to Ofsted

ClearPeople is made up of a team of 50 ‘bright, expert and human’ digital experts in two locations specialising in delivering technical consulting services and digital marketing solutions across .NET platforms including SharePoint, Sitecore, Kentico, Umbraco, Office 365 and Windows Azure.

Founded in 2003 by sole owners Katya Linossi and Gabriel Karawani, the awardwinning London consultancy has delivered in excess of 250 digital projects for over 110 clients.

ClearPeople works with clients to transform their digital workplace through technology, processes and people. ClearPeople believes in partnership first, in becoming an extension of its clients’ marketing, IT and commercial teams and truly collaborating with them.

ClearPeople really wants to make a difference by challenging the norm, thinking creatively,

Opening the door wide to the digital world

ClearPeople - providing a technical and digital service

and the Health Research Agency to the Human Tissue Authority. ​ As services for these sectors play such an important role in public life, they need to be built to the highest standards and, often, need to be delivered as quickly as possible.

As a qualified Agile development team, Big Blue Door is committed to delivering projects at speed without compromising on quality.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0333 121 1410 www.bigbluedoor.net info@bigbluedoor.net

IT

IT

Sentinel by SCC is the first multi-tenanted Pan-Government Accredited Cloud, keeping your data secure to Official and Official Sensitive (IL2 & IL3) security standards.

Hosted in multi award-winning Tier 3+ data centres in the UK, the tenancy is fully managed with support provided 24/7 by SCC staff who are SC-cleared and UKbased. Public sector customers also benefit from Sentinel’s in-house Information Assurance teams who support the delivery of IT solutions into the government marketplace.

Sentinel by SCC, a PSN service provider (PSNSP) offers a number of ‘as-a-service’ options, including: Mobility; Remote Access; MDM; Hosted Desktop; Exchange and Lync. All services are underpinned by certification for process and procedures (ISO 9001), environment (ISO 14001), security (ISO 27001), ITIL (20000), and health and safety (OHSAS 18001).

SCC’s Network Operation Centre provides configuration,

Neil Stevens Consulting provides technical solutions and business advisory services to clients across healthcare and public sector organisations.

As a specialist provider of public sector solutions and services with many years’ experience operating within the healthcare environment, the company has a strong track record of advising on a range of business needs.

The company provides a range of professional services including business consulting; portfolio, programme and project management; business case development and approval; business change and system redesign; benefits planning and management and realisation. It also provides support for financial management and delivery of savings plans; information interpretation and analysis; contract negotiation, supplier management; developing and implementing business strategies; implementing technical solutions

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by SCC

SCC – Protecting sensitive public sector data

management and maintenance for the environment while its Security Operation Centre monitors, assesses and protects customers’ enterprise information systems.

With connectivity via the internet, HCF, N3 and PSN Government Networks, Sentinel offers customers real benefits, including the flexibility to grow and release resources as needed, price predictability with lower-cost 30-day contracts, removing ‘lock-ins’, and guaranteed SLA’s that ensure 99.9 per cent or 99.95 per cent availability.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0121 281 8618 www.scc.com

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

pioneering new technologies that actually save money and achieving business digital transformation.

ClearPeople’s expertise in consultancy, user experience, design and development of internet, intranet, extranet and document management systems has seen it achieve outstanding results within government, local government and public sectors, as well as the legal, financial services and property sectors.

ClearPeople is proud to be accredited and recognised by Microsoft as a key UK partner with an ever-increasing number of Gold and Silver competencies.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0203 376 9500 www.clearpeople.com info@clearpeople.com

Neil Stevens Consulting – Invest in innovation

which deliver significant business benefit; and policy review.

Neil Stevens Consulting has a strong solution delivery heritage with experience of successful delivery of complex programmes for the NHS at national and local level. It has well-developed relationships across the NHS and access to expert resources.

The company is passionate about delivering the highest quality services, maximising return on investment every time and are ideally placed to support NHS organisations in optimising their planning and delivery of high quality patient care.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01823 429180 www.neilstevensconsulting.com

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

DATA SHREDDING

Phunky Moo was founded with the aim of offering businesses the ‘complete package’ when it came to their online needs.

Since then, the Phunky Moo team has grown, and now includes talented web designers, professional marketing experts, web management mavens and experienced copywriters.

The company’s services encompass a broad range of areas; and no job is too small or too large.

From one-off banner advert design to tailor-made online booking management systems, Phunky Moo is able to offer effective, dynamic services that match the needs of the client to a tee.

One of the company’s unique aspects is its ability to take on all aspects of online marketing,

Kenny’s Shredding Company, based in Norwich, is a local independent shredding company. It offers an efficient, well priced and trustworthy shredding service to both the private and public sectors throughout the Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire regions.

Kenny’s Shredding Company really care about its customers.

The company is more than capable of taking care of paper shredding, office waste, confidential shredding, smart bins from either homes or offices and larger bins if required.

Kenny’s Shredding Company also handles one off shredding collections, pay as you go and regular collections designed to suit the customers needs.

The personalised service offered by the company guarantees customers with the name of the person looking after the, and a very fast response to any enquiry.

The shredding team is CRB and DBS checked and has over 40

Cutting through the jargon to help businesses

management and design, which serves to make life considerably easier for the client, who no longer has to shop around for different experts to undertake different tasks.

Start-up businesses and large enterprises alike can benefit from having a reliable, experienced team to take on all aspects of their online presence for them.

In fact, there’s not much that the Phunky Moo team can’t help with. From SEO campaigns and social media to fully responsive web designs and online security - the company ensures that all businesses are successfully represented online.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01748 905036 www.phunkymoo.co.uk

Trusted paper, document and data shredding

CONSULTING

CLEANING

Comotion is a UK based consulting firm who specialise in building customer-led organisations.

The company’s work, both at a strategic and operational level, stems from the belief that in the public sector – today more than ever – organisations need to be customer-led.

Comotion helps clients achieve this by combining cross-discipline expertise; challenging thinking, customer-needs based methods and experience in creating world class customer-led businesses.

The company focuses on a number of areas, including working with clients to determine how to build a deeper understanding of its customers and wider stakeholders; what their target customer experience is; how digital impacts this; what organisational structure needs to be in place to deliver such experiences and how those experiences are measured and managed over time.

In support of this, the company uses its industry-recognised

Corton Clean was founded by Scott Mackinnon in 2012 when he decided he wanted a complete career change after years working as a key accounts manager.

Corton Clean offers a wide range of cleaning services to both the commercial and domestic market covering Scotland as well as the North of England.

The company’s services include air ventilation ductwork cleaning, kitchen extract and ductwork cleaning, kitchen deep cleaning, property deep cleaning, pressure washing, window cleaning, oven cleaning and much more.

Corton Clean’s kitchen extract and ductwork cleaning division specialise in preventing commercial kitchen fires by eradicating the build-up of flammable and smelly, greasy deposits in the ventilation ducting which are the number one causes of commercial kitchen fires.

Corton Clean realise health and

Building customer led change within the UK

‘Customer Experience Maturity Model’ (CEMM) to help client’s asses and benchmark where they are, in their journey to becoming a sector leading customerexperience focused organisation.

Comotion’s maturity assessment works across a number of areas – from strategy and experience design, through to delivery and metrics and measurement – to do this.

To find out how a Maturity Assessment could help your organisation benchmark itself and make the case for customerled change, please contact Comotion via the details below.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0203 740 1780 www.comotional.com hello@comotional.com

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years experience in this line of work. Paper will be recycled into animal bedding or used to make more paper and cardboard.

Kenny’s Shredding Company always issue a Destruction Certificate to prove that paper has been shredded to International DIN Standard 3.

Customers should ask themselves: ‘Why risk your essential and confidential paper work falling into the wrong hands?’

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01603 484 292 www.kennysshreddingco.co.uk

Making it gleam with Corton Clean

safety is of paramount importance and therefore joining the Building & Engineering Services Association (B&ES) was the obvious choice, ensuring client confidence and reassurance in our high standards.

Corton Clean strive to offer consistent high standards and as such are also members of the Safe Contractor Approved Scheme, CITB-SSSTS, IPAF, PVG and CSCS. Contact the company via the details below for advice or a free no-obligation quote today.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01292 442109 cortonclean@gmail.com www.cortonclean.com

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HEALTH & SAFETY

HEALTH AND SAFETY

AJ Group is a leader in the manufacture of professional waterproof clothing. The company has a long record of designing and producing waterproof garments, thigh and waist waders.

In line with its commitment to user comfort and convenience, AJ develops the best materials for making professional clothing.

In its production process, AJ only uses proven fabrics of the best quality including Plavitex, AquaPros, Seal Skin or Opalo. The company’s specialist waterproof clothing complies with all current standards in place (in terms of anti-static properties, visibility, fire resistance and many more).

All AJ’s products are certified for the CE marking. Clothing under the brands PROS, AquaPros or PROS EXTREME are available on nearly all European markets. The best evidence for the high quality of its products is the fact that our FLUO waders are used by fire

Avonwood is a specialist in RFID systems for safety, security and asset management applications.

Since 1987, Avonwood has supplied to both the public and private sectors.

Offering a comprehensive range of solutions, its services include system design and integration, hardware manufacture and supply, software and cloud services.

The company’s product range includes key tagging, ZoneSafe proximity warning and alert systems and AssetBase-iD. Its key tagging systems helps prevent the removal of keys from secure environments. The system ensures a greater control of issued keys within environments where round the clock key compromise protection is required.

Designed for secure environments, the system has been widely used within prison establishments and secure hospitals throughout the UK.

Professional waterproof clothing for all situations

brigades on the highly demanding Japanese market. This is possible because AJ’s priority is the safety, durability and comfort of use of its products. With this in mind, the company makes the most professional clothes with timeless designs and peculiar colours.

Owing to its commitment to excellence, AJ is capable of creating new solutions for its line of business. This way, it can achieve what appears to be unachievable.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +48 68 453 58 98 www.ajgroup.pl/en

Safety, security and asset management applications

SECURITY

SECURITY

Mailsafe is a secure, UK based email archiving software solution from Techne-Comm Limited.

The company has developed a strong reputation in the public sector through major success within the NHS and local government.

With its largest installation being in excess of 24,000 mailboxes, Mailsafe has been fully tested and verified by the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) for secure email archiving with NHSmail. It is available as either an onsite archive or as a secure cloud service.

Core features include AES256 bit encryption, single instance archiving, and 50 per cent compression. This enables Mailsafe to deliver significant cost savings for storage and backup processes for sites using Exchange Server, Outlook or with PST file storage issues.

The lean Mailsafe infrastructure enables large volumes of email data to be stored efficiently helping

Cam-era is an innovative security and facilities management business catering for the needs of the wider business community and the public sector.

The company has a modern, forward-thinking approach which promotes the practical solution of security issues, whilst retaining the friendly customer-centric values of a traditional business relationship.

Its facility management services ensures that projects are finished and maintained to a high standard, catering in disciplines from cleaning through to security solutions, white lining and road maintenance.

Because Cam-era solutions is always tailor-made, the company insists on getting to know its clients to ensure the services it provides is an exact fit to their current and future requirements, both from a budgeting and operational perspective.

Services are currently provided to local authorities and

ZoneSafe is a leading proximity warning and alert system designed to protect personnel and assets from near misses and accidental vehicle collisions.

Visit the ZoneSafe stand T2215 for a demonstration at the Safety & Health Expo, London Excel on the 16-18 June 2015.

AssetBase iD is a complete asset management solution to identify and track physical assets, parts and components using software delivered via a cloud based platform. Users have visibility to all of the information on their assets helping to increase utilisation and reduce costs.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01202 868000 www.avonwood.co.uk

Secure email archiving and Cam-era Security: Building a future on success management software

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to fulfil Compliance, Information Governance and Freedom of Information queries instantly.

Full integration with Outlook makes it easy to use with minimal or zero user-training being required, whilst the unique feature of Personal Folder Archiving means users retain an exact mirror of their Outlook folders in the archive.

If you are interested in a noobligation web demonstration or free trial of Mailsafe please call or visit the website below.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01252 758 124 hello@techne-comm.co.uk www.mail-safe.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

housing associations including manned guarding, remote site surveillance, IR perimeter security, cleaning for site handover and ongoing maintenance and road/car park markings.

Cam-era holds all relevant certification to satisfy working standards within the public sector.

These include, SIA registered and NEBOSH qualified staff, CHAS certification, SMAS certification and all business systems align with ISO 9000:1 standards.

If you have a requirement within its area of expertise, please contact the company on the details below.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0843 886 9000 info@cam-era.com www.cam-era.com

MARKET RESEARCH

MARKET RESEARCH

Crystal Market Research specialises in conducting market research for the public and third sector, particularly in the area of transport and community.

Recently, customer surveys of community rail passengers have provided crucial information to help develop these services. Focus groups with users and potential users of a cycle hire scheme have given pointers to market this sustainable form of transport more effectively. Surveys with residents before and after the implementation of a 20mph speed limit are measuring the impact of this speed reduction on travel behaviour, community cohesion and perceptions of road safety.

A survey with local businesses,

Lake is an independent, full service market research agency with nationwide fieldwork capabilities offering tailored research solutions delivered within a small company ethos.

Lake’s field infrastructure includes 300 face to face interviewers, mystery shoppers and supervisors, a 40 seat in house telephone unit, a print and despatch unit for large scale postal studies and an online division for internet surveys and bespoke online portals.

In addition, the company has a select team of research directors to ensure added value is offered throughout the research process.

With a head office in Kent, Lake runs low overheads compared to the city and thus are able to offer competitive prices to its clients.

All of the company’s work is aligned to industry standards with Lake accredited to ISO20252, a company partner of the Market Research Society and registered

Transport and community Providing quality research research to move forward at honest prices

employees, shoppers and residents is investigating how a residents’ parking scheme is affecting different parts of the local community. In-depth interviews with young people and their parents to explore attitudes towards learning to drive have proved invaluable in devising a social marketing campaign to make youngsters think twice about rushing to take their test at 17.

Crystal Market Research will work with you to devise the most cost effective and creative way of getting feedback from customers to help you make informed decisions.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0117 973 4746 www.crystalmarketresearch.co.uk

MARKET RESEARCH

MARKET RESEARCH

Scott Porter Research & Marketing is a Scottish research consultancy committed to delivering research based solutions through a passion for understanding people, unique insights and strategic thinking.

Working in close partnership with clients, Scott Porter offers flexible engagement, with directors assuming personal responsibility and involvement in projects. The company’s researchers each have over 17 years’ market research experience, and are skilled in applying qualitative and quantitative methodologies across public and private sectors.

Areas of expertise include branding, marketing communications, concept testing, product evaluation and social research. The company works with long-term partners to provide interviewing and online capabilities across Scotland and the UK, and robust statistical analysis.

Would you value having a more critical and contemporary grasp of market and social research methods?

Are you considering developing your in-house research capabilities? Are you always confident you can base decisions on the research that you commission?

The Research Advisory Service (RAS) can help. RAS offers fully bespoke on-site research methods training in quantitative and qualitative survey methods as well as providing critiques and guidance on new and emerging technologies available to research.

RAS facilitators have trained hundreds of delegates drawn from across the UK public and private sectors to be smarter at commissioning, interpreting and undertaking research.

RAS facilitators and content authors are all seasoned research

Scott Porter - market research consultants

Scott Porter is on the Scottish Government Marketing Services Framework and works extensively with a number of public sector organisations. This experience enables researchers to develop a depth of understanding of social marketing and consumer behaviour, and provides insight into policy contexts relating to equalities, income and poverty, health, business and the environment.

Scott Porter is dedicated to nurturing collaborative relationships, ensuring research is completed to the highest standards, and offering fresh perspectives, outcome focused insights and value for money.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0131 553 1927 www.scottporter.co.uk

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with the Data Protection Act. Lake’s experience is broad, covering B2B and B2C research in all methodologies across numerous sectors both public and private. Much of the company’s work is conducted within the public sector and Lake has extensive experience in resident surveys, public consultations and satisfaction surveys.

Having worked extensively with local and national government over the years, Lake is familiar with the stringent data protection procedures required.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01622 357 060 info@lake-research.com www.lake-research.com

RAS – Bespoke research methods training

practitioners working across commercial, public sector and academic disciplines bringing context, contemporary thinking and rigour to all our training.

RAS will focus on your specific skills needs, which is why we discuss and agree agendas and outcomes and, where possible, use internal examples for enlivening and relevant case studies.

Please visit the web site to find out more about the Research Advisory Service and what it offers, or call for a discussion of how the company can help you.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 8889 1199 www.researchadvisoryservice.org.uk

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MARKET RESEARCH

MARKET RESEARCH

How could you better Communications and engage with MPs and peers? behaviour change research nfpSynergy’s research allows you to understand how your work is perceived by MPs and peers, how they prefer to engage with you and how you could improve your communications. The early days of a new parliament provide the ideal opportunity to evaluate your engagement strategy with MPs and peers, to ensure it is as effective as it can be over the course of this parliament. nfpSynergy are the market leaders in providing syndicated tracking research, enabling clients to access research that is more frequent, more detailed and more cost-effective. The company has been interviewing MPs and peers for more than 10 years in their Attitudes and Awareness Parliamentary Monitor, which also gives clients access to years of valuable trend data.

Previous and current clients that have benefited from the research include Local Government Association, the

Charity Commission, the General Medical Council, NatCen and the Health and Safety Executive.

As a research consultancy that aims to provide the ideas, insights and information to help nonprofits thrive, nfpSynergy helps charities and public bodies track their profiles and engagements amongst their key stakeholder groups through quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.

For more on how you can improve your engagement with these key political audiences, contact nfpSynergy via the details below.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 7426 8888 insight@nfpsynergy.net www.nfpsynergy.net

MARKET RESEARCH

MARKET RESEARCH

Protel Fieldwork is a leading independent provider of market research services to a wide range of industries including consumer (B2C), business to business (B2B) and the public sector.

Key industries that Protel works with include – travel, transport, utilities, tourism, leisure, and government.

Working with a large number of leading companies, Protel has developed an outstanding reputation for its Fieldwork services and in-depth market research and analysis.

The company has built a strong presence in these areas due to the quality of the service delivered from its 25 seat CATI unit and a nationwide Field force of over 1800 trained interviewers.

Protel is recognised for its professional approach, standards, depth of experience and capability to deliver what the customers want. Honest in all aspects of work, if Protel do not think they

Osiris MR is a professional full service market research agency based in Nottingham and a Market Research Society (MRS) Company Partner organisation.

The company has been independently audited to the ISO 20252 international standard for market research. Osiris MR simply provides “Reliable data and cost effective research results.”

All projects are managed by a nominated single point of contact who has been certified MRS; with all work conducted according to the MRS Code of Conduct.

With a client base including local government, NGO and 3rd sector through to multinational PLC organisations, Osiris MR has an enviable client list with many relationships lasting over 10 years.

In many cases, Osiris MR partners with clients enhancing project outcomes through joint ownership.

With a 30 seat telephone unit, access to over 2,000 UK based

Flexible and forward thinking market research

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The Campaign Company (TCC) is an independent social research and communications consultancy offering full service quantitative and qualitative methods. It is a partner of both the Market Research Society and the Consultation Institute.

The company specialises in delivering research and communications across a range of areas, including: public health and behaviour change; local government communications; public consultation; reputation and perception tracking; and evaluations.

TCC’s experience over the past 14 years is that effective service design and public policy requires understanding of the behaviour and perceptions of service users, organisations and populations.

are the right people for a job, the company won’t be afraid to say so.

With an enviable reputation for problem solving and providing a flexible, value for money service to customers, the level of repeat business and long standing relationships with customers speaks for itself.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 02476 238 400 info@protelfieldwork.co.uk www.protelfieldwork.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

When this is done right, services can be more responsive, deliver greater outcomes and cost less.

To achieve this TCC has developed a set of bespoke research and communication approaches that get under the surface of what motivates and influences people’s behaviour and perceptions.

This includes the psychographic segmentation tool Values Modes, which provides unparalleled insight into how to change behaviour.

The company has used this tool to help clients achieve lasting change in a range of challenging areas, across the voluntary and public sector.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0208 688 0650 www.thecampaigncompany.co.uk

Affordable full service market research solutions

field force, multiple on-line solutions and a mail processing centre handling over 750,000 questionnaires per year, Osiris MR has your project covered.

Whether you need simply to data process your own survey or implement a full multi-modal consultation with written reports and presentations, Osiris MR is able to meet your requirements.

For more information contact Lee Wedgbrow via the details listed below.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0115 942 7662 www.osirismr.co.uk lee@osirismr.co.uk

FLEET

FLEET MANAGEMENT

Based in Crewe, Trak Global has been creating resultsdriven telematics solutions for the fleet, insurance, rental and automotive industries since 2009.

From reducing total fleet costs and managing risk on behalf of major insurers to delivering award-winning customer experiences for young motorists, the company creates highly bespoke, cost-effective telematics solutions for each customer’s unique requirements.

Trak Global’s telematics solutions are underpinned by their UK designed and manufactured T6000 unit, a Thatcham Cat 6 certified and CE approved device. Beyond the class-leading hardware, the company has developed a suite of tools to assist fleet operators in managing and monitoring deployment, utilisation and driver behaviour.

In addition, Trak Global is able to offer its customers the ability to add its renowned Trak Impact

Improving the quality of services delivered and achieving efficiency targets is paramount for fleet managers, while keeping control of fleet costs is a never ending challenge. Civica’s Tranman fleet management software enables improved fleet management, cost savings and operational efficiency.

Fleet systems are becoming a data hub, pulling data in from numerous sources, including HR training systems, GPS tracker and black box systems and organisations such as the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency. In addition, there is a move towards digitisation and mobilisation of records and workforce.

Tranman’s touch screen solution has been enhanced to use the latest Windows 8 technology.

Trak Global - Driving Helping fleet managers to change through telematics achieve efficiency gains

Management (TIM) Alert system, which can send an instant prompt to the fleet manager if one of their vehicles is involved in an accident.

In addition to safeguarding the welfare of the fleet driver, this enables any subsequent insurance claim process to be controlled, managed and completed in the most cost-effective and timely manner possible. It is also extremely effective in defending fraudulent claims, providing robust, detailed data that enables an accident to be reconstructed and the full circumstances established.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01270 501212 www.trakglobal.co.uk

FLEET

FLEET MANAGEMENT

While some organisations feel that GPS vehicle tracking introduces a negative element to manager and employee relationships, for Fleetinsight customers this has been far from the case. Within months of implementation many have experienced reduced fleet costs, and greater driver and vehicle safety.

Implementing Fleetinsight improves dispatch and route scheduling which in turn reduces fuel costs and improves employee productivity.

Efficient management of schedules with achievable delivery targets gives drivers the ability to complete more jobs per day under less stressful circumstances. GPS tracking also acts as a reliable source of evidence to dispute traffic tickets or customer complaints.

Emotive Solutions is a leading distributor and installer of the Mobileye 560 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).

The company’s range is designed to cater for an extensive array of vehicles including car, van, heavy duty, commercial, crane and tippers. Emotive Solution’s packages and systems can be tailored around specific needs and requirements.

The system helps protect fleets by providing drivers with advanced technology that helps keep them and those around them safe. Fleets experience tangible and measurable advantages that improves a customer’s bottom line with proven accident and fuel cost reductions.

Many vehicle manufacturers are now implementing Mobileye technology into new vehicles with headway monitoring and lane departure warning. But

The next generation GPS vehicle tracking system

By setting up scheduled reports and real-time alerts, fleet managers have all the information that they need, when they need it.

Many managers have found that fleet tracking software actually saves them time compiling fleet reports, dispatching vehicles and managing drivers.

In the experience of Fleetinsight, once fleet managers focus on the potential cost savings, financial decisions to implement GPS tracking are easier to make.

Once employees understand why the technology is necessary, they typically embrace the many benefits it has for them.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01420 544 514 www.fleetinsight.co.uk

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Additional improvements include the ability to edit and update the job header and issue stock items directly from the touch screen.

Civica’s touch screen technology provides an intuitive user interface for workshop technicians ensuring rapid data entry and minimal administrative overhead.

Tranman E-Forms is a product that is coming soon to the market. Removing the need for paper inspection sheets, Tranman E-Forms offers complete compliance piece of mind with the dashboard feature giving instant access to vehicle data.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01454 874011 www.civica.co.uk/tranman jonathan.roberts@civica.co.uk

Specialised driver advance hazard warning systems

these are just two of the seven safety features available with the Mobileye 560 ADAS system.

Data generated by the Mobileye 560 ADAS system can be delivered via the Ituran Telematics System which can provide comprehensive real-time driving and tracking reports.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01706 223 723 mobileye@emotivesolutions.co.uk www.emotivesolutions.co.uk

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FLEET MANAGEMENT

Allstar – Effective fleet management solutions Fuel card market leader Allstar is set to raise the industry bar this year, with a number of exciting developments planned as it continues its evolution into a comprehensive fleet payment solutions provider.

With over 40 years of industry experience, the company has built up an excellent reputation for its fuel cards, based on its ability to provide its customers with the largest fuel site network, giving drivers access to over 8,000 sites across the country. Managing 1.1 million cards in circulation and over 50 million transactions each year, the Allstar card is accepted by all the major fuel brands, supermarkets and motorway locations.

Backing this up is the company’s commitment to providing a first class service offering. Its solutions are designed to help businesses of all sizes take control of their fuel costs and reduce costly administration time associated with fuel expenditure.

Allstar’s innovation and

evolution into a fleet payment provider has already seen the company introduced to a number of key partnerships in recent years, including The AA, National Windscreens, M6 Toll and its Business Mileage Monitoring System, all of which are specifically designed to add value to its service proposition.

Allstar has also recently launched a new ground breaking solution that is set to save businesses thousands of pounds off their vehicle servicing, and later this year it will be rolling out a new generation fuel card with a host of innovative features and benefits.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.allstarcard.co.uk

M2M Intelligence - Keeping telematics on track M2M Intelligence’s managed multi-network roaming SIM solution for telematics and M2M is used by many UK public bodies including police, fire and rescue services and by many well-known companies such as RAC and Volvo Construction Equipment, Affinity Water and Wessex Water.

Public bodies are adopting telematics to measure driving behaviour and highlight areas for greater operational efficiency across the spectrum of vehicles from the largest highways plant to the smallest courier vans.

An add-on benefit from this monitoring is to improve employee safety, and some organisations are combining their lone worker solutions with the vehicle telematics systems and even cameras to keep their employees in touch with base for longer, monitor road use and record incidents.

None of this is possible without the telematics devices being

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

TRANSPORT

Speed Ramps is the UK’s cheapest supplier of recycled traffic management products. As the exclusive reseller to a UK manufacturer with over 40 years experience, Speed Ramps guarantees to be the cheapest door-to-door supplier.

From cable ramps, kerb ramps, speed ramps and traffic cones to vehicle stoppers - Speed Ramps offers same day dispatch with carriage and fixings full operational capability.

Speed Ramps offers a personal, professional and reliable service with no hidden costs. It guarantees to beat any genuine like-for-like quote. All of the company’s speed ramps are stamped, made in England and come with a minimum 12 month’s manufacturer’s warranty.

SR30/50/75mm Speed Ramps are sold as kits for £24/£30/£36 plus VAT per meter including end caps, fixings and carriage.

Established in 2000, Basemap is a specialist provider of digital mapping, travel time analysis and transport data solutions successfully servicing a wide range of clients across the private and public sectors.

In 2013 Basemap launched TRACC, the award winning travel time analysis solution. TRACC was created to help Basemap’s clients to produce accurate, public transport and road based travel time analysis, quickly and easily, so that they can make informed business decisions saving time and money.

Basemap are very proud to work with large organisations such as the Department for Transport, NHS, local authorities and global transport planning consultancies.

Their pricing structure and flexible payment terms ensures that

Cheapest door to door speed ramps in the UK

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TELEMATICS

The company also stocks signs and poles in adherence with Highways Agency guidelines, and supplies a user friendly installation guide. Speed Ramps has a network of CHAS and constructionline accredited installers to provide a one-stop shop to any speed ramp requirements.

For more information email the company with the details below.

Visit the Speed Ramps website to place an order or request a free no obligation quote.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01480 432055 sales@speedrampsuk.co.uk www.speedrampsuk.co.uk

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

able to contact the telematics service partner’s systems as and when they need to, and that is where M2M Intelligence can make a real difference.

M2M Intelligence provides roaming multi-network SIM cards that can use all UK networks to give unsurpassed geographical coverage and connection resilience.

This ensures that vehicles and staff will be better connected for more of the time, improving companies data gathering and giving them greater safety.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 03333 208023 info@m2mintelligence.com

Digital mapping and transport data solutions

their products are accessible to a wide range of organisations.

Providing the highest quality solutions and the best value to their clients is very important to Basemap, hence the client forum is a vibrant community. A reflection of this is the development of TRACC which has, and continues to be, truly customer led.

Basemap also provides training and consultancy as well as a broad range of national datasets from Ordnance Survey and other leading data providers.

Basemap is expanding overseas with launches in Europe, Australasia and North America planned for 2015.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01483 688471 www.basemap.co.uk

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

HOUSING

Team building exercises and activities have been proven to be an effective way of improving the cohesion and effectiveness of any team in the work or school place environment.

Lone Wolf Mobile Bushcraft runs a variety of these activities. This can be to focus on a specific learning outcome such as communication, teamwork and problem solving or the company uses the sessions to cover various outcomes. These can be run as a series of party games with no specific outcome in mind.

These sessions can be run both indoors and outside. As these sessions are team based, Lone Wolf asks for a minimum of a group of ten people to run effectively.

Prices start from £5 per person for a half day and £10 for a full day.

Belfast Insulation is Northern Ireland’s leading insulation installer.

The company has been providing home insulation expertise for over 25 years, in the domestic and new build markets.

With over 10,000 successful installs per year, Belfast Insulation’s goal is to provide a service that is second to none in customer care and a quality product.

By insulating homes well, customers will drastically reduce the harmful CO2 emissions that are caused by a homes energy consumption.

UK government studies show that 42 per cent of Northern Ireland’s households live in fuel poverty so by having efficient cavity wall and loft insulation you will reduce you’re heating bills by up to 40 per cent, as well as the CO2 emissions.

The path to greatness is built with others

Based in North Essex, with a capability to cover courses in Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk, Lone Wolf offers a learning experience like no other.

Due to its mobile nature, Lone Wolf can come to its clients, fully insured and CRB and DBS checked.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 07799 506998 lonewolf376@gmail.com www.lwbcfs.com

TRAINING

Turning professionals into exceptionals Professional Academy is the UK’s leading provider of accredited Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), Institute of Sales & Marketing (ISMM) and Communication Advertising and Marketing Foundation (CAM) qualifications, delivering high​quality, fully supported training in management and leadership, sales, marketing and digital marketing.

A one-stop-shop, the Professional Academy offers the complete package, from professionals looking to gain new qualifications and fill skills gaps to companies seeking in-house training to help their company grow. The Professional Academy provides customdesigned courses, exceptional trainers, one-to-one support and the most advanced online learning management system available, that are not only focused on achieving results but helping individuals reach their full potential.

The Professional Academy not only offers a full support structure for each individual undertaking a professional qualification - whether studying via premium workshops at one of its six UK centres, via distance learning or as part of a bespoke in-company training & development structure - but the Professional Academy is also the only accredited professional training institute to offer a 100 per cent pass guarantee with all qualifications.

If you have the drive and desire to achieve a professional qualification, the Professional Academy will do everything to make this a reality.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0844 800 5256 www.professionalacademy.com

Reducing fuel poverty through cavity wall and loft insulation

Products & Services

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Even houses that have had ineffective and outdated cavity wall insulation fitted in the past can upgrade by having it extracted and re-pumped with high grade bonded bead.

When upgrading or fitting loft insulation in a property it is important to also have the correct ventilation installed to prevent any condensation problems.

Belfast Insulation’s trained surveyors provide all the information needed to make the correct decision for the customer. Free surveys and grants are available to everybody regardless of income.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 028 9042 4411 info@belfastinsulation.com www.belfastinsulation.com

URBAN REGENERATION

Leading the way towards a ‘zero waste’ future Leafield Environmental is an award-winning UK designer and manufacturer of plastic recycling, litter, grit bins and bollards, with over 20 years’ experience. The company delivers consistent, high quality, tailor-made recycling and highway solutions for local and parish councils, healthcare, education and other public sector services. All products are designed and manufactured under one roof by skilled designers and engineers with a strong commitment to improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

Leafield’s new bespoke designs include a revamp of its best-selling Heritage Square litter bin with a new signage kit, to provide flexible poster space for community campaigns, special events or advertising. The company has also launched a stylish multi-waste recycling range in collaboration with Bath Spa University for its newly developed halls of residence.

A unique anti-microbial pedal

operated bin which meets the cleanliness and infection control regulations in the health industry has recently been designed and Leafield’s bollards range includes both modern and traditional styles, road sign bollards and night owl traffic bollards.

A personalisation service to include bespoke branding, straplines and logos etc is also offered.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01225 816500 comms@leafieldenvironmental.com www.leafield-environmental.com

Posters used for illustrative purposes only

Volume 22.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Advertisers Index

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Don’t channel hop. Channel stop.

Informative video content on environmental fleet management from the UK and around the world.

To watch, visit greenfleet.tv

ADVERTISERS INDEX

The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service Advanced Electronics 74 AJJ SP .Z.O.O 100 AKW 65 Allstar Business Solutions 104 Alpine Resourcing 85 Approved Marketing 38 Aquatic Engineering 87 Aran Services 94 Ark Housing Consultancy 67 Atkins 85 Avonwood Development 100 Banner Business Services 48, 49 Basemap 104 Belfast Insulation Co 105 Big Blue Door 98 BMG Research 22 Bona 22 Bridewell Consulting 86 Bridge Contract Interiors 97 British Gypsum 93 Bromak Recruitment 66 BT Redcare 73 Cam-Era 100 Centre 4 Testing 86 CIBSE 46 Civica UK 103 Clearabee 66 ClearPeople 98 Cloth Court Communications 89 Coast2Coast Energy 91 Comotion Consulting 99 Complete Weed Control 46 Computer Application Services 84 Concordia Construction 96 Condeco 46 Continental Tyres 26 Cornwell Business Services 83 Corton Clean 99 Crocodile Flood Solutions 87 Crystal Market Research 101

106

Cubic Apple 97 Delaware North at Wembley 30 Designer Contracts 64 Direct Signs UK 46 Dominion Theatre 4 Ebsford Environmental 87 ECE Cleaning 40 Emotive Solutions 103 Energy Saving Trust 91 Energystore 91 Esynergy Solutions 84 Everbridge 86 Evolution PR 90 Fibre Technologies 18 Fileofile 89 Fleet Insight Telematics 103 Flood Protection Solutions 88 Ford IFC Frontier Software 10 Fusion 21 66 G.I Energy 92 Ghyll Manor Hotel and Restaurant 35 Golmer Systems UK 70 Grand by Thistle Bristol 34 Green Deal Energy 92 Greenfix Soil Stabilisation & Erosion Control 88 Gripple 87 Groupcall 84 Hamatics 26 Hamilton First 94 Heat Insulation 94 Hillblock BV 88 Hillscourt Conference Centre 34 Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre 35 Homeseal Energy Saving 95 IFS 86 Intaforensics 85 Intergas Heating 66 Interquest Group 83

GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 22.3

ISS Mediclean 42 IT Asset Management 85 JMC Insulations 95 JUB Systems UK 93 Keith Richards Consultants 83 Kennys Shredding Co 99 Knauf Insulation 40 Lake Market Research 101 Langley Waterproofing 60 Lexis Nexis 14, 15 Liverpool Medical Institution 34 Lone Wolf Mobile Bushcraft 105 M2M Intelligence 104 Magnet 58 Mailsafe 100 Marsh Industries 88 MGISS 52 Milestone Systems A/S 72 Mitsubishi 28, 29 Nationwide Hygiene Supplies 65 Neil Stevens Consulting 98 Next Ventures 84 Nexus Industries 36 NFP Synergy 102 Norbain 73 Nu - Look 43 OR3D 50 Osiris M R 102 PHD Group - Seat 12 Phunky Moo 99 Premier Book 13 Profound Mining 74 Proludic IBC Protal Fieldwork 102 Radio Data Networks 97 Rawlplug 93 Reintec 68 Restore 78 Robey-Wellman Boilers & Furnaces 90 S and B Eps 94

Safe Electric (Nationwide) 97 Scarab Sweepers 52 SCC 98 Scott Porter Research and Marketing 101 Selectaglaze 89 Sequence 83 Skoda UK 16 Smartplanes 52 South Coast Insulation 95 Sparkx 96 Speed Ramps 104 SPS Envirowall 92 Stannah 44 Stelrad 62 Stroma Certification 95 Sustain Services 92 Sustainable Energy Scotland 90 Tadea-UK 90 The Bridgewater Hall 34 The Campaign Company 102 The National Plant and Equipment Register 76 The Professional Academy 105 The Research Advisory 101 The Senator Group 6 Thermohouse UK 76 Toro BC Track Global 103 Turf ’n’ Stuff 76 Victory Services Club 32 VINCI Construction UK 96 VW 8 Wall-Lag (Wales) 89 Warmfill 91 Wilo UK 82 WRF Facades 93 Wyless Group 24 Yes Energy Solutions 96 Zeta Automotive 27

play and sports equipment specialists

contact us for any Enquiries. email: MARKETING@PROLUDIC.CO.UK WWW.PROLUDIC.CO.UK 0115 982 3980

Whatever your challenge, Toro has the perfect fit

Augers Back Hoe

Stump Grinder

Buckets Tree Forks Trenchers

Dingo

Have the right tool for the job

For all your maintenance needs Find out more at www.toro.co.uk/dingo Or to request a demo, contact 01279 603020 - sales@toro.co.uk