unLTD Jan 25 Connecting business across Sheffield City Region #82

2025 VISION

SOUTH YORKSHIRE BUSINESS LEADERS ON AMBITIONS, CHALLENGES AND PREDICTIONS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

TOM ADEYOOLA

THE PIONEERING TECH ENTREPRENEUR REFLECTS ON HIS JOURNEY IN E-COMMERCE

UNLTD BUSINESS EXPO

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OUR FIRST GETTOGETHER OF THE YEAR

MTEC DIGITAL

FOUNDER ANDREW BRUCE DISCUSSES THE IMPORTANCE OF RESILIENCE IN BUSINESS

PLUS… NEWS, INTERVIEWS, EXPERT ADVICE AND MORE

Network

&

Solutions

Services

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With many years of experience working with local organisations, we provide design, installation, maintenance, and repair. Our highly skilled engineers can quickly do a site visit to understand your needs.

Data Cabling

Fibre Optic

Structured Cabling Cat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 6a

Access Control

Paxton Systems

Facial Recognition

Clocking In Systems

Power

Power

Contents

ON THE COVER...

24: 2025 VISION

South Yorkshire business leaders share their ambitions, challenges and predictions for 2025, from Sheffield’s Growth Plan and AI innovation to fostering collaboration, supporting wellbeing and navigating talent shortages and business transitions in a rapidly evolving economic landscape.

20: LIGHTBULB MOMENT

Ahead of an appearance at the South Yorkshire Tech Summit, entrepreneur Tom Adeyoola shares his journey from founding Metail, an innovative apparel technology company, to exiting in 2019 and focusing on diversity and sustainability in tech.

32: NAVIGATING CHANGE

Sheffield-based entrepreneur

Andrew Bruce reflects on his journey from Dundee to leading multiple ventures, including M-Tech Digital, emphasising the importance of resilience in overcoming career pivots and health challenges.

38: CREATIVITY IN COLLABORATION

Friends-turned-business partners

Gareth Foster and Carl Scott share their journey from freelancing to founding Sheffield-based creative agency Foster & Scott.

50: THE ANDROPAUSE UNVEILED

Jo Keen highlights the impact of andropause – or male menopause – on men’s health, workplace performance and well-being. From symptoms and treatments to supportive policies, she sheds light on an often-overlooked transition.

Welcome to the first unLTD magazine of the year!

I hope everyone is feeling refreshed and settling back into the rhythm of things. Despite taking turns battling the winter flu, we’ve managed to pull together 2025’s inaugural issue, which, as always, is packed with the latest news and analysis from South Yorkshire’s business scene.

January may have its challenges, but it remains a pivotal month for businesses to set goals and map out their growth strategies for the year ahead.

As such, this month’s cover feature brings together insights from business leaders across various sectors in the region, sharing their hopes and predictions for the next 12 months.

In our ‘Lightbulb Moment’ segment, we hear from tech entrepreneur Tom Adeyoola, founder of the e-commerce platform Metail, who reflects on the trials and tribulations of launching and scaling his business. Additional inspiring stories come from friends-turned-business-partners Foster & Scott, and Andrew Bruce, who shares his journey from working at Sky and Google to establishing his own digital advertising business.

Before I sign off, let me take a moment to give our upcoming business expo a quick plug. We received fantastic feedback on these events last year and are committed to raising the bar even further – head over to page 6 to see what’s in store for the next instalment.

That’s all from me for now. Wishing you a prosperous start to the year, and we’ll be back in four weeks with the latest updates from the local business community.

Until then!

Joe Food, Editor.

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Joe Food

Joe@unltdbusiness.com

ONLINE EDITOR

Ash Birch

Ash@unltdbusiness.com

COLUMN EDITOR

Holly Dibden

holly@unltdbusiness.com

VIDEO CONTENT CREATOR

Lizzy Capps

lizzy@unltdbusiness.com

DESIGN

Marc Barker

ADVERTISING

Phil Turner

phil@unltdbusiness.com 07979 498 034

Nick Hallam

nick@exposedmagazine.co.uk 07843 483536

FINANCE

Lis Ellis accounts@ exposedmagazine.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

Dan Bumby

Steve Brown

Wendy Ward

Jill White

unLTD is published monthly by Blind Mice Media Ltd Unit 1B Rialto, 2 Kelham Island Sq., Kelham Riverside, Sheffield S3 8SD

The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Blind Mice Media Ltd and while every effort is made to ensure information throughout unLTD is correct, changes prior to distribution may take place which can affect the accuracy of copy, therefore Blind Mice Media Ltd cannot take responsibility for contributors’ views or specific listings.

unLTD Business Expo Returns

After the success of our launch event in October, the unLTD Business Expo is back with two dates in 2025.

The unLTD Business Expo returns to Magna Centre for two dates in 2025, with the Spring Expo taking place on March 5th and the autumn event following on October 2nd.

The event runs from 10am-3.30pm with more than 75 exhibitors in line to showcase their organisations to a crowd of 500 plus delegates.

But it’s not just about walking around the stands; there will be a range of content throughout the day including…

• A Breakfast Panel Discussion to kickstart the day

• Two speed networking sessions run in conjunction with SYBN

• A keynote speaker session from podcasting specialist James Marriott

• A guide to maximising your networking skills featuring Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber’s Shane Young and The Great Escape’s Hannah Duraid

• A live podcast interview with gaming entrepreneur Stevan Parkin followed by a business mixer to end the day on a high

ABOUT US

WHAT IS THE UNLTD BUSINESS EXPO?

The unLTD Business Expo is a showcase for companies in the South Yorkshire region to promote their business, raise brand awareness, increase sales and network. Based in the Magna Centre in Rotherham, it’s just ten minutes from Sheffield city centre and will showcase the vibrant, forward-thinking business community in the region. As an exhibitor, you will have a full day to showcase your business, make new contacts and network. The expo is a fantastic opportunity for you to interact with potential clients, customers, suppliers, industry professionals and the public.

As an attendee you can book your FREE place to visit the expo at any time from 10am until 3.30pm. Make the most of your day and meet many excellent local exhibitors. You will have a great opportunity to engage in networking, learn about new products and services and make informed purchasing decisions.

The unLTD Business Expo is organised by the team behind unLTD Business Magazine and the unLTD Business Awards as well as the organisers of the Chesterfield Business Expo.

SIMON COY

Simon Coy is a full-time, experienced event organiser. He has been hosting networking events for over eight years and is currently host of one of the largest monthly business networking lunches in Birmingham as well as organising the bi-annual Chesterfield Business Expo.

PHIL TURNER

Phil heads up Blind Mice Media Ltd, publishers of unLTD Business Magazine and Exposed Magazine. He has run his own publishing company for 21 years and organises a range of networking events in the region as well as the annual unLTD Business Awards.

WHEN IS IT?

March 5, 2025, 10am-3.30pm

WHERE IS IT?

Magna Centre, Magna Way, Templeborough, Rotherham S60 1FD

HOW DO I BOOK?

Visit expo.unltdbusiness.com or email phil@unltdbusiness.com. You can also register your free space to attend on the same page.

PROGRAMME OF EVENTS

8.30-10

Breakfast Panel Debate: The Future is Female: Why investing in women leaders is crucial for business success.

10.30-11

James Marriott on Podcasting in 2025: Grow Your Business With Conversational Content

11.15-11.45

Speed Networking Session 1 hosted by SYBN

12-12.30

Meaningful Connections: Elevating Your Networking Beyond the Basics with Shane Young, Hannah Duraid and more.

12.45-1.15

Speed Networking Session 2 hosted by SYBN

1.30PM-2PM

Grants, Finance, and Training: Unlocking Resources to Grow Your Business with Whyy Change’s Anne Wilson and more.

3PM-4PM

unLTD Business Social and Live Podcast: Phil Turner is joined by Stevan Parkin, a verified Twitch Partner and co-founder of the Online Gaming Academy, to hear how he turned a childhood spent gaming into a positive experience to educate Gen Zers.

1 WINE

NOT ALL WINES IMPROVE WITH AGE

It’s a common misconception that if you store a wine or save it for a rainy day it will improve or not diminish. Many wines are made as lighter bodied wines or ‘primary fruit dominant’ wines and therefore should be consumed younger. Whilst there are Bordeaux or Barolo reds which can age for years to come, many wines are crafted to be enjoyed a short time after release. Hence, it is not true to say all wine tastes better with age or as it gets older.

STORAGE SIGNIFICANTLY AFFECTS A WINE’S TASTE AND LONGEVITY

In fact, even wines stored upright in supermarkets for long periods can cause UV light damage and dry out the cork. Temperature fluctuations, light exposure, vibrations, humidity and storing wines horizontally are all key to determining the viability of the wine at its best.

THE 20-20 RULE IS KEY

2 3 4 5 THINGS YOU ONLY KNOW IF YOU'RE A…

It is wrong to assume red wine must be served at room temperature and white wine should be served ice cold. In fact, the truth is that red wine is best served slightly cooler than room temperature, so place the bottle for 20 minutes inside the fridge before consuming. For white wine, our fridges are too cold for the perfect consumable temperature, so take the wine out of the fridge for 20 minutes prior to consuming for the ideal temperature.

SCREW CAPS AREN’T NECESSARILY INFERIOR TO CORKS

It is a common misconception that a cork is always better than a screw cap for ageing and/or a sign of wine quality. Screw caps can be just as good if not better than corks in maintaining a wine’s freshness because they do not allow any oxygen inside the bottle. They are ideal for wines that are consumed young and also do not risk the oxidation that takes place from cork failure - known as ‘cork taint’ where wines develop off flavours as a result.

THERE ISN’T A ‘CORRECT LANGUAGE’ FOR WINE TASTING

To enjoy wine tasting, you do not need to know specific jargon like ‘leathery contrast’ or ‘forest floor’ or ‘flinty’ descriptors. Wine tasting is for personal enjoyment and everyone has a different palate which means that you should not be swayed by someone else’s view of a wine. It is absolutely ok to like or dislike a wine based on your perception and taste buds - in fact, the more you know which styles and varietals you like or don’t like, the better you will find your future wine explorations!

Andrew Lofthouse is The Northern Wine Guy – a Sheffieldbased consultant, writer, events organiser and wine educator with a mission to make vino accessible for everyone. Find out more about his work – including the corporate events he co-hosts with The Sheffield Table here at www. thenorthernwineguy.co.uk.

Agenda

OBE AWARDED FOR CHAMBER CHAMPION

Louisa Harrison-Walker has led the ambitious and impactful transformation of Sheffield’s Chamber of Commerce over the past five years. Her work has included restructuring the organisation, diversifying the board and representative council, increasing the balance sheets significantly and re-imagining its core membership offer.

Louisa has also built up the Chamber’s relationship with South Yorkshire’s Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA), Sheffield City Council (SCC) and rewired relationships with other Regional and National Chambers, and other organisations around the UK including Business in the Community (BITC) with whom Sheffield Chamber deliver a social value programme that harnesses private sector resource for the benefit of charities and social enterprises.

Oliver Coppard, Mayor of South Yorkshire, said: “Louisa is a leader who brings organisations and businesses together in a way that others cannot because she truly cares about people.”

Involved in supporting successful bids for collaborative work throughout the region, Louisa has been integral to the delivery of the Community Renewal Fund, the Local Skills Improvement Plan Project (LSIP) across South Yorkshire, the Yorkshire and Humber Policy Innovation Partnership, the South Yorkshire Investment

LOUISA REPRESENTS THE CITY ON NUMEROUS LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL PLATFORMS AND DOES SO WITH AUTHENTICITY, GRAVITAS AND INSIGHT.

Zone and the continued campaign to re-open South Yorkshire’s regional airport.

Louisa is also Co-Chair of South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s Business Advisory Board, has been integral to the development of the Sheffield City Goals – the city’s 10-year city strategy, launched the Health and

Wellbeing Consortium and developed a senior women’s leadership network.

Kate Josephs, Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council, said: “Louisa represents the city on numerous local, regional and national platforms and does so with authenticity, gravitas and insight.

“In leading in the way she does, Louisa acts as a role model, in particular for women. She has worked with me to develop the city’s first women’s leadership network, creating a safe space for women to navigate the challenges they may face in their professional lives.

“Every great city needs active, community minded and forward-thinking business leadership and with Louisa at the helm the Chamber has become an invaluable partner in the regeneration and resurgence of Sheffield.”

ASM GLOBAL TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT CITY HALL AND UTILITA ARENA

As of this month, ASM Global have taken over operation of Sheffield City Hall and Utilita Arena Sheffield, who will join ASM Global’s network of more than 350 venues, which collectively host 20,000 events and welcome 164 million guests every year.

The new operators will oversee a new chapter for the Sheffield venues with investment powering a series of improvement works, funded by Sheffield City Council and ASM Global.

Taking place across all areas of Utilita Arena, the vision is to reimagine the venue as a world-class touring destination, while developing the venue experience at Sheffield City Hall in line with its prestigious heritage identity.

Councillor Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council said: “Sheffield has an excellent reputation for hosting major events, festivals, live music, culture and sport, and the city’s venues play a huge role in this.

“Last year, the Utilita Arena played host to MOBO Awards, Matchroom Boxing and countless global stars and is home to the Sheffield Steelers.

“We have big ambitions to develop Sheffield’s events offer even further and our new partnership with ASM Global will ensure our city continues to have fantastic venues for the best events.”

Venue improvements will begin this month, and the first phase is to focus on enhancements to the venue concourses including more points of sale to improve speed of service. The introduction of Boxbar – the world’s first automated self-serve drinks solution as well as improvements to the entire food and beverage offering to ensure great quality and more choice than ever, improved digital signage on the concourses, scan-and-collect options for drinks, and more.

There will be additional major developments such as new supersuite spaces, a newly refurbished arena club and revamped lounges for an unparalleled premium experience.

As part of the overall enhancements, the venue’s capacity will increase, and through ASM’s global network, the venue will see a packed calendar of events.

The Arena’s back of house will be upgraded with a complete overhaul of the backstage areas for artists, production and crew,.

At Sheffield City Hall, ASM Global will undertake improvements to the concert-goer experience including the addition of more tills and the introduction of a new and improved food and beverage offering.

ASM Global’s operation of the venue will retain a heavy focus on upholding the cultural heritage of what is one of Sheffield’s most historic buildings, futureproofing it for years to come while preserving its iconic features.

NIBS

LUNAR FESTIVAL TO DELIGHT

Sheffield will mark the Year of the Snake with the biggest Lunar Chinese New Year Festival ever seen in the city. Headlined by a free two-day celebration in the city centre on 1st and 2nd February 2025. Supported by Sheffield BID, the central event will take place at the Peace Gardens featuring lion and dragon dances, live music, cultural performances and authentic food.

A DECADE OF LEADERSHIP

Doncaster Chamber CEO, Dan Fell celebrates 10 Years at the Helm in 2025. Dan’s journey with the Chamber commenced back in 2004, when he initially joined as a Research and Policy Officer. In the ensuing years, he proceeded to take on increasingly senior roles within the organisation until eventually becoming its Chief Executive, distinguishing himself at the time as the youngest-ever CEO of an accredited UK Chamber.

SHEFFIELD’S FORGOTTEN SUFFRAGETTE

A new plaque to commemorate Abiah Higginbottom, a Sheffield woman who led the first-ever petition for the right of all women to vote, was unveiled last month at Sheffield Hallam University. Abiah was leader of the Sheffield Women’s Rights Association (WRA), a group of workingclass women who sent a petition to parliament for women’s suffrage in 1851, pre-dating by 15 years the more famous petition organised by liberal middle-class women.

SHEFFIELD’S ECO EVOLUTION

Natural habitats in the South-East of Sheffield, are being transformed to help important wildlife and species to thrive, thanks to funding. Habitat improvements are taking place in Shire Brook Valley, Beighton Marsh, Woodhouse Washlands, Wickfield Heath and Plantation, Richmond Park, Silkstone Ravine. The Council are leading the project in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust, Woodhouse and District Community Forum and the South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre.

GEORGE STREET’S COLOURFUL COMEBACK

Sheffield Business Improvement District (BID), in collaboration with Vine Hotels, has installed a vibrant new mural on George Street, marking the first step in a broader initiative to rejuvenate the area and unlock its investment potential.

George Street, once a bustling hub in Sheffield city centre, has faced challenges in recent years, including anti-social behaviour, vacant premises, and other environmental issues.

In response to the concerns of local businesses around safety, Sheffield BID has undertaken extensive deep cleaning efforts and has now introduced temporary street art to brighten the area and foster a sense of community pride.

The mural, located at the former Cutlers Hotel, draws inspiration from the architectural features of George Street. The artwork

incorporates floral elements found in the stonework of local buildings, reimagined with unique drawing and colour styles to create a joyful, optimistic, and colourful addition to the street.

The theme of the mural

is “growth,” symbolising the new beginnings and creative energy that local businesses and Sheffield BID want to bring to George Street.

The mural has been designed by Sheffield-based creative design company Restless Forest, founded by local artists Ruthie Ford and Ruby Fox. The structure has been designed by Sheffieldbased Rocket Designs.

“Art and creativity can play a crucial role in the revitalisation of urban spaces,” said Diane Jarvis, Head of Business Operations at Sheffield BID.

“This mural is just the beginning of our efforts to reclaim George Street and transform it into a vibrant, welcoming area for employees and businesses in the vicinity, and visitors. There is potential to unlock substantial private sector investment if the street scene can be improved and the underlying issues resolved.”

George Street is home to several notable establishments, including the Curzon cinema and Nat West Bank. The former Cutlers Hotel, where the mural is located, holds significant potential for future development, adding to the area’s appeal. Additionally, the owner of the former listed NSPCC building is actively regenerating the property, further contributing to the street’s revitalisation.

The initiative has already garnered positive feedback from the local business community, with many expressing strong support for further improvements and investment in both George Street and neighbouring Mulberry Street. George Street is also a popular cut-through for many staff working in the city centre and serves as a vital link for visitor access between the theatres and High Street.

CELEBRATING HALF A CENTURY OF SUCCESS

The DL Company, a Sheffield-based commercial design and fit out firm that specialises in office refurbishments, office partitioning systems and furniture, celebrated 50 years in business at the end of last year.

To commemorate the impressive milestone and in a touching gesture to express gratitude to their loyal staff, The DL Company organised a memorable weekend getaway to the picturesque coastal town

of Scarborough. Employees and their families were able to enjoy some good family fun by the seaside, taking part in games and activities, making lasting memories together.

The thoughtful gesture celebrated the company’s half a century of dedication and success, whilst also honouring the company’s rich history and reinforcing the strong sense of community that has been the cornerstone of The DL Company’s success.

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End-to-end planning and coordination you can rely on

With Jill White of Andy Hanselman Consulting

MONTGOMERY THEATRE TO JOIN SHEFFIELD THEATRES Agenda

The Montgomery Theatre and Arts Centre has announced it will join forces with Sheffield Theatres from 2nd January 2025, marking an exciting new chapter for the iconic venue.

First opened in 1886, The Montgomery has long been a hub for young people’s engagement with the performing arts, hosting a diverse programme ranging from pantomimes to musicals, tribute bands, and community performances. Following an extensive redevelopment period, the venue now boasts improved accessibility, including lifts and ramps, ensuring a warm welcome for all audiences.

The theatre will operate alongside Sheffield’s renowned venues – the Crucible, Lyceum, and Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse – under the management of Sheffield Theatres. Despite the shift in management, The Montgomery has assured audiences that its unique ethos and role as a creative home for local schools and companies will remain unchanged.

Existing staff will also retain their roles.

Linda Bloomfield, Executive Director of The Montgomery, expressed optimism for the future:

“The charity’s new future, as part of Sheffield Theatres, will ensure The Montgomery can continue to be a home for children, young people and communities for many more years to come.

“We’re grateful to our funders, partners, audiences and participants for coming on this journey with us, and we can’t wait to welcome you back into the incredible 138 year old building in the new year, which is now accessible for the first time in its history.”

The partnership promises to strengthen Sheffield’s arts scene and secure The Montgomery’s place as a vital cultural landmark for generations to come. We’re looking forward to what 2025 will bring!

New Year, New Plans, New Hope

2025 will be our 30th Year in Business and all with my ‘Number One Business Partner’ (and husband!) Andy Hanselman. Save the date, 1st May 2025!

Let’s hope we can party and celebrate like we all did at the unLTD Business Awards - what a great way to end 2024. Big, big congratulations to all nominees and winners; here’s to a fabulous 2025 for all.

Carols at The Mowbray and their new venue, The Victoria, quizzing at The Great Escape, whooping at the Big Challenge Interim Awards event, lighting up the skies with The Children’s Hospital Charity and boogieing to Tony Christie at Sheffield Hospitals Charity’s Christmas event at the Cathedral filled our December with joy and happiness.

So, what does 2025 have in store? More joy, more happiness and more success for Sheffield businesses is my hope.

Having just returned from a ‘timeout’ in India, where we had a great New Year with Jay Bhayani from Bhayani HR and Law and Alex Barlow from Triple Point Brew, we’re all ready and raring! And I know I’m not alone.

Our ‘Driving into 2025’ event with Sheffield Rising Star, Rowan Pilling, is proving very popular. Can Sheffield have its first F1 Driver? He’s certainly ‘on track’, and a partnership with SUFC Community Foundation is a great way to start the year. We’ll be sharing lots of business plans, hopes and dreams at the event.

Whatever your hopes for 2025 are, I wish you all the very best.

Let’s make it a good one!

Follow Jill at uk.linkedin.com/in/jilltywhite or find Andy Hanselman Consulting at andyhanselman.com.

FluidOne

BY STEVE BROWN, MD, FLUIDONE BUSINESS IT - SHEFFIELD

THE TOP FIVE IT PRIORITIES FOR 2025

As a new year begins, IT managers need to plan for 2025, ensuring a smooth transition from the holidays to a productive four quarters. To help, here’s a checklist of five key IT priorities to focus on.

1. WINDOWS 10 END-OFLIFE

Windows 10 support will end on October 14, 2025 –Microsoft will not provide security patches, technical assistance, or software updates, leaving devices more vulnerable to cyberattacks and performance issues. Upgrading to Windows 11 avoids this, while offering features such as a new interface, live captions, and integrated passkeys. As a Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP), FluidOne offers support with licenses and Microsoft services.

2.

RISE OF AI

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transformative. AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft 365 Copilot are revolutionising how companies operate through automation: transcribing meetings, drafting emails, creating content, and more. By 2025, AI will be more embedded in daily business processes, making it essential to explore how AI can improve efficiency and be integrated.

3. SUSTAINABLE IT

As with most industries, sustainability is now a focus in IT. Migrating to energyefficient data centres and cloud storage solutions can help reduce energy consumption. Transitioning to environmentally friendly hardware that uses less

energy and is recyclable is another green step. These sustainable IT practices not only align with global environmental goals but also offer long-term cost savings.

4. INCREASING SECURITY

Cyber and IT security are critical, with nearly half of businesses experiencing breaches last year. That statistic should be a catalyst for conducting a comprehensive review of their security measures. Proactive strategies, such as assessments, training, and multi-factor authentication, are essential to safeguard

against evolving cyber threats and strengthen defences.

5. BACKUP AND DISASTER RECOVERY

Disaster recovery planning is vital for protecting data and ensuring business continuity in case of cyberattacks or natural disasters. Backup is the cornerstone of recovery. Reviewing backup processes, ensuring proper encryption, and utilising cloud services will ensure that critical data is protected and recoverable.

CONCLUSION

IT strategies ensure

organisations remain secure, efficient, and sustainable. The above five priorities are essential to keeping your business ahead of the curve. At FluidOne, our team of experts is ready to assist you with all the priorities – and more – and create a customised strategy for IT success in 2025.

You can reach us through our website at info.fluidone.com/ lp/it-transformationconsulation, call us at 0114 292 3800 or email sheffieldenquiries@ fluidone.com.

We'll

DIAGNOSE

DESIGN

DELIVER

Russell Thompson: Perspectives

BY RUSSELL THOMPSON, DIRECTOR ON DEMAND

NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITIES: SOURCE INSPIRATION, NOT ENVY

In any walk of life, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others and feeling envious of their achievements. But what if we could turn envy into inspiration? By adopting a growth mindset and focusing on our own goals, we can use the success of others as motivation to achieve our own dreams.

Each new year brings with it a host of new opportunities, a reset button, a chance to start over or commit to those goals we never quite got off the ground last year. So, as we start our latest trip around the sun, it seems the perfect time to break out those resolutions and start with a clean slate, right?

To me, it’s not about creating another raft of potentially unfulfilled resolutions. It’s about remaining resolute, and the key to this is adopting a Growth Mindset.

Last year, like many before it, finished with Awards season. Like me, your social media feeds were undoubtedly jam packed with images of award winners celebrating the successes they worked so hard to achieve. But for all those who didn’t end the year tightly clutching their very own glitterball, what next?

Put simply - there are two choices:

Source Inspiration (Growth Mindset), or Source Envy (Fixed Mindset).

Such a simple frame and it could be so important to how each of us approach 2025.

Envy often comes from a fixed mindset – the belief that our abilities are limited, unchanging, or that success

is out of reach.

The truth is, we have a huge capacity to be incredibly adaptable. To embrace change and learn new things means we are capable of learning and growing at any age. When we embrace a growth mindset, we recognise that our abilities can be developed through dedication and effort.

So how do we source inspiration instead of giving in to envy? Here are a few simple steps: Shift your focus: Instead of dwelling on what others

have, concentrate on your own goals. What excites you? What skills do you want to develop?

Identify your triggers: What situations or people tend to make you feel envious? Once you’re aware of your triggers, you can choose a different response.

Study those you admire: Instead of being envious of their successes, understand what they’ve done to achieve them. What strategies have they used? What lessons can you learn?

Celebrate others’ achievements: Being genuinely happy for others’ success creates positivity and support, creating your very own springboard to achievement and growth. This January, join me in making a commitment to cultivate a growth mindset and to view others’ achievements not as a threat, but as proof positive that we can achieve our dreams too.

Source inspiration, not envy.

Now that’s a 2025 we can all look forward to.

Lightbulb Moment

TOM ADEYOOLA

The journey of building metail, exiting with purpose and the future of tech entrepreneurship

As the founder of Metail, a pioneering apparel technology scale-up which sought to transform the way shoppers interact with online fashion, enabling virtual fitting rooms and personalised sizing tools, Tom Adeyoola is no stranger to turning big ideas into reality. But his story isn’t just one of innovation – it’s also one of reflection, reinvention and a commitment to creating products of value.

Now a mentor, investor and advocate for diversity in tech, Tom shared insights from his career with unLTD, including his journey building and exiting from Metail and advice for entrepreneurs who are ready to take the leap themselves.

The lightbulb moment for Metail came after a series of personal observations and experiences. “It came about through a combination of three things,” Adeyoola recalls. One was his wife’s frustration with shopping – both instore and online. “Online still hadn’t solved the problem of ‘Is this going to suit and fit me right?’” he notes.

Another spark came during a holiday in Vietnam, where prior to leaving his wife had clothes tailored in Hoi An. “I remember thinking, why can’t the internet do this?”

The final piece of the puzzle came from an unexpected place – his work on a project involving computer vision for live blackjack. During his research, he encountered a Cambridge professor who had developed technology that could generate realistic representations of human figures. “That stuck in my mind, and I thought, maybe computer vision is the way to solve the online clothing fit problem.”

Employing that combination of personal experience, professional insight and cutting-edge technology, Metail was born in 2008.

Launching the company came with its challenges. Adeyoola speaks about the early days with candid humility. “It took a year to come up with that lightbulb moment,” he admits. After quitting his job, he funded the business through what he calls “friends, family and fools'” money.

Early on, the goal was clear: to prove the technology’s viability. “We needed to answer three basic questions: Can we generate realistic versions of people from basic images? Can we model clothing? And can we put the two together in a way that doesn’t look rubbish?”

Despite plenty of early hurdles, Adeyoola’s determination kept him moving forward. “Building a business is about putting yourself in positions for lucky things to happen to you. It’s like the quote apocryphally attributed to Gary Player: The more you practice, the luckier you get,” he says.

Throughout Metail’s journey, there were moments that tested Adeyoola’s resolve. One pivotal event came during

a crucial meeting with ASOS. “We had an 8am demo, and nothing was working. As we were on the train, my CTO called to say, ‘We’ve got it working.’ It was rough around the edges, but it worked. That was a sliding doors moment between success and failure.”

But not all stories ended in triumph. The potential deal with ASOS fell apart when a key stakeholder left the business, forcing Metail to pivot. Adeyoola describes these moments as lessons in adaptability. “You have to be resilient and willing to pivot when circumstances change,” he reflects.

By 2018, it became clear that Metail’s commercial traction wasn’t keeping pace with its innovative potential. Adeyoola made the difficult decision to sell the company. “It was about recognising that market forces were outside my control,” he explains.

The process of exiting was bittersweet. While Metail’s technology was ahead of its time, timing proved critical. “We were bought in 2019, but if we’d stayed alive into the pandemic, we could’ve gone for 20 times more,” he reflects. Despite this, Adeyoola emphasises the importance of timing and family. “Being able to step back and repay my family for 11 years of sacrifice was priceless.”

Since leaving Metail, Adeyoola has focused on projects that blend technology, society and climate impact. He is deeply engaged in diversity initiatives, having co-founded two nonprofits aimed at supporting underrepresented founders and expanding angel investment networks.

Reflecting on the future of work, Adeyoola recalls a question posed to him five years ago. “Yvette Cooper asked me, ‘What would you say to a 30-year-old woman in Doncaster, educated to GCSE level, with two kids who currently works at Next? What’s her future?’ I didn’t have an answer then, but it’s a question that sticks with me.”

Now, his focus is on tackling big challenges, from climate change to creating equitable opportunities in tech. “Technology should be a force for good,” he says. “It’s not just about what we can build but about the impact it will have on people and the planet.”

“For me, it’s not just about building a business – it’s about creating value and leaving the world better than you found it.”

Tom will be the keynote speaker at the South Yorkshire Tech Summit 2025, taking place on Monday 10th March at Cast Theatre in Doncaster. To learn more or register, visit www.techsy.co.uk/tech-summit.

TOM’S ADVICE FOR ENTREPRENEURS

Adeyoola’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. His top advice includes:

• Start with the Problem

“Too often, people fall in love with an idea before understanding the problem. Focus on solving real issues.”

• Build Resilience

“Every setback is an opportunity to learn. Resilience is what keeps you going.”

• Embrace Diversity

“Diverse teams lead to better decisions and stronger businesses. Make it a priority from the start.”

• Think Beyond the Now

“Have a long-term vision. Think about the legacy you want to leave.”

• Take Care of Yourself

“Entrepreneurship is tough. Make time for rest and reflection.“For me, it’s not just about building a business – it’s about creating value and leaving the world better than you found it,” he concludes.

PLEASE

Please

As we step into 2025, unLTD’s first cover story brings together insights from a range of South Yorkshire business leaders, offering a glimpse into their ambitions, challenges and predictions for the year ahead.

ALEXIS KRACHAI President of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce

Hello 2025. What have you got in store for Sheffield’s business community?

Predicting is tough in uncertain times. Sheffield buzzes, but frustrations linger. The new Labour government is promising growth whilst increasing taxes on small businesses.

Bigger issues in our economy continue to loom large. Confidence is the maker and breaker of businesses and economies. Data at the end of 2024 suggested businesses up and down the country were feeling less confident. Energy prices and labour shortages are still hitting many businesses hard. The costs of running a business continue to go up, eating away at profit and investment plans.

Then you have the even

bigger questions that come around once in a generation. What does artificial intelligence really mean for every business? Is it a fad, a software tool or an agent of transformational change? How will this new technology shape investment and recruitment strategies? Will it make some businesses obsolete? Which new businesses will emerge?

Some things are impossible to predict with certainty. Other things are within our control. Sheffield has real potential to navigate these choppy and turbulent waters, if we continue to pull together as a business community.

Last year, for the first time in over a decade, Sheffield City Council brought partners together to develop a plan to grow our economy over

the next 10 years. We know in business, if you do not have a plan, you are likely to fail. That is why Sheffield Growth’s Plan matters. Sheffield’s business community can be the difference between whether this plan sits on a shelf gathering dust or whether it gets delivered, helping businesses to grow and generate new jobs and wealth across the city.

The Council has been bold in its ambitions. It has extended an invitation to work alongside the private sector so that together we get things done. The opening introduction to the Plan could not be clearer:

“We need economic growth to improve the lives of everyone living, working and doing business in Sheffield. To increase living standards over the long term for all, we need to increase our productivity, as well as reduce inequality. The Growth Plan is a blueprint for how we will achieve that.”

It is hard to see that plan

WE NEED ECONOMIC GROWTH TO IMPROVE THE LIVES OF EVERYONE LIVING, WORKING AND DOING BUSINESS IN SHEFFIELD.

being delivered without the innovation, smart-thinking and drive that runs through the veins of Sheffield’s business community. So, if you want to shape the future, think about getting more involved or joining one of our city’s business organisations: The Chamber of Commerce and Industry; The Company of Cutlers; Sheffield Digital; Sheffield Property Association; and The Sheffield Social Enterprise Network. These organisations

are central to ensuring our business community has a strong and positive role in making sure that plan begins to be delivered.

You have your business to run, but lending a bit of your energy to these organisations can make all the difference. Your city needs you more than you might think.

Predicting the future can be fun. Shaping it can be even more rewarding.

Happy New Year!

DANIEL BUMBY

Simoda

As head honcho of Simoda, an innovative IT solutions firm, Daniel tells us that he is focused on achieving “intelligent growth” in 2025, targeting a 20% increase in revenue while expanding the company’s local footprint. “This year, one of our ambitions is to grow our local presence,” he says. “We’ll be focusing especially in the medium, large and enterprise-sized space, where we can offer high-end technologies like cloud services, optimisation, managed services and cybersecurity.”

The company has already taken proactive steps to achieve this goal, forming

a dedicated “Special Forces” team to identify and approach key businesses in the region. “It’s a bit of a cheesy name,” Daniel admits, “but it’s effective. The team meets monthly to review progress and ensure we’re targeting the right companies.”

However, like many businesses, Simoda faces plenty of challenges ahead. Economic uncertainty, AI regulation and talent acquisition are at the top of Daniel’s list. “Although the economic outlook is improving, it’s still unpredictable, and costs like rising taxes and National Insurance impact our ability

to reinvest,” he explains. On AI, Daniel emphasised the importance of governance: “AI adoption needs to be embraced in a regulated fashion. Tools like ChatGPT are powerful, but without proper oversight, sensitive information could be exposed and there are some ethical concerns, too.”

Staff acquisition remains a particular concern, one which they are taken steps to address. “We still see a pull towards cities like Leeds and Manchester,” he says.

“Our focus is on creating an attractive culture, making it a fun and engaging place to work, while working with institutions like Sheffield College and Hallam University to attract and develop new talent.”

Daniel also predicts some key trends shaping

the year ahead in the IT sector, including the rise of AI-powered PCs, hybrid cloud solutions and increased investment in cybersecurity.

“We’re seeing businesses move away from full cloud models back to hybrid systems for cost and security reasons,” he explains.

“Cybersecurity budgets are also growing, with a focus on modernising threat landscapes and ensuring robust disaster recovery plans.”

Reflecting on the company’s trajectory, Daniel remained optimistic: “Last year was a strong year for revenue growth and laying the foundations for the next five years. We’ve invested in our systems, people and customer relationships, and we’re ready to take the business to the next level.”

DAVID NEALE

Business Selling Experts

Building on a busy 2024, David, director of Business Selling Experts, and his team are focused on continuing to help business owners navigate the challenges of selling and buying businesses in 2025. Reflecting on the past year, David noted shifts in the economic landscape, including tighter lending conditions and changes to tax relief. “The end of the entrepreneur’s relief has made it harder for some owners to sell,” he explains. “And lenders are becoming increasingly cautious, demanding extensive guarantees even for strong business cases.”

A key message from David for potential clients in 2025 is the importance of preparation. “Many business owners are ready to sell because they’re worn out, but their businesses aren’t. We work with owners to get their businesses into a position that’s attractive to buyers –ensuring clear processes are in place and the business isn’t overly reliant on a single person.”

He also highlighted the imbalance between buyers and sellers, with far more businesses for sale than buyers in the market. To address this, his firm is prioritising training for both groups. “Our focus this year is teaching buyers how to buy and sellers how to sell,” he says. “We want to create smoother transitions by matching wellprepared businesses with informed buyers.”

Looking beyond his own company, David hopes for greater collaboration among South Yorkshire’s business community. “Business owners need to connect more – to share solutions to common challenges,” he emphasises. “We also need local councils to back initiatives that support entrepreneurship and reduce red tape.”

Despite the obstacles ahead, he remains optimistic. “Entrepreneurs and business people in South Yorkshire are resilient,” he states. “If we start planning and support each other, there’s a real opportunity for growth in our region.” His vision for the year ahead is clear: helping more business owners prepare for a successful exit and helping to foster a stronger, more connected local business community.

More information on buying and selling is available on their website www.businesssellingexperts.com, where a free eBook with more details can be downloaded.

The next 12 months are all about “cautious optimism” for Lisa, who oversaw a year of game-changing milestones and challenges at Airmaster in 2024.

The air conditioning and mechanical services company, based in South Yorkshire, celebrated a significant achievement last year – fully paying off its employee ownership trust.

“We’re now completely employee-owned, which is something we’re immensely proud of,” Lisa shares. However, despite some exciting developments, she acknowledged the fatigue felt by the team at the end of 2024, citing external factors like economic uncertainty and global events and how they can impact morale.

Looking ahead, Airmaster is focusing on consolidation and investing in its people.

“We’ve decided to spend the first few weeks of 2025 on training and getting everyone up to speed,” she explains. This includes building on the company’s core values and targeting growth in new sectors while ensuring the business remains resilient amidst industry challenges, such as cash flow pressures and insolvencies in the construction sector.

Moving forward, Lisa

highlighted the importance of continued collaboration within the South Yorkshire business community. “Just from attending events like the unLTD Awards last year, you can see there’s been a noticeable shift towards businesses working together. That exchange of ideas and mutual support can make a real difference, especially when times are tough.”

On a personal level, Lisa’s priorities include looking after her health and continuing to foster a culture of wellbeing at Airmaster. “Last year was difficult for me health-wise, so I’m hoping for a better year in that respect, and we’re working with organisations like Westfield Health and the Skills Bank to enhance our approach to employee wellbeing. When setting goals and aims for the year, wellbeing is something that doesn’t get spoken about enough.”

With a track record of overcoming challenges and a renewed focus on team development, the plan is to navigate 2025 with the same determination and adaptability that has driven their success so far. “We’ve achieved so much already,” Lisa says. “Now it’s about streamlining and shaping up for an even stronger future.”

LISA POGSON Airmaster

LEANNE KEETLEY

Sheaf Design Works

For 2025, Leanne and Martin have ambitious plans for their Sheffield-based design studio. With January and February projects already secured, they aim to book more brand refresh projects from March onwards. “We specialise in updating established brands that need a slicker, more modern presence online and in print,” Leanne explains.

While digital marketing continues to dominate, Leanne sees print evolving rather than fading away. “We’re doing fewer mass leaflets but more bespoke items like branded packaging and textured business cards.” Recent projects include custom packaging for beauty brands, blending design with practicality to enhance customer experience.

Looking ahead, Sheaf Design will also expand its in-house web development services for smaller businesses needing brochure-style websites. “It’s about making professional websites more affordable while maintaining quality.”

The studio occupies a unique niche between freelance designers and full-service agencies, offering tailored solutions that rival larger agencies without the hefty price tag. “We’re not a full-service agency with in-house photographers or copywriters, but we’re more than just freelancers. We deliver high-end branding at a mid-range budget.”

On broader industry trends, she remains optimistic despite challenges like AI’s rise. While acknowledging AI’s role as a creative tool, she also emphasises its limits. “AI can’t replace the human understanding of tone, style or brand identity. People come to us because they struggle to define these elements themselves.”

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SUCCESSFUL SHEFFIELD-BASED ENTREPRENEUR ANDREW BRUCE’S JOURNEY INTO THE WORLD OF BUSINESS IS A STORY OF DETERMINATION, ADAPTABILITY, AND RESILIENCE. FROM HIS EARLY DAYS IN DUNDEE, TO BECOMING A KEY FIGURE IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY, ANDREW’S PATH HAS TAKEN HIM FROM WORKING IN SOME OF THE WORLD’S LARGEST CORPORATIONS TO RUNNING MULTIPLE VENTURES FOR HIMSELF, EACH WITH ITS OWN UNIQUE CHALLENGES AND REWARDS, BOTH ON A PERSONAL AND CAREER LEVEL.

Born and raised in Dundee, Andrew’s first career ambitions were rooted in technology. He studied for a degree in computer science at university, but it wasn’t long before he realised his passion and potential lay elsewhere. “I went to uni for computer science but quickly realised I could make more money not being a programmer,” he recalls.

That decision set him on a new path – one that would lead to the dynamic world of sales and marketing. It was a turning point that would shape his professional future.

After several roles that helped him build a foundation in sales, Andrew landed a position at Sky. Starting as an area manager, his talent and drive quickly saw him promoted to regional manager, overseeing operations in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The role came with significant responsibility, managing teams and ensuring the success of Sky’s broadband, satellite and TV services. It also required Andrew to travel extensively, something that became a defining feature of his early career.

A critical moment in Andrew’s life came when he was asked to take over Sky’s Northwest region, which, somewhat bafflingly, included Sheffield and spread as far west as Blackpool.

The move was professionally rewarding, but it also proved to be personally transformative. It was here that Andrew met his future wife Sam, who was working as a Regional Operations Manager for Sky. The connection was instant, and the two began building a life together.

“We’ve been together 12 years now,” he said.

THE ROLES I HAD AT SKY TAUGHT ME A LOT ABOUT LEADERSHIP AND HOW TO GET RESULTS FROM A TEAM, IT WAS AN EXCELLENT FOUNDATION.”

“Getting married, having kids and settling in Sheffield – it all started from that move.”

Andrew reflects on those years with a mix of gratitude and pride. His career at Sky not only advanced his professional skills but also exposed him to the complexities of managing people, operations and marketing strategies on a regional scale.

These experiences gave him the confidence to tackle larger challenges later in his career. “The roles I had at Sky taught me a lot about leadership and how to get results from a team,” he said. “It was an excellent foundation.”

After his time at Sky, Andrew joined Google, where he entered a new realm of marketing. His role as an Agency Manager involved working with over 60 advertising agencies across the UK and Ireland.

It was a demanding but rewarding position, providing him with insights into the intricate workings of digital marketing and the power of paid advertising. “We worked with accounts ranging from one-man bands to giants like Fox Films,” he explained. “It was incredibly diverse and taught me how to get the best out of someone’s media spend.”

Andrew’s time at Google also gave him exposure to platforms like YouTube and Google’s display network, knowledge that would later become the foundation for his own business.

Andrew’s career at Google progressed to an even more significant role, managing the company’s direct clients across the UK and Ireland. His team oversaw accounts that collectively spent nearly half a billion pounds

annually on advertising.

Despite the high-pressure environment, Andrew found immense satisfaction in helping businesses maximise their return on investment. “There’s a belief out there that all Google wants is for you to spend money,” he said. “They do, but they also want you to spend it the right way because their business model relies on people continuing to invest. That only happens if businesses see a return on your ad investment, and we would make sure that happened.”

However, when Google announced a global restructuring that required relocating to Barcelona, Andrew faced a difficult decision. With a young family at home, the move wasn’t an option. Instead, he chose a different path –one that gave him more control over his life and work.

Deciding to work for himself was both a bold and strategic move. Andrew wanted to escape the constant travel and long hours that had characterised much of his career. He was also motivated by a desire to spend more time with his family. “I wanted to have a bit more control,” he said. “Working for myself meant I could decide when or if I needed to travel. It was about creating a better balance.”

This decision proved more pivotal than he could have imagined when, in 2019, Andrew faced a major health crisis that would change his life forever.

Andrew underwent spinal fusion surgery to address chronic pain caused by arthritis and a severe rugby injury from his school days. What was supposed to be a solution to years

of discomfort turned into a long and harrowing ordeal. “I woke up from surgery with worse pain and pins and needles than before,” he recounted. For three years, he endured numerous MRI scans and consultations, only to discover that a broken titanium screw had caused nerve damage.

By the time the issue was identified, it was too late to take legal action and Andrew determinedly moved on, remaining focused on adapting and moving forward. “You either wallow in self-pity, or you adapt. I’ve chosen to adapt,” he said. His determination is evident in the way he has balanced his health with running his businesses and supporting his family.

Andrew’s primary venture, these days, is M-Tech Digital, a marketing agency specialising in paid advertising on platforms like Google and Facebook. Unlike many agencies that offer a broad range of services, M-Tech focuses exclusively on what it does best. “A lot of people dabble in different areas, but we’ve worked inside the system,” he said. “That’s where we bring real value.” The agency works with clients across industries, from global organisations like the World Gold Council to local SMEs.

Andrew’s approach is grounded in partnering with businesses that share his vision for growth. “I want to work with companies that want to grow,” he explained. “If they’re not interested in listening to professional advice or seeing marketing as an investment, I part ways.”

In addition to MTEC Digital, Andrew has co-founded a damp-proofing e-commerce business with another Sheffield businessman, Brendan McMenamin. The venture caters

YOU EITHER WALLOW IN SELF-PITY, OR YOU ADAPT. I’VE CHOSEN TO ADAPT."

WHEN BRENDAN AND I FIRST MET, WE HAD NO IDEA WE’D END UP DOING A £5 MILLION PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT TOGETHER. NETWORKING IS ABOUT OPENING DOORS YOU DIDN’T EVEN KNOW EXISTED.”

primarily to trade professionals but also serves DIY enthusiasts. “The majority of our sales are to trade, but we also offer products for people tackling damp issues themselves,” he said. The business is another example of Andrew’s ability to identify niche markets and create solutions that meet real-world needs.

Andrew and Brendan also run the South Yorkshire Business Network (SYBN), a monthly networking event designed to foster connections among local businesses. The group operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, attracting a mix of regular attendees and newcomers. “Our last event had 71 attendees,” Andrew shared. “It’s about building relationships and providing a platform for businesses to grow.”

For Andrew, networking isn’t just about immediate gains; it’s about the long-term value of connections. “When Brendan and I first met, we had no idea we’d end up doing a £5 million property development together. Networking is about opening doors you didn’t even know existed.”

Andrew’s property development venture is another significant part of his portfolio. He and Brendan are currently working on a project to build 12 three-bedroom townhouses in Meersbrook. The development is a testament to their shared vision and ability to bring ambitious projects to life. “We’re building something that will leave a legacy, not just for us but for the community,” he said. For Andrew, property development represents both a business opportunity and a way to contribute to Sheffield’s growth.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Andrew’s outlook remains positive. His experiences have shaped his approach to both life and business, making him more selective about how he spends his time and who he works with. “I want to spend my time with people who value what we bring to the table,” he said.

His journey has also underscored the importance of family and the strength of his partnership with Sam. “What I’ve been through

has had as much of an impact on her as it has on me. We’ve had to adapt together, and it’s made us stronger.”

Andrew is also deeply committed to Sheffield’s business community. He believes the city’s culture of collaboration and support is unique. “There’s a strong network here and a real instinct to help each other,” he said. “It’s something I haven’t seen to the same degree in other places.” Whether through his networking events, marketing expertise, or property projects, Andrew is dedicated to contributing to the city’s success.

As Andrew reflects on his journey, he is quick to credit his resilience to his rugby-playing days and his love for family. Each challenge, from career pivots to his health issues, has reinforced his focus on creating opportunities not only for himself but also for others around him.

His optimism remains unwavering, and he continues to push the boundaries of what he can achieve. Andrew said: “I’m not slowing down. My businesses exist to give my family a certain type of life and to show my kids what’s possible.”

www.mtec.digital

This month, unLTD sat down with friends and business partners, Carl Foster and Gareth Scott. The pair met at a design agency over twenty years ago, and while their careers forked in different directions, eventually both Gareth and Carl ended up working freelance out of a shared space. It was here they decided to amalgamate their industry experience and Foster & Scott, a Sheffield-based creative agency, was born.

WORDS: HOLLY DIBDEN PHOTOGRAPHY: @MARCABARKERPHOTOGRAPHY

Starting from the beginning, what kinds of work were you both involved in?

GS: I was a Senior Designer and Carl was Studio Manager. I’d always been a creative and had that technical ability in terms of digital elements. I’d been involved in website design, learning software and things like UX.

CF: I initially came from a print background; I worked at Rosehill Press in Rotherham for ten years, so I had a lot of experience in the print side of things. I was also more involved in project management and making sure the deadlines were hit. I touched on a bit of photography as a bit of a sideline as well.

Were there any key takeaways from those starting roles?

GS: We learnt a lot back then, how to correctly manage projects and most importantly how to treat your staff well. Previous experiences taught us that this is key to getting the best out of employees. All our staff are really integral to what we do, we’re a close-knit team.

CF: Exactly, to have good relationships with people, we’ve never expected people to stay till 1 in the morning like we may have done in the past. If a director of a business is asking staff to stay till 11 o’clock at night to get a project done, then somethings gone wrong in our eyes. Just to manage

efficiently and properly was a big takeaway.

What was the catalyst to set up together then?

CF: Gareth had left the agency we both worked at, and I decided to stay on longer. Eventually we both ended up freelancing for a while, but I had kids on the way so I couldn’t work from home. After a chance discussion, we got a small office in business centre.

to work in, doing our own projects.

GS: We then carried on working for ourselves for the following year. It got to the point where one of us would be really busy and needing some help. We just thought, let’s join forces and put everything together. We wanted to get back to a traditional agency with an authentic viewpoint and a traditional name resonated with that.

CF: It just made sense, collectively we’ve got a really good skill set and over 25 years’ experience.

Do you still have those traditional values in the business?

GS: We’ve been around for 12 years now, and we’ve grown organically. We never wanted to be pushy, we’ve always got projects in and do a quality job. From day one we’ve said if we were to grow, we would always remain the point of contact.

CF: Since day one we’ve been quite hands on and we still are, we’re

still creating and communicate directly with clients, and we enjoy it. If we’d have stepped away and let the studio do all the work, then the communication breaks down between client and studio. We’re not silent partners, clients can call up and speak to us, they understand it’s our business, we’re passionate and we’re on top of it.

Who are some of the local brands that you’ve worked with?

GS: Fairfield Engineering, Edwin Jagger and Gripple just to mention a few.

CF: There’s William Wright we worked with as well, a boutique manufacturer of cutlery and silverware, one of the last in Sheffield down Kelham Island.

So are a lot of your clients international?

GS: Yes, so our biggest client is Exclusive Networks, they’re possibly one of the biggest distributors in the world of cyber security and cloud specialists with an almost 5-billion-euro turnover. We rebranded them back in 2020 and we built their sites which we still look after and maintain. We also do work for Cribl and Culture AI, which are some of our other tech clients.

What are the industries that are your sweet spot?

GS: We have predominantly done work in leisure, cyber security, cloud, IT and digital transformation businesses. We can adapt to any sort of client, there’s no particular area that we want to position ourselves and stay in. Digital transformation is a growing sector and its just so happened that our business has evolved like that.

CF: We also work with private schools, Grosvenor Casinos and Mecca Bingo. It’s a mixed bag really; we’ve got such a wide skill set that we can really adapt.

How do you stay on top of skills to make sure that you’re moving with the times?

CF: We’ve got a varied team in terms of ages, which is a strong point. We all pick up on new things all the time.

GS: Every day is a school day, and we keep on top of it. We all feed off and learn off each other. It’s a bit of a collective in that way, we’re all learners and teachers.

What are the benefits to having that studio and collective environment?

GS: It gives us the ability to be agile and tactile. We might be working on different projects, but we’ll always get together and analyse them. We’re creatives at the end of the day and our ethos is very much that there’s no I in team.

CF: The reason that we are good at what we do is because it’s not just Gareth who’s great at something, it’s not just me, it’s not just Beth –we’re great because we’re a team. We get the best out of everybody

collaboratively, and we can really fine tune everything.

Is there anything in the imminent future of your business that you think might affect your industry or anything that you are broadening into?

CF: I’m seeing AI as a positive tool, it speeds up processes, it allows people to be creative, but It won’t give you the final product – you’ll still need someone to manipulate and create that final product.

SERVICES FOSTER & SCOTT OFFER:

• Strategy & Planning

• Video & Animation

• Social Media

• Paid Advertising

• Email Marketing

• Copywriting & Content

• Marketing Retainers

• Bespoke Websites

• Budget Websites

• E-Commerce Websites

WE’RE CREATIVES AT THE END OF THE DAY AND OUR ETHOS IS VERY MUCH THAT THERE’S NO ‘I’ IN TEAM. ”

GS: If you turn around and say AI is a load of rubbish, you’ll get left behind. The web is a big part of our business and all our clients last year who we’ve created websites for, we’ve moved them onto Cloudflare. That’s a new technology that mitigates the risk for websites to be targeted and hacked. Technology is there to be used.

• SEO

• Website Hosting

• Brand Identity & Communication

• Brand & Market Research

• Creative Design

If you’d like more information on Foster & Scott or to see some of their previous projects visit www. fosterandscott.com.

EMPLOYMENT LAW CHANGES IN 2024 AND WHAT EMPLOYERS CAN EXPECT FOR 2025

Banner Jones’ Chartered Legal Executive Sara Patel keeps us up to date with employment law changes from the past year and lets us know what changes we can expect in the coming year.

The UK employment law landscape underwent significant changes in 2024, and more updates are on the horizon. These reforms impact employers, demanding careful consideration to ensure legal compliance and adherence to best practices.

KEY EMPLOYMENT LAW CHANGES OF 2024

1. Flexible Working

Requests for flexible working can now be made from day one of employment.

Employers must follow a statutory process to consider these requests and can only refuse on one of eight specified grounds unless they provide legitimate business reasons. This shift necessitates a review of existing policies and the implementation of efficient processes to handle requests.

2. Sexual Harassment Laws

New sexual harassment laws represent a critical step towards fostering respectful and inclusive work environments. Employers now face heightened accountability for preventing sexual harassment and supporting affected employees.

Key changes include:

• A legal duty for employers to take proactive measures to prevent sexual harassment.

• Allowing victims of harassment to claim increased compensation where an employer has

breached the new duty.

• Empowering the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) to take enforcement action against non-compliant employers, increasing the risk of reputational damage.

Employers should review workplace culture, update training programmes, and establish confidential reporting channels for victims and witnesses.

3. Fire and Rehire Practices

The contentious practice of terminating contracts to rehire employees on less favorable terms attracted scrutiny following high-profile cases, including those involving P&O Ferries and Tesco. In response, a statutory Code of Practice was introduced, defining best practices for employers adopting fire-and-rehire strategies.

Businesses must develop compliant strategies for handling contractual changes and ensure they align with the Code when following relevant legislation.

4. Holiday Pay for Irregular Hours Workers

For leave years starting on or after 1 April 2024, employers now have a choice regarding how to calculate holiday pay.

5. Paternity Leave

Qualifying employees can now take their two-week paternity leave entitlement in two one-week blocks or one two-week block. This leave

can be taken any time up to the child’s first birthday.

6. Wage Increases

Adjustments to minimum wage rates required payroll updates and budget planning. These included increases to the National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage, with further hikes expected in April 2025.

7. Redundancy Protection for Pregnant Employees and New Mothers

Pregnant employees or those on maternity leave now have priority for suitable alternative employment in redundancy situations. This protection extends from the point they inform their employer of their pregnancy until 18 months after returning to work.

8. Carer’s Leave

All employees now have the right to take unpaid carer’s leave for a maximum of one week within a rolling 12-month period. This leave can be taken in blocks of half-days.

9. The Employment Rights Bill

This Bill serves as the cornerstone of recent employment law reforms. Although its provisions have not yet taken legal force, employers should prepare for changes expected in 2025 and 2026.

KEY CHANGES TO ANTICIPATE INCLUDE:

• Day-One Employment Law Rights: Protection

from unfair dismissal from day one of employment, eliminating the previous two-year qualifying period.

• Enhanced Sick Pay: Statutory Sick Pay will be payable from the first day of illness.

• Guaranteed Hours in Contracts: To address zerohour contract insecurities, employers must provide guaranteed hours based on average hours worked.

• Notice for Shift Changes: Employers must give reasonable notice for altering shifts, aiding employees in planning their work-life balance.

• Ban on Fire and Rehire Practices: Recent changes to fire-and-rehire practices will be expanded to prevent employers from dismissing employees and rehiring them on less favorable terms.

• Immediate Paternity Leave Rights: Fathers will qualify for paternity leave from day one of employment.

• Social Care Sector Reforms: A negotiating body will harmonise pay and conditions in the social care sector to address wage disparities and improve employment standards.

Implementation of the Bill is expected to take up to two years, with consultations already underway. Businesses, particularly SMEs, must stay informed and prepare for phased compliance.

OTHER POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS FOR 2025 AND BEYOND

As the employment landscape continues to evolve, several areas are likely to see further reforms:

• Artificial Intelligence and Employment: Regulations on AI’s use in recruitment, performance monitoring, and workplace decisionmaking may be introduced. Employers should prepare for compliance requirements around transparency and fairness.

• Mental Health in the

Workplace: Mandatory mental health policies may be introduced, encouraging businesses to proactively support employee wellbeing through training and accessible resources.

• Pay Gap Reporting Expansion: Gender pay gap reporting requirements could be expanded to include more businesses and cover additional areas such as pay disparities among disabled employees and those from BAME communities.

• Four-Day Working Week Discussions: Trials across various sectors have drawn attention to the concept of a four-day working week, which may gain traction in the coming years.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR HR MANAGERS AND SMES

Navigating these changes requires a proactive and strategic approach. Employers can ensure compliance and provide a supportive workplace by taking the following steps:

1. Stay Informed: Regularly review government updates and industry insights to stay ahead of legal changes.

1. Conduct Periodic Reviews: Ensure employment contracts, policies, and training programmes align with new regulations.

1. Engage with Employees: Foster a culture of transparency and trust by discussing changes openly with staff.

1. Consult Employment Law Specialists: Address complex issues and mitigate risks with expert guidance.

1. Utilise HR Software: Streamline compliance tracking, manage requests (e.g., flexible working), and maintain accurate records. By staying ahead of these developments and implementing proactive measures, businesses can create compliant and supportive workplaces that adapt to the evolving employment landscape.

CHARITY

GET FUNDED!

Wendy Ward, a longtime columnist for unLTD and founder of Let’s Save Consultancy Services, has spent nearly two decades championing nonprofits and social enterprises. Since becoming self-employed in 2008, Wendy has focused on helping organisations secure funding, reduce overheads and make a real difference in their communities. With an impressive track record, including raising over £3 million for various causes, she’s ready to tackle 2025 with renewed ambition and innovative programmes aimed at addressing two critical challenges facing the sector.

Wendy has identified two key issues holding back social enterprises and nonprofits. Firstly, many emerging social enterprises fail to set up correctly or compliantly, which often leaves them unable to secure crucial funding in their formative years, threatening their sustainability.

At the same time, nonprofits frequently lack access to skilled independent consultants or funding experts who can guide them in creating effective funding strategies, leaving many organisations struggling to make the impact they envision.

To address these challenges, Wendy piloted two key initiatives in 2024. Her CIC Set Up and Go™ course was designed to help social entrepreneurs establish Community Interest Companies (CICs) with minimal stress and in a way that maximises their ability to secure funding.

Delivered over 10 weeks in manageable two-hour online sessions, the programme takes participants through the entire process of setting up a compliant CIC. From drafting a CIC36 form and articles of association to setting up HMRC accounts and financial forecasts, participants are guided step

by step.

One of the standout features of the programme is its focus on funding readiness. Attendees not only leave with a registered CIC but also with a business plan, a strategic funding roadmap, and a grant application ready to cover start-up costs and initial project delivery.

Wendy’s approach ensures that these new organisations are well-positioned to make a tangible impact from day one. During the pilot, a participant successfully registered their CIC with Companies House in just four hours, thanks to Wendy’s comprehensive guidance.

Wendy said: “The idea is

to take a social entrepreneur from a standing start to a fully registered, compliant and fundable nonprofit with business planning and a strategic funding plan both in place. We aim for them to leave the course bid ready, with an application submitted to cover all set up costs and initial project delivery.”

For established nonprofits, Wendy offers the Get Funded!™ programme, which equips staff and business owners with the knowledge and tools they need to master funding strategies.

Like her CIC course, it’s delivered online during

weekly lunchtime sessions, making it accessible for busy professionals. The programme begins by demystifying the complex world of funding. Participants learn to distinguish between categories of funding and how funding is spent and monitored.

Speaking more about the programme, Wendy said: “We firstly breakdown all the jargon and mystique of the sector – ensuring that attendees have a level playing field of knowledge – knowing the difference between restricted and unrestricted funding, core and capital funding and have a real understanding of

THE IDEA IS TO TAKE A SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR FROM A STANDING START TO A FULLY REGISTERED, COMPLIANT AND FUNDABLE NONPROFIT WITH BUSINESS PLANNING AND A STRATEGIC FUNDING PLAN BOTH IN PLACE.

filling funding gaps and not chasing the cash!”

Half the programme is devoted to mastering grant and trust funding, while the other half explores alternative revenue streams, including corporate sponsorships, crowdfunding, legacy giving, and philanthropy.

Wendy ensures that attendees leave with practical tools and strategies they can immediately implement. The programme has already proven its effectiveness, with one pilot attendee securing two £1,500 grants after just two sessions. Wendy’s believes her practical approach gives nonprofits the confidence to tackle their

financial challenges head-on, helping them to secure the future of their organisations.

Her vision for 2025 is rooted in her desire to see more social entrepreneurs establish sustainable and impactful CICs. By addressing gaps in knowledge and support, she hopes to empower more organisations to secure the resources they need to thrive in the social economy. She is particularly passionate about enabling nonprofits and social enterprises to take ownership of their financial goals and responsibilities, ensuring they can deliver meaningful outcomes for the communities that rely on them.

Her work extends far beyond these programmes though. During the pandemic, Wendy pivoted her business to address urgent funding needs, supporting organisations in accessing resources that kept them afloat during a challenging period.

Her influence has been far-reaching, helping groups focused on vulnerable adults, young people, domestic abuse, health and wellbeing, and community isolation. She has also contributed to initiatives such as Doncaster Chamber of Commerce’s Launchpad Wealth Builder scheme, where she provides training to equip nonprofits with essential skills for success.

Wendy’s unwavering passion for the sector and her hands-on approach have earned her a reputation as a trusted ally and an invaluable resource, whether it’s helping to establish a new CIC or guiding nonprofits through the intricacies of funding.

For those interested in participating in either of Wendy’s programmes, more information can be obtained by contacting her at 0772 9481010 or via email at wendy@letssave.biz.

MALE MENOPAUSE UNVEILED:

HOW ANDROPAUSE AFFECTS MIND, BODY AND WELLBEING OF MEN

As awareness around menopause in women increased in workplace settings, Jo Keen of Green Tomato Consultancy sheds light on a less discussed but equally significant transition: the male menopause, or andropause.

As we kick off 2025, here’s a shoutout to all men who may be struggling with life and not sure as to why – you could be experiencing symptoms of the male menopause.

As we know in recent times, there has been a huge amount of work to raise awareness of the menopause. When we hear the word menopause, however, we often associate it with women and the changes they experience during midlife. The truth is that men also undergo hormonal changes as they age, often referred to as male menopause or andropause. Yes, this is a natural transition for all men and its impact and its effect can be troublesome and challenging.

Let’s demystify a few things and clarify what the male menopause is and aim to provide some insight on symptoms to watch out for, possible treatments, and coping strategies.

Male menopause is not a mid-life crisis; it is not a joke, and for some it can be debilitating. Impacting the personal and professional lives of many men who are suffering in silence, this is not a topic that often

gets brought up in the pub over a pint or a football match – and I’m not stereotyping!

While it is a less recognised and slower process, andropause can have significant impacts on men’s health – both physically and emotionally – their lives and even their workplace performance.

In the UK workplace, awareness and policies addressing andropause are limited. A recent report indicates that approximately 10% of NHS hospital trusts have implemented policies to support staff experiencing symptoms related to this condition. In contrast, nearly 25% of police forces have guidance in place for male menopausal symptoms, offering advice on issues like mood swings and irritability.

WHAT IS ANDROPAUSE?

Andropause refers to the natural decline in testosterone levels that occurs as men age. Testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, plays a vital role in maintaining energy levels, muscle mass, bone density, libido and overall wellbeing. Unlike

WHILE IT IS A LESS RECOGNISED AND SLOWER PROCESS, ANDROPAUSE CAN HAVE SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS ON MEN’S HEALTH, BOTH PHYSICALLY AND EMOTIONALLY, THEIR LIVES AND EVEN THEIR WORKPLACE PERFORMANCE.

menopause in women, which occurs within a specific timeframe, the hormonal decline in men is gradual, typically starting around the age of 30 and progressing at a rate of about 1% per year. By the age of 70, testosterone levels may decline by as much as 35% compared to their highest levels in earlier adulthood. For some men, this decline leads to noticeable symptoms later in life, usually after 50. The symptoms of andropause can vary widely, impacting men’s lives both in and out of the workplace and often include the following:

• Decreased energy levels and fatigue, making it difficult to maintain productivity and meet the demands of a busy workday.

• Mood changes, irritability, depression or anxiety, leading to strained workplace relationships and difficulty collaborating with colleagues. Men with low testosterone are 2.5 times more likely to experience depression.

• Decreased libido and erectile dysfunction, which can be

impacted even further due to illnesses such as diabetes. 2040% of men aged 50+ report these issues.

• Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, and body shape changes such as ‘man boobs’ (must be said).

• Reduced muscle mass and strength, along with weaker bones. Men going through andropause have a 30% higher risk of osteoporosis.

• Sleep disturbances; difficulty falling or staying asleep can lead to lack of concentration. Poor sleep can exacerbate fatigue and increase the risk of errors or accidents in safety-critical roles.

• Hot flashes.

• Cognitive changes, memory lapses, brain fog and difficulty concentrating can hinder decision-making, problemsolving, and task management.

• Reduced motivation and confidence, diminishing drive and self-esteem, potentially causing men to shy away from leadership opportunities or challenging

projects.

• These symptoms can impact workplace performance, potentially leading to decreased productivity and increased absenteeism.

There is a lack of comprehensive data on the prevalence of andropause symptoms among the UK workforce and their direct effects on workplace productivity. This contrasts with the growing body of research on menopause in the workplace, which has highlighted significant challenges faced by women, including increased absenteeism and a higher likelihood of leaving employment due to symptoms. However, other factors may aggravate symptoms, including:

• Chronic stress.

• Poor diet and lack of exercise.

• Obesity.

• Medical conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

• Excessive alcohol consumption.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE BEGUN THIS NORMAL LIFE CHANGING TRANSITION?

Diagnosing andropause can be challenging because its symptoms overlap with other conditions, such as depression or thyroid dysfunction. Blood tests measuring testosterone levels can confirm whether you have low testosterone (levels below 300 ng/dL are considered low).

WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS FOR TREATMENT?

Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying causes. Beneficial lifestyle changes like regular exercise – particularly strength training – as well as a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables can boost testosterone and overall energy. Adequate sleep and stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or yoga, and Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT).

In some cases, TRT can alleviate symptoms by restoring testosterone

levels. Studies show that 80% of men on TRT report improvements in energy, libido, and mood. However, TRT has potential side effects, such as an increased risk of blood clots or prostate issues, so it’s crucial to discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor. TRT comes in forms such as patches, gel, capsules or injections.

There are medications for specific symptoms such as antidepressants for mood changes and phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g., Viagra) for erectile dysfunction, should these symptoms be prevalent, then consult your GP.

Coping with andropause can be a real struggle for many men. We know how difficult it has been over the years to encourage men to open up and talk about their mental health challenges, and now they are finding out that they too have a ‘menopause’.

Encouraging open communication, discussing symptoms with a healthcare provider, loved ones, or friends to avoid unnecessary stress or isolation in a safe and trusted space without judgement or ridicule would be a good place to start.

Have a rethink of life in general, your goals, adjust expectations for physical performance and energy as your body changes.

Joining support groups or connecting with others experiencing similar challenges can provide reassurance. If you take a minute to consider all your friends, family and co-workers who may be experiencing this change, many may feel the same as you but are less informed. They could be waiting for someone to start a group and get the conversation started – take that first step today. Add it to your list of actions and make a positive change.

HOW CAN EMPLOYERS SUPPORT MEN EXPERIENCING ANDROPAUSE?

In the workplace, consider reasonable adjustments to support employees, consider undertaking a risk assessment for men who are experiencing andropause symptoms. (Source: NHS Andropause in the Workplace Guidance Document).

Recognising and addressing the challenges men face during andropause is crucial for maintaining workplace performance and employee well-being.

Workplace culture is key, whereby employees feel comfortable

discussing health concerns, including hormonal changes. Explore flexible work options if you don’t already offer flexible hours or remote work options to help employees manage symptoms like fatigue and poor sleep.

Implement wellness programs provide access to fitness programs, nutrition guidance, and stress management resources can be a great introduction for men to really begin to understand the changes that are occurring. Include mental health services to support men dealing with depression, anxiety, or other mood-related symptoms.

Many employers offer an Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) – the challenge is encouraging men and women to utilise the offer.

Health screenings in the workplace are becoming more common and readily available, encourage regular health check-ups, including testosterone testing, as part of workplace health initiatives.

Manager training is crucial across all levels to ensure that same positive message is coming from

the top down and it’s more than just a tick box exercise. Educate leaders about the challenges of aging employees to ensure they can provide appropriate support and accommodations.

The limited recognition of andropause in the workplace suggests a need for increased awareness, support and policies for affected employees. Implementing supportive measures could help mitigate potential productivity losses and improve employee wellbeing.

Addressing andropause openly and proactively can encourage men to maintain their health, confidence and vitality well into later years and their employers can take steps to minimize its impact on health, performance, and relationships. Recognising and accommodating these challenges is essential in a supportive and productive workplace for all.

You can contact Jo for a chat by emailing jo@

CHARITY

PLACES FOR PEOPLE’S WINTER WARMTH CAMPAIGN

Places for People, the UK’s leading social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and nurturing thriving communities, is expanding its support for customers this winter by partnering with 49 warm banks and food banks across the UK – four of which are in Sheffield.

The group specialises in placemaking, regeneration, development, investment management, property management, and leisure managing more than 245,000 properties, providing homes for around 500,000 customers, and operating 100 leisure facilities, welcoming 1.9 million visits each month.

This latest initiative is part of its annual Winter Ready campaign, which promotes essential services available through group subsidiary Places Impact. The resources will be provided to Darnall Wellbeing Welcome Place (Warm Space) at Darnall Primary Care Centre, the Herdings Social Cafe and Food Growing Project, MaTReC Social Cafe and High Green Development Trust Community Space – each of which are in Sheffield.

Marcus Hulme, Director of Places Impact at Places for People explained: “Winter brings significant challenges, such as an increased risk of damp and mould in colder homes. Through our Winter Ready campaign, we’re not just equipping

people in Sheffield with the knowledge to recognise and manage these issues; we’re also ensuring our customers know they have a vital safety net.

“By supporting food and warm banks in the Yorkshire region, we’re providing tangible, accessible resources to help these areas navigate the toughest months of the year with confidence and support.”

The annual initiative follows Places for People’s Wellbeing Survey results,

which highlighted a continued need for services that support food and heat provision. The survey gathered thoughts of over 5,000 PfP Customers from across the country with over a quarter of respondents in the North saying they can’t put the heating on in the cold and 17% of people stating they ran out of food and couldn’t afford to buy more

Marcus added: “Sadly, Sheffield’s survey results reinforce what we already

know: many of our customers across Yorkshire continue to struggle. By supporting local food and warm banks and highlighting additional resources this winter, we aim to alleviate some of this pressure and support the wellbeing of our customers.”

For more information about the Winter Ready campaign, visit www. placesforpeople.co.uk/ ready-for-winter

REVOLUTIONARY RISK CHECKER DEBUTS

Sheffield-based modern slavery charity Causeway have launched a pioneering new self-assessment risk checker tool, the ‘Exploitation Risk Checker’, which allows individuals to answer a series of questions to see if they may be experiencing, or at risk of, criminal or sexual exploitation. It has been developed in partnership with real modern slavery survivors and launched last month, to mark Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month.

It is estimated that across the UK, over 100,000 people are currently trapped in modern slavery and exploitation. Survivors in the UK will most commonly have experienced forced labour, criminal exploitation and sexual exploitation.

Causeway’s online Exploitation Risk Checker is a UK first, with it serving as a self-assessment tool. Individuals are able to answer a series of questions themselves, which assists them in identifying if they may be experiencing, or at risk of, criminal exploitation or sexual exploitation. It also offers information, guidance and signposting about what steps they can then take to gain further support.

Causeway have developed the risk checker in partnership with three survivors of modern slavery. These include Emily Vaughn, author of Sunday Times bestseller Enslaved: My True Story of Survival, Entrepreneur and mum-of-three Sabrina Hewitt and Nelson Omoragbon a third survivor who is a social advocate and lived experience consultant.

The Exploitation Risk Checker is available for anybody to use who is concerned they, or somebody they know, may be experiencing or at risk of criminal exploitation or sexual exploitation. A second similar tool is due to be launched by Causeway later in the year.

Edwin Buckley, Head of Communications and Engagement at Causeway, said: “We are really proud to be starting 2025 with the launch of our brand-new Exploitation Risk Checker. Signs of modern slavery and exploitation can be nuanced and hard to spot, and those who are experiencing it may not know what to do or how to find support. We hope this free and confidential selfassessment tool will serve as a vital resource.”

To access Causeway’s Exploitation Risk Checker, please visit: www.wearecauseway.org.uk/riskchecker

NEW YEAR, NEW GOALS

January 2025 – where on earth did 2024 go? What did your organisation achieve? What was your impact on your community and your beneficiaries and the environment? It is so important to understand the real outcomes of your organisation and the value that you add each year. Without knowing this, it’s difficult to encourage investment, funding and sponsorship from the commercial world. There are several software packages on the market which help you to capture this data and calculate your output and outcome data.

It is a great time for goal setting and the internet is full of ways to

do this, but a thorough review of your ongoing business plan should give you the aims your organisation is striving for in the coming 12 months if you update everything that you want to achieve, identify funding gaps and have a diverse funding strategy to fill these gaps. Do ensure that you update the new changes to National Insurance contributions and the minimum Living Wage upgrades. It is going to cost more to employ your staff in 2025/6, so ensure that you are asking funders for all the money required and don’t fall short, ensure you are aware of how to put together a full and frank full cost-recovery for these expenses.

For more consultation relating to impact measuring, financial forecasting, goal setting and business planning for your organisation contact - Wendy Ward, Let’s Save Consultancy Services, 0772 9481010. wendy@letssave.biz

CHARITY STEVE KNOWLES PEER2PEER GLOBAL

SEA CADETS AND STUDENTS CELEBRATE ST

JOHN’S HOSPICE

Students from Sir Thomas Wharton Academy and the Doncaster Sea Cadets came together last month to show appreciation for St John’s Hospice in Balby, which provides vital care for patients and families all year round.

The students from Sir Thomas Wharton Academy visited the hospice to deliver eight beautifully hand-crafted hampers filled with tasty treats as a heartfelt thank-you to the hospice team for their dedication and compassion.

In addition, the Doncaster Sea Cadets contributed by creating and delivering ten thoughtful care packages for patients and their families. Every cadet was involved in assembling the packages, and four representatives personally delivered them to the hospice.

Kaitlin Halkett, a Nursing Assistant on the inpatient ward who accompanied the cadets, shared the motivation behind their efforts:

“As part of our community engagement, we encourage our cadets to consider how they can positively impact the local community. This year, we chose to support St John’s Hospice and the incredible work you do.”

She added “Many of us have experienced loss and deeply value the dedication, support, and service the hospice provides to our community. The cadets put together these care packages for 10 patients and 10 families as a small gesture to showcase the kindness that can be shared by others.”

These contributions highlight the power of community and the impact of small acts of kindness, especially during the holiday season. St John’s Hospice extends its deepest gratitude to SirThomas Wharton Academy and the Doncaster Sea Cadets for their generosity and ongoing support.

St John’s Hospice is run by Rotherham Doncaster & South Humber NHS Trust (RDaSH). For more information on how to support St John’s Hospice, please visit: www.stjohnshospicedoncaster. co.uk

BOOSTING PRODUCTIVITY IN SENIOR MANAGEMENT OF SMES

In small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), senior management plays a pivotal role in driving growth and maintaining operational efficiency. Yet, productivity challenges often arise due to resource constraints, multitasking and unclear priorities. Enhancing productivity at this level is essential for the success of the entire organisation, especially in times of recession, and should be far better than the easy options of cutting marketing and training.

1. FOSTER CLEAR COMMUNICATION

Effective communication is the backbone of productivity. Senior managers should prioritise clear and concise communication with their teams, ensuring everyone understands their roles, objectives and deadlines. Regular check-ins and collaborative tools, such as Slack or Microsoft Teams, can streamline communication and reduce misunderstandings.

2. EMBRACE DELEGATION

Micromanagement can stifle both individual and team productivity. Senior leaders must focus on strategic initiatives and trust their teams to handle day-to-day tasks. Delegating responsibilities not only empowers employees but also frees up managers to focus on long-term goals.

3. INVEST IN TECHNOLOGY AND AUTOMATION

Technology can significantly improve efficiency. Tools like project management software, CRM systems and AI-driven analytics help streamline operations and provide actionable insights. SMEs that adopt technology to automate repetitive tasks allow senior managers to concentrate on strategic decision-making.

4. PROMOTE CONTINUOUS

LEARNING

Staying updated on industry trends and management practices is crucial. Encourage senior managers to attend workshops, webinars, or industry events. Providing access to training programs helps them develop skills that can enhance both their individual performance and that of the organization.

5. PRIORITISE WELLBEING

Burnout is a real risk for senior managers juggling multiple responsibilities. Encourage work-life balance, flexible schedules and mental health support. A well-rested and motivated leadership team is more likely to make sound decisions and inspire their teams.

By implementing these strategies, SMEs can enhance the productivity of their senior management, fostering a culture of efficiency and innovation that drives sustainable growth. Don’t wait for politicians to tell you about recession, you will feel it in your gut.

AI FOR BUSINESS: DEBUNKING MYTHS AND EMBRACING MICROSOFT COPILOT

WRITTEN BY FRAN BONNY AND TIM LATHAM AT SIMODA

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force, promising to revolutionise the way businesses of all kinds operate. Among the leading innovations in this space is Microsoft Copilot for 365, an AI-powered assistant designed to enhance productivity and streamline workflows. However, despite its potential, many businesses remain hesitant to fully embrace AI due to prevalent myths and misconceptions. This article aims to debunk these myths and highlight the benefits of integrating Microsoft Copilot for 365 into your business operations.

MYTH 1: AI WILL REPLACE HUMAN JOBS

One of the most common fears surrounding AI is the notion that it will render human jobs obsolete. While it’s true that AI can automate certain tasks, the reality is that it is designed to augment human capabilities, not replace them. Microsoft Copilot for 365, for instance, assists with repetitive and time-consuming tasks, allowing employees to focus on more strategic and creative aspects of their work. By handling mundane activities - such as summarising notes and actions in Teams MeetingsCopilot empowers teams to be more productive and innovative.

MYTH 2: AI IS TOO COMPLEX FOR EVERYDAY USE

Another misconception is that AI technology is too complex for everyday business use. Microsoft Copilot for 365 is specifically designed to be user-friendly and accessible, even for those without a technical background. Integrated seamlessly into familiar Microsoft 365 applications like Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Teams, Copilot for 365 provides intuitive assistance that enhances user experience without requiring

extensive training or expertise, you can simply use natural language to ‘talk to the machine’.

MYTH 3: AI IS ONLY FOR LARGE CORPORATIONS

Many small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) believe that AI solutions are only viable for large corporations with substantial resources. However, Microsoft Copilot for 365 is scalable and adaptable, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re a startup or an established enterprise, Copilot for 365 can be tailored to meet your specific needs, providing valuable insights and efficiencies that drive growth. We are working with customers from 4 users up to hundreds of users.

CONCLUSION

A WORD FROM MICROSOFT

Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, emphasises the transformative potential of AI: “AI is the defining technology of our times. It’s augmenting human ingenuity and helping us solve some of society’s most pressing challenges.” This perspective underscores the commitment to leveraging AI responsibly and effectively to drive innovation and address critical business needs.

EMBRACING MICROSOFT COPILOT: THE BENEFITS

Now that we’ve addressed some common myths, let’s explore the tangible benefits of embracing Microsoft Copilot in your business:

1. Enhanced Productivity: By automating routine tasks, Copilot frees up valuable time for employees to focus on highimpact activities, boosting overall productivity.

2. Improved decision-making: Copilot provides data-driven insights and recommendations, helping businesses make informed decisions quickly and accurately.

3. Seamless Collaboration: Integrated with Microsoft Teams, Copilot enhances collaboration by facilitating communication, scheduling, and project management.

4. Cost Efficiency: By optimising workflows and reducing manual errors, Copilot helps businesses save time and resources, ultimately improving the bottom line.

5. Scalability: Whether you’re expanding your team or scaling operations, Copilot grows with your business, providing consistent support and adaptability.

The integration of AI into business operations is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day reality. Microsoft Copilot exemplifies how AI can be harnessed to enhance productivity, improve decision-making, and drive business growth. By debunking common myths and understanding the true potential of AI, businesses can confidently embrace this technology and unlock new opportunities for success. Here at Simoda, we’d be delighted to explore this transformational tool with you.

It’s that time of year again when Sheffield comes alive with young entrepreneurs taking part in the BiG Challenge.

The annual enterprise competition, open to Y7-Y9 students and facilitated through Sheffield City Council’s See It Be It in Sheffield Team, supports students from participating schools to come up with a business idea, receive a £25 start-up loan, take their idea to market then tell us how they got on. In addition to support from their teachers and home support networks, teams are mentored by volunteers from the Sheffield business community. You can keep up with the progress of the teams on the BiG Challenge website: www. sheffield.gov.uk/bigchallenge

This flagship initiative has been going for 18 years and annually sees young people and adults coming together to share ideas and tips resulting some amazing business ideas and potential for long

term aspirations – just ask our recent UnLtd Business Breakfast panel member, Stevan Parkin, who took part in this BiG Challenge in his younger years and attests to his experience being the spark of his entrepreneurialism.

In December, The BiG Challenge revealed the winners of their Interim Marketing Competition, which included our very own award for The Best Ad, as judged by unLTD Director Phil Turner and me, your friendly local journo, Ash Birch. From a field of 15, Phil Turner and I selected the two ads featured here as the winning entries. Both teams were from Sheffield High School and they claimed the top spots with well thoughtout yet simple messaging, clear designs and one of the teams also made a smart move by including a QR code. With nearly 600 students

entering from across 17 schools in the city, competition is high and it was great to hear from some of the teams who progressed their BiG Challenge journey

across a number of years. Mal (pictured) from Lotus Academy entered in Y7, winning the overall BiG Challenge award. He has continued to enter each year

since and his progress as an entrepreneur is truly inspiring. At the Interim Awards event in December, we heard how Mal’s images have been used for both Sheffield City Council leaders Cllr Tom Hunt and Kate Josephs CB annual 2023 Christmas card and featured in SCCCC 2025 Charity Calendar, a selection of his prints are now being stocked in a Meadowhall outlet, and how he’s partnered with Ben’s Centre to donate a portion of profits to the local charity supporting vulnerable people. Check out his Instagram account @TorchedViews. We can safely report that there’s some incredible talent being nurtured and definitely some future entrepreneurs. But don’t take our word for it. If you want to see first-hand some of the amazing teams in action, please do come along to the Moor Market BiG Challenge Extravaganza event on Saturday 1st February, 10.302.30, where over 35 teams will be in attendance selling their handmade products.

CLUB DE PADEL

Firstly, tell us what Club De Padel is...

We’re a padel club. We kicked off in 2023 in Manchester with a four-court, outdooronly club in the New Jackson region of the city, and we’ve grown from there. We’ve focused on the lifestyle elements of the game as much as the sport itself; we’ve gone into partnership with UN:IK and created a merch line that is selling globally, as well as collaborations with the award-winning run club, MADE Running. We will open an indoor club in Sheffield’s Neepsend this year, working with Capital + Centric in their Cannon Brewery development. It will be the city’s first dedicated padel club.

What sparked the idea for the business?

It began with a walk along a beach in Barcelona several years ago. It was the first time we’d seen padel played, and we were entranced by it: the pace of the game, the range of people and ages, and how all the courts were full. Everyone just seemed to be having a great time. When we came back to Manchester, we went looking for somewhere to try the sport in the city, but there was nowhere to play. So, we decided to open a club.

How has it been received so far in Manchester?

Amazingly! We were quietly confident that a padel club located in the city centre would be popular, but it’s smashed our expectations. In our first year, we hosted almost 20,000 matches, which makes us one of

What would you tell people to expect who haven’t played before?

It’s really easy to pick up, so don’t be intimidated. You can have a great time with zero racket sport experience or some experience, but everyone will see improvements pretty quickly. That’s why so many people are becoming obsessed with the sport. It also helps that it’s all over the press and social media right now.

the busiest padel clubs in the UK. We’ve also been featured in the Financial Times, TimeOut, and the BBC, and sold merch with our partners UN:IK across the world - as far as New York, Los Angeles, Dubai, and Melbourne -which is incredible!

How are you feeling about bringing the concept to Sheffield?

We are really excited. Not just because this is our first club outside of Manchester, but also because this warehouse space has so much potential to be an amazing venue. We also love Sheffield, having spent loads of time in the city as kids and adults, and we can’t wait to get started, introducing as many people as possible to this amazing sport, which is exploding across the UK.

How can people get in touch?

We’ve just set up a Sheffield club WhatsApp group so people can join that. They can also drop us a message on Instagram, which we check every day, or send us an email at clubdepadel. co.uk/.

ARE YOUR EMPLOYEES AFFECTED BY THE £3 BUS FARE CAP INCREASE?

The £3 bus fare cap (from 1 January 2025) has been in the news a lot recently, following the announcement by the Prime Minister. The previous £2 cap has almost become a flat fare for most bus users and can regularly be heard as passengers board buses throughout Sheffield and beyond. Throughout the cap and beyond, TravelMaster tickets remain great value for money. In fact, our busonly tickets are less than £3 a day* for our longer-term tickets.

TravelMaster tickets are a convenient way to travel and from 1 January 2025 are even simpler. We’re reducing our zones to either Sheffield or South Yorkshire to reduce buying confusion and enhance value for money. Day tickets are now available on our app as an m-ticket including as bundles of 5 for hybrid and part-time workers.

TravelMaster tickets are valid on all** public bus services in South Yorkshire. This means you can get on the first bus that turns up and have a variety of options to get you from A to B or C and back again. TravelMaster helps businesses by getting employees to work, clients to interviews, students to education and many other reasons for travel.

Since its introduction in June 2023, the TravelMaster app continues to grow in popularity. Starting as a convenient way to buy and load tickets to your smartcard, functionality has continued to evolve to include live bus times and 1-day m-tickets. Coupons issued to business are easily

redeemed via the app.

We are also proud to be launching a new Travel-Partnership with Kitlocker, winners of the unLTD Business Awards Best Company Culture. TravelMaster is looking to simplify the B2B offer, reducing complexity and maximising benefits for employees. Kitlocker employees will be able to access exclusive savings via the TravelMaster App, another great addition to the Kitlocker company culture offering. For employers of any size, we’re happy

to discuss our TravelPartnership offers with you for an easy-to-use discount scheme.

TravelMaster tickets are great for employee retention, attracting potential employees and improving your CSR rating. We have a range of tailored options for employers and always happy to talk to businesses about the benefits of public transport tickets. We know not every business is the same and if you would like to discuss what’s best for you drop us an email on sales@ sytravelmaster.com

* based on CityBus 28 day and Annual and SYBus Annual tickets.

** exclusions apply – see www.sytravelmaster.com for details.

James Buchanan General Manager at Thornbridge Brewery.

In 2025, Thornbridge Brewery will mark an incredible milestone – 20 years of brewing excellence. From humble beginnings in the Stonemasons Workshop at Thornbridge Hall to a state-of-the-art Riverside Brewery in Bakewell, Thornbridge has become a cornerstone of the UK beer scene.

Producing an impressive 9 million pints annually and welcoming over 100,000 visitors to their Taproom each year, Thornbridge has built a reputation on quality and innovation. We caught up with James to hear more about the brewery’s longstanding appeal and plans for this landmark year.

Hi James! First of all, could you tell us a little bit about your role at the brewery?

I’m General Manager and look after a number of areas, including marketing, offtrade and export.

What’s the most enjoyable thing about what you do?

Hard to say just one! It’s a fantastic place to work – the people, location and, of course, the beer, just to name a few.

Thornbridge reaching 20 years is a huge milestone for the brewery. What do you think are the key reasons behind its longevity?

The focus on quality and consistency – this is really key to everything that we do. Providing everyone who enjoys our beer with the assurance that we have a

dedicated brewery team committed to providing the best pint every time.

How will you be celebrating your anniversary year?

Lots of things are in the pipeline. We have a new anniversary logo, which will adorn glassware, beer mats and seasonal beers throughout 2025, announcing the milestone. We always keep track of the beers people loved and would like to see return –lots of these Thornbridge favourites will be back. All

our events will focus on the celebration, and our flagship beer, Jaipur, has its own 20th birthday in June, so we’ll be throwing a party! Also in 2025, we’re very excited to be opening our latest Thornbridge & Co site, right in the heart of Sheffield on Fargate.

What have been some key highlights for you since working for Thornbridge? It might be recency bias, but seeing us turn 20 years old is really cool. Launching our beer in numerous new

countries and seeing people tag us in photos from all corners of the globe is always wonderufl. The opportunity to collaborate with incredible giants of the brewing industry, such as Sierra Nevada and Brooklyn, has been another highlight.

Finally, what’s your go-to Thornbridge tipple?

My go-to is Lukas or Green Mountain; however, Jaipur on cask is my absolute favourite!

DEALING WITH UNEMPLOYMENT IN 2025

Unemployment in South Yorkshire is being tackled head-on this year thanks to a new partnership between rural broadband provider Quickline and South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF). This collaboration promises to deliver targeted support for individuals and organisations across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield.

At the heart of this initiative is the creation of the QFutures Community Fund, financed by Quickline. The fund will award grants to organisations dedicated to addressing unemployment among adults over 30. This investment will also extend the life of SYCF’s acclaimed Moving On Up (MOU) programme, which has successfully supported individuals aged 30 and under since its launch three years ago.

Michelle Dickinson, head of philanthropy and programmes at SYCF, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating:

“The employment landscape remains a growing problem for UK employers, educators and, particularly, our young people. SYCF’s vision to inspire and prepare people for the fast-changing world of work mirrors Quickline’s own ambitions to address unemployment in the region.

“Working together, with a shared passion for making a difference, this new partnership will build on the huge success of our Moving On Up programme by providing even more opportunities to connect people with businesses by helping remove barriers to employment.”

The MOU programme, launched following SYCF’s 2021 Vital Signs research, has already awarded close

to £300,000 to 24 groups across South Yorkshire. Grants of up to £15,000 have been used to deliver multi-year support for young people aged 14 to 30, improving employability, skills and access to meaningful job opportunities.

Julie Holmes, Social Values Manager at Quickline, expressed her pride in the initiative, adding: “At Quickline, we’re passionate about more than just connecting people to broadband – we’re committed to connecting communities to opportunities. Our investment in South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation reflects our dedication to tackling unemployment and supporting those who need it most in the region. By working with SYCF, we’re helping to create brighter futures for both young

people and adults, driving real, lasting change where it’s needed most.”

This partnership is part of Quickline’s broader social values programme, launched under the UK government’s Project Gigabit. Alongside their community investment, Quickline is expanding fullfibre broadband access to rural areas, with the aim of connecting 170,000 homes and businesses across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.

With SYCF already supporting over 400 groups through £1.7m of funding in the past year, this collaboration is hope to amplify efforts to reduce unemployment and create sustainable opportunities for South Yorkshire communities – something we can all get behind.

For more information, visit www.quickline.co.uk or www.sycf.org.uk.