SEPTEMBER 2019 | ISSUE 17 | FREE | WWW.UNLTDBUSINESS.COM
SERIOUS
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PLAY : N O S FOCU ING RK
O W O C
S E C A P S
Gulliver’s MD Julie Dalton takes us on a guided tour of the forthcoming ‘magical’ £38M theme park in Rotherham
SCR MAYOR DISCUSSES
PWIOORKNPELAECRE TIRNIAGL
DONCASTER’S ECONOMIC REVIVAL ● EVENTS CALENDAR ● SUCCESS STORY: SUIT WORKS unLTDBUSINESS.COM
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CONTENTS
42 SUCCESSSTORY:SUITWORKS
28 COVERSTORY:GULLIVER'SVALLEY
46 FOCUSON:CO-WORKING
74 AFTERHOURS:BURGERS 4
unLTDBUSINESS.COM
CONTENTS
ALSO INSIDE... 6: News Business moves, anniversary celebrations, colliery regeneration and a new app to share the love for shoppers. 18: Calendar All the very best events happening around the city region in September and a look ahead to October. 58: Company Culture Find out how Office Friendly's company culture is helping other SMEs build their own effective teams.
61: Five Minutes With... We chat with Rob Shaw, founder of Glu Recruit. 63: Sheffield City Region SCR Mayor Dan Jarvis tells unLTD all about the health-led employment trial Working Win. 68: Business Doncaster: We take a closer look at economic development projects across the borough. 82: Number Crunch Breaking down the facts and figures for the art and culture scene in the region.
EVERYTHING ELSE... 13: The Diary 15: Evolving technology 17: Legal Matters 41: Launchpad 57: Charities
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BUILDING WORK CONTINUES AT GULLIVER'S VALLEY
@UNLTDBUSINESS UNLTD BUSINESS
BACK TO SCHOOL BUSINESS The September edition of any magazine tends to have a ‘back to school’ feel about it. But if the people, places and projects we’ve interviewed, visited and featured in this issue are anything to go by, you’d be forgiven for thinking not many entrepreneurs or business leaders took a summer break in August at all. First off there’s our exclusive interview with Gulliver’s MD Julie Dalton who took us on a tour of their fourth UK theme park, currently being built near Rother Valley Country Park. Alongside brother Nick, she runs the Gulliver’s empire founded by their parents 40 years ago in Matlock Bath, before later theme parks were established in Warrington and Milton Keynes. It was great to hear about the local focus Julie and her team have. More than 90 per cent of the entire workforce live within five miles of the site, the tarmac team are a South Yorkshire firm, and all the plants and shrubs are from a local nursery. And speaking of building a sense of community, our Focus On feature this edition looks at the growing trend of co-working. Kollider opened at Castle House six months ago and this month another co-working space The Cloud Sheffield opens on Ecclesall Road so we talked to both and a host of other spaces to find out what’s on offer. Meanwhile it’s been really encouraging to report on what’s being done across the Sheffield City Region to help people get back into employment, too. Sheffield City Region Mayor Dan Jarvis writes for us about the pioneering health-led employment trial Working Win and how research in our region could lead to a new way to support people who want to work, but struggle because of their health. Meanwhile Vanda Kewley shares how her passion project The Suit Works helps unemployed men with styling sessions and smart interviewappropriate clothing. It’s our Success Story feature for a reason – The Suit Works recently moved into bigger premises, took on a new project lead and launched a She Works service for women. Suits us!
UNLTDBUSINESS EDITORIAL Richard Fidler richard@unltdbusiness.com Jill Theobald editorial@unltdbusiness.com General editorial@unltdbusiness.com 0114 252 7781 ADVERTISING Phil Turner phil@unltdbusiness.com 07979 498034 Nick Hallam nick@unltdbusiness.com 07843 483 536 General advertising@unltdbusiness.com FINANCE Sarah Koriba and Faye Bailey accounts@exposedmagazine.co.uk DESIGN Simon Waller and Simon Garlick CONTRIBUTORS Dean Atkins Joe Bamford Marc Barker Stella Bolam Isobel Buffin Josh Cawood
David Craig Sarah Lister Sasha Mossman Ellie Nodder Alex Ross Ash Young
unLTD is published monthly by Blind Mice Media Ltd Unit 1B Rialto, 2 Kelham Island Square, Kelham Riverside Sheffield S3 8SD and HRM Unit 1a Speedwell Works, Sidney Street, Sheffield S1 4RG The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Blind Mice Media Ltd and HRM 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 and HRM cannot take responsibility for contributors’ views or specific listings.
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AGENDA NEWS Shorts and Keebles advise on sale of funeral service
Q ACCOUNTANTS CO-DIRECTOR DANIEL BATHAM
Q’ING UP TO MOVE TO SHEFFIELD Sheffield’s numbers have added up for a London accountancy firm which has picked the South Yorkshire city to open its first northern office. Aldgate-based Q Accountants, specialising in providing accounting and taxation services for start-ups and SMEs across the UK, will be opening the office at Acero, the Grade A office development at Sheffield Digital Campus this month (September). Sheffield impressed the firm’s founders after it was ranked top in research into ‘The 15 best UK cities to start a business in 2019’, prompting a visit by the Q Accountants’ team including founder Farid Gasanov who established the company in 2015.
Co-director Daniel Batham, who will be heading up the northern office, said: “The research by Paymentsense found that the five-year startup survival rate was 44.9 per cent which was impressive, and we were also attracted by the fact that a large majority of businesses in Sheffield are SMEs which are our target market. “Sheffield has an amazing creative and digital sector, too, with lots of start-ups and entrepreneurship. We came up to visit and went around the city centre, to Kelham Island and on to Ecclesall Road and there’s a new development on every corner. “There’s a real buzz about the city right now – it’s the
perfect place for us.” Acero – a Scarborough International Properties and Metro Holdings of Singapore development – is the third building at Sheffield Digital Campus, complementing Electric Works, home to WANdisco, and Ventana House, the HQ of Sky Bet. In addition to bookkeeping, VAT, payroll, Annual Accounts and Tax Return services, their start-up department also deals with Video Game Tax Credits, R&D Tax Credit and administering Enterprise Investment Schemes – generous tax incentives offered by HMRC, but something, as Q Accountants mention, not many businesses are aware of.
Healthcare company marks 50th year with international conference Sheffield healthcare company JRI Orthopaedics is marking the start of its 50th anniversary year with a major international conference. The inaugural ‘Pathways Conference’ will be chaired by Prof Justin Cobb who will be joined by some of the biggest names in the orthopaedic community. Founded in 1969, JRI
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Orthopaedics has worldclass expertise in the design, development and manufacture of a portfolio of orthopaedic implants and systems. Jerry Agass, chief executive said: “This is the first of what will be an annual conference connecting orthopaedic surgeons, researchers and manufacturers from across the world – with plans already
in place to deliver the second event in Beijing in 2020. “Our 50th anniversary is a major milestone and an opportunity not just to celebrate the past but to set our eyes very firmly on the future. Pathways will be a part of that exciting story.” The conference is taking place at 30 Euston Square, London in October.
Shorts teamed up with Keebles to act as lead advisors and legal representatives, to Alison and Anthony Corbett on the sale of Funeral Directors, JW Hutchinson to A.W Lymn The Family Funeral Service. JW Hutchinson was established in 1904, and over four generations have served the region’s communities. It was an important consideration to find a buyer with similar values, when the owners decided to sell. JW Hutchinson was established in
1904 Andy Ryder, Corporate finance partner with Shorts: “We are delighted to have advised Alison and Anthony on the successful completion of this transaction, and we look forward to seeing the continuing success of the business under new ownership.” Corporate partner at Keebles, Paul Trudgill, said: “It is always pleasing when a transaction takes place between two parties that know each other well and have the best interests of the business at heart. “Our clients are confident their former customers and staff are in safe hands.” A family run business, JW Hutchinson prides itself on the personal funeral service it offers and ensures plans are tailor made to meet the needs of families.
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AGENDA Free travel passes for those on employment schemes
STUDENTS WIN PLACES ON STEM PROGRAMME Two Sheffield Hallam University students have been chosen to take part in the inaugural Santander STEMships programme. Alice Boote and Jennifer Jones were selected as two of 30 upand-coming female engineers to take part in the new initiative, which is dedicated to supporting female engineering students and incentivising more women to embark on a career in engineering. The beneficiaries of the programme were announced at the 2019 Formula Student event at Silverstone by Santander UK’s CEO Nathan Bostock and former Formula
One World Champion and Santander Universities ambassador Jenson Button. The STEMships programme aims to break down barriers facing women entering the industry by providing them with dedicated tools, resources and opportunities to allow them to succeed. Through the Santander Universities STEMships Programme, Alice and Jennifer will embark on a two-year support programme, which includes a £1,500 scholarship, an overseas experience with a leading engineering institution, membership to the Women’s Engineering Society
and access to mentoring and internship schemes. BEng Automotive Engineering student Alice Boote said: “Being chosen as one of the 30 to be part of the Programme is a real honour. I will gain so much from Santander’s support and I am very excited to see what the next two years will bring!” James Johnston, head of development at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “The University is committed to creating the best opportunities for women in STEM subjects and it is with thanks to Santander Universities that we can continue this work.”
Former South Yorkshire colliery site delivers regeneration Construction activity to create industrial employment space at a former colliery site in Dinnington in Rotherham has begun. Local developer EV Waddington are constructing seven industrial and warehouse units at the 31 East site, which will be ready for occupation in late 2019 and marketed to let by Knight Frank. Also, Trebor Developments, with partners Hillwood, are working on the Atomic project to develop a logistics/ distribution or manufacturing base to be ready for occupation in December 2019 and marketed by Knight Frank, CPP
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and CBRE. Luxembourg-based United Caps is investing around €20m – backed by a £1.5m direct grant from the Sheffield City Region Combined Authority with funding from the Sheffield City Region Business Investment Fund – in a new production facility in Dinnington as a new plant for beverage and dairy closures. Rebecca Schofield, partner and head of the Yorkshire Industrial team at Knight Frank, said: “This type of quality industrial accommodation will meet local and regional occupier needs – we’re already talking to potential occupiers.”
The site will cover over
450,000 SQ FT of space
The Mayoral Combined Authority has agreed to offer free travel passes from October to people taking part in selected employment support schemes across South Yorkshire. £330,000 is being made available to offer time limited free travel on public transport to eligible participants in the Working Win Health Led Employment Trial, The Work and Health Programme, Pathways to Progression and Pathways to Success. The free passes will be made available to support people accessing these schemes and transitioning into work. The schemes have so far supported approximately 7000 people who are out of work or struggling in employment due to a physical or mental health condition. Dan Jarvis, Sheffield City Region Mayor, said: “We have innovative and groundbreaking schemes across our region that are supporting people each day to return to and stay in work. “If we can make this transition even easier by offering time limited free travel on public transport, then we will enhance the prospects for getting people back to work. I’m proud that we’ve been able to fund supporting people back into work.” Steve Edwards, Executive Director for South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive, said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer free passes to people returning to employment. We hope this initiative will make it easier for people to move into work, stay in work and create regular public transport users.” Read more from Mayor Jarvis on Working Win in his article on Page 63.
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AGENDA HOT Sheffield-based solicitor Suzanne Liversidge has been appointed as the first global managing partner of £218m-turnover law firm Kennedys. Ant Marketing has acquired a 9,000 sq ft former car showroom in Sheffield with plans to hire up to new 80 staff. Henry Boot, RB Allfree and Arup are among leading Sheffield Business Together members joining the #GoGoGreen campaign to help a Sheffield school improve playground air quality. The Master and Mistress Cutler, Nick and Liz Cragg visited Barnsley-based Rollem to officially open the facilities as part of celebrating the engineering firm’s 90th anniversary. The DLA Piper Monopoly Challenge saw companies taking part in a real-life version of the property board game, raising £5,000 for this year’s Master Cutler’s Challenge charities St Luke’s Hospice and Rotherham Hospice. A team from BHP were crowned the 2019 winners.
COOL Yorkshire is the second worst place in the country for business growth according to a survey of business leaders. Research by Huthwaite International found a lack of sales strategy and negotiations could be to blame. Spudulike, the baked potato specialist which operated locations across Yorkshire, has closed its 37-strong UK portfolio with the loss of nearly 300 jobs.
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Concorde lands in Barnsley Barnsley College Travel and Tourism students are now able to visit Concorde after the College’s Learning Technologies Unit and Travel and Tourism departments created a full 360° virtual reality tour. The tour will allow students the opportunity to gain knowledge of the Concorde aircraft as well as taking a tour of the plane from their classroom. The College worked closely with Manchester Airport Visitor Park staff to create a tour of the plane to enable students to visually reflect on their visit to the airport and use the tour during revision. Rebekah Morris, travel and tourism curriculum leader,
said: “Our courses are about engaging our students. We focus on ensuring our students gain industry relevant skills and knowledge and the 360° virtual reality tour is a way of enabling this.”
Rob Lea, eSystems technologist, added: “It’s been an educational experience to work closely with the Travel and Tourism students and it’s wonderful to see them grow in confidence and skills.”
ARMY VETERAN LAUNCHES WENTWORTH WOODHOUSE ROOFTOP TOURS South Yorkshire’s legendary Army veteran Ben Parkinson MBE has launched rooftop tours designed for people of all levels of mobility at Rotherham stately home Wentworth Woodhouse. Famed for challenging the public’s perception of disability after losing both legs and suffering 40 different injuries in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province in 2006, Ben, of Bessacarr in Doncaster, cut the ribbon to officially launch the tours. Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust led developments for two lifts which rise through the huge scaffolding shell, which now clads the famous East Front of the mansion to enable vital roof repairs. The roof sits 18 metres from the ground and usually takes 135 steps to reach. Former Lance Bombardier
The roof is the size of
6 football pitches
Ben, 35, said: “I have never accepted that there are things I can’t do and I think everybody should have the opportunity to experience anything an able-bodied person can. “Historic houses pose big problems for people with limited mobility. I’m really pleased to hear that Wentworth Woodhouse is determined to solve such problems.” Sarah McLeod, CEO of Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust, said: “We are very proud people of all ages and abilities can head to the roof of our Grade I listed mansion and enjoy our latest tour. “Who better to officially launch this than local legend Ben, who has never let his disabilities define him and sees any challenge as simply something to overcome.”
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AGENDA
SHOPPERS ENCOURAGED TO GET ‘APPY’ AT FRENCHGATE Doncaster’s Frenchgate Shopping Centre is inspiring shoppers to discover their creative side and share positive messages with loved ones through the launch of its Happiness app. As part of its Happy Movement campaign, Frenchgate is inviting customers to create a free eCard through the app which can be sent with the intention of putting a smile on someone’s face. Users of the app can also choose to be entered into a prize draw to win a gift card worth £500. Tablets are available throughout Frenchgate, with one located outside Debenhams and two outside Deichman, providing shoppers with access to the app. Alternatively, cards can be created via the link on the Frenchgate website. Karen Staniforth, assistant general manager at Frenchgate, said: “We love that the community are sharing what makes them happy, so we are excited to reward one lucky person with a £500 gift card.” This is the latest in a series of initiatives for Frenchgate’s Happiness Movement. The
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International brand wholesaler and distributor Pricecheck has expanded its warehouse operations to cope with demand. The Sheffield-based company, a fast-growing FMCG distributor, has acquired an additional 20,000 sq ft, taking its total warehouse space to 200,000 sq ft and with offices combined, to more than 220,000 sq ft. As part of the ongoing investment, and as the company aims to reach £200m turnover by 2025, Pricecheck has also hired Dan Smith as new warehouse operations manager.
MARK AMOS AND DAN SMITH
Centre is promoting positivity in all forms including the launch of a happy manifesto, a Happiness Festival, free happy
activities and competitions. Follow the hashtag #FrenchgateShareYourHappy to get involved.
Teachers awarded for ‘world class’ impact Three inspirational academics from the University of Sheffield have been honoured with national awards in recognition of their work to transform student and academic learning. Dr Julie Hyde, Professor Katherine Linehan and Dr Gary Wood have been awarded prestigious National Teaching Fellowships by Advance HE for the outstanding impact of their teaching and support in UK higher education. Professor Brendan Stone, Deputy Vice-President for
Warehouse growth for global wholesaler
Education at the University of Sheffield, said: “I’m delighted that Julie, Katherine and Gary have been recognised for their outstanding commitment and dedication with a National Teaching Fellowship Award. They join a growing list of academics at our institution who have proven themselves as world class teachers.” Dr Hyde, from the University of Sheffield’s Department of Chemistry, is a key figure in the development and nurturing of innovative educational partnerships with Chinese
universities, while Professor Linehan, from the University’s Department of Biomedical Science, has been the driving force behind a pioneering redesign of the anatomy curriculum at the University. And Dr Wood, from the University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, has consistently had a transformative impact on the students he works with. The three academics are among 54 new National Teaching Fellows announced by Advance HE.
Dan has previously worked at FPS Distribution as head of warehouse operations, at SIG as group supply chain project manager and for seven years in various supply chain roles at Wilko’s. This period of growth also sees an internal promotion as Mark Amos becomes head of operations. Mark, who has been with the company for more than 18 years, will oversee the expansion of the warehouse and wider operational processes. Pricecheck is an international distributor of fast-moving consumer goods, and is trusted by the world’s biggest brands, offering more than 4,500 branded products to customers in the UK and to more than 80 countries globally.
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AGENDA Engineering firm shortlisted for ‘best of British’ award Sheffield engineering specialist SCX – the company behind pioneering developments at the new Tottenham Hotspur stadium and the All England Lawn Tennis Club at Wimbledon – is in the running for its most prestigious award to date. Its design, engineering and installation of largescale moving structures has resulted in it making the shortlist in the innovation category of The Lloyds Bank National Business Awards 2019. The SCX group, based in Wincobank, Sheffield, has enjoyed success in several local, regional and national awards over the past couple of years. Its bespoke engineering arm, SCX Special Projects, has successfully delivered the world’s first dividing retractable pitch for Tottenham Hotspur. Meanwhile it designed, engineered and installed a retractable roof for Wimbledon No.1 Court, used for the first time in this summer’s Championships, guaranteeing play whatever the weather. The Lloyds Bank National Business Awards highlighting the best of British business and winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on November 12. SCX group chairman Simon Eastwood said: “Our culture is to encourage growth through innovation at all levels of the business, not just in the solutions we deliver to our customers, but also in how we work with each other. It’s a great feeling to see this being recognised beyond the engineering sector, in the context of industry at large.”
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STYLISH AND SUSTAINABLE NEW LOOK FOR CHARITY’S BOUTIQUE A new era of style is coming to local homeless charity Emmaus Sheffield with a major refurbishment for its popular second-hand superstore. The store at the charity’s Cadman Street headquarters has been given a complete makeover, starting with a new home for its popular range of pre-owned clothing and vintage fashion items. Emmaus shop supervisor Kate Morgan said: “We did all the work ourselves and used almost 100 per cent recycled materials, including things such as recycled scaffolding boards, salvaged metal grids and even an old set of ladders! “The result is something
EMMAUS SHOP SUPERVISOR KATE MORGAN
that fits in completely with the Emmaus ethos of sustainability and recycling and we are delighted that visitors are all commenting on how much they like the
new layout and how it creates a much brighter atmosphere. “Our intention now is to continue the refurbishment through all the other areas of the store.”
The finalists for the 2019 Chesterfield Food Producer of the Year title have been selected after a special tasting event held at Casa Hotel. Crooked Pickle Co, Derbyshire Distillery and Moss Valley Fine Meats are all finalists in the category, which is sponsored by Edge Events Management Ltd. The winner of the Food Producer of the Year title will be announced by celebrity chef, Brian Turner, at the 2019 Chesterfield Food and Drink Awards ceremony, at the Winding Wheel in October. Organised by Destination Chesterfield and sponsored by The Chesterfield College Group, the prestigious awards recognise the very best food, drinks, service, venues, apprentices and apprentice employers in the town’s growing hospitality sector.
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AGENDA APPOINTMENTS
NEW CHAIR TO LEAD WOMEN IN BUSINESS Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber have appointed a new Chair and working group members to lead the Women in Business working group. Lyndsay Pitchley, business development manager of Office Friendly, will take the role of Chair this month when the new 16-strong group and Chamber staff officially meet for the first time to agree an agenda for the forthcoming two years under Lyndsay’s leadership. Former Rotherham Mayor and current RMBC Councillor, Lyndsay is a keen advocate in championing women in business, which saw her win the 2019 ATHENA International Award, following her nomination at this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations. Lyndsay said: “I’m delighted and honoured to
New director at coding start-up An upskilling project with a local manufacturing company has led The Developer Academy to join the Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership Skills Bank. The Developer Academy has also hired Neil Bizzell as director of education. Neil is a hugely experienced Computer Science teacher, Infrastructure Engineer and IT Consultant and will be leading on all education aspects of the business. Founder Ben Atha said: “Our growth is rapid. We’re seeing really high demand from employers for the skills we are teaching.”
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New duo for ITI Wireless and fixed line telecoms service provider ITI Network Services has created two more new jobs employing Rob Wilson and Kieron Clayton as project engineers.
British Academy Fellowship for Uni Prof University of Sheffield Professor Robert Stern has been elected Fellow of the British Academy in recognition of his outstanding research in the humanities.
Eventful role for Tom at Owlerton LYNDSAY PITCHLEY, NEW CHAIR OF THE WOMEN IN BUSINESS WORKING GROUP
be representing Women in Business as Chair. I aim to continue the amazing work that my predecessor Jackie
Tom Ellis has joined Owlerton Events and Conferencing venue (OEC) as conference and events operations manager.
Freeborn has done, leading the working group to what it’s become today. So cheers to the exciting future ahead!”
Kate promoted at Banner Jones BHP appoints Banner Jones Solicitors has further expanded its senior management team with the promotion of residential property expert Kate Skelton. The latest in a string of recent promotions at the business, Kate, who previously worked as a team leader in the company’s Chesterfield office, will now take on the position of director and head of the Sheffield Residential Property Department. Executive director Chris Sellars said: “Here at Banner Jones, we are committed to investing in our staff and providing them with opportunities to develop their career within the firm. Kate’s promotion comes as part of a general effort to recognise the work of capable and enthusiastic
new partner
BHP Corporate Finance has appointed experienced corporate financier Martin Athey to focus on further developing the firm’s due diligence offering, the fifth partner to join the 20-strong team.
individuals throughout Banner Jones to bolster our expert, nononsense legal services.” Kate said: “I am excited to take on the new role in management. I hope to help build the Sheffield team and continue their excellent work.”
Big recruitment drive for Pricecheck Fast-growing global wholesaler and distributor Pricecheck has enjoyed its biggest recruitment drive to date, welcoming 26 new starters since the start of June.
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AGENDA
THE DIARY BY RICHARD FIDLER
Our editor says the first month back at work after the holidays can be a 'grueler'
Team spirit key to thriving businesses
NEW CHALLENGES OF THE NEW TERM There’ll be sighs of relief across offices this month as children – young and old – go back to school or return to their university campuses. We all look forward to our summer holidays whether it’s going away or just having a few days off at home to sort stuff out. But, let’s be honest, the summer can be very stressful both at work and at home trying to juggle everything. As a parent – single or living in the same home with a partner – the challenges are the same. What will the children be doing today? Who can look after them? How much is the kids club (no, seriously, how much!?). And finally, how many days are left until school begins? The same is very much true at the workplace.
People, quite rightly, are taking their holiday entitlement which leaves others to pick up extra work. Even with the best planning being two or three colleagues down is hard to cover for in most small and medium sized businesses. Everyone chips in and does their bit but it’s never as simple as just adding it on to your to do list. It does, though, give you a new-found respect for your fellow workers that some of their tasks are actually more complex than you first thought! And then September rolls around. New uniforms are bought. Pep talks are given about how you really must try harder in English this term. And you finally turn to yourself because you know what will happen
when you step foot in the office. That new school year vibe of eagerness that you’ve been trying to impress on your children will be thrown right back in your face by your boss. There’ll be new enthusiasm from everyone about projects that need to be completed by Christmas. Yes, Christmas (displays are already up in shops, by the way). It’s always full steam ahead in September, and for a good reason. Most people have been away and are rejuvenated. The next traditional holiday period is far away at the end of October giving you loads of time to get through mountains of work. And you thought, after a hectic summer, you were coming back to work for a rest. Good luck!
Got views of your own? Let me know: richard@unltdbusiness.com LinkedIn: Richard Fidler
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One of the pleasures of editing unLTD magazine is being at the centre of business news from across Sheffield City Region. We receive hundreds of press releases a week from companies eager to tell the world about their latest success or new recruits. The common theme from the vast majority of them is about how companies are greater than the sum of their parts.
So, here’s a shout out to everyone who is part of a team, whether it’s just working closely with a colleague or part of a bigger group where it takes just one slip up for an entire project to come tumbling down. And not forgetting sole traders who provide expertise in so many areas. They may work for themselves, but the service they give is to keep bigger organisations ticking over. Often people are too busy to get a pat on the back so if you’re reading this, take a second and say well done to yourself. From this chair it appears that there is so much good work happening across the region and that should be commended.
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EVOLVING TECHNOLOGY BY ASH YOUNG
Looking for more organic traffic? Over to our tech expert Ash Young from Evoluted
HOW TO SECURE FEATURED SNIPPETS & DRIVE MORE ORGANIC TRAFFIC Are you looking for more organic traffic? Optimising content for Google’s featured snippets drives extra traffic, without needing to acquire new backlinks. Featured snippets are the answer box appearing above all other organic results. According to Ahrefs, they appear for more than one in 10 searches (12.29 per cent) and gain 8.6 per cent of all clicks. Google systems “determine whether a page would make a good featured snippet for a user's search request” – so here are my tips for optimisation, giving you the best chance at securing the spot. Identify snippets to go after Put yourself in your potential customer’s shoes. If they’re
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interested in your industry or products, what might they be asking? Investigate by googling these questions yourself and creating content to answer them. Also have a browse of the ‘people also ask’ questions displaying – take these questions, too, and you’ve already formed the layout of the piece of content. Beating the competition Consider the layout of your answer – what content type is the current snippet? This could be a paragraph, numbered list, bullets, table, or a YouTube video. Although following the same format is a good idea (Google has identified this as the preferred way to display this answer), it’s no use
providing a similar response – you’ll need a better one to steal the top spot. Be unique, do more research and go the extra mile to provide something more for the searcher. Google is trying to provide a quick and clear answer for the reader. Keep yours concise and easily digestible. You can mould existing content – summaries at the top of pages do well in featured snippets. Add extra value by including a table or bullet point sections into a step-by-step list. Even simple changes to clean up the page title are a great start. For example, ‘Improve your organic CTR with these 5 steps’ or ‘How to improve your organic CTR’. For new content, featured snippet answers work well
as FAQ sections, Knowledge Centres or as ‘Ultimate Guide To…’ blog posts. Structured mark up I’d recommend using structured mark up when you’re aiming for a featured snippet. Google heavily relies on understanding your content through HTML mark up. Wellstructured content with h-tags, ordered/unordered lists etc. and in all the right places, makes it easier for Google to interpret this as featured snippet worthy. If you need any assistance to increase your organic search traffic, get in touch with the Evoluted team. Ash Young, Evoluted www.evoluted.net
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IF YOU ASK ME
Legal Insight. Business Instinct. With a client base and heritage firmly rooted in Sheffield, our team of commercial lawyers combine local business and sector knowledge with legal expertise to deliver a quality client service.
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LEGAL
LEGAL MATTERS
BY ALEX ROSS, MANAGING PARTNER, HEAD OF COMPANY AND COMMERCIAL Our Bell & Buxton columnist on the sensitive issue of business owners dying intestate
dgers
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY BUSINESS IF I DIE WITHOUT MAKING A WILL? Owning and developing a business can take years of hard work, but have you ever considered what would happen to your business if you died without a will? Estate administration can be difficult in any situation, but there are likely to be added complications if you have a business without anyone appointed to take charge when you are gone. What happens if you die without making a will depends on what type of business you have and whether you have any other documentation in place. Generally, if you die without making a will your estate is distributed in accordance
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with the law which is based on your marital status and surviving family members. This could mean that grieving and possibly inexperienced (or even estranged) relatives would be responsible for managing your life’s work. Your business is not an indistinguishable asset, it belongs to your estate unless there are legal documents stating otherwise. As a sole trader you are the legal owner of the business. The business is an asset which would likely die with you. Any business assets such as tools, plant and machinery will form part of your estate and be distributed in accordance with the law.
What happens to my limited company or limited liability partnership (LLP) if I die without making a will? A limited company or LLP is a separate legal entity, so on death of a sole shareholder and director the business will continue to trade until a further director appointment has been made. This will mean that your direct debits and standing orders set up from your business account will continue after you pass away. This can cause a problem if your business account becomes overdrawn during the administration period. If you are a shareholder of a limited company or a
partner in an LLP, you may have covered this eventuality in your articles of association or in a shareholder’s/ partnership agreement. If not, your shares of the business will form part of your estate and be distributed amongst certain family members. Your surviving shareholders may not be pleased to learn that your spouse, civil partner or teenage children, who never got involved with your business, now control your shares. Our specialist commercial team at Bell & Buxton would be happy to discuss these and any other business issues in complete confidence.
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AGENDA CALENDAR
5TH SEPTEMBER CHAMBER MEANS BUSINESS EXHIBITION 2019
Venue: AESSEAL New York Stadium, New York Way, Rotherham S60 1AH Time: 9am – 2:30pm Cost: Free About: An annual exhibition put together to give member businesses the opportunity to promote themselves, their products and services as well as talk to other businesses, build relationships and trade services and support. Exhibiting is one of the most efficient, effective and successful marketing activities available – having a presence at Chamber Means Business will give you exposure to more than 300 businesses. Contact: events@brchamber.co.uk / www. chambermeansbusiness.co.uk
3RD AN HOUR WELL SPENT:
INNOVATION ISN’T ROCKET SCIENCE
Venue: Doncaster Raceourse, The Grandstand, Leger Way, Doncaster DN2 6BB Time: 8am – 9:15am Cost: Members free, nonmembers £15 About: Talk on businesses innovation and creativity. Contact: psimpson@ doncaster-chamber.co.uk
4TH - 5TH SHEFFIELD DIGI MARKETING CONFERENCE
Time: 9:30am – 5pm Cost: £297 About: Hear from some of the most audacious and thoughtprovoking speakers in the digital marketing industry. Gain insight into emerging strategies, the latest innovative technologies, and best practices to move your business to the next level. Interact with thought leaders, build your network and collaborate with your peers. Contact: bit.ly/2HilSTC
7TH - 8TH
ART IN THE GARDENS
Venue: Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Clarkehouse Road,
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Sheffield S10 2LN Time: 10:30am – 5:30pm Cost: Adults £6, Children under 16 are free About: This event is a truly wonderful opportunity to buy the perfect piece of art or craft direct from the artists, whilst enjoying the perfect surroundings that the gardens have to offer. Thousands of pieces of art and craft on show and for sale. Contact: Howard Simpson howard.simpson @sheffield.gov.uk
11TH NETWORKING WITH THE CHAMBER
Venue: Tankersley Manor Hotel, Church Lane, Barnsley S75 3DQ Time: 8am – 10am Cost: £11.96 - £19.95 About: Networking breakfast with local business contacts Contact: events@ brchamber.co.uk
11TH BHP HOST ‘VAT REVERSE CHARGE FOR CONSTRUCTION SERVICES’
Venue: Halifax Hall Hotel, Endcliffe Vale Road, Sheffield S10 3ER Time: 8am – 10am Cost: Free About: HMRC’s VAT domestic
EDITORP’SICK EVENT reverse charge for construction services is due to come into force on 1 October 2019. The introduction of the reverse charge represents a significant procedural change and it is crucial that businesses understand exactly how it will operate – this seminar by BHP Chartered Accountants will help businesses understand the change. Contact: nick.wylie@bhp.co.uk
11TH Y30 WORKING LUNCH
Venue: 2 Victoria Avenue, Harrogate, HG1 1EL Time: 11:45am onwards Cost: Free About: Working lunch with Jacqui Hall who is going to share insights into the relationships between culture and business performance. Gain insight into how a business has grown, retained its culture with the right people, and delivered throughout every stage of its journey. Contact: rfyfe@yorkshire.com
12TH THE BEBRILLIANT EVENT
Venue: Showroom Workstation, 15 Paternoster Row, Sheffield S1 2BX Time: 2pm – 5pm
Cost: Free About: Every marketer goes through a time where they face challenges, especially as new tactics and developments come to fruition. Find useful hints and tips that will make your life easier, help you market yourself better and overcome common challenges. Contact: bit.ly/2L32YRQ
12TH SAY HELLO TO A NEW CULTURE COLLECTIVE
Venue: Millennium Gallery, Arundel Gate, Sheffield S1 2PP Time: 4:30pm – 7pm Cost: Free About: Find out how you can support a new public/private sector board that will bring a high-level strategic focus to make culture and creativity central to the city’s economic strategy. Contact: www.museumssheffield.org.uk
13TH - 22ND SHEFFIELD WALKING FESTIVAL
Venue: Various locations around Sheffield Time: TBA Cost: All walks are free to attend but you must be registered. About: The festival presents a host of enjoyable walks for a
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AGENDA range of abilities, with plenty to see and discover along the way. Contact: bit.ly/2yV2A2b
consistently outstanding for customers. Areas covered include Communication with customers, asking why customers stay with us, and looking at things from the customer’s perspective. Contact: Info@ connectyorkshire.org
17TH CUSTOMS PROCEDURES
Venue: Doncaster Chamber, Keepmoat Stadium, Stadium Way, Doncaster DN4 5JW Time: 9:15am – 4pm Cost: Members: £200 NonMembers: £400 About: A course that gives an understanding of HMRC, rules and origins of intra EC trade, customs procedures and the UK trade tariffs. Contact: bit.ly/ CustomsProcedures
19TH ROUNDTABLE: WHAT ARE
THE MAIN LOCAL NETWORK/ INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS THAT INCREASE GROWTH IN DONCASTER?
Venue: Doncaster Chamber, Keepmoat Stadium, Doncaster DN4 5JW Time: 7:45am – 9:30am Cost: Members: Free Non-members: £10 About: Roundtable discussion of improving transport infrastructure for driving economic growth.
20TH BIG CONVERSATION BREAKFAST FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
5TH SEPTEMBER BARCLAYS AI FRENZY – DISCOVER WHAT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE MEANS FOR YOU
Venue: Ko-Host event space at Kollider in Castle House, Castle Street, Sheffield S3 8LS Time: 5:30pm – 8:30pm Cost: Free About: Co-hosted by Barclays and Datatrainer and featuring various guest speakers, the event aims to promote the understanding and awareness of Artificial Intelligence and its ability to find efficiencies and insights in data. Contact: tim@datatrainer.co.uk
Contact: psimpson@doncasterchamber.co.uk
19TH PROVIDING OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE
Venue: Glide House, Terry
Street, 300 Attercliffe Common, Sheffield S9 2AG Time: 12pm for 12:45pm start until 2:30pm Cost: Free About: This masterclass will look how to strengthen your customer service, making it
Venue: Mercure St Paul’s Hotel, 119 Norfolk Street, Sheffield S1 2JE Time: 8am – 10:30am Cost: Free About: Join Sheffield Central MP Paul Blomfield for a chance to discuss the role of Small Businesses in the Sheffield community. Organised in partnership with FSB and MAKE UK- The Manufacturers Organisation. Contact: Jacqueline. richardson@fsb.org.uk
22TH ASDA FOUNDATION SHEFFIELD 10K
Venue: Orchard House, 66 Fargate, Sheffield S1 2HE Time: 9:30am – Race Starts Cost: Free
6TH SEPTEMBER MINDFUL CHARITY WALK
Venue: Norfolk Arms, Ringinglow Road, Sheffield S11 7TS Time: Meet at 6:30pm to start the walk at 7pm Cost: Free – donations welcome on the day About: Join LEANonhealth with a well-being charity walk around the Lady Canning Planation followed by a mindful presentation and refreshments to raise money and awareness of mental health in men and women. LEANonHealth stands for lifestyle, exercise, attitude and nutrition and will be partnering with Casuals Charity and STORMs to bring you an enjoyable day. Everybody welcome. Contact: James Jackson jamesjackson@leanonhealth.com
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AGENDA
12TH SEPTEMBER ST LEGER LADIES DAY
Venue: Doncaster Racecourse, Leger Way, Doncaster DN2 6BB Time: 11am Cost: £225 for members, £245 for members About: St Leger ladies package gives guests the opportunity to network with senior decision makers from business throughout the region, includes lunch, races and drinks. Contact: psimpson@doncaster-chamber.co.uk
About: 10K charity run for the Asda Foundation Sheffield through the heart of the city. Contact: bit.ly/2MyDJX0
Contact: LinkIn with Jill Turner www.linkedin.com/in/ joinedupjill/
Venue: Polypipe, Broomhouse Lane, Doncaster DN12 1ES Time: 5:30pm – 8pm Cost: Members: Free Non-Members: £15.00 About: Meet other Doncaster businesses to build contacts and develop working relationships. Contact: psimpson@doncasterchamber.co.uk
Venue: Doncaster Chamber, Polypipe Stand, Enterprise Zone, Keepmoat Stadium, Stadium Way, Doncaster DN4 5JW Time: 8am – 12pm Cost: Members: Free Non-Members £15.00 About: Hosted by awardwinning recruitment agency Venatu Recruitment, this workshop will offer a comprehensive insight into how to make the best impression and the do’s and don’ts at interviews. Contact: psimpson@doncasterchamber.co.uk
26TH INTERVIEWING FOR AN AWARD24TH BUY DONCASTER BUSINESS CLUB WINNING ENTRY WORKSHOP
24TH LINKEDIN LOCAL SHEFFIELD 24TH SEPTEMBER AN EVENING WITH CUTLERY WORKS
Venue: 73 – 101 Neepsend Lane, Sheffield S3 8AT Time: 6:30pm – 11pm Cost: £50 About: Ahead of Cutlery Works first birthday, experience a night to remember, looking back on the transformation of the venue. Contact: beth@themilestone.group
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Venue: AALFY, 108 The Moor, Sheffield S1 4PD Time: 5:45pm Cost: £10 plus Eventbrite booking fee About: LinkedIn local social to get you out from behind the screen to enjoy Malaysian street food, great conversations, a speaker. Plus LinkedIn in tips from Judy Parsons, the 'LinkedIn Lady', and Glenn Mead, of Face Value Performance Psychology on ‘How to detach yourself from overwhelm’.
26TH WOMEN IN BUSINESS AFTERNOON TEA
Venue: Wentworth Woodhouse, Wentworth, Rotherham S62 7TQ Time: 2pm – 4:30pm Cost: £22.95 – £28.95 About: Networking event for women in business. Contact: events@ brchamber.co.uk
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AGENDA LOOKING FORWARD TO OCTOBER
1ST CITY REGION BUSINESS
NETWORKING BREAKFAST – DONCASTER
Venue: Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Branton, Doncaster DN4 6TB Time: 7:30am – 9:30am Cost: Members: £14.95, NonMembers: £21.95 About: Meet new business and contacts from across the area at this networking breakfast. Contact: psimpson@ doncaster-chamber.co.uk
1ST AN HOUR WELL SPENT: RESOLVING CONFLICT
Venue: Doncaster Racecourse, The Grandstand, Leger Way, Doncaster DN2 6BB Time: 8am – 9:15am Cost: Members: Free, Nonmembers: £15.00 About: Conflict resolution and negotiation skills workshop. Contact: psimpson@ doncaster-chamber.co.uk
1ST COHESION SHEFFIELD ANNUAL
3RD OCTOBER THE PRESIDENT'S ANNUAL DINNER
Venue: Cutlers Hall, Church Street, Sheffield S1 1HG Time: 7pm – 11:30pm Cost: Table of 10 is £720.00 and a single ticket is £74.00 About: The President’s Annual Dinner is a chance for the region’s business leaders to attend a celebration, recognition and encouragement of youth enterprise and entrepreneurship as this year’s President Steve Manley’s theme. The event will feature a drinks reception, three course dinner, a keynote speaker and after dinner entertainment. Contact: bit.ly/2MvWdLy
EDITORP’SICK EVENT
CONFERENCE
Venue: Sheffield Town Hall, Pinstone Street, Sheffield S1 2HH Time: 9:30am – 4pm Cost: Free – £20 About: An event to share views and hear from collaborations across the city making an impact on how we move forward despite the current climate. Contact: www.cohesionsheffield.co.uk
3RD COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS OF
SOUTH YORKSHIRE AND NORTH DERBYSHIRE
Venue: Sheffield Cathedral, Church Street, Sheffield S1 1HA Time: 7pm About: A celebration of those outstanding people who go above and beyond to care about their community or who consistently give up their time to help others. Contact: bit.ly/2Zp6lYI
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4TH SENSORIA 2019
Venue: Sheffield Town Hall, Pinstone Street, Sheffield S21 2HH Time: 10:30am – 6:45pm Cost: Range from £37.50 to £100.00 About: A unique informal gathering of composters, filmmakers, music supervisors, developers and festivals all under one roof to discuss the latest innovations in music and the moving image. Contact: info@sensoria.org.uk
5TH – 26TH OFF THE SHELF
Venue: Cathedral Court, 46 Church Street, Sheffield S1 2GN Time: 10:30 am – 7:30pm Cost: Varies depending on event About: One of the largest
literary festivals in the UK, with a curated programme by both the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam, with a core mission to bring literature and arts to all parts of the community. Contact: offtheshelf@ sheffield.ac.uk
9TH Y BUSINESS HUB
Venue: Wharfedale Grange, Harrogate Road, Leeds LS17 9LW Time: 11am – 4:30pm Cost: Free About: The annual suppliers fair Y Hub provides an opportunity to meet some of Yorkshire’s finest supplier businesses, alongside exhibitors, a series of workshops will be running throughout the day. Prizes will be up for grabs, especially for those exhibiting the event there will be a prize for best dressed.
All of this takes place at the luxurious wedding and events venue, Wharfedale Grange. Contact: rfyfe@yorkshire.com
16TH WIN YOUR NEXT CLIENT ON LINKEDIN
Venue: Mercure Sheffield St Paul's Hotel & Spa, 119 Norfolk Street, Sheffield S1 2JE Time: 1pm – 5pm Cost: £147 – £197 About: This course will equip you to generate sales and enquiries from LinkedIn without any pushy tactics with a proven system to attract and convert clients. Contact: bit.ly/2ySriAm
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WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY & CULTURE NETWORKING With speakers Jo Wingate (Sensoria) and Emma Cooper (Cooperative Innovations) September 12, 2019 from 5.30pm – 7.30pm Ambulo, Millennium Gallery, 48 Arundel Gate, Sheffield S1 2PP
CMS and unLTD Magazine have teamed up to showcase some of the Sheffield talent that work in the city’s technology and cultural industries and introduce like-minded people to see where those two worlds can work more closely together. Jo Wingate, organiser of Sensoria, will be revealing some of
If you would like to attend, please email phil@unLTDbusiness.com or call 0114 275 7709 by Friday August 30 22
the pioneering female artists that have used tech to create their work while Emma Cooper will be explaining how immersive technologies are set to transform our lives. The event will also include plenty of time to network as well as drinks and canapes throughout.
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AGENDA
23TH OCTOBER SHOWCASE SHEFFIELD: B2B EXHIBITION 2019
Venue: Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, Sheaf Street, Sheffield S1 2BP Time: 9:30am – 4:30pm Cost: Free About: B2B exhibition providing an unrivalled opportunity to meet, connect and build rapport with prospects and customers in a face to face environment. The unLTD team will be at the event with a stand – why not come over to say hi and pick up the latest copy of the magazine! Contact: events@scci.org.uk / bit.ly/2D1xOsu
16TH - 19TH STEEL CITY 45
Venue: Kelham Island Museum, Alma Street, Sheffield S3 8RY Time: Various times across the days Cost: Varies depending on the day and time: £7 – £11 About: The sapphire anniversary beer and cider festival, organised and staffed by volunteers who just want to
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share their love of good beer and cider! Contact: bit.ly/2LRbAOg
18TH BARNSLEY AND ROTHERHAM BUSINESS AWARDS 2019
Venue: Magna Science Adventure Centre, Sheffield Road, Templeborough, Rotherham S60 1DX Time: 6:30pm – 1am
Cost: £65 – £700 About: Award ceremony recognising the region’s best in business. Contact: awards@ brchamber.co.uk
22TH SOUTH YORKSHIRE
MASTERCLASS: STRATEGY FOR REDUCING ENERGY USAGE
Parkway Hotel, Britannia Way, Catcliffe, Sheffield S60 5BD Time: 7:30am for 8am until 10am Cost: Free About: Talk on the changing use of energy in the UK economy, and how businesses can adapt to these energy changes Contact: bit.ly/2zc3lEa
Venue: Mercure Sheffield
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CT is Leading the way for Women in Technology Interested in a career in technology alongside our dynamic ladies? Call 01246 266 130, email careers@ct.uk or visit www.ct.uk unLTDBUSINESS.COM
ADVERTORIAL
CT ‘BUCKING INDUSTRY TREND’ AS THIRD OF WORKFORCE IS NOW WOMEN It's no secret that the technology industry suffers diversity issues. But Central Technology are bucking the trend when it comes to women in the workforce, as Managing Director Ian Snow tells us
THE DYNAMIC WOMEN OF CT
Walk into any main-stream technology event and you could probably count the number of women on one hand. Women are still massively under-represented – a mere 16 per cent of employees in the tech industry are women and this has a knock-on effect within the industry. As a result of this poor statistic, the reality is, we lack the variety of inspiring female role models and success stories that provide inspiration to others to push forwards with their careers and realise their true potential. But here at CT, we now have 15 women in a range of senior and supporting tech roles, finance and sales, accounting for just over a third of our workforce. We are extremely proud of this balance and of the support and flexibility we
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provide the working mums here at CT, too. There is a massive need for more IT talent to continue to provide exceptional customer service to organisations. By tapping into the potential female talent out there, demonstrating through our own role models the opportunities for a rewarding career, coupled with providing the opportunity to work around busy work life/home life, we may just meet the huge demands of businesses across all sectors. While we seem to be getting the balance right, we still have a lot to do to help raise the profile of women in tech. It is widely acknowledged that attracting women into technology is a challenge, so we have a responsibility to bring about change. Boys are more
Here at CT, we now have 15 women in a range of senior and supporting tech roles, finance and sales, accounting for just over a third of our workforce
than twice as likely to be encouraged to work in tech at school, so it’s not really a surprise that many girls have ruled out working in the industry by the time they reach the age of 18. So, with this in mind, here at CT we will be showcasing our inspiring role models across all areas of IT, from sales, through to finance, team leaders and technical support specialists. We will also be looking at hosting women in tech events here at CT later in the year, where stories can be shared, and people can be inspired. For now, meet our amazing team of women – you will be hearing a lot more about them over the coming months. Interested in a career in technology alongside our dynamic women? Call 01246 266 130 or email careers@ct.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
LIV IT UP Run-down uni accommodation just doesn't cut it anymore – nowadays students expect and deserve more, and LIV Student are bringing this to Sheffield with the opening of LIV Student Sheffield on September 14. As higher education becomes more accessible for young people, university cities across the UK – including Sheffield – are having to strive to stand out and draw potential students in. Accommodation is a major factor – and LIV Student are aiming to transform how students in Sheffield live. On schedule to open in September for the 2019-
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20 academic year, the LIV Student Sheffield building is a 14-storey quality accommodation complex overlooking the city and is designed to hold almost 600 undergrad students. Located at the bottom of Ecclesall Road – the heart of Sheffield’s student life – the £33 million development is just a stone’s throw from some of the city’s most popular hotspots. The 586-bed building has options to rent either studio or shared apartments with either four, five or six rooms, offering enviable views of the city including across Ecclesall Road and The Moor – and even
Bramall Lane from the fifth floor upwards. Lewis Richards, general manager at LIV Student, believes that the key to settling into student life for newcomers is feeling comfortable in their accommodation and being part of a community. He said: “At LIV Student we believe that today’s student expect and deserve more, the feeling of being at home is something every student should be able to enjoy when moving into a new city for the first time, and with thoughtful design we are making our apartments and studios unlike any other on offer in Sheffield today.
“Run-down accommodation has become a widely accepted part of student life, but more and more young people now are starting to seek out higher quality places to live during their time at university.” The studio apartments include a range of facilities to accommodate students, such access to their personal kitchen, a double bed and a desk designed to accommodate both left- and right-handers. Shared apartments include much of the same, but with a larger kitchen, dining and communal area featuring a Smart TV, soundbar and sixseater corner sofa.
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ADVERTORIAL
Communal renters will also have a sizeable amount of designated kitchen space to help with the practicalities of shared living, at LIV Student they include two cupboards and a split fridge and freezer for every student resident as standard. They also offer a free Shuttle Bus, that runs to both the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University on a Monday to Friday basis. For the more environmentally conscious, both universities’ campuses are just a 15-minute walk away each. LIV Student include all bills and contents insurance in the rental fees to help cash-strapped students manage their finances better. Students will tend to find that the annual cost of living at LIV Student is cheaper than renting privately owing to the all-inclusive pricing and reduced contract lengths. Add the financial benefits to the extensive programme of educational and engaging social events, being part of a nearly 600 strong student community and discounts on curated travel and festival experiences – LIV Student is the smart choice for the savvy
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Sheffield has been rapidly developing economically in the past few years, and is only continuing to improve
student who desire the best student experience. LIV Student prioritises creating community, the complex includes an entire 9th floor dedicated to student social space including a cinema and games rooms, a student only cafe, roof terrace and sky garden along with a first for Sheffield a karaoke booth to give students the chance to socialise and make memories within the building. Further amenities include bike storage, a gym and a designated study room. Residents can also enjoy a range of extra freebies on top of everything else, including WiFi on site and a free breakfast in the morning – either coffee and a pastry or tea and a bao bun saving over £1000 per year. Students can also enjoy a 30% discount on curated cultural travel and festival experiences through the LIV Student experience programme. Operated by Valeo Management Europe, owners of the LIV Student brand, the Sheffield complex – which also has space to hold up to seven retail units – is the first opening for LIV Student in the UK, following the launch of LIV
Student Dublin that opened the previous year. LIV Student are currently developing other properties in Ireland, Spain and Portugal. The LIV Student Sheffield building has seen a quick turnaround since proposals to build on an old Peugeot garage were approved back in 2016, and LIV Student believe this is another step forward for Sheffield’s thriving student reputation. Lewis said: “The plot of land chosen for the complex has been a fairly empty location for decades in Sheffield and by creating an environment designed for students we will breathe new life back into the heart of the city." LIV Student has a lettings lounge open on the site at 131 Ecclesall Road for anyone who wants to drop by and see what student life can be like. Alternatively visit the website for a video or virtual tour at livstudent.com. With only a few rooms left available for the 2019/20 academic year intake and a growing waitlist for academic year 2020/21, LIV Student Sheffield is sure to be the place to LIVe your best student life in Sheffield.
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COVER STORY
L A C I MAG
MOMENTS IN THE MAKING A £38million Gulliver’s theme park is due to open near Rother Valley next year, bringing with it scores of attractions, hundreds of jobs – and more than a little magic as MD Julie Dalton tells unLTD’s Jill Theobald
A £38m venue, over a 250-acre site, with up to 70 rides and attractions, creating potentially 240 jobs – Gulliver’s will be a children’s theme park that means serious business for the Sheffield City Region when it opens in spring next year. But it’s also set to bring with it fun, imagination, and magic, too – not least park mascots Gully and Gilly Mouse. Oh, and 17 Father Christmases and half a dozen unicorns.
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“It’s all about creating an amazing experience for children and their families,” MD Julie Dalton tells me as we take a tour of the current construction site near Rother Valley Country Park. “We’re creating magical moments for children aged between two and 13 to go out on adventures hunting for unicorn poo or looking for dinosaurs at night!” Even in the early stages of construction, walking past a lake, a wild west cowboy
saloon, a ‘Lost World’ dinosaur water chute and a bunch of yellow and black JCB-style toy digger rides, that sense of fun is evident. But it’s clear that Julie takes the business of child’s play very seriously. Alongside brother Nick, she runs the Gulliver’s empire founded by their parents, Ray and Hillary Phillips, at Matlock Bath in the 1970s, before later theme parks were established in Warrington and Milton Keynes.
Gulliver’s Valley in Sheffield City Region will be ten times larger than the founding park – but despite such large-scale growth it is reassuring to hear the family and community theme feeds strongly into the development, with the team using local suppliers and contractors including Arnold Laver and striking up partnerships with organisations like Grimm and Co.
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COVER STORY
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COVER STORY
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COVER STORY “We love Grimm and Co,” says Julie. “They are fully on board with the slightly weird world we inhabit. As we often say, what’s normal anyway?! “The tarmac team are a South Yorkshire firm, and when the concrete trucks were driving from a couple of miles away off the M1, we could see them on their way down the road to us, and our plants and shrubs are from a local nursery. “We want to keep everything as local as possible – it’s lovely to be in a position to do that.” That stretches to nearby attractions, too – with the Valley on the border of Rother Valley Country Park Julie and the team are working with the park as well as nearby venues and ‘great assets’ like Magna to ensure the arrival of Gulliver’s enhances and extends the area’s overall leisure and tourism offering.
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And it’s a commitment to community which extends to employment, too. Job applications opened in February with Julie saying at the time: “It would be wonderful if we could recruit individuals who are already based in Rotherham. The new development is for the local community – it’s fitting that new job opportunities created should be offered to Rotherham people as a priority.” For two duty manager roles Gulliver’s received 3,000 applications – and both successful candidates live within four miles of the site, while more than 90 per cent of the entire workforce live within five miles. And they’re not just joining a team – they’re joining the family. “My mum and dad are regularly on site,” says Julie,
A total of
£38M will be invested over 5 phases
Spread over a
250 acre site
pointing out brother Nick on site manager duties as we walk along. Working her way from pot washer to catering manager – and fitting in a First Class degree in Hospitality (“what else?!”) – the family business beckoned. “I was 21 and a manager had left one of the sites – I got handed the keys and told ‘go and run that!’” And run it she did. “We’ve got staff aged 16 right up to people in their eighties. Our oldest employee is 84. We have people who retire and then come back and ask to do a day or a shift or two.” Interestingly 52 per cent of the workforce is female, too and most of the senior team are women as well. But Julie insists this is not down to ‘cherry-picking’.
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COVER STORY
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COVER STORY “People are employed because they are the best candidates and most qualified for the job. “It really is a family here – we care about the team, all our employees are considered part of our family. We’ve built the business on a great team of people who are passionate and committed to providing a great magical experience, whether they are running the company, engineers maintaining rides, cleaning staff …” Across the sites Gulliver’s employ 700 people, including seasonal staff, and run a highly effective training programme where everyone who joins the company gets involved at every level. Regardless of job title or seniority, they will clean the toilets, learn how to run the rides and attractions and everything in between to ensure they get a real understanding of the site and the company.
It’s clearly an effective programme, with some starting as teenagers and working up to management roles, and plenty of long-serving members who have been part of the Gulliver’s team for years, if not decades. It’s a commitment to skills and training that Julie is now keen to take beyond the Gulliver’s family. “Jobs in the service and hospitality industry are often viewed as the roles you do before you get a ‘proper’ job,” says Julie, who’s on a mission to change the perception that the only jobs at a theme park are ‘chucking chips into a box or pressing a button on a ride’. “We employ and train people in all sorts of roles right up to and including the management team – those rides are serviced by highly skilled engineers and electricians. “That’s why we’re working with Sheffield City Region on
It really is a family here – we care about the team, all our employees are considered part of our family
a development programme to encourage more students to consider STEM (Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects, as well as the variety of job opportunities available. “I’m really passionate about getting the next generation excited about the service, leisure and tourism industry and that means starting at primary school level. We’ve already had a group of local school children come in to visit and that will continue with our partnership with skills charity
Spring 2020 will see over
20 RIDES and attractions available, expanding to 70 over time
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COVER STORY THE ETHICAL RECRUITER What did you want to be when you grew up? We believe growing up doesn’t mean you have to lose sight of your dreams and ambitions. Can Benchmark progress you to a better future and reconnect you to your inner child? Get in touch.
Office Support
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COVER STORY work-wise which goes into schools to inspire inspire young people about jobs and careers. Our GullyFest Days, for example, challenge pupils to come up with theme park designs and business plans.” Longer-term Julie has plans for a Skills Academy ‘because that’s how we’ll get away from the service industry being seen as having dirty, second rate jobs – that’s how we can become world class.’ Education isn’t her only passion though. One area of the new park Julie is particularly enthusiastic about is the accommodation. As well as hundreds of hotel bedrooms and lodges planned for the site, there are the 50 rooms making up Gully’s Dream Village. “The Dream Village of specially adapted rooms will
mean terminally or seriously ill children and their families can enjoy cost-free respite in a magical environment,” says Julie. “We’re working with Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice here and have worked with numerous charities over the years to run special days and events so we know the difference it can make to young children where they don’t feel ‘abnormal’ for being poorly or carrying an oxygen tank, for example. “We’re always on the lookout for businesses who want to work with us, too – maybe by sponsoring the dream cottage for a year. “It’s all about creating a magical environment full of priceless moments where everyone feels the same – that’s how we’re making a difference.”
Gulliver’s Valley will create up to
240 jobs
52% of the Gulliver’s Valley workforce is female
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ADVERTORIAL
SOMETHING FOR
EVERYONE THIS CHRISTMAS WITH THE
OWLERTON EXPERIENCE!
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It’s been the talk of the town as The A&S Leisure Group continue to invest in the Owlerton Experience, situated just 3 miles from Sheffield City Centre. With £5.5 million currently being spent on the construction of a new events and conference centre, The OEC, is set to open late this Autumn, offering a dazzling array of Christmas party nights and more. The A&S Leisure Group is no stranger to this business though – they’ve been in the leisure and hospitality game for over 50 years now, and also operate the two iconic leisure and entertainment venues which sit either side of the new venue; Owlerton Stadium and Napoleons Casino & Restaurant. Together, the three venues make up the Owlerton Experience and between them there’s an abundance of exciting experiences available for you to enjoy, from greyhound racing at Owlerton Stadium, to a flutter at Napoleons Casino, to live music and banqueting at The OEC. Across the whole site the three venues will employ 300 people, and whilst all the venues offer something a bit different, you’ll notice wherever you’re at, you’ll receive the same warm Yorkshire welcome and a top
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ADVERTORIAL level of customer service. Another thing the venues have in common is the amazing culinary offering, and needless to say the high-quality dining experience you’ll enjoy is guaranteed wherever you go. With so much to choose from this Christmas, we’ve picked out a few highlights from each venue for you to consider for your festive party night with friends, family, colleagues or clients. The OEC The OEC certainly has something to offer everyone, with party nights starting at just £25 per person and available to book for groups of any size, even up to 400 guests. The festive nights promise to be packed with mouth-watering cuisine, live entertainment and disco fun, plus there’s an array of tribute dinner nights lined up including Tom Jones, Robbie Williams, Take That, Queen, The Beatles, Motown, ABBA, and the Jersey Boys. And let’s not forget the incredible New Year’s Eve party they’ve got in the pipeline with an incredible
6-course dinner, live band and resident DJ. There’s a lot of hype around the banqueting that will be on offer at The OEC, with this year’s Christmas parties being some of the first to experience it all. The Head Chef, Sam Lindsay, known to many from his time at Baldwins Omega, has devised some of the finest banqueting menus The OEC believe Yorkshire has to offer. Sam enjoys the challenge of delivering top quality dining for large numbers, no matter what the quantities involved, and pushing the limits of what’s possible in banqueting. Owlerton Stadium Owlerton Stadium offers a fantastic venue for anyone looking for an adrenalinefueled festive night out. The landmark venue is popular with families, couples and colleagues, and the Stadium provides a range of packages available in the Restaurant, Executive Boxes and trackside, with capacity for 4,000 spectators across the whole site. The 300-seater Panorama
Restaurant offers excellent views over the track and allows customers to watch live greyhound racing action as they dine. There’s also brandnew VIP Hospitality Suites and Executive Boxes available, accommodating parties from 12 up to 80 people and offering a private bar, tote betting facilities and uninterrupted views of the track. The Christmas party packages start from just £25 and include admission and racecard, 4-course meal, tote betting runner and up to 4 hours of live greyhound racing. Every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday night throughout Christmas, the fun doesn’t stop when the racing is over, as the party continues with beats from the resident DJ and bar open until late. Napoleons Casino & Restaurant Napoleons is the perfect option for smaller parties of up to 60 people, or those who want a celebration that is bit more intimate. The casino offers a modern restaurant, large bar, comfortable lounge and
extended gaming floor. It is undoubtedly one of the most stunning leisure destinations in the region. The Napoleons team are firm believers in delivering nothing but the very best customer service. You’ll soon come to realise the staff are wholly dedicated to ensuring you enjoy only the very best experience whilst you’re in their company. Christmas Lunches are available for £20 per person, and Christmas Dinners from £25 per person, and include a 3-course meal, drink on arrival and a £5 gaming chip to play with in the casino. It really does represent exceptional value for an all-round great night out, especially if you take advantage of the offers available when pre-ordering drinks too. Napoleons is open until the early hours so even if you’re enjoying a festive night at Owlerton Stadium or The OEC, you can always continue the night at Napoleons afterwards. Please note: Napoleons is a strictly over 18s venue. Please gamble responsibly: www.begambleaware.org
Whether you decide you want an exhilarating night out, a spot of fine dining or a night of music and dancing, you can do it all with the Owlerton Experience, where there truly is something for everyone. To book your Christmas party, or to find out more, please visit: owlertonexperience.co.uk
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ADVERTORIAL
KEYSTONE’S ALTERNATIVE OPTION TO TRADITIONAL PROPERTY INVESTMENT Property investment isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ model, as Desmond Conway MD of Keystone Property Group explains
A single pathway of doing things doesn’t suit everyone. Some investors want to be involved in every aspect of their investment from management to maintenance. Others take a completely hands-off approach, preferring to simply put their money to work and await the returns. Our investment options are aimed at those investors looking for an alternative means to enter the U.K. property market, away from traditional buy-to-let. We provide an alternative by way of developer finance in the form of Loan Note investments, which are legal contracts specifying the duration of the loan, when the loan is required to be repaid and the interest payable. The Loan Note is issued by a
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developer and works as follows: • You lend money to the property developer • The money is used to fund development projects, and then investors are paid a fixed return over a set time • Just like the bank, an investor is given a secured legal charge on the property asset(s) as protection • At the end of the term, the original capital is repaid, alongside interest and the investor can either walk away or reinvest. There are a number of reasons why Loan Note investments are a unique and lucrative alternative to traditional property investment. First of all, our options are low capital outlay investments. They don’t require a large commitment of time or funds
to acquire the asset, with our opportunities costing as little as £10,000 compared to the average £230,000 cost of a property. Plus, there are no additional fees to cover like stamp duty or void periods. Then there are the fixed-rate returns of 10 per cent up to 22 per cent, agreed via contract, depending on the length of the term. Meaning investors can calculate the interest they’ll receive, and know they’ll get that amount. Annually our investors are awarded an average return of 19.4 per cent. Next, security is key, and although investors don’t own the assets they finance, there is a significant measure in place to maximise the protection. A debenture over the developer’s assets is held by a third party ‘Security Trustee’, and there’s
also a corporate guarantee on investors capital, as an additional layer of protection. Finally, we provide a clear and exit strategy for investors. They know how long their investment term is and the exit date, from the beginning. The investment isn’t dependent on factors such as the sale of a property. Alternative investments are beginning to rise in popularity in the U.K. Research by the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance, showed that the UK alternative market grew 35 per cent to £6.2 billion by the beginning of 2018. Peer-to-peer lending, which Loan Note investment falls within, made up the majority, highlighting investors interest and appetite for alternative options without the limitations of traditional opportunities.
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LAUNCHPAD
‘NATURAL ENTREPRENEUR’ CONNECTS APP USERS TO LOCAL EVENTS Adiam Amanuel was inspired by a trip abroad and, with a helping hand from Launchpad, her team has developed an app to help people find out what’s going on in the Steel City How has Launchpad helped you? They have been so helpful. When I moved back, I wasn’t sure what was available in terms of starting a business. After my first meeting with Natalie Fletcher, I’ve been supported with an insight into everything available in the Sheffield City Region, as well as resources and guidance allowing me to get where I am today. With a strong foundation of networks, they have always been able to put me in touch with the right people. What do you think of the Sheffield City Region as a place to start a business? I grew up in Sheffield and still ADIAM AMANUEL, FOUNDER OF SOCIAL DISCOVERY APP 721 have found myself amazed by how much support is available. I joined Sheffield Technology Tell us all about your When did you first decide to Park earlier this year and company! start up on your own and what two months later they were 721 – which stands for seven inspired you? sponsoring me at the start-up continents into one – is a After a trip to India. While weekend where I found my social discovery app that will there, I was struck by how team. That is what is so great help you make the most of many people came to me about Sheffield – everything wherever you go. Joined by struggling to find things to is so connected, with so many developers Alex Yates and do. After noticing there was events, communities and Bhav Prajapat, we are creating nothing to help, I decided to businesses. I have got more something which will get to quit my job in Shanghai and out of Sheffield than I could know you and understand find a team to help me develop have anywhere else. what you like to do so it can the app. The laws in China recommend upcoming events prevented me having room What are your hope and aims and experiences tailored to to develop the app, but when for the business? your interests. We are starting I returned to Sheffield, I also The key focus for now is the the app in Sheffield, pulling returned to the idea to help official launch of the 721 out what the city has to offer residents better understand app. Moving forward, we and presenting in a simple, what’s going on in the Steel will provide guidance for swipe-based format. City. users to take on their future
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adventures. Whether you have specific locations and dates in mind or want to explore other parts of the world and get an understanding of what is available, we want to help you plan better. Launchpad advisor Natalie Fletcher said: “Adiam’s creativity combined with her determination have been so refreshing. “I have been fortunate enough to see the ways in which the app has developed during the validation process and Adiam has always been keen to let user feedback influence the direction. I’m excited to see what’s still to come from this natural entrepreneur! “Starting and growing a business is not easy and that’s why the Launchpad programme was created. Part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and our partners means there is no cost to the entrepreneur, so we can get straight to work on turning those dreams into reality. “Stop dreaming and do it.” Contact us for information now on 03330 00 00 39 or email: growthhub@ sheffieldcityregion.org.uk
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SUCCESS STORY
VANDA KEWLEY AND FAYE MELLORS
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SUCCESS STORY
STYLE THAT’S JUST THE JOB The Suit Works has been helping unemployed men of all ages trying to get into work with styling sessions and smart clothing since 2016. Jill Theobald took a tour of the new Kelham Island HQ and found out about the newly launched women’s service She Works
It’s quite ironic to be writing the success story of a Sheffield organisation which provides unemployed people with interview-appropriate clothing which was set up by its founder because they were … sick of job interviews. But that’s exactly what happened with image consultant Vanda Kewley and her passion project which became The Suit Works. “I originally set out to get a job that I enjoyed, was passionate about and, after being made redundant three times, meant no more job interviews!” Instead of getting a job, Vanda created one via her Charitable Incorporated Organisation, supporting unemployed people of all ages who are trying to get into work by giving them a styling
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session and smart clothing when they have the offer of a job interview but do not have, or are unable to afford to buy, anything suitable. “When you are doing something you believe in and are passionate about, it’s easy to commit to it. You don’t even have to think about selling yourself – it has integrity and people enthuse about it. It’s a really simple business model.” That model was inspired by Vanda’s time volunteering for and working with Dr Maria Lenn who founded Suited and Booted in London – “I was blown away by the model and surprised more people weren’t doing it.” Trained as an image consultant, Vanda had also worked in ‘lots and lots’ of charities over the years and held various admin,
governance and finance roles. “All those skills built up from those jobs came together to help me do something I was excited about and a role that gave me pleasure. “I was on Enterprise Allowance and Housing Benefit but I started off with 25 suits, half a dozen shirts and four pairs of shoes and thanks to the good will of friends and colleagues and the people of Sheffield thinking it was a great project it grew and grew from there, building up a client base.” People did indeed think it was a great project – Vanda pitched The Suit Works at Sheffield Soup, a crowdfunding event run by former unLTD cover star Pennie Raven which supports local people and businesses
making a difference in the community, and won. The Suit Works had a small pot of funding from unLtd (no relation!) Social Entrepreneur Foundation before attracting the attention of Sheffield City Council. “I was lucky as the Council decided they liked what I was doing and gave me a pilot project for a year which enabled me to pay myself a bit of a salary and get a little unit in Kelham Island. I networked my arse off and from that speck of an idea the ball really started rolling.” As grants and funding followed Vanda was able to take someone on to help one day a week and build a small team of volunteers. In the first year she styled 77 clients, 120 in the second and has seen growth of 20 per
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SUCCESS STORY
cent a year through referrals from the Job Centre, charities and support organisations. Donations come from ‘suit drives’ at companies across the Sheffield City Region and nationally – Lloyds Bank run an annual event. “But every meeting I went to people were asking me why I wasn’t helping women, too. Mostly my experience was styling men, though, and I knew that offering the service to women would need more resources, more staff, more infrastructure, bigger premises...” Which is where The Suit Works’ new project lead
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Faye Mellors steps in. Faye is leading on the newly launched She Works service for women from their new bigger HQ in Kelham Island. “It’s really exciting to be developing this side of the project,” said Faye. “As someone new to the social enterprise and charitable sector it’s amazing how well-connected Vanda is which is great for me as the new girl – it’s like working with a local celebrity! “I love working with the clients, too. You get young lads come in who are used to wearing skinny jeans.” “Or faded tracksuit bottoms!” says Vanda.
“And to be able to put them in a suit – first off they’re like ‘It’s a big baggy!’ Then Vanda styles them and gets them looking in the mirror at themselves in a fitted suit and they see the tailoring and they say: ‘I look like James Bond!’ “It’s all about the mindset – giving them more confidence.” “Some of the young people who come in are vulnerable or NEETs (young people not in education, employment or training), or just don’t have any interview-appropriate clothing,” says Vanda. “Putting on a suit or smart clothing has a real impact. It enables them
to have more self-respect and hold themselves better in interviews – and employers pick up on that. “They say ‘I’m going to get that job’.” And plenty do, judging by the testimonials on the website. Supported by her team of trustees – Chair Alex Swallow, Cheryl Plant, Jan Harwood and Steve Ellwood – Vanda looks set to continue helping people dress to impress and get their dream jobs. “It’s about creating a legacy,” she says. “I love Sheffield and it’s about building something for the city.”
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National success grown from Sheffield roots We are extremely proud of our Sheffield heritage. It’s the local engineering know-how that helps us to deliver the world-class projects that we’re known for. And it’s down to our staff and suppliers that SCX has reached the finals of the prestigious Lloyds Bank National Business Awards 2019. Thank you, Sheffield.
Handling Your Future find out more at scx.co.uk
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FOCUS ON
N O S U C FO
G N I K R O CO-W Kollider opened at Castle House six months ago and this month another co-working space The Cloud Sheffield opens on Ecclesall Road. Jill Theobald caught up with the teams at both – and at a host of other spaces – to find out what’s on offer, and how co-workers are benefiting
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FOCUS ON
unLTD first took an interest in co-working as an emerging theme for a feature back in December, chatting to Desk. Space, Sheffield Hallam University and Union St. Since then Desk.Space have expanded onto another floor at their Kelham Island base and taken on a historic building they are currently renovating, while in April unLTD attended the launch of SHU’s Hallam i-Lab, a new business incubation hub offering advice, support and high-tech facilities enabling student and graduate entrepreneurs to network and collaborate with workshops and one-to-one meetings.
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Over at Union St the co-operative now offers a monthly refund of up to 50 per cent for people who get involved as they continue to build a connected community, while their School for Pop-Ups has secured Charity status and now offers professional one-to-one mentoring, group workshops and test trading opportunities for new street food traders. Clearly the ‘emerging trend’ of co-working in 2018 is now a well-established one in 2019, particularly with the opening in April this year of Kollider. Based at Castle House alongside The National
We offer tailored incubation with access to one-toone mentoring, skills workshops and investment opportunities
Videogame Museum, Kollider combines food hall Kommune, Ko:Host event space and Kollider’s Incubator – Sheffield’s first Barclays Eagle Lab. Katie Taylor, lead on sales and marketing at Kollider Projects, said: “We support talented digital and tech start-ups to scale and grow. So whether you’re a budding entrepreneur with an innovative idea or you’re working to scale your existing business, we offer tailored incubation with access to one-to-one mentoring, skills workshops and investment opportunities.”
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The New way to (co) Work in Sheffield! Why not join our community and be part of something amazing? Join us for an hour, a day, a week, a month or a year. Sitting room / co-working space / permanent desk or office even events and meeting space on Sheffield’s Golden Mile. Free tea and coffee, biscuits and snacks.
The CLOUD Sheffield
Plantation House 261-263 Ecclesall Road Sheffield S11 8NX
Email Jason.f@thecloudsheffield.com to arrange a tour, or free hot desking day Connect - Create - Collaborate at thecloudsheffield.com
CHAMBER Christmas Social
Friday, 6th December 2:30pm - 5:30pm The Pavilion Bar and Grill, Barnsley Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber are decking out The Pavilion for their Christmas Social.
You will receive a welcome drink on a arrival and be able to sample the festive canapes whilst networking with other local businesses. Members - £19.95 + vat Non-members - £24.95 + vat
To book your place, please visit www.brchamber.co.uk unLTDBUSINESS.COM
FOCUS ON The team have been working with Sheffield Digital hosting events including Startup Summer 2019 – a threeweek programme involving mentors from the digital community helping students get their business ideas off the ground – the inaugural Sheffield Digital Awards and Sheffield Digital Festival. Kollider has also hosted events including a live Digital Skills Q&A in collaboration with Benchmark Recruit and The Developer Academy. Most recently Kommune played host to a technology and coding event led by Guildhawk, Sheffield Hallam University and Sheffield Digital. “Earlier this year, we were thrilled to be approved by the Home Office as an endorsing body for the purpose of Start-up and Innovator visas,”
said Katie. “Being one of the only incubators in the North with this status, it provides an opportunity to attract exceptional talent from overseas.” Meanwhile over on Carver Street Oliver Keavey is director at Studio November. “It’s a reasonably small space compared to some of the other co-working spaces,” he explains. “But we’re trying to build a close-knit community of freelancers with a space that’s mid-way between home and the office, creating a unique environment that’s the best of both worlds. “We’ve got all the creature comforts but also know that working from your settee isn’t the best environment for getting work done! So there’s co-working space, personal desks, a meeting room, event space but we’ve filled it with
We’re trying to build a close-knit community of freelancers with a space that’s mid-way between home and the office
locally sourced and reclaimed furniture and a small jungle’s worth of plants to give it some real character and life, too. “I’m a freelancer myself – I run a graphic design and marketing agency – and the other two employees, Emma and Jo, are also freelancers so we understand the day-to-day stresses and how our space can help.” The trio are currently joined by an illustrator, architect, graphic designer, talent agency and recruitment agency. “There’s a really nice mix of people and sectors so people can network and meet people outside their industry,” said Oliver. “People in standard workplaces meet new people and socialise with their colleagues so we try and bridge that gap and imitate that with social events like our movie and takeaway nights.”
STUDIO NOVEMBER, BASED IN CARVER HOUSE ON CARVER STREET
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THE LOCAL THEATRE CO-WORKING SPACE ON SNIG HILL
Also going for a different type of vibe are The Local Theatre, a small fringe venue on Snig Hill. Opened in April by Olly Newton, it was the brainchild of Olly and his partners – executive director Miranda Debenham and artistic director Tim Norwood who met while studying at University of Sheffield and got into performing arts. “The motivation is to build a community hub for people in Sheffield to get a leg up in their career with space to rehearse for those in the arts but also community groups to host events,” says Olly. “Our co-working space is in two shop units above the performance space and it’s not exclusively for creative industries but it does appeal to them more – perhaps because while they are based in the space they get to meet and chat to people coming in
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for rehearsals or going to see shows. “A lot of our sharers like the fact they can meet other creative people while they’re here.” And what of the new-comers joining the co-working scene? Jason Fry is founder of The Cloud Sheffield opening this month as a ‘new type of community space.’ Billed with the strapline ‘Space / Community / Services’, The Cloud Sheffield offer flexible plans from hot-desks to private rooms or offices and meeting rooms. As well as an online member network, there will be weekly events and Jason is developing plans for pop-up restaurant and cinema nights, too. All members enjoy credits and benefits, and the team are working to develop local discounts for members with local cafes and venues.
The motivation is to build a community hub for people in Sheffield to get a leg up in their career
But it’s perhaps the membership fees which is The Cloud Sheffield’s USP – as well as standard monthly and weekly membership rates people can pay by the hour. “There will be free food and drink so members can pop in and grab a coffee and a snack but if they only need to use the space briefly it will cost them a lot less with our hourly rates. “We’ve got all the kit and set-up for business meetings, but I also want the space to have more of a social feel, and build a real community around the space so we have soft furnishings and comfy chairs, lots of nice art work and have commissioned an artist to paint the exterior, too. “We want to offer a wellestablished office base but with lots of other additional extra benefits to membership, too.”
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FANCYING THE SOUND OF CO-WORKING? We chatted to two freelancers who use and share co-working spaces to find out how the culture works for them
SARAH LISTER, FREELANCE CAREER COACH AND FREELANCE ADMIN ASSISTANT, SHEFFIELD DIGITAL
STELLA BOLAM, FREELANCE COPYWRITER, JOURNALIST AND BRAND STORYTELLER
Desk.Space was my first choice for co-working in Sheffield because it immediately felt like a warm and welcoming environment. After a day trialling a desk, I knew it was the perfect place for me to work and meet new people. Neil, Dan and Amy have helped me with networking and new work opportunities, as well as offering a really flexible service. They recommended I join the Sheffield Digital slack community and now I am working with Sheffield Digital on a freelance basis. That connection has been hugely positive. Co-working at Desk.Space is also a great opportunity to explore Kelham Island and Neepsend which has so many exciting options for networking events and coffee breaks. I have also been co-working at Sheffield Technology Parks. Tom Wolfenden has been incredibly supportive and generous letting me use their modern and spacious conference room for my career coaching workshops and staff are friendly and helpful. It’s a unique space for people working in tech and digital, as well as supporting start-ups as part of the Cooper Project. Tom’s connections are remarkable and he’s always willing to share his knowledge and experience. We’re incredibly lucky to have so much choice for co-working in Sheffield. I love the variety and the opportunities. What really stands out is the openness of the communities and how quickly I’ve found work I really enjoy. This has been made possible by the people who run the co-working spaces– they are really committed and have an exciting vision of the bigger picture.
I’ve always had good experiences of co-working, as a self-employed copywriter and journalist. The first time I decided to co-work in Sheffield was in 2010, when I’d been freelancing for some time. I was feeling quite isolated working from my home office and finding a lot of my working time taken up by networking to meet people. At that time, there weren’t many co-working spaces to choose from. I ended up taking a membership at Electric Works, which turned out to be a great decision. I not only found clients directly in the same building, but also valued feeling part of a creative and supportive community. The people running the building really looked after their coworkers and held some fantastic resident events. When I restarted my freelance career this February, there were many more spaces I could go for. I only need to co-work two days a week as I also value spending time in my quiet home office. The other important co-working aspects are having a welcoming space to meet current and potential clients and having a commercial address for my business. After six months’ co-working at Kollider – where I met one of my current clients – I’m about to move to The Local Theatre. It’s a lovely, quirky space run by an independent theatre company so I’m looking forward to settling into the community there. Co-working isn’t for everyone – it’s not ideal if you are territorial about your space or have a lot of professional equipment. But it’s a great springboard for a solo worker who’s sociable and needs a space to focus on work and potentially collaborate with others.
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ADVERTORIAL FOCUS ON
HOWDY
! R U O B NEIGH
Some of Sheffield’s top digital and creative businesses are proud to call Nice Neighbourhood their home – see for yourself why. Sheffield is a city bursting with digital and creative talent – both the economy and local businesses are developing at a rapid pace, putting our city on the map. Small businesses in Sheffield within creative sectors are particularly blooming at the moment and Nice Neighbourhood has designed its workspace to allow them to thrive. Since opening in 2018, Nice Neighbourhood has welcomed a diverse community of businesses within the creative industries who are producing content, products and services
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worldwide for global giants such as Nike, Google, MOMA, The Guardian and Pixar. Aiming to provide a space to support Sheffield’s small businesses destined for bigger things, Nice Neighbourhood is home to four events and meeting spaces – on both a smaller and a larger scale – and a popular fresh produce café bar, which owner Andrea Burns describes as ‘the heart of the site – a place for getting together, chatting over lunch and enjoying a drink after work.’ Andrea said: “At its core, Nice Neighbourhood is home to a community of creative
industry businesses who occupy a range of workspaces in our unique shared business and meeting facility. “We’ve welcomed some of Sheffield’s top creative talent, who are making waves in their respective industries globally – as well as making impactful and highly visible contributions to our city’s design culture.” Located on the city side of Glossop Road, Nice Neighbourhood proves easily commutable for businesses in the city centre – with plenty of transport connections to the Q-Park and the University tram stop.
The workspace’s proximity to the University of Sheffield proves handy for younger budding entrepreneurs and fits right in just a few minutes away from the busy independent scene on Division Street. The team at Nice Neighbourhood ensure that their tenants are well looked after – both freelancers and larger teams are accommodated for in their designated workspaces, spread over three floors and situated in the building’s unique period character setting.
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BEN AND MAT LYON OF DESIGN AGENCY LYON & LYON
Tenants have 24-hour access to the workspaces and superfast broadband as standard. Nice Neighbourhood ensure that there are no hidden service charges for tenants, so bills are all always included in the monthly rental charge. When booking a meeting space, tenants are given a reduced rate on the fees. Tenants are also given a special discount in the cafe bar as an incentive – perfect for regular informal meetings with clients and colleagues. Social enterprises and charities across the city are also offered a 20% discount on meeting end event bookings and the rooms can accommodate almost any working situation your business would need – Nice Neighbourhood has space for groups of four, right up to full venue conferences for over 150 people – perfect for major
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events and meetings. The boardroom is a great space for a productive round table – it seats up to 12 people in stylish comfort. The event space on the ground floor – designed for holding higher capacity events – is a totally unique and versatile location with its own private courtyard. With the options to either seat up to 50 people theatre-style for more formal events or over 70 people for more relaxed business functions, Nice Neighbourhood even offer the option for flexible catering for larger business events or meetings, with an on-site chef. Some of the major tenants to use the workspace as their creative base include award winning design collective dust, who produce Mess magazine – a publication that has gone out across the city over the last couple of years – and international branding and
THE BOARDROOM AT NICE NEIGHBOURHOOD
Nice Neighbourhood is a great place for any business who wants more than just a space – there’s a diverse creative community here from architects to coders
packaging design company Lyon & Lyon. Lyon & Lyon owner Mat Lyon said: “Sheffield is a great incubator for a small studio – with its low-cost living, strong creative scene and connectivity to other major cities. For us, we knew from the start that we didn’t want Lyon & Lyon to be another ‘local’ studio, it’s given us a platform to be able to with work both our national and international clients with ease. “Nice Neighbourhood is a great place for any business who wants more than just a space – there’s a diverse creative community here from architects to coders. If Sheffield has one major problem, it’s that it’s too modest for its own good. Just scratch below the surface and you’ll see both small independent businesses and giant international creative powerhouses – all just getting on with it and doing world class work.”
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DISTRIBUTED AT OVER 750 OUTLETS ACROSS THE CITY PICK UP YOUR COPY NOW
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CHARITIES Our round-up of some of the great work charities are doing in the city business region – and the companies that are doing their bit to support them
TOUGH MUDDER NO OBSTACLE FOR KEEBLES Leading Yorkshire law firm Keebles LLP is celebrating after raising £800 for St. Luke’s Hospice Sheffield by completing national endurance challenge, Tough Mudder. The ten-person team trained for 12 weeks to tackle the gruelling 10-mile course consisting of 25 obstacles including a 10 foot wall and an arctic ice pool in Eden, Skipton in order to raise the funds to donate to the hospice. Keebles brought together members from each of their
three offices in Sheffield, Doncaster and Leeds and welcomed additions from PM Legal Services and their account manager from PR and creative agency, HRM. Keebles’ marketing manager, and Tough Mudder team leader Simon Gorman said: “As a firm we are committed to supporting many local charities and St Luke’s is an organisation which is at the heart of our community. “The nature of the Tough Mudder challenge is one of teamwork and comradery and
L- R: ANDREW DONALDSON, REBECCA CROFTS, SIMON WALLER, JENNIFER KNIBBS, CURTIS BROADHEAD, JONATHAN GOTT, MOLLY RAE, HOLLY LANGMAN, SIMON GORMAN
it’s brilliant to bring together partners, solicitors and trainees
from all departments within the firm.”
Walkers brave ‘unLTD’ rain to raise £5k for charity unLTD Magazine joined staff from Accident Solicitors Direct to raise in excess of £5,000 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity by completing a 38 kilometer walk on one of the wettest days of the year. Starting at Wessenden,
Ralph Clark, Lydia Topham, Judy Pearson, Bethany RhodesLockwood, Grace Newbold, Kirsty Wild and Ashley Eyre from ASD as well as Steve Hegarty from Elite Karate and Phil Turner from unLTD undertook the marathon hike,
walking up Black Hill, Bleaklow and along Kinder Scout before finishing at Hayfield after an 11 hour battle through the wind and rain. With £5k already raised by the hardy trekkers, some members of the party aren’t
finished in their fundraising efforts and will be taking part in a skydive this month to top up the pot even more. If you’d like to sponsor Phil from unLTD, head to: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/phillip-turner
JENX DELIVERS EXTRA ‘SUPPORT’ TO BLUEBELL WOOD
L-R: KATY FURLONG, JENX MARKETING EXECUTIVE, HOSPICE CORPORATE FUNDRAISER MATT SHERIDAN, JACK WILSON, JENX DESIGN ENGINEER, AND ROSHIDA, JENX HR ADMINISTRATOR
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Children at Bluebell Wood Hospice have Sheffield-based Jenx and Jiraffe to thank for making their therapy sessions more comfortable. Hillsborough-based Jenx and Jiraffe have donated more than £2,500 of their pioneering developmental postural equipment for children with disabilities and complex postural needs to their nominated Charity of the Year 2019. Jiraffe divisional director Holly Jenkins said: “Bluebell Wood is a charity close to the hearts of many at Jiraffe and
Jenx. We are privileged and very proud to be able to support their incredible work and hope this donation brings lots of fun, smiles and happy memories.” Physiotherapist Lesley Spencer said: “We know firsthand how brilliant products within the Jenx range are and we are so grateful to them. This equipment will undoubtedly enrich our children’s lives.” Staff at Jenx and Jiraffe have also donated more than 50 bags of stock to Bluebell Wood shops, held a raffle, and employees have worked at the hospice on corporate volunteer days.
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COMPANY CULTURE
A FRIENDLY FOCUS ON SHEFFIELD BUSINESS Office Friendly reprofiled themselves as Business Development Specialists 18 months ago providing marketing, CSR and training support to SMEs. Jill Theobald found out how their company culture is helping other SMEs build their own effective teams 58
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COMPANY CULTURE
MD JULIE HAWLEY IN DISCUSSION WITH MARKETING DIRECTOR KATIE METCALFE
Think Office Friendly and you’d probably think stationery, furniture and general office supplies. The firm was established 25 years ago as a dealer group within the office products industry, negotiating price and bringing services and tools to its community of 150 independent office product resellers across the UK. While Office Friendly continues that arm of the business working closely with the Sheffield based wholesaler VOW contributing £54million spend, the team have now turned their focus on the Sheffield City Region. The roots of the business have been established over that 25-year period and in this time have won multiple Sheffield business awards including for people development and sustainability. As managing director Julie Hawley explains: “We repositioned our brand 18 months ago as Business Development Specialists across three key areas. We have KascAid which is our creative and marketing agency, Pioneer our learning and development arm and Weaver which is a corporate social responsibility (CSR) and social sustainability programme.
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“We feel we’ve got some really good services which Sheffield City Region (SCR) businesses can benefit from. “People are surprised that we’ve been around 25 years but much of that has been working nationally. We’re focusing on expanding into the SCR because up to 80 per cent of Sheffield businesses are SMEs. Our 18-strong team, most of which are Sheffield born and bred or live within a few miles of our HQ, means we’re an SME ourselves so we know what’s worked for us in terms of training, mentoring and business growth and we can bring those tools to them.” And that growth and expertise is down to the company culture and staff development that Julie and her fellow directors, marketing director Katie Metcalfe and sales director Keeley Shepherd, have overseen. Says Katie: “We really believe in nurturing talent. We’ve just taken on another apprentice after employing several over the years. It’s important to bridge and close the gap between education and business and we’ve developed strong links with Sheffield Hallam University and taken on graduates from both universities. “We take work experience very seriously. The young people who join us are given a
OFFICE FRIENDLY HAS AN 18-STRONG TEAM
We repositioned our brand 18 months ago as Business Development Specialists full induction and gain a real understanding of the entire company. As business owners you can’t complain about not finding the right talent to fill the jobs if you’re not investing in local universities and schools and helping develop the next generation of employees through work placements.” Alongside the standard benefits such as pension, life insurance and health cover, Office Friendly staff benefit from the lifelong learning culture of training on the job with regular team or oneto-one workshops. Staff also complete e-learning courses via Pioneer – and competing with a bit of friendly rivalry as to who has the most reward badges. The team also work with South Yorkshire Community
Foundation and find their volunteering days and fundraising work with SYFC and their partners including a local football academy ‘really satisfying’. Meanwhile every Friday the team can take a ‘Learning Hour’ which allows them the space to research and find out more about latest trends or any individual areas they are interested in. “It’s important the culture and ethos of a company is established at the top at director level because that creates an evolving business model and encourages staff development,” says Julie. “People feel empowered to be creative and come up with their own ideas. And as businesses grow it’s important those values and culture are embedded and grow with you.” And speaking of growth, the three directors have recently appointed former Rotherham Mayor Lyndsay Pitchley as their new business development manager who Katie describes as ‘fitting right in with our ethos’. “She’s a real people person,” adds Julie. “She understands our culture and with her business knowledge and experience will take our brand and services further out into the Yorkshire region and raise our profile.”
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A tailored 12-week business fast-track opportunity for ambitious entrepreneurs across the Sheffield City Region The deadline for applications is 15 September, so get your entries in now!
scrgrowthhub.co.uk/ y-accelerator 58
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FIVE MINUTES WITH...
GLU RECRUIT Rob Shaw, Glu Recruit founder, sings the praises of Sheffield City Region’s ‘vibrant’ business community and his ‘fantastic’ team – and shares his love of the unknown I was inspired to start my business by... We adopted two children which was a game changer for us and I needed more flexibility to be able to be a great dad and help provide for their future. At that time, I’d worked in the recruitment industry for over a decade and it’s what I knew and loved and so I developed the business to be able to do both. My favourite thing about running my business is… Working with businesses of all sizes and sectors as well as candidates from a variety of backgrounds. It’s an amazing opportunity to widen our knowledge about those that make our region great. Plus, I have to mention working with my fantastic team or they will never make a round of tea again! The three words that best describe my business are… Personable, collaborative and distinct. Sheffield City Region is a great place to start a business because… There’s lots of support available region wide for start-ups, from regional development programmes, through to peer-on-peer support from experienced businesspeople who have been on their own journey and want to give something back. Sheffield City Region is a great place to grow a business because… The SCR is such a vibrant business community! There
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ROB SHAW, FOUNDER OF GLU RECRUIT
are so many diverse sectors and different types of businesses across our region it means opportunities are there to grow a business if you’re willing to work hard, build your brand and find your niche.
individuals to be better than you.
truly working in partnership with a recruiter.
The best advice I ever got was… You will only be successful if you are passionate about what you do and you’re on the same mission as those you work with.
The organisations that have supported me and my business include… Business Sheffield, Enhanced Marketing Group, Hallmark Branding, MK PR and other recruitment business owners that have had a similar journey to me who wanted to offer invaluable advice and support and we’ve forged a great relationship with.
The worst advice I ever got was… If you want something done right you have to do it yourself. I love working as part of a team and believe in empowering
The main challenges facing my industry/sector are… Candidate shortages in specific areas – the digital sector being one most recently highlighted. A flooded market. Employers
In 5 years’ time I expect my business to… Who knows?! The unknown excites me! I would like to think we’ve delivered our exceptional recruitment service further afield with more employers and candidates across the region, working more with our existing clients in partnership and continuing to deliver and exceed their expectations. Possibly with the addition of another location and expanding geographically. I’d love to do more CSR work in the area and offer advice to the younger generation who don’t know what career options are open to them.
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ADVERTORIAL
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SHEFFIELD CITY REGION
WORKING
WIN
More than 4,000 people have already signed up to the pioneering Working Win project. Sheffield City Region Mayor Dan Jarvis tells unLTD all about the health-led employment trial – and how research in our region could lead to a new way to support people who want to work, but struggle because of their health unLTDBUSINESS.COM
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SHEFFIELD CITY REGION Most of us will experience ill health at some point. Sickness is therefore something that affects all employees – and all employers - across the Sheffield City Region. But while many of us are fortunate enough to only suffer from the occasional bug, for many people struggling with chronic mental or physical illnesses, the right job is hard to find. Research has proved that being in fulfilling work is vital for people’s health and wellbeing. But for thousands of people in our region with mild to moderate health conditions, work is difficult to manage alongside their health. That’s why, here in the Sheffield City Region, I’m delighted that we have partnered with the NHS to deliver the innovative Working Win project. More than 4,000 people have already signed up to this pioneering project, one of only two health-led employment trials in the UK, since it was launched last year. Working Win is the largest global research trial of its kind and I am proud that we are part of it. Research led here in our region could pave the way for a new way of support for people who want to work, but are struggling to do so because of their health. The trial is researching the best type of support for people with mental or physical health conditions, who want to find a job or are stay in work.
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SHEFFIELD CITY REGION Specialist work coaches are helping people to overcome some of the barriers to their employment, while companies have also signed up to learn more about how they can better support their employees. If the trial proves successful, Working Win could lead the way for this sort of personalised support being introduced nationwide. And there is no doubt that change on a national scale is much-needed. That change would involve a greater number of businesses employing those people with physical and mental health problems who can work, and want to work – providing benefits to employers and employees alike. Although the Working Win trial is still ongoing, we have already heard many positive stories from those who have been involved. One participant, Neil, had been off work for six months with ill health when he had his first appointment with a Working Win work coach. Both Neil and his employer received support through the scheme, which resulted in Neil agreeing a phased return and other adjustments to his working environment which would make his return to work easier. Neil said he has been very happy since returning to work, and practical changes – such as taking a short break when
Research has proved that being in fulfilling work is vital for people’s health and wellbeing he needs to, and receiving extra training – have helped. As a result, his health and confidence has improved. People like Neil are why the Working Win trial is so important. The scheme is still open to participants to sign up, before the referral window ends on 31 October this year. I look forward to seeing the impact of this trial and hope that this pioneering research, carried out here in the Sheffield City Region, will have a real impact on future employment support in the UK. This is great news for employers and employees alike, and yet more proof of the innovation our region is famed for.
WORKING WIN COACH, TINA HALL
Dan Jarvis is Sheffield City Region Mayor
WHAT IS WORKING WIN? The health-led employment trial is a randomised control trial. Those who are eligible to take part will be randomly assigned to be part of the research group or the control group. The research group will receive Individual Placement Support, including one to one sessions with a work coach for up to 12 months. The control group will be directed to existing services. The trial is entirely voluntary and open to anybody over the age of 18 who lives in South Yorkshire and is registered with a GP. Participants can self -refer or be referred by a medical professional. Find out more at www.workingwin.com or search Working Win on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
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Do something amazing to support cancer patients locally!
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Charity Registration No: 509803
Call: 0114 226 5370 westonpark.org.uk unLTDBUSINESS.COM
westonpark.org.uk
CHARITY
THE GIFT THAT REALLY MAKES A DIFFERENCE Helen Gentle, Deputy Director of Fundraising at Weston Park Cancer Charity, tells unLTD about the life-changing difference a legacy gift can make When you next come to make or update your Will, and have provided for your friends and family, please take a moment to imagine the difference you could make by leaving a gift in your Will to a cause like Weston Park Cancer Charity. What happens if I don’t have a Will? According to research fewer than one third of adults have made a Will. If you do not make a Will the law decides what will happen to your estate and this may not be what you hope or intend. Why write a Will? By creating a Will you will have peace of mind that your wishes will be followed once you have passed away. This may include aspects such as deciding who will inherit your assets, saving
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inheritance tax, appointing Executors and leaving a gift to a cause you care about. Why are gifts to charity important? Over one third of Weston Park Cancer Charity’s income comes from people kindly leaving a legacy gift, of any size, within a Will. Without people remembering us in this special way, many vital projects would not go ahead meaning that our life-saving work cannot help as many people affected by cancer. Is there a specific amount I need to leave? We are extremely grateful to individuals who choose to support us in this special way and welcome gifts of all sizes. Every penny really does have a huge impact on the lives
of cancer patients across our region. Are there any benefits to leaving a gift to charity? All gifts in Wills are tax-efficient, which means that any gift you decide to leave will be deducted from your estate before any tax liability is calculated. What should I do if I am considering leaving a gift? If you are interested in the work of Weston Park Cancer Charity and would like to consider leaving a gift so that cancer patients can continue to access the very best cancer care services please contact Helen Gentle on 0114 226 5370. Is there anything I need to know? If you would like to leave a gift in your Will to benefit our
work it’s very important to include our full charity name: Weston Park Cancer Charity and our Charity Registration Number: 509803. What impact do legacy gifts have? Weston Park Cancer Charity has played a pivotal role in bringing world-class research to Sheffield. It’s thanks to legacy gifts that we can continue to give patients access to the latest advances in the treatment of the disease. Not only does this improve the quality of cancer services across the board but helps worldleading clinicians better understand the disease, paving the way for the hope of one day finding a cure.
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BUSINESS DONCASTER
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BUSINESS DONCASTER
E C A F G N I G N THE CHA
OF DONCASTER Business Doncaster, through its unique public and private sector partnerships, offer a wide range of free and impartial advice and guidance to businesses throughout the borough, providing a dedicated relationship manager to support existing and new businesses with their business goals
Statistics from April to July show 2019 is looking to be a highly successful one for economic development, inward investment and business growth with the Business Doncaster team making a significant contribution to economic growth. Business Doncaster
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contributed to more than £35 million of new investment with support in creating over 50 jobs in the borough. The team also handled a significant number of supply chain interventions, already bringing over £150,000 of business to local companies with a month-by-month increase in new property enquiries.
Bill Mordue, Portfolio Holder for Business, Skills and Economic Development said, "I'm delighted to see these figures – it really is a tribute to the energy of businesses in Doncaster and to the expert advice, relationship building and signposting of our advisors. “Business Doncaster offers a huge pool of knowledge and
the highly experienced team of specialists work across all levels and sectors. The team also work with many partners and organisations across the region and nationally, providing new investors and businesses with the most appropriate help and advice to help them succeed and grow." Support is offered through
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BUSINESS DONCASTER
THE FAMOUS WOOL MARKET OPENED ITS DOORS AGAIN IN MARCH
networking events, access to finance, export and innovation advice, supply chain and tendering, PR and workforce development. Business Doncaster also provides access to free masterclasses on topical subjects including social media marketing and public sector procurement. Over the next five years Doncaster is predicted to have one of the highest economic growth rates in the Sheffield City Region, driven by a number of key development projects acting as a catalyst for business development, inward investment and job creation. Huge development sites such as iPort continue to grow and 2019 saw the new opening of Lidl creating £70million of inward investment and over 400 jobs. With names including Amazon, Ceva Logistics and Fellowes UK already there, the site is looking to create upwards of 2,000 jobs. Phase 2 is underway with the offer of several large units including a 731,000 sq.ft. warehouse deal. Doncaster Sheffield Airport goes from strength to strength with more new flights and routes announced this year. Cargo operations are growing at a tremendous pace, too. Coupled with the opening of the second phase of the Great Yorkshire Way link road and the construction of various speculative industrial unit developments, the Airport and
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the Aero Centre business park is fast becoming the ‘business location’ of choice within the region. Herten Triangle, the new, fully let 8 restaurant and drive-through development at Doncaster Lakeside managed and developed by Doncaster Council, was completed in March 2019. Taco Bell and Dunkin' Donuts are experiencing high footfall and sales during their opening weeks. The CCQ development continues at a pace with work starting on the construction of a new Cultural and Learning Centre and the new Savoy Cinema and restaurant complex next to Cast. This area will also be home to the new Doncaster UTC. Further Town Centre regeneration plans saw the famous Wool Market open its doors once again to the public in March, bringing a revived energy to the area. The train station is undergoing an upgrade and refurbishment whilst streets such as Hallgate and Silver Street will become pedestrianised, making the town centre more accessible for shopping and leisure activities. Once complete, this will provide a fantastic new look whilst continuing to attract new independent retail businesses. February saw the largest, most highly attended Business Showcase event across the whole of South Yorkshire taking
HUGE DEVELOPMENT SITES SUCH AS IPORT CONTINUE TO GROW
By making sure we raise the profile of Doncaster internationally and providing the right offer for businesses looking at Doncaster we are certain we will continue to attract our fair share of new business investment
place at Doncaster Racecourse. With over 250 exhibition stands from across the region and beyond and with a strong footfall of an estimated 2,000 visitors, this hugely popular event is set to return once again on 27 February – book your stand early to avoid disappointment. And last, but by no means least, following a strong campaign bid, Doncaster has been chosen as a host town for the Rugby League World Cup 2021. Business Doncaster is committed to the town’s growth and will continue to work hard throughout this period of political uncertainty, to ensure we achieve success at all levels. Chris Dungworth, Business Doncaster Head of Service, said: “Going forward the focus of our work is changing. Our priority will be to grow our strategically important business sectors in order to attract new investment, new business and new jobs. “By raising the profile of Doncaster internationally and providing the right offer for businesses we are certain we will continue to attract our fair share of new business investment.” If you would like to know more about the developments and investment potential available in Doncaster call 01302 735555 or visit www.wearedoncaster.co.uk
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BUILD A STRONG FUTURE. DO BUSINESS IN
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YOUR PITCH
THE FITNESS TRUCK Pete Swatkins tells us how a time of reflection helped him ‘bite the bullet’ and start his business that’s now ‘bucking the online personal training trend’
PETE SWATKINS OF THE FITNESS TRUCK
Tell us about your business – sell yourself! The Fitness Truck® is a mobile fitness unit specialising in home, corporate and small group fitness sessions. Existing for your convenience and training at a time and location to suit you, we believe in bucking the online PT trend and keeping things personal with our ‘in person’ sessions – because quite frankly, you deserve better! With our truck full of equipment, from slam balls to dumbbells, battle ropes to boxing gloves, our sessions are varied, fun and delivered safely to some banging tunes. No matter what your ability, we break down our activities so that even the most novice of participants can complete a session.
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What gave you the idea for your business? Losing my job, the end of a relationship and moving out of my first home proved a challenging 2016 but a time of reflection allowed me to bite the bullet of running my own business. It was time to utilise my in-person skills, my Sports Science degree and over 12-years professional/semiprofessional rugby experience. We’re now on an accelerated programme to bring our franchise model to market at the back of 2019 and into 2020. Who are your customers and how are you targeting them? Our primary audience is the corporate sector, targeting sedentary lifestyles and office jobs, providing the opportunity
No matter what your ability, we break down our activities so that even the most novice of participants can complete a session
to move more at work with a fully/part funded fitness session at the office each week. We also target families, couples, individuals or small groups who want to work out at home who simply don’t have the time or confidence to hit the gym. How can people get in touch with you? Feel free to email us info@thefitnesstruck.co.uk or slide into our DM’s on any of our social media platforms – search @thefitnesstruck There’s a contact form on our website www.thefitnesstruck.co.uk which also contains a short video showing you what we do. Alternatively you can connect with me directly on LinkedIn.
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AFTER HOURS
Fancy treating yourself after a working week of salads and sarnies dining al-desko? Chris Hayter is here to tempt you with a list of Instagram-able and pun-tastic burgers
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AFTER HOURS
FIVE GUYS, MOVERS AND SHAKERS IN THE WORLD OF BURGERS
Tamper Coffee Address: Sellers Wheel, 149 Arundel Street, Sheffield S21 2NU Opening Hours: Mon-Thurs 8am-5pm (Kitchen closes at 3pm) Sat: 9am-6pm (Kitchen closes 5pm) Sun: 9am-4pm (Kitchen closes 3pm) Social Media: Facebook: @tampercoffee Twitter: @tampercoffee Instagram: @tampercoffeesw About: This New Zealand coffee shop not only boasts Kiwi coffee culture, but the delicious Kiwi Burger. A 7oz patty served pink on a black brioche bun with emmental cheese, egg, pineapple, and crushed beets. Insta-tastic. Fin and Bone Address: 73-101 Neepsend Lane, Sheffield S3 8AT Opening Hours: Wed-Thu: 9am-11pm Social Media: Facebook: @finandbone Instagram: @finandbone_sheffield About: Located in Cutlery Works in Kelham Island, the largest
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food hall in England, they offer gourmet burgers cooked over a roaring fire, such as the bacon and blue with smoked streaky bacon, a hefty chunk of blacksticks blue cheese and sweet red onion jam. Or how about starting the day the right way – with the breakfast burger? A patty, bacon, friend egg, American cheese, brown sauce and the obligatory hash browns. Five Guys Address: Unit 2, Valley Centertainment, Broughton Lane Sheffield S9 2EP and Unit 3, the Oasis, Meadowhall Shopping Centre, Meadowhall Way, Sheffield S9 1EP Opening Hours: Mon-Thur: 11am-10:30pm Friday: 11am-12am Social Media: Facebook: @FiveGuysUK Twitter: @FiveGuysUK Instagram: @fiveguysuk About: The legendary Five Guys has not one but two locations in Sheffield, at Meadowhall and Valley Centertainment, offering you the very best burgers the US has to give. Customers can create their burger from scratch, with a huge selection
TAKE A PEW AND WORSHIP THE BURGERS AT RED’S TRUE BARBECURE
of toppings, and a generous helping of fries to accompany it. A favourite haunt of our graphic designer Simon Garlick who is usually chain-averse – what higher praise do you need?! Twisted Burger Company Address: Triple Point Brewery + Bar, 178 Shoreham Street, Sheffield S1 4SQ Opening Hours: Mon-Sat: 7:30am-4am Sun: 8:30am-12am Social Media: Facebook: @TwistedBurgerCompany Twitter: @TwistedBurgerCo Instagram: @twistedburgerco About: Serving burgers with an attitude, Twisted Burger Company is a Sheffield staple, with all kinds of twisted and delicious creations, such as double beef Pig Daddy Kane and the pun-tastic Donner go Breaking my Heart burger. Fat Hippo Address: Kommune, Unit 11, 1-13 Angel Street, Sheffield S3 8LN Opening Hours: Tue-Sat: 9am-11pm Sun: 9am-9pm
Social Media: Facebook: @FatHippoSheffield Twitter: @fathippofood Instagram: @fathippofood About: Located at one of Sheffield’s newest and trendiest food halls, at Kommune in the heart of the city, Fat Hippo is the North East burger chain offering towering gut-busting delights. Fancy a culinary challenge? Our very own Jill Theobald was defeated by the Hangover 2! Smoke BBQ Address: St Paul’s Place, Sheffield S1 2NB Opening Hours: Mon-Thur: 11:30am-10pm Fri-Sat: 11:30am-11pm Sunday: 11:30am- 10pm Social Media: Facebook: @SmokeBBQSheffield Twitter: @SmokeBBQUK Instagram: @smokebbquk About: Located in the heart of the city, Smoke BBQ offers its customers mouth wateringly smoked ribs, brisket, and of course burgers, like the brisket chili cheese and Bacon Mac & Cheese burger.
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AFTER HOURS Celebrate
at Tapton Hall Festive Party Nights from £35.95
Xmas Afternoon Teas from £15.95
Christmas Lunches from £25.00
Get in touch with our team to find out more and book your Christmas event! 0114 2660051
|
Joyeux Noël!
enquiries@taptonhall.com
Christmas 2019 BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN
CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS
Friday & Saturdays throughout December £39.00pp
CHRISTMAS FLOOR FILLERS NIGHTS Monday - Thursday throughout December £29.00pp
CHRISTMAS ALL-INCLUSIVE NIGHTS £45.00pp
CHRISTMAS PARTY LUNCHES £19.95pp
CHRISTMAS CARVERY LUNCH WITH SANTA £19.95 Per Adult & £9.95 Per Child Under 12
CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH
£69.00 Per Adult & £32.00 Per Child Under 12 Under 3’s Free of charge
NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA DINNER £109.00pp
Call our Christmas team for further details and availability Tel: 0114 252 6522 | Email: christmas@cpsheffield.co.uk
Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria Sheffield Victoria Station Road, Sheffield S4 7YE Tel: 0114 252 6516 www.cpsheffield.co.uk
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AFTER HOURS
FAMED VEGAN EATERY MAKE NO BONES SERVE UP 100 PER CENT MEAT-FREE BURGERS AT CHURCH – TEMPLE OF FUN
Lucky Fox Address: 72 Division Street, Sheffield S1 4GF Opening Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm Sun: 11am-4pm Social Media: Facebook: @luckyfoxsheff Twitter: @LuckyFoxsheff Instagram: @luckyfoxsheff About: Possibly the best fried chicken joint in Sheffield, Lucky Fox on Division Street offers a range of Chicken burgers and ‘Sando’s, including the Mac Loving and Halloumi Sando. Unit Address: 88 Headford Street, Sheffield S3 7WB Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 4pm-11pm Social Media: Facebook: @unitesheff About: With burgers like the ‘pizza burger’, the ‘Mother Clucker’, ‘The Destroyer’, Unit offers a mind bending range of burgers, both ordinary and extraordinary. Red’s True Barbecue Address: 383-385 Ecclesall Road, Sheffield S11 8PG Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 12pm-10pm Sat-Sun: 12pm -11pm
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Social Media: Facebook: @RedsBBQSheffield Twitter: @RedsTrueBBQ Instagram: @redstruebbq About: The Church of True Barbecue offers jaw droppingly good BBQ and pit burgers for any diehard carnivore. Such as the Devilishly spicy XXX Burger and the sweet treat that is Donut Burger. Smoking Bull Address: 9 Leopold Street, Sheffield S1 2GY Opening Hours: Mon-Thur: 12pm-9pm Fri-Sat: 12pm-10pm Sun: 12pm-6pm Social Media: Facebook: @Smokeinbullsheffield About: Winner of Best new Restaurant 2019 by sister magazine Exposed, our Smoking Bull is making a name for itself as a trailblazing independent provider of all good things. Burgers to try include the Smoky Robinson and the Korea Town burgers. Gourmet Burger Company Address: 24 The Moor, Unit 8, Sheffield S1 4PA Opening Hours: Mon-Thur: 11:30am-9pm
Fri-Sat: 11:30am-10pm Sun: 11:30am-9pm Social Media: Facebook: @gourmetburgerskitchen Twitter: @gbkurgers Instagram: @gbkburgers About: The clue is in the name – this burger chain is loved up and down the country for offering some of the best burgers you can find, including 30-day dry-aged Steak Major Tom burger, and the fiery Rocket Man burger. Church – Temple of Fun Address: 4A Rutland Way, Sheffield S3 8DG Opening Hours: Mon-Thur:10am-11pm Fri-Sat: 10am-1am Sun: 10am-11pm Social Media: Facebook: @TempleOfFun Twitter: @TempleOF_Fun Instagram: @templeof.fun About: Located in Kelham Island, the Bring Me the Horizon Frontman Ollie Sykes has arguably one of the coolest bars and restaurants in Sheffield. Enjoy 100 per cent meat-free delights such as the Gym Candy and Tinsley Tower, all with weird and wonderful cocktails, riverside views and arcade machines to boot.
Head of Steam Address: 103-107 Norfolk Street, Sheffield 21 2JE Opening Hours: Mon-Wed: 11am-11:30pm Thur: 11am-12am Fri-Sat: 11am-12:30am Sun: 11am-11:30pm Social Media: Facebook: @headofsteam.sheffield Twitter: @headofsteamHQ Instagram: @headofsteamhq About: Located in the beating heart of Sheffield’s cultural district, Head of Steam is a trendy and attractive bar offering such delights as the double beef and pulled pork Northern Powerhouse burger and the vegan ‘duck’ Watt the Duck burger. The Roebuck Tavern Address: 72 Charles Street, Sheffield S1 2NB Opening Hours: Mon-Thur: 11am-11pm Fri-Sat: 12pm-12am Sun: 11am-11pm Social Media: Facebook: @pubsinsheffield About: Sheffield city centre pub offering delicious burgers, like the ‘Sheffield Burger’, double steak burger with melted chedder cheese and bacon.
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AFTER HOURS
WEEKEND ESCAPES YORK
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From the moment you leave York’s historic Railway Station, you’re likely to be captivated by the striking look of the city, says David Craig – from the heights of Clifford’s Tower to the depths of the Dungeon
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AFTER HOURS York has so distinct an identity that it’s almost hard to believe it sits a mere 45 minutes away by train. The central high street is blessed with stunning architecture that has been adapted to fit modern needs, without losing a shred of its authenticity. My colleagues and I had taken the trip to attend a conference being held on the York University campus, a site worth seeing in and of itself with the largest manmade plastic-bottomed lake in Europe at its heart. For precisely this reason, the university has become home to a variety of wildlife, most notably ducks, geese and swans. Their presence made traversing the confusingly laid out grounds a delight, although you may want to watch out for droppings. We were on a (very) modest budget and so opted to share a three-person room at an Airbnb close to the university. It was hardly an ideal
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arrangement but served its purpose adequately as a place to conk out after a day spent wandering around the city. It isn’t the cheapest place to spend leisure time, so saving money on accommodation could be the right move depending on your price range. Even two months later, I’m still having nightmarish flashbacks to paying £6.50 for a double vodka coke. Things were a little more reasonable at the riverside café bar, Dyls. Located in a stunning 19th century motor house, the establishment boasts picturesque views and dishes supplied almost entirely by businesses local to the area. Food is served from 10am meaning it’s an ideal place to kick start your day with a hearty breakfast or to unwind with a nice evening meal and a cheeky beverage. Best of all, it’s an independent family-run bar and I always get a kick out of supporting a small business.
Sadly, we couldn’t squeeze in a visit to Scotts Fish and Chips. The humble chippy once catered to Chinese President Xi Jinping when he met with then-Prime Minister David Cameron in 2015. Since then, the restaurant has become so popular with Chinese tourists that an exact replica branch is planned to open in Chengdu, South China sometime in the near future. Seriously. York’s beautiful aesthetic and relatively small size makes it one of the Northern cities best suited to a weekend break. It’s a nice place for a brief battery charge but much longer than that and you might run out of things to do. That said, here’s a few to keep you going for a while:
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Shambles The word used to describe my state at the conference party is also the name of a humble street that has become a formidable tourist attraction. Primarily, visitors
go to immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter, as iconic film location Diagon Alley was at least partly inspired by this row of quaint traditional shops. While some have taken advantage of the association by stocking merchandise, there is more than enough charm here to keep even non-fans feeling enchanted.
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York Cold War Bunker And now for something completely different. The York Cold War Bunker may trade whimsy for woe, but it is nonetheless a fascinating insight into the horror of nuclear war. The semi-subterranean shelter was built in 1961 and operated in a defensive capacity for thirty years. It has remained in the same state since its closure in 1991, preserving its value as a historical artefact. Hourly guided tours give you the inside story of bunker life, included with the £45 York Pass (along with access to a number of other attractions).
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AFTER HOURS
HISTORIC BUILDINGS WITH AN ECLECTIC CHARM CAN FOUND STROLLING ALONG THE SHAMBLES
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York Minster Tower Climb Feel like building up your calf muscles? Look no further than York Minster’s challenging tower climb. Consisting of 275 steps that are both narrow and steep, this is not the most relaxing way to spend a Saturday afternoon, but the view at the top is truly something to behold, particularly if you’re lucky enough to be there on a bright day. Plus, you earn some serious bragging rights for when you come back down.
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York’s beautiful aesthetic and relatively small size makes it one of the Northern cities best suited to a weekend break
Clifford’s Tower Even from the outside, Clifford’s Tower makes a big impression. Now surrounded by tarmacked roads and a car park, the castle’s proud position atop a large green hill gives it the look of a fiercely defiant stronghold fighting against the advances of modernization. That’s no small feat either, considering the tower has seen its fair share of historical demolition attempts and violent confrontations. Climbing to the top grants a uniquely panoramic view of the city, that stretches all the way to the North York Moors.
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York Dungeon While not quite as well known as their London counterparts, the York Dungeons are another visceral journey through some of the grizzliest parts of British history. Embracing both the city’s Viking heritage and the more familiar gruesome roleplay of Middle Ages medicine, it’s a smashing and educational day out. If you’re particularly faint hearted, you might want to treat yourself to a pint when you reach the dungeon tavern at the end of the tour.
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NUMBER CRUNCH
ARTS AND CULTURE
Shooting of the film adaptation of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie took place this summer, after the stage show originally opened in Sheffield before transferring to London’s West End. And The Viewing Room at Kommune are currently showing a print exhibition by Godfather of British Pop Art Peter Blake until September 29. So we decided to paint a picture of the Sheffield City Region arts scene in our latest Number Crunch – and action!
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DONCASTER & BARNSLEY are the first two stages of the Tour De Yorkshire
seats at Cast, Doncaster’s state-of-the-art theatre
The Lantern at
120 years of age is the oldest theatre in Sheffield
There are an estimated
Sheffield Doc/Fest hosted
13.25MILLION people visit the Peak District every year
Weston Park Museum in Sheffield welcomes nearly
300,000 VISITORS EVERY YEAR
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3,489 industry delegates in 2019
465
bands and artists operating in South Yorkshire
Tramlines has been bringing some of the biggest acts in music and comedy to Sheffield for
TEN YEARS
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