Commerce & Industry 30.07 by Waltons Publications

Forrester Boyd’s Charity Golf Day Raises over £6,500 for The Bradbury Foundation

Forrester Boyd Accountants hosted a successful charity golf day at the Grimsby Golf Club on Thursday 5th September in support of The Bradbury Foundation. The event brought together over 110 players from various firms and local businesses, resulting in an incredible £6,533.15 raised for the foundation.

Amidst sub-par weather conditions, the day nevertheless kicked off with a warm welcome to all participants, followed by an exciting double-tee start. The event was filled with friendly competition, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to fundraise for an incredible cause.

The course provided a beautiful backdrop for the players, showcasing the best of what Grimsby Golf Club has to offer and the team led by Adam Mumby emerged victorious in the competition, with an impressive score of 98. Individual achievements included Jack Driver claiming the longest drive, while Jack Flockton secured the nearest the pin accolade. The style stakes were also high as Liam Cotter took home the best-dressed award for his sleek all-grey ensemble.

The success of the event however would not have been possible without the support of 23 generous sponsors and the support

from local businesses showcased the strong sense of community and determination to contribute and make a positive impact in the area.

Phil George, Business Development Partner at Forrester Boyd, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from participants, sponsors, and the local community: ‘We are thrilled with the success of our charity golf day in support of The Bradbury Foundation. The event surpassed our expectations, and we are grateful for the generous contributions of all involved. This collective effort illustrates the power we have as a community, in making a positive impact on the lives of those in need.’

Funds raised from the event will directly support The Bradbury Foundation’s vital work which was formed as a legacy to late Partner, Lee Bradbury who sadly passed away in August 2022 at the young age of

40. The Foundation’s purpose is to provide financial support for community projects that will enhance and improve the quality for of communities within a 25 mile radius of the Forrester Boyd offices based in Grimsby, Louth, Scunthorpe, Skegness, Beverley and Lincoln.

Forrester Boyd looks forward to building on the success of this year’s event and making the charity golf day an annual tradition, continuing to support The Bradbury Foundation and help to build brighter futures for the communities in which it operates.

Successful Tennis Outreach Program a real hit with local school

Nuffield Tennis Academy have delivered a highly successful tennis outreach program, sponsored by Forrester Boyd Chartered Accountants. The program was launched last year to take tennis into schools, offering children the chance to experience the joys of tennis while promoting physical activity and essential life skills.

Over the past year, the program has reached 17 schools and engaged 737 students across Hull and East Riding. The initiative offers free tennis taster sessions to Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 pupils, conducted by LTA-accredited coaches from Nuffield Health Tennis Academy.

Forrester Boyd Chartered Accountants are proud to announce the continued sponsorship of the tennis outreach program

in partnership with Nuffield Health Tennis Academy, now entering its second year.

Mike Beckett, Chairman at Forrester Boyd, commented on the firm’s involvement: “We’re thrilled to support this fantastic initiative that brings tennis to local schools. As a firm deeply rooted in our community, we believe in the power of sport to develop crucial skills in young people, from physical literacy to resilience and adaptability. This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to supporting our community.”

The program has received glowing feedback from participating schools. Mike Pearson, PE Lead at North Ferriby Primary shared his experience: “In July 2024, we were visited by a tennis coach as part of the outreach programme which was a wonderful experience for the children of North Ferriby Primary School. For many of our children, it was their first experience of playing tennis and one they thoroughly enjoyed! The coach was professional and made his session’s fun and inspiring for the children. Having the skills and expertise of a tennis coach made a real difference during our school’s Sports Week and we are very grateful for the full morning given to us.”

The Outreach programme takes tennis into schools across Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire, particularly reaching areas of high deprivation. Dave Kitchen, tennis coach at Nuffield Tennis Centre said “The tennis sessions have been a huge hit with the students. Not only are the session’s fun, but in my experience, learning to play tennis aids coordination, teamwork, and confidence. It’s wonderful to see children who might not otherwise have access to tennis getting so excited about the sport.”

The Schools Tennis Outreach Programme offers free 30-minute tennis taster sessions for Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 pupils, complimentary invitations for children to visit Nuffield Health Tennis Academy and upskilling opportunities for school staff to incorporate tennis activities into PE lessons.

Schools interested in participating in the upcoming Winter term sessions are encouraged to contact Nuffield Health Tennis Academy at hull.tennis@nuffieldhealth.com or call 07879 684612.

Three young solicitors announced at Williamsons

A bright future is in store for three newly qualified solicitors at a leading regional law firm.

Neeve Pearce, Eleanor Young and Cathy Fairweather, who are all in their 20s, have successfully completed training contracts with Williamsons Solicitors during 2024.

Neeve, who is from Hull, is practicing in the Probate Department, and Eleanor from Hessle, is practising in the family and childcare department. Cathy, who originates from Gateshead, is practising in the firm’s clinical negligence department. All three have now been formally admitted to the national roll of solicitors.

The 18-month supervised training contracts, in which they gained experience in a variety of disciplines, followed a period working as paralegals at the firm, which operates from Hull, Bridlington and Driffield.

Williamsons has a consistent record for training and retaining new solicitors with the majority being offered permanent positions. With a recruitment strategy focused on developing homegrown talent, many young people from the area have developed long careers at the firm.

Neeve Pearce said that she enjoyed being able to make a difference to people’s lives.

“ I have enjoyed all aspects of my training, and I am looking forward to assisting clients in the Probate department.”

Eleanor Young added that the family department enabled her to work on solving real day-to-day issues occurring in family life.

“I have always known I wanted to practise family law but was concerned about the distressing nature and emotional impact of dealing with sensitive cases. My training has helped to address this.”

Cathy Fairweather, who initially wanted to be a nurse before deciding that the legal side of medicine suited her better, said:

“Clinical negligence cases very often follow traumatic incidents for clients, and I find it highly satisfying to be able to bring a little positivity to what can be bleak circumstances.”

Sarah Clubley, a Williamsons Solicitors owner-director, said:

“We are always looking to foster the next generation of legal professionals and are very pleased that Cathy, Eleanor and Neeve have started their careers with us. We are sure they have a bright future with us and wish them every success.”

Eleanor went to Hessle High School and studied law at the University of Leeds. Neeve attended Winifred Holtby Academy before

studying at the University of Hull, with both completing their legal practice course at the University of Law, Leeds. Cathy studied at Teesside University, before completing her legal practice course at Northumbria University.

Williamsons is well known throughout the East Riding of Yorkshire and has a reputation for the quality of its services which are provided by a 125-strong team working from the head office in Hull, and branches in Bridlington and Driffield.

It provides comprehensive private client law services along with commercial property.

Good, reliable legal advice is just a phone call away.

Contact Williamsons Solicitors on Telephone: 01482 323697 or visit: www.williamsons-solicitors.co.uk

Picture from left to right: Eleanor Young, Neeve Pearce Cathy Fairweather

New arrivals take different routes to Rollits traineeships

Leading law firm Rollits LLP has welcomed two new trainees who took a traditional route into the profession and a third who opted for a career change after 20 years in the hospitality sector.

Charlotte Milligan and Daniel Huntley-Taylor both went on to study law straight from school. Leila Bolton worked in hospitality but didn’t study law formally until 20 years after she first graduated.

Leila graduated in Philosophy from the University of Stirling in 1999 and then managed various hospitality venues for Whitbread and the Laurel Pub Company. She worked in compliance for a packaging company and was leaseholder of the Punch Hotel in Hull for 10 years and her roles included training publicans in licensing law on behalf of the British Institute of Innkeepers.

In 2019 she returned to her studies and gained a First in her LLB at the University of Hull and then a Distinction in her Legal Practice Course at the University of Law in Leeds. Leila, who is also an accredited civil mediator, has joined Rollits as a trainee in the dispute resolution team.

Charlotte attended Beverley High School and her interest in a legal career was sparked during her time at Beverley Joint Sixth Form. She completed her Law LLB at York

St John University in 2023 and along the way took part in the University’s Law Clinic and the Rollits vacation scheme.

Charlotte stayed on at York St John to pass her Legal Practice Course and after completing a work experience placement at Rollits she secured a Period of Recognised Training with the firm, where she is currently based in the property department.

Educated in Hull at Andrew Marvell School, Hull College and the University of Hull, Daniel moved to Leeds to complete his Legal Practice Course at Leeds Beckett University.

After a successful summer placement with Rollits in 2022, Daniel joined the firm as a trainee this September. Prior to joining Rollits, he honed his legal skills as a paralegal in the

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referrals team at a large legal aid practice. Gerry Morrison, Training Principal at Rollits said “A training contract is a crucial steppingstone for any aspiring solicitor, and we are proud to continue our tradition of nurturing legal talent in Yorkshire from a variety of backgrounds.

“We’re excited to provide our new trainees with the opportunity to learn and gain hands-on experience in a variety of legal practice areas.”

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Charlotte Milligan, Daniel Huntley-Taylor & Leila Bolton

Expands Service Offerings to include Marketing

Forrester Boyd, a leading regional accountancy firm is excited to add marketing to its extensive range of services. In recognition of this strategic move, Alison Mitchell is now the firms Head of Marketing.

Alison has been with the firm for nearly six years as the marketing manager and has helped to develop and grow the marketing function internally to support the growth and development of Forrester Boyd. Following a number of meetings with the firms’ client’s to discuss their marketing strategies and areas for improvement, the firm has now launched their marketing services, not only for existing clients, but also as an external service for other businesses. These services include marketing consultancy, strategic planning, and design work tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

Phil George, Partner and Business Development Partner at Forrester Boyd, expressed his enthusiasm for Alison’s appointment, ‘We wanted Alison’s title to be reflective of the level of service that she delivers not only to the partners and the firm, but also externally to our existing clients and to other non-client firms.’

Phil continued, ‘Alison, a chartered marketer, has over 30 years of experience both in house and agency side, the last 10 being in professional services. She chairs the Marketing Taskforce for the UK200 Group, a membership of over 60 accountancy and law firms, sharing her expertise and guidance to other marketers within the group and building her network. Head of Marketing we feel is the perfect title to reflect her expertise and the services that she provides.’

Alison has also accepted a position to sit on the steering group of the Humber Business Week.

‘We are excited to have Alison Mitchell on board as a member of the Humber Business Week Steering Group. Her extensive network of connections and knowledge of the business community, especially on the south bank of the Humber, will be invaluable as we continue to grow and expand the reach of the Business Week,’ said Chair of the Humber Business Week, Pat Coyle.

Alison’s new title of Head of Marketing, signifies Forrester Boyd’s commitment to providing exceptional marketing services to its clients. Recent work to develop a new outreach programme with Nuffield Health located in Hull, only exemplifies this.

Tennis Manager, Dave Kitchen commented, ‘Having worked with Alison and the Forrester Boyd marketing team on our new primary schools outreach programme, I cannot praise them enough. Alison has given me a whole new way of looking at problems and how to overcome them,

as well as helping us promote in areas that before would have simply been impossible to reach.’

With Alison’s strategic leadership and vision, the firm aims to help businesses achieve their marketing goals and drive growth through tailored solutions and expert advice.

For more information on Forrester Boyd’s marketing services, please visit our website at www.forrester-boyd. co.uk or contact us directly on 01472 350601 to discuss how we can support and elevate your business

EAST YORKSHIRE HYDRAULICS LTD

BUSINESS PROFILE

East Yorkshire Hydraulics Ltd have been providing professional hydraulic engineering services to industry for 40 years.

We can provide a full design, build, installation and service lifecycle of services and products.

HYDRAULIC PRODUCTS

As well as our capability to provide bespoke systems and components, we also provide hydraulic products “oﬀ the shelf”. We can source just about any item and can provide expert assistance in identifying components oﬀ machines.

We can also advise on how to upgrade obsolete products and will advise if cost or eﬃciency savings can be made by looking at alternative solutions. We provide a single source hydraulics package.

Additionally, we are main agents for Yuken hydraulic equipment and a preferred reseller of Pall Filtration and Parker.

• Complete hydraulic systems

• Installation and commissioning

• Hydro-pneumatic accumulators

• Hydraulic equipment

• Cylinders

East Yorkshire Hydraulics Tel: 01482 440022

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KIRKBY ECLIPSE

BUSINESS PROFILE

Kirkby Eclipse is an electrical engineering group specialising in the repair, rewind, overhaul and supply of electric motors and associated equipment such as drives, gearboxes, pumps and fans.

With workshops and extensive motor stocks at both Kirkby Lindsey in Hull and Eclipse Electrical in York we offer a comprehensive service package, including on site service and support solutions. Having many years of experience in delivering an efficient and effective service geared to keeping downtime to a minimum, Kirkby Eclipse have built a reputation as a trusted and responsive partner with a clear understanding of the business needs of our customers. We excel in the fields of supply, repair, rewind, refurbishment and overhaul of electric motors and are a fully certified IECEx repair facility for ATEX motors used in potentially explosive atmospheres. The group operate and observe a Quality Management System and are BSI certified to ISO9001:2015, an Occupational Health & Safety Management System to ISO45001:2018 and an Environmental Management System to ISO14001:2015 demonstrating our commitment to providing a firstclass service every time.

What we oﬀer: • 24/7 emergency breakdown service • 12 month guarantee on all work undertaken • Free local collection & delivery • Time served, dedicated team of experienced & knowledgeable engineers • Large, well equipped, workshops in Hull and York capable of handling machinery up to 10 tonnes in weight • Brook Crompton motors available from stock • AC & DC motor rewinds, repairs, overhauls & replacement from fractional HP to large industrial • Geared Motors, Gearboxes, Fans, Brakes, Control Gear, Inverter Drives supplied, refurbished & repaired • Repair & supply of all types of pumping equipment from small coolant pumps to large submersible pumps • Balancing and motor alignment • On-site repairs, maintenance & testing • Technical advice on any motor, gearbox, pump or fan problem • Excellent environmental credentials –ask about energy eﬃcient machines

Kingston Engineering is a leading precision engineering company, expert in the manufacture of precision components and assemblies.

Established in 1919 and with roots still ﬁrmly based in Hull today, Kingston Engineering is proud of a strong engineering manufacturing heritage.

From bespoke power screws to standard screw products, Kingston Engineering manufactures quality precision components to British, European and American standards.

Kingston Engineering is at the forefront of precision excellence, backed by continued investment in new technologies, cutting-edge machines and skill levels.

We work closely with customers from a diverse range of industry sectors and our precision engineering services include:

• Bespoke Power Screws

• Precision Machine Components & Assemblies

• Prototype Production

• Component Reclamation & Enhancement

• Calibrated Inspection Services

• Assembly & Product Build

• Finishing Services

Contact the Kingston Engineering team to discuss your project with us.

Tel +44 (0)1482 325676 | email: sales@kingston-engineering.co.uk www.kingston-engineering.co.uk

Kingston Engineering Co. (Hull) Limited

Pennington Street, Hull, East Yorkshire HU8 7LD

Excellence Through Adaptability

The most successful companies are not those who merely survive but thrive by embracing change and adapting swiftly to new realities. These organisations stand as exemplars of excellence, leveraging adaptability as a core strength. In this feature, we spotlight a range of companies that have successfully navigated the complexities of their industries, setting new benchmarks in performance and innovation.

At the heart of these companies’ success is their ability to remain agile in the face of shifting markets and evolving customer expectations. As industries across the globe have faced unprecedented disruptions— whether through globalisation, rapid technological development, or unforeseen crises like the COVID-19 pandemic—certain companies have risen above, transforming challenges into opportunities. By refining their skill sets, staying ahead of industry trends, and continually improving their service offerings, these businesses have established themselves as leaders in their respective fields.

Embracing Change

A defining characteristic of these industry leaders is their ability to embrace change, rather than resist it. In fields such as technology, engineering, manufacturing, and retail, where advances happen at breakneck speed, staying competitive requires more than just maintaining the status quo. Take, for example, companies in the tech and engineering sectors. To remain relevant, they must not only stay informed of the latest developments but also implement cuttingedge technologies that enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

This flexibility is equally important in more traditional sectors, like manufacturing, where automation and digitalisation have disrupted long-standing processes. Those companies that have successfully integrated these

advancements into their workflows have seen dramatic increases in productivity, cost savings, and overall market competitiveness. By contrast, businesses that resist these changes often find themselves left behind.

But adaptability is not only about technological advancement. It also requires cultural and strategic shifts within the company. Leaders who encourage innovation, invest in talent, and create a culture of continuous improvement help foster an environment where adaptability thrives. This focus on nurturing flexibility, combined with the right vision and leadership, positions these companies for long-term success, even in volatile times.

The Power of Customer-Centric Approaches

Another shared trait among these companies of excellence is their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. In an age where consumers have endless options at their fingertips, providing an exceptional customer experience has become more important than ever. Whether through personalisation, efficient service, or responsive support, the best companies consistently exceed customer expectations.

Retailers, for example, are capitalising on the growing trend of e-commerce by providing seamless, omnichannel shopping experiences. By integrating physical stores with their online presence, they offer

customers the flexibility to shop however they prefer, while also using data analytics to personalise their offerings.

Likewise, service-based companies are investing heavily in training and development to ensure their staff can deliver the highest level of expertise. This commitment to refining their workforce’s skills enables them to offer bespoke solutions tailored to the unique needs of their clients, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Setting the Benchmark for Industry Standards

These companies not only succeed by adapting to change but also by setting new industry standards. Whether through technological innovation, customer service, or operational efficiency, they continually raise the bar, redefining what it means to excel in their field.

By learning from the strategies and practices of these industry leaders, other businesses can draw valuable lessons on how to thrive in an ever-changing market. The key takeaway? Flexibility, coupled with a forwardthinking mindset and a focus on customer satisfaction, is the ultimate driver of success.

These companies of excellence show us that, regardless of the industry, the ability to navigate change with adaptability and vision will always be a hallmark of true leadership.

Architecture and More Ltd was established in Brough in 2010 by wellrespected local architect, Carl Turner. With many years of experience in architecture, design, project management and the construction industry, Carl has successfully developed the business using his expertise and knowledge to meet the exact requirements of all clients. Services include architecture, project management and CDM consultancy.

As a leading architect, Carl has worked with a wide range of blue-chip clients, both locally and nationally, in the commercial and industrial sectors, as well as residential, leisure, education and healthcare. He can assist with feasibility studies, planning applications, building regulations and the tendering process for both extensions, conversions and new builds.

Architecture and More is a RIBA Chartered Practice, following the RIBA plan of work. Each project is tailored around that plan in accordance with the client’s unique requirements. The aim is to successfully deliver projects safely, to the right quality, to programme and within budget.

Project management not only involves the

design element, but also mananging the project on behalf of the client. Core activities include cost advice, project planning, risk management, value engineering, co-ordination of the design and construction team, tendering, contract administration and providing strict change control procedures to ensure complete control of the project from inception through to completion.

CDM consultancy is also a major part of the business and, as a principal designer, Carl’s role is to plan, manage and monitor the pre-constrution phase, to co-ordinate health and safety. The principal designer role can be combined with other actitivities, such as project management, and this assists with the integration of health and safety into the project.

Architecture and More works with both public and private sectors clients, and the company’s objective is to add value to all construbtion projects with a professional and enthusiatic approach.

We have utilised the services of Architecture and More Ltd since 2012 when they were highly recommended to us by a construction industry contact, Carl initially engaged with us in the capacity of Architect during the substantial renovation of our 50,000 sq ft manufacturing facility and has since handled the subsequent expansion and development of the site including the recent addition of a 15,000 sq ft high bay warehouse, service yard, 78 space car park and site landscaping.

Carl is always quick to interpret and understand our requirements and then convert them into reality in an efficient manner, he has an excellent understanding of the operational aspects of industrial sites and brings a strong value engineering aspect to the table, he has always looked after our interests as a client whilst developing a good partnership with our chosen contractors to successfully deliver projects in line with our expectations.

Chris Pearson – Joint Managing Director – Advanced Plastics Ltd

The

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of England’s top councils for recycling - sending no waste to landfill

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The team operates a weekly collection service for nearly 4,000 business customers across the East Riding of Yorkshire, including shops, offices, restaurants, schools, leisure centres and caravan parks. East Riding of Yorkshire Council is one of the country’s top performers when it comes to recycling waste, having achieved the highest recycling rate in England for domestic waste for three years running in recent years.

Our commercial waste service builds upon these achievements offering a top-quality service with a high standard of recycling.

The team prides itself on offering a professional service, with knowledgeable and approachable staff, flexible, transparent pricing, and no hidden costs. Six dedicated trade teams collect general waste weekly, and using the might of the council’s fleet of domestic vehicles collect recycling waste fortnightly and food waste fortnightly - weekly in some areas.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council is one of the country’s top performers when it comes to recycling waste, having achieved the highest recycling rate in England for domestic waste for three years running in recent years. Our commercial waste service builds upon these achievements offering a top-quality service with a high standard of recycling.

With new legislation surrounding commercial recycling rapidly arriving, we are here to help with knowledgeable advice and potentially cost-effective solutions. By 31 March 2025, businesses with more than 10 full time equivalent employees must have separate collections of both recycling waste and food waste. By 31 March 2027 this will extend to ALL businesses.

Event waste management service

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Our commercial waste service builds upon these achievements offering a top-quality service with a high standard of recycling.

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The team have previously been awarded waste collection contracts for big local events including Driffield Show, the largest event held in the East Riding of Yorkshire. For more information, to find out more about the flexible service, easy payments plans, and how we can help with the new legislation changes please visit the website at: eastridingbusinesswaste.com Or contact the team on:

The council operates a business waste collection service throughout the East Riding of Yorkshire. We offer:

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Sarah Oliver, the council’s commercial waste manager said: “ We are on hand to give impartial advice and support to any client, and we like to think our services can be tailored to any business’s needsbeing environmentally friendly is key to all our services”

As well as collecting general waste, recycling waste, clinical and food waste the team also offers an event waste collection service.

The Importance of Payroll Professionals

Payroll professionals are the unsung heroes of every organisation. Often working behind the scenes, these dedicated individuals ensure that employees are paid accurately and on time, which is essential for maintaining workforce morale and trust. This blog delves into why payroll professionals deserve recognition and highlights the evolving landscape of payroll in today’s digital age.

Payroll is more than just issuing pay slips. It involves complex calculations, staying up-to-date with ever-changing tax laws, ensuring compliance with employment regulations, and managing benefits and deductions. Payroll professionals in the UK are responsible for processing billions annually in income tax and national insurance contributions. This massive responsibility underscores the significance of their work.

Accurate payroll is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it directly affects employee satisfaction. Errors in payroll can lead to financial stress for employees, reducing their productivity and engagement at

work. Furthermore, compliance with legal and tax obligations protects businesses from costly fines and legal disputes. Payroll professionals ensure that all statutory requirements are met, which is vital for the smooth operation of any organisation.

The payroll industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by digital technology. Automation and cloud-based solutions are making payroll processes more efficient and accurate. According to a report by Deloitte, automation can reduce payroll processing times by up to 80%, allowing payroll professionals to focus on more strategic tasks like financial planning and analysis.

Cloud-based payroll systems also offer enhanced security and accessibility, enabling real-time data access and reporting. These systems are particularly beneficial for remote and hybrid work models, which have become more prevalent in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. By embracing these technologies, businesses can improve their payroll operations and reduce the risk of errors.

Looking ahead, the role of payroll professionals is set to become even more strategic. With the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, payroll systems will become more >>>

predictive, offering insights into labour costs, turnover rates, and other key metrics. This evolution will enable payroll professionals to contribute more significantly to business strategy and decision-making.

Furthermore, the growing importance of data privacy and security will place additional responsibilities on payroll professionals. Ensuring compliance with regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation

(GDPR) will be crucial in protecting sensitive employee information.

Payroll professionals play a critical role in ensuring the financial well-being of employees and the operational efficiency of businesses. Their work ensures compliance with complex regulations, prevents costly errors, and enhances employee satisfaction. By embracing digital transformation and promoting financial literacy, organisations

can support these professionals in their vital roles. It’s essential to recognise the achievements of payroll teams and look forward to the innovations that will shape the future of payroll.

Forrester Boyd Partner, Matthew Priest states, ‘payroll is such a critical part to any organisation, there is the obvious compliance side, which means it has to be right but for me the most important side and the biggest risk is staff. Getting a hard working member of the teams pay incorrect is not going to be good for your business!’

Therefore for businesses and employees alike, understanding and appreciating the value of payroll processes can lead to a more harmonious and productive work environment. Whether through adopting new technologies or enhancing financial education, every effort to support payroll professionals contributes to the overall success of the organisation.

If you require our payroll services, contact us today and gain access to our invaluable expertise.

www.forrester-boyd.co.uk

Continued from page 13..

Up to £2.5 million On Offer for Lincolnshire Agri-Food Businesses

Agri-tech and food technology businesses in Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland will be able to apply for grants totalling up to £2.5 million to support innovation and growth when the next round of the Launchpad programme for Eastern England opens.

A partnership of the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Norfolk County Council and Suffolk County Council and the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority is working in partnership with Innovate UK under the Launchpad.

The programme allows small and medium enterprises (SMEs) working in the region to apply for competitive grants for R&D and innovation projects that focus on agri-tech and food technology.

It will offer a share of up to £2.5 million in two strands:

• MFA (Minimal Financial Assistance): funding requests between £25,000 and £100,000 for projects lasting from six to 12 months

• CR&D (Collaborative Research & Development): funding requests between £150,000 and £300,000 for projects lasting from six to 18 months.

The competition will open on Monday 23rd September and will close at 11am on Wednesday 6th November. Applicants should be notified on Thursday 12th December.

To be eligible, businesses must be growing their innovation activities in the agri-tech and food technology cluster in Eastern England, and projects must contribute to growing innovation activities in the cluster, both during and after the project.

Projects can focus on one or more of the following:

• enhancing the productivity of primary crops, the bioeconomy, livestock, aquaculture or ornamental plants

• biotechnologies related to agriculture, food and nutrition

• food that promotes safe, healthy and nutritious diets

• resource-efficient production methods for low-emission foods

Businesses applying for grant funding must be able to demonstrate how their project will grow their innovation activities in Eastern England, including Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland, Norfolk, Suffolk or Cambridgeshire.

Two high-tech agricultural businesses in Greater Lincolnshire have recently benefited from Launchpad funding.

The Launchpad programme is funded by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation. It is designed to build on innovation clusters around the UK that have significant growth potential and to deliver jobs, growth, and higher productivity.

To find out more and apply, please visit the following web pages:

CR&D:

https://apply-for-innovationfunding.service.gov. uk/competition/2038/ overview/91847399-b14d4233-acbb-e2b41a5d4896

MFA:

https://apply-for-innovationfunding.service.gov.uk/ competition/2041/overview/ e75bcc99-6aba-40f7-a984e538a8eb39fe

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Newark and Sherwood has much to be proud of: a captivating history, beautiful countryside, characterful market towns, world-renowned businesses and an enviable location at the crossroads of the country’s transportation network. Sitting at the heart of England between the A1 and the M1 and on the East Coast Mainline.

With London only 1 hour and 15 minutes away by train and excellent transport links by road, it is a fantastic place to locate your growing business. Newark and Sherwood is passionate about providing the best service possible for businesses already within the area and also for those who maybe wish to re-locate to Newark and Sherwood.

Newark and Sherwood is ambitious, forward thinking and has a growth agenda. Newark and Sherwood District Council serves 123,000 people, covering over 65,134 hectares of land, which contains 84 civil parishes and 21 wards. 39 elected members represent the district and work in collaboration with 400 employees to provide highquality services to residents.

The district’s Town Centres are renowned for a strong independent

offer and engaged business community which serve a local catchment. Newark-on-Trent is the largest town in the district and has a population of approximately 30,000 people. Over the next 20 years 7000 new homes are planned to the south of Newark along with the completion of the Southern bypass and the dualling of the A46.

Newark and Sherwood is home to the Newark Business Club which takes place on the first Friday of every month. With attendance of between 80-120 people it is a great way of networking with businesses in the area and being at the cutting edge of events taking place across the district.

Newark and Sherwood deliver a number of events throughout the year. These include the Annual Economic Growth Conference held in October each year. The conference allows for businesses to receive valuable information, hear from leading experts and to discuss the challenges and opportunities arising from future trends.

Newark and Sherwood work closely with the primary, secondary schools, Further and Higher Education providers endeavouring to ensure that the workforce of the future has the skills required to meet the needs of the 21st century businesses. The Future First Careers Expo is held in November each year at the Newark Showground.

Secondary schools from across the district are invited to meet with businesses, education and training providers. The Expo aims to improve the aspirations of young people, helping them to feel informed and inspired about a number of career paths.

In a world class destination offering rich outdoor activities, civil war heritage and the great legend of Robin Hood there is much to fill the leisure time of residents and visitors alike. Sherwood Forest provides the RSPB Centre. Southwell Minster and Newark Castle provides a few of the glorious attractions and opportunities for exploring the area.

Business leaders on the money as Governor listens to concerns over skills, carbon capture and private sector investment

The Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, told an exclusive guest list of Humber business leaders that he hoped there would be a further cut of interest rates in November, however, he was keeping a close eye on events in the Middle East as the conflict threatens to affect oil prices which in turn could drive inflation.

This was the Governor’s second event with the Chamber in two years, having hosted a breakfast meeting in Hull in 2022, but this time wanted to engage with Northern Lincolnshire businesses over lunch at Healing Manor Hotel in North East Lincolnshire.

The Governor’s latest visit to the Humber was so he could better appreciate the opportunities to the economy of carbon capture and inward investment, although he reminded his lunch guests of his historic connections with Grimsby when, in his role as Deputy Governor, he worked with former Grimsby MP Austin Mitchell after the financial crisis to get trade and cashflow working again between Iceland and the Humber.

Among the guests, was Vladimir Langhamer representing the Prax Refinery on the Humber Bank, which hosted the Chamber’s northern Lincolnshire members for a tour and meeting last year. Prax is now firmly operating as a British business which is looking to support carbon capture and commit to the local economy and its supply chain and support skills training as part of the wider Humber economy.

Andrew Dawes, the new Humber Director for ABP, explained how he was back in the UK after 20 years abroad and was aware of the projects they have money for, which have been delayed due to planning issues, while clarity on policy direction from the new Government would be helpful.

Chris Girdham, from Cory Group, raised the thorny issue of having a single Humber

Stay

Ahead in Business

Mayor and felt bringing the area together was essential to tackle the skills issues and deliver private sector investment. This got a general nod of approval from around the table.

The Governor was seized by the unanimous theme of the drastic skills shortages faced by Humber business, highlighted by most guests.

Another issue raised with the Governor were the concerns around the loss of local banking facilities, particularly in the supply chain for small firms on the south bank, where, despite the promise of local banking “hubs”, they have yet to become well established. While internet banking has become popular, it isn’t for everyone, and can be particularly challenging for older people, along with

smaller businesses in the supply chain as it was highlighted that business people do need face-to-face support at times.

The Governor commented that he was using cash less – and as the former Chief Cashier, he loves the stuff! While cash is used less, it is all out there somewhere, he said, adding that the Bank has no plans to withdraw cash from the market. Most people keep some cash and there is around £80-billion of it in the UK economy.

Wrapping up the meeting, the Governor thanked Ian, Kirk and the Chamber for organising what had been an excellent lunch and valuable insight into the concerns of leading and smaller Humber businesses.

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The Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey (centre) pictured with (from left) Dr Ian Kelly, Andrew Dawes from ABP, Chamber President Kirk Akdemir from AaGlobal, and Tim Shaw from KCOM.

Steel Stockholders and suppliers of structural sections and structural hollow sections

Rainham Steel proudly stands as proof to a remarkable five-decade commitment to the construction industry. Having just celebrated its 50-year anniversary, the company takes a reflective pause to look back on a journey that commenced in 1973. Rooted in constant values of customer satisfaction, technological progress, and environmental responsibility, Rainham Steel has risen to become an industry leader in the realm of supplying and delivering quality constructional steel products. Its reputation for excellence extends from its distribution hubs in North Lincolnshire and London, providing nationwide coverage to the construction industry.

Pioneering Infrastructure: A Network of Growth: With a strategic vision in mind, in 2002, Rainham Steel positioned itself in North Lincolnshire, and with constant investment, now boasts four expansive sites in and around the Scunthorpe area. These locations were handpicked for their central accessibility to the entire UK and proximity to crucial dock facilities for seamless imports and exports. Covering over 120 acres, Rainham Steel’s sites feature state-of-the-art warehouse facilities spanning more than 300,000 sqft. The company’s recent investment of over £5 million in advanced steel processing machinery showcases its commitment to innovation and efficiency.

A Tradition of Excellence: Meeting Customer Expectations: Rainham Steel’s foundation was built on delivering products that exceed customer expectations. Specializing in the supply of Universal Beams, Universal Columns, Channels, Angles, Large Flats, and Structural Hollow Sections, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for major Steel Fabricators, Stockholders, Construction Companies, Civil Engineers, and Builders Merchants. Rainham Steel’s commitment to timely supply and delivery remains unwavering, ensuring that each project’s needs are met with precision, reliability, and value.

For approximately three decades, Rainham Steel has also been running a reinforcement processing facility at its headquarters in Rainham, Essex catering to the construction sector in both London and the wider Southeast of England. Just three years ago, the company transitioned to a new 10-acre head office development site, with a £10 million investment.

Trailblazing Progress: Embracing Sustainability: Rainham Steel’s journey is not just marked by milestones but also by its resolute dedication to sustainability. With an annual turnover exceeding £200 million and a team of over 200 across all locations, the company operates with a fleet of more than 50 HGV vehicles, streamlining deliveries and minimizing environmental impact. At any time, holding over 150,000 tonnes of products in stock across its UK sites, Rainham Steel has embraced the future with its current stock range including CELSA ‘EAF’ ultra-low carbon ‘Green Steel,’ and ‘EAF’ steel from other major European suppliers to align its practices with the evolving demands of eco-conscious and low carbon construction.

Investment for Tomorrow: A Vision of Growth: The story of Rainham Steel is one of perpetual development. With over £40 million already invested in developing the North Lincolnshire sites, the company’s ambitious plans continue to evolve. Francis Micallef, Operations Director, details the development of a reinforcement processing hub on the banks of the River Trent at Althorpe which has obtained full CARES approval and commenced production In February 2024. This 17-acre storage facility, purchased in March 2023 at a cost of £2.7 million, has been transformed into a state-of-the-art reinforcement processing facility, with a further investment of £3.5 million in cutting edge rebar processing machines and technology, including cranes, and other plant. The production plant includes a groundbreaking fully automated ‘Ground Buffer and Lake’ solution, the first in the UK. He goes on to say how a team of 20 have been employed so far at the site and current production is at 100 tonnes per day. This underlines Rainham Steel’s enduring commitment to innovation and progress, as well as the company’s long-term growth plans in Scunthorpe and the North Lincolnshire region.

A Vision Beyond: Anticipating the Future: As Rainham Steel gears up production at the Althorpe facility, expansion plans are already underway for a purpose-built 200,000 sqft facility at the new site. With production scheduled to commence next year, the site is poised to produce an impressive 50,000 tonnes of reinforcement annually. Bolstered by ongoing operator training, this expansion is expected to create 40 more local jobs. With a constant forward-looking approach, Rainham Steel is set to channel a further £15 million in investment into its growth plans in the next two years, underscoring its commitment to both pioneering solutions and sustainability.

As Rainham Steel marked its five-decade anniversary its story is one of dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. From its humble beginnings in 1973 to its current position as a leading innovator in the UK steel industry, Rainham Steel stands as a symbol of growth, adaptability, and environmental responsibility. With its sights firmly set on the future, Rainham Steel is poised to continue shaping the construction landscape, with its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and value.

East Riding’s free public access Wi-Fi utilised by 60,000 users, with expansion planned for five new locations

East Riding’s free outdoor public access Wi-Fi, introduced as part of the smart county programme, has already seen 60,000 users connect since its launch, supporting the East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s wider digital strategy. Funded by UK Government, the outdoor Wi-Fi coverage was rolled out to eight town centres in January 2023.

Free Wi-Fi is currently available in outdoor areas of Beverley, Bridlington, Goole, Hedon, Hornsea, Howden, Pocklington, and Withernsea. This is in addition to the indoor Wi-Fi services at 57 East Ridingmanaged facilities, such as libraries, leisure centres and care homes, which went live in April 2023.

In the first ten months, 60,000 people have connected to the outdoor public Wi-Fi, benefitting residents, businesses, and market traders. The service has also proven popular with visitors to the area, with Wi-Fi connections in coastal locations

such as Bridlington, Hornsea, and Withernsea increasing by 80% during the summer months.

The Wi-Fi coverage played a key role in the success of a recent Bridlington beach volleyball tournament. During the NEVZA youth beach volleyball championships 2024, held in June, connections in the south beach area doubled compared to the previous week. The Wi-Fi also allowed Volleyball England to stream all 115 games on YouTube, attracting 35,000 views, with 35% of the audience tuning in from outside the UK.

Councillor David Tucker, East Riding of Yorkshire Council Deputy Leader, said, “We’re thrilled with the strong uptake of East Riding’s free public access Wi-Fi. This is an invaluable resource for local businesses, market traders, residents, and visitors. The next phase of the project will bring these benefits to even more towns across the East Riding.”

The upcoming expansion will extend Wi-Fi coverage to areas in Cottingham, Driffield, Hessle, and Snaith, along with additional coverage in Bridlington, including parts of Bridlington Old Town. The new coverage is expected to go live by late October 2024.

Schools across East Riding are taking part in Creativity Week, with an ambitious new programme of arts and culture.

Running 21 to 25 October, East Riding’s Cultural Education Partnership invites all schools to get involved in celebrating creativity, whilst providing new opportunities for children and young people.

Local creative professionals including poets, painters, dancers and drummers will deliver exciting new workshops.

Schools can also access resources such as online films and worksheets to support creativity in classrooms. These include interviews with local rapper Chiedu Oraka fresh from his first Glastonbury appearance, story-writing workshops with well-known author James Nichol, and Northern Girls, a film by local theatre company about experience of growing up in the north.

Councillor Victoria Aitken, cabinet member for children, families and education said:

“I’m delighted that our schools have a chance to be involved in Creativity Week and the diversity of the arts and culture on offer. It will enable our children and young people to experience and learn new things, whilst having fun.”

Cultural institutions will also open their doors with free events for local schools, enabling local children to see high quality professional events and build connections between schools and their local venues. Hawk Dance will perform their show The Greatest Robot at Pocklington Arts Centre and Goole Junction, while Balbir Singh Dance Company will bring their retelling of the Ramayana to East Riding

Theatre, free for local primary schools.

Creativity Week is made possible through a partnership between East Riding of Yorkshire Council and cultural, education and voluntary sector partners. The project has been funded by Arts Council England and is free for schools.

Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism said:

“I’m really pleased that we have funding once again to hold Creativity Week in the East Riding. Last year was fantastic!

“This year we have over 40 schools signed up so far, but i’d encourage more schools to look at the range of arts and culture on offer and get involved.”

Schools can sign up by email cultural. education@eastriding.gov.uk, or for more information visit: www.eastridingculture. co.uk/east-riding-arts/creativity-week/

Creativity Week Bridlington Image courtesy of Matt Cooper

The importance of upskilling your STEM workforce

Mark Gibson, Director of the Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology (YHIoT)

A recent report by Hays Recruitment revealed some cold, hard truths about the state of the higher level skills agenda in the UK - some of which were quite shocking.

Data revealed that the UK appears among the top five countries with skills deficits in the technology, engineering, life sciences and BFSI (banking, financial services and insurance) sectors. This indicates that employers in the country may face significant challenges in finding the necessary talent.

Skills shortages can result in stagnant productivity, missed opportunities for innovation and hindered long-term growth, which threaten the competitiveness of the UK.

Although this is a national issue, it needs to be tackled at a local level to ensure that businesses in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) industries have

access to the skills they need to succeed. It also creates an opportunity for areas such as Yorkshire and Humber to counter the longstanding ‘brain drain’ which sees talented people and aspirational employers moving south to achieve their ambitions.

Tackling the issue at the source

Whilst it’s important to ensure there is a new talent pool of skilled workers for STEM employers, the skills shortage can also be addressed by employers investing in their current workforce.

At the Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology (YHIoT), we work with regional employers across Yorkshire and Humber to do just that - giving them access to the tools they need to upskill, retrain and support the progression of their current staff. To do this, we also work with a number of educational institutions across the region,

all with cutting-edge learning environments and top-notch technical facilities that our employment partners have access to.

We offer qualifications including Higher National Certificates/Diplomas (HNC/ Ds), Foundation Degrees, T-Levels and Apprenticeships, and these are accessible for learners of all ages.

Teaching skills tailored to our region

A big part of our mission at the YHIoT is to ensure people are learning the skills that are needed right here in our region. By working with local employers, we’re identifying the skills that are required in key industries including engineering, construction, agriculture, horticulture, animal care and digital services.

Those working in agriculture will understand that technology now plays a huge role in

meeting increased food demands, so the need for people with these technological skills has never been greater. Precision agriculture employs GPS, sensors and drones to optimise resource usage and reduce waste, while data analytics and AI enable informed decisionmaking. This has revolutionised crop monitoring, irrigation and pest control, enhancing overall productivity and sustainability.

Moreover, the growing awareness of animal welfare and the need for efficient livestock management have led to the implementation of advanced technologies like biometrics, wearable devices and data analytics to optimise animal care practices.

Similarly, technological advancements in construction techniques, coupled with leading-edge engineering, is addressing the rising demand for smart infrastructure and fostering the adoption of innovative construction methods, such as 3D printing and prefabrication.

The digital world is an integral part of everyday life and has profoundly transformed nearly every aspect of modern society. This has fuelled the demand for cutting-edge technologies like AI, machine learning, virtual and augmented reality, big data analytics and cloud computing, leading to an increased

demand for people with these skills across all industries.

Alongside our education partners, we offer employers the opportunity to access these skills by delivering training and education that is bespoke to their job roles.

By working with us, employers know they can secure a skills pipeline into their sector and that their employees with a YHIoT qualification will add value to their organisation.

To find out more about how we can upskill your STEM workforce, visit www.yhiot.ac.uk.

Yorkshire & Humber Institute of Technology (YHIoT) is a partnership between education institutions and employers across the region.

Our mission is to help people and businesses in the region access the skills they need to succeed. Working collaboratively, we deliver high quality, higher-level technical education and training across a range of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) industries, meeting the needs of individuals and industry.

We’re committed to identifying future skills needs and supporting technological innovation to drive economic growth locally and nationally.

Because we know that… Technical.Skills.Work

£10m grant programme launched to help build industrial units

North East Lincolnshire Council has launched a new £10 million grant programme to help property developers create new industrial units on existing Enterprise zone sites across North East Lincolnshire.

The aim of the South Humber Industrial Investment Programme (SHIIP) speculative unit grant programme is to bridge the gap that stops speculative investment in commercial buildings, in particular, industrial units, where the realistic achievable rental value doesn’t balance out the level of investment required to build them.

The grant programme was approved at the Council’s Cabinet meeting in May 2024, pending the release of money from government to the Humber Freeport.

The key objectives of Freeports are to stimulate economic activity by establishing hubs for global trade and investment, promote regeneration and job creation, and innovation.

Confirmation has recently been given that the seed capital funding, as part of the Freeport project is being released by government in the coming weeks, which has allowed this grant scheme to be activated.

The SHIIP speculative unit grant will deliver additional industrial floorspace to provide clustering and supply chain opportunities around the ports of Immingham and Grimsby.

Priority will be given in the first instance to developments proposed on existing Enterprise zone sites in Stallingborough, Grimsby and Immingham.

Cllr Philip Jackson, leader of the Council said:

“We know that this is an issue – we have the land to develop on, and we have enquiries coming in all the time to our Investment Team, but we don’t have the empty units available to put forward for consideration. This scheme will help address this, and in the long term, provide more jobs for local people.”

The scheme is open until noon on 13 November 2024, and applications are invited from experienced commercial property developers who own, or have access to via lease or purchase, an Enterprise Zone within North East Lincolnshire. Applications will also be considered on non-Enterprise zones sites if funding allows.

Proposed development must be for the provision of quality industrial/ manufacturing space which will then be leased to support local business growth, inward investment, innovation, and job creation. Applicants cannot access funding to construct buildings for their own use.

For full guidance, eligibility criteria, information on site locations, and application form visit https:// investnel.co.uk/south-humberindustrial-investment-programme/

Able UK Welcomes the UK’s First HGV Electric Vehicle Charging Hub to Able Humber Port

The UK’s first public Electric heavy goods vehicle (EHGV) charging stations will open on Able Humber Port (AHP) this year. The new EHGV charging hub will drive the decarbonisation of future transport and logistics across AHP, and the South Humber ports as new Electric powered HGV’s replace existing diesel fleets.

North Lincolnshire Council granted planning consent for the project in June and the developer Milence – a Daimler Truck, Volvo Group and Traton Group (formally Volkswagen Truck & Bus AG – including Man & Scania) joint venture company opens the first phase in November 2024.

The initial phase will deliver four highperformance Combined Charging Systems (CCS) chargers powering eight bays, and one Megawatt Charging System (MCS) chargers powering two bays and will host lounge and welfare facilities also providing food and beverages. The final site will include further CCS and MCS chargers and enhanced facilities.

AHP can provide tax site Freeport benefits on 439 acres, this includes 5-year business rates relief, stamp duty land tax relief, secondary class 1 national insurance relief and enhanced capital allowances, in the form of enhanced structures and buildings allowances (SBAs)

and enhanced plant and machinery allowances (PMAs).

AHP provides 769 acres of development land and will be constructing over 1 kilometre of new heavy-duty, deepwater quays to be developed on 108 acres of developed riverbed. This will provide deep sea port access to AHP and our neighbouring Able Energy Park (AEP) which provides 722 acres of developable land available for a range of green energy sector businesses.

AHP and AEP are located adjacent to the two South Humber refineries, Exolum national aviation fuel distribution centre and two Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) projects.

Peter Stephenson, Able UK founder and Executive Chairman said,

‘We are delighted to be welcoming Milence to Able Humber Port to deliver the UK’s first electric charging hub. The hub is an exciting step forward in supporting the decarbonising of the Humber Ports and The HGV transport industry also assisting Able Humber Port and the region transition to net zero.’

Anja van Niersen, CEO at Milence said “Expanding into the UK with our first charging hub in Immingham represents a significant milestone for Milence. This strategic location not only enhances our ability to support the growing demand for sustainable transport solutions but also aligns with our commitment to driving the future of green logistics across Europe.”

Delight as Greater Lincolnshire devolution gets the go-ahead

DEVOLUTION for Greater Lincolnshire is to go-ahead, following successful meetings between local authority leaders and the new Government.

In a joint announcement, delighted leaders of the three lead authorities - North East and North Lincolnshire unitary councils, and Lincolnshire County Council, have confirmed the future of the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority (GLCCA).

During September, a Greater Lincolnshire delegation visited Westminster to meet Jim McMahon, the Minister of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Following those successful talks, the Deal will now progress through its final legislative stage to allow the forming of the GLCCA ahead of the Mayoral election next May.

The Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Philip Jackson, said:

“I am sure I share the sentiments of my two colleagues, the Leaders of Lincolnshire County Council and North Lincolnshire Council, when I say this is the best possible news we could have hoped for. Months and months of dedicated hard work and effort has been put into creating a vision for Greater Lincolnshire that will offer a cohesive approach - allowing this region to grow and prosper.

“Our deal was supported by the last Government with millions of pounds of funding agreed to be devolved down to our new Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority to ensure we would be able to truly invest in our key priority areas, which will underpin our positive way forward.

“I am therefore delighted that Greater Lincolnshire devolution continues to have the support of the country’s new Government and I now look forward to continuing our journey towards more local control with funding and powers handed to those who are closer to the communities they serve. We have a chance to make a real difference.”

Lincolnshire County Council’s Leader, Cllr Martin Hill OBE, continued:

“This is great news and I’m pleased we are able to move forward with devolution to deliver growth in Greater Lincolnshire. We have always been clear that strengthening local decision-making where we consider the needs and wants of our communities, will give the best results for residents and businesses.

“It’s clear that having a Mayoral Combined Authority will give us the ability to liaise directly with the government about what is best for our residents and be able to achieve our ambitious plans more quickly. The decision to take this forward reflects our strong partnership work with North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire councils, and the hard work we have all put in to making sure it’s the right deal for our area.”

Cllr Rob Waltham MBE, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said:

“I am pleased that the devolution deal has been approved for Greater Lincolnshire and the generational change this will deliver for local people.

“Our £720m deal was supported by thousands of residents and has been on the table for years and negotiated earlier this year. At last, we can get to work on seizing this monumental opportunity – bringing better paid jobs to the area, boosting skills, expanding local infrastructure and enhancing our environment across Lincolnshire.

“We will continue to strengthen ties across our great historic county - I am incredibly proud to have been born, educated and lived and worked in Lincolnshire for most of my life and to have 10 generations of my family living throughout Lincolnshire. We are a great county full of inspirational people who deserve the best opportunities for them and their families as we seek to level up Lincolnshire to deliver a better quality of life for local residents.”

A letter from Mr McMahon to the three Leaders, states:

“Thank you for all your hard work to get to this point. The establishment of the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority will be a significant step in realising that ambition for your region, giving you as local leaders the power to make decisions that benefit your communities, boosting economic growth and driving reform, which is at the forefront of the government’s agenda.”

In his letter, the Minister recognises the work that is being done to grow relationships between Greater Lincolnshire and Hull & East Riding which has also had its devolution deal accepted.

“I know you will work to deepen and grow these arrangements,” he added.

The financial Deal remains the same as finalised between our three lead authorities and the previous Government with a total investment fund of three-quarters of a billion pounds over the next 30 years.

This includes an annual £24m Mayoral Investment Fund to invest in priority areas of jobs and skills; housing & highways, transport, the environment and nature, net zero, digital improvements, and innovation and trade. There is also an initial capital funding pot of £28m including brownfield funding for individual schemes across Greater Lincolnshire. In North East Lincolnshire this will support the phase one development of a Grimsby Town Centre Transport Hub, along with the new housing scheme for the town’s Alexandra Dock.

Picture shows the Leaders (left to right) of North Lincolnshire, North East Lincolnshire Councils, and Lincolnshire County Council: Cllr Rob Waltham CBE, Cllr Philip Jackson, and Cllr Martin Hill OBE.

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber Expo highlights renewed regional business confidence

A record number of visitors from across the region came together to discover local business connections, develop new skills and find out more about the diverse range of business opportunities available across the region at the 2024 Chamber Means Business Expo. BARNSLEY

Organised by Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber and sponsored by KAT Communications, KCM Waste Management and Entry Sign, Chamber Means Business is one of South Yorkshire’s longest running and popular business events, a nd with a number of local businesses, anchor organisations and leading regional names represented at the event, it offered a golden opportunity for visitors to find out more about some of the unique and innovative work being delivered across the region.

Earlier this month, the latest Quarterly Economic Survey, published on behalf of all three of South Yorkshire’s Chambers of Commerce, suggested that despite many businesses facing uncertainty, there was reason for optimism with many businesses seeing sales and orders increase for the fifth consecutive quarter.

That sense of hope and optimism was clearly on display at the AESSEAL New York Stadium, with many visitors on the day making new business connections and growing their professional networks.

During the day,several businesses were presented with salute to business awards,

in recognition of the longstanding contributions to the regional economy. Companies recognised were Cynetix IT Services (30 Years), Andy File Associates (15 years) and Balliante (5 years).

Delegates were also given the chance to take part in a special B2B marketing and sales masterclass. Delivered by Dan Broadbent, Managing Director of Objective and Hayden Fox of Sales Geek, the seminar offered an insight into building robust sales procedures, from identifying new opportunities to converting conversations into customers.

Representatives from several public sector organisations also took part in the event, giving visitors the chance to learn more about some of the opportunities to contribute to the success of key regional organisations including local authorities, education providers and the NHS.

Shane Young, Operations Director, Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said:

“When businesses come together, the whole region benefits.Chamber Means Business is one of the most popular business events hosted by Barnsley

& Rotherham Chamber because its unique format gives visitors the chance to make new connections, find out more about the local business operating in our region and expertise available throughout the Chamber’s network .

Over the past year we have been working closely with public sector organisations from across South Yorkshire to break down barriers when it comes to procurement, as well as encouraging a ‘buy-local’ culture. This approach doesn’t just help to retain investment in South Yorkshire but also plays a vital role in job creation and skills retention across the region.

I would like to personally thank everyone who contributed to the success of the day, especially our sponsors, KAT Communications, KCM Waste Management and Entry Sign, without which, this event wouldn’t be possible.”

Although a date is to be confirmed, Chamber Means Business will return in 2025.

Celebrating our place at the heart of economic growth and regeneration

The University of Hull is incredibly proud of our continued contribution to economic growth and regeneration in our region – and are celebrating this being recognised in the latest national Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF).

The KEF results, published this week by Research England, also highlight us as one of the top performing universities in the country when it comes to our work with the public and third sector.

The results reveal that we’ve been classed as having ‘Very High Engagement’, the highest ranking in these categories.

Professor Kevin Kerrigan, Deputy ViceChancellor, said:

“We believe in the power of partnerships, and are committed to working with communities and businesses in our region to shape a successful future,

underpinned by sustained economic growth.

“I’m delighted that this work has been recognised in the latest KEF, especially at such an exciting time for our region as we look to harness opportunities presented by devolution. Fostering an environment in which our research and expertise can benefit people across our region will be key to this process, and something we are committed to as a civic institution.”

We’ve continued to show a strong performance across all 7 of the ‘perspectives’,

or areas, measured in the KEF, which demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the benefits of our research and Knowledge Exchange activity are as far reaching as possible. We’re also incredibly proud of our work across the wide range of Knowledge Exchange activities, including undertaking research for businesses, commercialisation of our knowledge; and providing continuing professional development.

Professor Fiona Matthews, Pro-ViceChancellor (Research and Enterprise), added:

“I’d like to recognise the huge amount of work from colleagues across the

University in forging and fostering these invaluable external partnerships. The research and impact they are co-creating is making a real difference to people in our region, to the organisations they work in, and to the place they call home.”

Through Knowledge Exchange partnerships, we continue our work across a number of key areas to generate growth and tackle pressing issues facing communities in our region.

Just one example of our support for local growth is our work with Gateway Chassis Solutions, helping them find ways to improve working conditions, reduce energy consumption and limit harmful environmental emissions. Drawing on expertise from the Aura Innovation Centre and our experts in Chemical Engineering, and with ERDF-funded support, an innovative extraction solution using new nano-material was recommended and is now in the next phase of industrial scale development.

The ‘Risky Cities’ project exemplifies our collaborative approach, working with and within communities to co-create arts and heritage projects that raise awareness of flooding and flood risk measures. Recognition of the value of this participatory approach has led to our institution becoming the lead of a new national £2m network, Coast-R, which is working towards resilience for our coastal communities and seas.

Through the ‘Changing Perspectives: Amplifying the Voices of Colour at Hull Museums’ Knowledge Exchange initiative, Dr Nick Evans engaged underrepresented communities in the development of exhibitions. The success of this project led to Dr. Evans’ work being shortlisted for the Knowledge Exchange/Transfer Initiative of the Year category in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) Awards.

Emma Calverley, Director of Knowledge Exchange, said:

“We are delighted to continue to be recognised for the work that we are doing to strengthen our region, laying strong foundations for growth through our partnerships with businesses, public groups and the third sector.

“Knowledge Exchange not only supports direct growth through regeneration and business development, it’s also about helping to improve the quality of life for people across our region. The ‘exchange’ element of this way of working cannot be underestimated. The learnings we take away from these projects enhance everything we do, including how we support and teach our students – who in turn will shape our future businesses and communities.”

About the Knowledge Exchange Framework

The Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) forms the third pillar of assessment of universities’ activities, alongside the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and the Research Excellence Framework (REF) and was developed by Research England to measure the efficiency and effectiveness of Knowledge Exchange in universities.

It is the fourth year that universities have been benchmarked against seven key areas, providing a picture of how they engage with external partners to contribute both to the economy and society.

For more information, please visit https://www.hull.ac.uk/ knowledgeexchange

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A decade of business support to tackle modern slavery

The University of Hull’s Wilberforce Institute set up a Slavery and Trafficking Risk Assessment Service for Business Supply Chains in 2014 in anticipation of the UK Modern Slavery Act. The Service provides businesses, practitioners and the wider community with tools and guidance to help fight and reduce the impact of modern day slavery.

Under the leadership of Cristina Talens, the Service helps leaders, businesses and communities tackle modern-day slavery by conducting research, carrying out risk assessments, and digging beneath the surface to get to what’s really happening in their supply chains.

Cristina Talens said:

“It has been incredible to see the changes in the regulatory landscape in terms of labour and human rights over the last 10 years. We have seen new EU legislation, such as the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Human Rights Reporting Directive (HRDD), introducing tighter

requirements for businesses to check working conditions of those who provide their goods and services.

“Transparency is key and collaboration between businesses, trades unions and NGOs is now being used to address complex issues across sectors and across countries. Businesses now have a responsibility to check that workers are being treated well, that there are communication mechanisms in place to raise concerns and that remediation processes are effective.”

In today’s fast-paced business environment, even small to medium-sized enterprises may

Cristina Talens, Head of Business Risk Assessment Services at the University of Hull’s Wilberforce Institute

Assorted berries ready for sale

have complex supply chains. Businesses may have countless suppliers, who in turn have their own suppliers. Add to the mix regular and rapid changes to achieve best value or meet seasonal demand and you have an environment where unscrupulous labour providers can often thrive.

Cristina spoke of her experience of working in the fast-moving consumer goods sector:

“The food sector is highly reliant on seasonal and agency workers, particularly at peak times. In the agricultural sector in particular, many farms recruit

migrant workers who can be at risk of exploitation from gangmasters. Without the right processes, systems and training in place, businesses are at risk of infiltration by less scrupulous intermediaries, leaving workers open to exploitation. The service enables us to have a business conversation with companies to ensure that they are able to protect themselves and their supply chains from illegal practices that could be hugely damaging for their business and workers’ human rights.”

Bespoke training to help businesses tackle modern slavery

The Wilberforce Institute has also developed training to help companies meet the provisions of the Modern Slavery Act. This training is designed to:

• Support businesses who want to take a proactive approach to tackling modern slavery within their companies and their supply chains.

• Ensure incidences of modern slavery are dealt with effectively and with the correct level of diligence.

• Demonstrate responsible sourcing by improving labour and human rights in supply chains for the long term.

This approach provides a framework for supplier support that goes beyond social auditing and takes a holistic approach to dealing with the complex issue that is modern slavery.

Cristina Talens said: “We have worked alongside businesses to improve the due diligence process and to better understand the risks to worker’s rights, before problems happen. Our risk assessment services help businesses anticipate pitfalls with suppliers and provide up-to-date guidance and advice on what risks businesses need to be actively addressing, going forward. We also provide training to HR, procurement and technical teams so that they are better equipped to identify risks within their businesses.”

What does the Modern Slavery Act mean for my business?

The UK’s Modern Slavery Act was introduced in 2015. One of its key provisions is to require businesses with an annual turnover of over £36m to disclose each year what action they have taken to ensure there is no modern slavery in their business or supply chains. Depending on the scope of their operations, businesses may also be affected by EU Due Diligence legislation.

The Modern Slavery Act has provision for legal enforcement and prosecution but perhaps of equal weight is the potential for bad publicity and damaged reputation with customers, should a business fail to deal with modern slavery risks in their supply chains.

And the UK Modern Slavery Act is not always the only legislation that businesses need to worry about. Many will also have to meet new due diligence requirements such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Human Rights Reporting Directive (HRDD).

Spotlight on Cristina Talens

Cristina Talens works closely with businesses, to develop bespoke training and auditing packages, as well as also leading the Wilberforce Business Academy free online training programme. An experienced social auditor, Cristina’s international experience in labour, human rights and ethical trading stretches over 25 years and includes:

• Conducting social audits and research assignments on behalf of businesses and major UK supermarkets, such as John Lewis, Yorkshire Water, and rail suppliers voestelpine UK.

• Delivering labour, human rights and ethical training programmes for companies’ technical, HR and procurement teams.

• Working on labour exploitation of migrant workers in agriculture across the EU, Central and Latin America and Africa.

The Wilberforce Institute recognises the time pressures affecting businesses, so has developed a free online training programme that offers a bite-size introduction to key issues. Perfect for a business looking for practical hands-on advice to help address key labour issues in your organisations and supply chains.

Visit the Wilberforce Business Academy page http://www.hull.ac.uk/businessacademy to sign up for a new training session or view films from previous sessions.

• Acting as a consultant researcher on the UN Global Programme Against Trafficking and Smuggling of Human Beings.

Contact Cristina Talens to discuss your business needs via c.talens@hull.ac.uk

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Cristina Talens meeting farm workers

A tomato farm

Farm Workers Setting up a Tunnel at a Farm

RWE unveils first turbine blade for Sofia Offshore Wind Farm at Siemens Gamesa factory in Hull

• Siemens Gamesa’s Hull factory is producing blades for 100 state-of-the-art 14 MW offshore wind turbines that will power RWE’s Sofia project.

• Sofia Offshore Wind Farm on target for completion towards end of 2026.

• Ceremony to unveil the first of the new blades was attended by RWE UK Country Chair

Tom Glover, Darren Davidson, Vice President Siemens Energy UK&I and Siemens Gamesa UK, and Melanie Onn, MP for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes.

RWE, one of the world’s leading companies in offshore wind, has unveiled the first of the state-of-the-art turbine blades being made at the Siemens Gamesa factory in Hull, marking a major milestone in the construction of the flagship project.

Guests at the event at Siemens Gamesa’s Hull factory. including Tom Glover, RWE UK Country Chair enjoyed a tour of the factory and saw the production process in action.

The 108 metre long blades are attached to each of the 100 x 14 megawatts (MW) offshore wind turbines which will operate at the heart of RWE’s Sofia Offshore Wind project. Once fully operational, the 1.4 gigawatts (GW) Sofia Offshore Wind Farm would be capable of generating enough clean, renewable electricity to power the equivalent of approximately 1.2 million typical UK homes every year.

Tom Glover, RWE UK Country Chair:

“To see these impressive turbine blades being produced, ready to be installed at our flagship Sofia offshore wind farm, is a fantastic demonstration of the true value that offshore wind brings to coastal communities, such as Hull. The potential for job creation within the renewable supply chain is huge. Not just with companies like Siemens Energy, which is manufacturing the blades for Sofia at their blade factory here in the UK - but right across the supply chain. Sofia is a significant development for RWE in the UK, and we are delighted to be able to see that investment being maximised in support of important local, coastal communities.”

Darren Davidson, Vice President Siemens Energy UK&I:

“Our wind power business Siemens Gamesa makes Siemens Energy a global market leader for renewable energies. At our offshore wind blade

factory in Hull we’re powering the energy transition. We now employ over 1,300 people at the site, after recruiting more than 600 new employees over the last 12 months. We are proud to be a key supplier to RWE on a number of UK projects, including manufacturing the blades for Sofia. It’s great to have this project underway and unveil the first blade.”

Siemens Energy’s Hull blade factory is the largest manufacturing facility of its kind in the UK, having expanded to keep pace with the rapid growth of the offshore wind sector. Building on strong collaboration with RWE and other offshore wind developers, it has been a catalyst for further economic growth in the Humber region.

More than 50% of the investment in RWE’s Sofia Offshore Wind Farm project is spent within the UK. Siemens Energy will manufacture, install and commission all 100 of the very latest SG 14-222 DD turbines. Each turbine will stand 252m tall, have 108m long turbine blades and a 222m rotor diameter.

RWE has also confirmed that working with Siemens Gamesa, they will deploy recyclable blades on 44 of 100 turbines - a record 132 individual blades. This follows the successful installation of recyclable blades at RWE’s Kaskasi Offshore Wind Farm off the German island Heligoland.

The Sofia offshore wind farm project is located on Dogger Bank in the central North Sea, 195km off the north east coast of England. Offshore installation began earlier this year (2024), with project completion anticipated in 2026.

Operations and maintenance activities for Sofia will be managed from RWE’s new offshore wind operations base, the ‘Grimsby Hub,’ which also services RWE’s Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm. RWE is also developing in the region its two Dogger Bank South projects which, together, would have a potential installed capacity of around 3 GW.

The total size of the wind farm will be 593km², approximately the size of the Isle of Man.