West & North Yorkshire Business Magazine Q3 2020 by West & North Yorkshire Business

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Yorkshire

usiness PRODUCED & PUBLISHED BY WEST & NORTH YORKSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Plans for the future

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CONNECTING, SUPPORTING & REPRESENTING BUSINESS IN THE REGION

Q3 2020

Up to 66% off † Business Breakdown Cover for Chamber members Service level

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For more information, please contact your local Chamber of Commerce Direct Debit. To make life easier, you can now pay for your breakdown cover by Direct Debit. Based on Fleetwide 3 Standard rates for 3-6 vehicles. All the above prices are per vehicle per year, inclusive of IPT (Insurance Premium Tax). All prices are subject to change. Fleetwide cover does not apply to: specialist vehicles, ie: taxis, mini cabs, hire vehicles, ambulances, police vehicles, vehicles on tradeplates, minibuses, privately owned vehicles (unless used for business purposes), motorcycles and courier vehicles (all of which can be covered on Specialist rates as above), or any vehicles over 3.5 tonnes gvw. Terms and conditions apply. *Relay and Relay Plus services are not provided at or within ¼ mile of driver’s home address. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer prices are only available while your Chamber membership is current. We reserve the right to review pricing at any time. Full terms and conditions available on request by calling 0800 55 11 88. Business Breakdown cover is provided by Automobile Association Developments Limited (trading as AA Breakdown Services). Relay Plus is underwritten by Acromas Insurance Company Limited. Acromas Insurance Company Limited is authorised and regulated by the Commissioner of Insurance, Financial Services Commission, Gibraltar, and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, United Kingdom. Acromas Insurance Company Limited is a member of the Association of British Insurers. Head Office: 57-63 Line Wall Road, Gibraltar. Registered Number 88716 (Gibraltar). UK brand address: Acromas Insurance Company Limited, Enbrook Park, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3SE. Automobile Association Insurance Services Limited is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Office: Fanum House, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 4EA. Registered in England and Wales number 2414212. †

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West & North Yorkshire Business

WELCOME 3

Real and digital connections

Difficulties arising from Covid-19 continue, but I hope you’ll see some optimism in this quarter’s magazine. There are great examples of organisations helping each other, technology is a boost to many, including allowing the Opera North choir to perform online and the feature on CityFibre shows the importance of having good connectivity. You’ll find features on education and skills, which remain important to businesses of all sizes and sectors. Continuing to study and learn is vital for those now often called the Covid generation. Sandy Needham DL Chief Executive West & North Yorkshire Chamber

Within our patch there are various working groups focusing on the recovery of the economy, with some good partnership work. It might be tempting to stop work on environmental issues for a while, but I’m pleased to report that the Chamber Environment Group is working on a toolkit and First Bus is investing in electric fleets. Devolution has been a regular topic in the Chamber magazines and this issue is no exception. West Yorkshire has a deal and discussions are underway to find a deal for North Yorkshire. By the time you read this, perhaps there will be one in place! Businesses are desperate to know what they need to do to prepare for the end of the Brexit transition period. We’re lobbying hard for Government agreements, sharing information and preparing to offer a Chamber Customs solution. Over 500 businesses nationwide joined a British Chambers webinar to learn what the future international trade landscape may look like with just 100 days before changes become reality.

08455 240 240 editor@yorkshire-business.co.uk www.yorkshire-business.co.uk @WNYorkshire_Biz

West & North Yorkshire Business

4 CONTACTS EDITORIAL editor@yorkshire-business.co.uk

MEMBERS’ NEWS News from Bradford, Leeds, York & North Yorkshire

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22 SUPPORT

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26 EDUCATION

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28 TRAINING

West & North Yorkshire Business is a quarterly business

30 DEVOLUTION

CityFibre

Skills and education

Leeds Beckett University

Bradford College

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for West & North Yorkshire

magazine produced by the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The audience for this publication is comprised of a targeted audience of the major decision

32 TRANSPORT First Bus

makers and senior executives across both the Yorkshire region and the wider UK business community.

34 INTERNATIONAL Training workshops

of the editorial team. West & North Yorkshire Business has taken all reasonable care to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate on the date of publication. This magazine is published by the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber group includes Chamber International, Business Enterprise Fund and West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

CHAMBER CUSTOMS New import/export documetation service

38 FINANCE

Barclays Bank

40 HEALTHCARE

Sovereign Health Care

42 WELLBEING

Benenden Health

CASE STUDY Ad:Venture

46 INTERVIEW

Bruntwood SciTech

48 PROFILE

White Rose Academies

50 REPRESENTATION

Chamber appointments

51 TRANSPORT Rail upgrades

52 SOCIAL

Chamber online highlights

CHAMBER CHARITIES Continued support

54 EVENTS

Chamber webinars

CASE STUDY Chamber International

West & North Yorkshire Business

CONTENTS 5

Connecting the region

38 34

Funding success

Get ready for Brexit

Workforce wellfare

Support for small businesses

First Bus goes green

West & North Yorkshire Business

BRADFORD NEWS

Transformational Last October I talked in this column about the “transformational” year we’d had. Never has a word had such resonance and relevance to today.

School accepts donation from chemical company

But it’s not all bad. Bradford continues to “sparkle” as our latest visitor campaign to support hospitality businesses and attractions reminds us. Businesses are cautiously re-opening and I sense we’re gradually accepting a world where Covid-19 lives among us, at least for now.

Hand sanitiser, gloves and masks were delivered to the school to help provide a safer learning environment for pupils. One hundred disposable masks and 1000 pairs of synthetic rubber gloves will be used when sanitising rooms and equipment between lessons.

Covid-19 has created a heightened sense of unity in our community and a typically Bradfordian resourcefulness as we diversify and in some cases, reinvent our businesses to become increasingly agile. I’ve spoken to retailers who’ve embraced ecommerce only to find there’s a place for blending traditional bricks and mortar with online trading. To manufacturers who have expanded into PPE and air handling systems which create safer working environments. And restaurant owners who are skills sharing to support each other as they invest time and money in making their premises “Covid secure”.

Sutton in Craven Community Primary has been gifted supplies to help keep its classrooms clean by local chemical company, Airedale Chemical.

Daniel Marr, commercial director at Cross Hills based Airedale Chemical, explains: “Schools are facing a truly unenviable task organising classrooms and routines to create a safe and socially-distanced place to learn and we wanted to do anything we could to help our local primary school make that tricky transition. “We recently diversified into providing hand sanitiser so were over the moon to be able to provide something useful for the hardworking staff at Sutton-in-Craven Community Primary School and we were happy to share PPE such as gloves and masks.

The Chamber are working with partners to deliver our third Bradford Manufacturing Weeks, all online. The experience may be “virtual” but the benefits are real as we support Bradford’s students who are navigating an evolving jobs market. A lot can happen in 12 months. But by supporting each other and recognising the resourcefulness and the expertise on our doorstep, we improve our chances of surviving the coronavirus storm in the months and the year to come. Suzanne Watson President Bradford Chamber

Bradford archaeologists lead discovery What could be one of the largest prehistoric sites in the UK has been discovered near Stonehenge by a consortium of archaeologists led by the University of Bradford. A massive 2km-wide ring of prehistoric pits up to 10m across and 5m deep has been discovered around the ‘super henge’ at Durrington Walls and the famous site at Woodhenge. The structures have been carbon dated to about 2500BC. Prof Vince Gaffney, 50th Anniversary Chair of the School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences in the Faculty of Life Sciences, said it was extraordinary such a major find had been made.

7 Outstanding business contribution for TF Automation TF Automation are delighted to receive the “Highly Commended” Award for Outstanding Business Contribution in the Careers and Technical Education (CTE) Partnership Awards 2020. Nominated by Hanson School, Bradford, TF Automation were recognised and awarded for their work and tours during the Bradford Manufacturing Weeks initiative and their contribution to the “F1 in School” Programme. Hanson School commented, “Working with TF proved just how important it is for schools to have support and engagement with commercial companies to help inform

and enrich the curriculum and inspire students to make decisions regarding their future working career choices.” Tony Hubbert, MD at TF Automation added, “We were delighted to win the “highly commended” award for Outstanding Business Contribution and really appreciate the nomination by Hanson School.”. He continues “ We have engaged with Hanson School as part of Bradford Manufacturing week with site visits for the past 2 years and also supported them with advice and guidance as part of the F1 Challenge and are delighted the team are through to the next stage.”

Prime Minister challenged on housing inequality

Garden centre’s successful reopening

The Chief Executive and Chair of Manningham Housing Association (MHA) have issued a joint appeal to Boris Johnson to urgently address the structural housing inequalities that the coronavirus outbreak has highlighted and the Black Lives Matter movement has further underlined.

Management at a Bradford garden centre have thanked members of the public who have made the reopening of the centre safe and successful.

Founded in 1986 in direct response to a research which confirmed that the housing needs of people of black and minority ethnic (BME) origin in Bradford were not being addressed, MHA now manages more than 1,400 homes for over 6,000 residents in Bradford and Keighley. In a statement, MHA Chief Executive Lee Bloomfield said that early concerns about the disproportionately adverse impact of Covid-19 on BME people had been proven to be correct by a range of studies in the UK and elsewhere.

Of the reopening, Tong’s Managing Director Mark Farnsworth said: “Early trading has been good on every level. Our customers have been brilliant, everyone has adapted to the changes we have made in store really well and are respecting the new measures. “Our team have been fantastic; we have tried to offer the same great service but two metres apart – we’ve had some great feedback and that has boosted us all. Our trading has been strong, whilst we have been in lockdown there has definitely been a build up of demand and we’ve been pleased to see so many customers return so quickly.”

Leading housing chief to retire after seventeen successful years Incommunities Group Chief Executive, Geraldine Howley has announced her plans to retire at the end of 2020. Her leadership has been marked by building a ‘can do’ culture which has focused the minds of everyone on improving people’s lives and their neighbourhoods. In 2008 she led the rebranding of Bradford Community Housing Trust to Incommunities Group, in conjunction with a major governance review and implementation of a new executive structure to mark the beginning of the organisation’s modernisation. Since the successful achievement of Decent Homes Standard in 2010, she has overseen the delivery of multi million pound improvements to local homes which has transformed the neighbourhoods in which Incommunities operates.

West & North Yorkshire Business

LEEDS NEWS

Work life balance There has been much talk about employees returning to offices and workplaces. There is no doubt that the government message in March, asking those who could work from home to do so, was heard loud and clear and this played a huge part in limiting the spread of COVID-19. We know, from conversations with Chamber members, that myths previously espoused about working from home, or ‘shirking from home’ as some have called it, have been dispelled and that it is likely that more flexible work policies will be adopted by employers.

Blacks celebrates growth

But what does this mean for Leeds city centre? This was discussed at a recent meeting of the Chamber’s Leeds Leadership Group and much was made of the things we have lost whilst working from home, especially around the development and mentoring of our younger employees and the lost opportunities to collaborate, innovate and communicate with colleagues and clients.

Luke Patel, Solicitor Partner and Head of Dispute Resolution, commented: “We’ve continued to see a strong demand for litigation and support services increased by the economic uncertainty, market forces, political factors and the pandemic.

The 15 strong Dispute Resolution team has experienced significant success over the past year, leading to the recruitment of three new team members. Paula Moses has been appointed as Senior Associate, Andrew Morgan as a Solicitor and Georgina Beavis as a Paralegal. The team is also set to welcome Fiona Barber who is qualifying in September after completing her training contract with the firm. The team has expanded in order to ensure the ongoing service of clients through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

In the Chamber’s latest research we asked what plans firms had about returning to workplaces and roughly 68% said that they would retain the same amount of space. 15% of firms said they would be looking to downsize in some way and 18% said they would need more space, most likely to allow for social distancing but in some cases because their business had grown. We know city centre footfall remains down on the previous year, but I think we will gradually start to see a return to offices. I am sure our working patterns will change and we will see a blend of home and office working. Perhaps the new normal will provide a better work-life balance. Amanda Beresford President Leeds Chamber

New Enterprise Director for BT in North Sarah Walker, who has held several senior sales related roles at BT, has been appointed as the new director of its Enterprise business in the North of England. The Wirral-based executive started her career at BT selling analogue mobile to small and medium sized businesses and has worked in a variety of roles during her 22 years with the firm. She will lead its Enterprise unit’s relationships with business and public sector customers across the North of England. Sarah has started her new role during a particularly challenging time for the region, and the entire UK, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

West & North Yorkshire Business

College to offer new T level by 2022 Leeds College of Building has been chosen as one of the 88 new providers to deliver T Levels from 2022. The College has been approved to offer a T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning; students will spend time at both its North Street and South Bank Campuses. Launching later this year, T Levels are new technical courses equivalent to three A levels.

The two-year programmes have been designed with the input of employers and businesses to ensure content meets the needs of industry and prepares students for work. Selected colleges, schools and other providers across England will start rolling out the first three T Levels this September, with a further seven offered in 2021 before the full 18 courses are available to study in 2022.

Providing PPE for the care sector

Teenager uses scholarship to help NHS workers

Given the PPE shortage across the social care sector, two Yorkshire firms have teamed up to manufacture and donate face shields to over 30 facilities across the region.

A Leeds teenager has spent an engineering scholarship fund on a 3D printer to enable him to produce personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline NHS workers.

With the National Care Association claiming that prices of PPE have been inflated by up to 400%, hundreds of visors have been manufactured and donated to care homes and sheltered services by Leach and Blueberry Marketing – with deliveries already well underway.

Seventeen-year-old Jake Howarth, a sixth form student at The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL), was already producing visors on a 3D printer at home when he bought a newer, faster model with money awarded to him by the prestigious Arkwright Trust.

Since the onset of the UK’s COVID-19 pandemic, graphic display specialist Leach has used its in-house expertise to manufacture face shields and social distancing graphics.

Jake, a budding engineer, received a £600 financial award from the Trust after a highly competitive selection process. The funds are intended to support students of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) to help with their A-level studies and fund activities to promote their understanding and experience of engineering.

Concerned by the lack of protection for frontline workers, Leeds-based agency Blueberry Marketing Solutions, a chamber member, approached Leach and subsequently donated in excess of £2,000 in funding to cover the costs of production and distribution of visors for the region.

Jake teamed up with 3D Crowd UK, a group of more than 8,000 volunteers around the country who are using their manufacturing expertise and equipment to produce PPE. In just 12 weeks the group has produced 185,000 visors and raised £144,000 to pay for materials.

West & North Yorkshire Business

YORK & NORTH YORKSHIRE NEWS

Once in a lifetime The last quarter saw the publication of ambitious plans for devolution for York and North Yorkshire. The document sets out a 30 year proposal to bring control over significant (£2.4bn) investment funding. I strongly believe devolution presents a once in a generation opportunity for our region to take control of funds and powers from Whitehall to ensure that we are better able to deliver the infrastructure, skills, business support and growth opportunities that will improve the economic prospects and outcomes for all. Devolution will enable us to find local solutions for those problems and to unlock funding to help to deliver them in a way that suits the needs of local businesses and people, and in doing that rebalance and refocus our economy to create even more high-paid and sustainable jobs and prove what the region is capable of in areas like agri-tech, bio-tech, precision and specialist engineering as well as our traditional assets and the tourism and visitor economy. At the same time, it presents an opportunity to create a devolved region that is capable of operating and delivering at a scale which reflects the economic clout and the “brand recognition” of York & North Yorkshire on both the national and international levels. COVID impacts continue to raise economic challenges and although some sectors have performed better than had been feared over the summer since the lifting of lockdown, there are going to be further challenges to address as the government’s support schemes come to an end and the autumn and winter months progress. Andrew Digwood President York & North Yorkshire Chamber

Coastliner voted England’s finest bus route It’s an amazing journey loved by many, and filled with mile after mile of stunning city, moor and coastal views – and now Yorkshire’s Coastliner bus has won the virtual World Cup of English Bus Routes! In a closely fought online contest, the cup winning Coastliner 840 journey between Leeds, York, Malton and Whitby emerged victorious at the end of a tournament including dozens of bus services across the country. Over 2,000 people voted in the final, which saw Coastliner take on the Isle of Wight’s Needles Breezer open top bus route to claim the coveted title of England’s finest. The Yorkshire favourite clinched the win after a nail biting 24-hour final vote, taking 54.3 per cent of the vote – sparking scenes of celebration at the home of Coastliner in Malton, and across the White Rose County.

Bus driver stars in national campaign Her customers describe her as “bubbly, smiley, welcoming and friendly” – and now award-winning Transdev bus driver Stephanie Graham is the voice of the Government’s safety campaign during the pandemic. Stephanie, who works for Transdev subsidiary The Keighley Bus Company in West Yorkshire, has been chosen to become the voice of the nation’s bus drivers in a new radio advertising campaign reminding everyone using public transport to follow three simple instructions – observe social distancing, wear a face covering while on the bus and wash or sanitise hands before and after travel. Stephanie was selected by the Department for Transport (DfT) to take part in the campaign after she became the first winner of a new “Customer Choice” prize at parent firm Transdev’s Amazing Awards earlier this year. The radio advertisements will be heard by millions of listeners to national and local radio stations.

World first for Drax Drax Group’s iconic Cruachan Power Station, a hydroelectric pumped storage plant built inside a hollowed-out mountain, has begun supplying critical system support services to keep Britain’s power system secure. The new six-year partnership with National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO), which is responsible for balancing supply and demand for electricity, is part of a worldleading approach to managing the decarbonisation of the grid – securing electricity supplies, saving consumers money and helping to enable more wind and solar power.

Cruachan Power Station has four generating units and under the terms of the contract awarded in January one of those will provide the grid with support services including inertia, which helps to keep the electricity system running at the right frequency to reduce the risk of power cuts. It will achieve this through using a small amount of power from the grid to spin the turbine 600 times every minute offering inertia to the grid to manage changes in frequency without generating unneeded electricity.

York agency helps re-open the city

Rollits supports local causes

York Handmade looks forward

York strategy and creative agency, Ideas Group, is supporting one of the UK’s best places to live and work reopen as COVID-19 lockdown eases.

A law firm which has been driving support for charities for more than 30 years with its annual golf day is drawing up list of fundraising ideas for all after losing this year’s event to the lockdown restrictions.

The award-winning York Handmade Brick Company is looking forward to a positive post-Coronavirus year with a healthy pipeline of work.

Ideas Group delivered a transformational communication campaign for the City of York Council team to help businesses re-open and to encourage residents and ultimately visitors to safely return to the city to relax, shop, explore and work. Supportive online guides for partners, retailers, businesses and York’s residents and a range of informative and encouraging signage have been installed from Park & Ride carparks through to the city centre’s streets, snickets and public spaces, The Let’s be York – safe, welcoming, considerate campaign actively seeks to challenge visitors and residents alike to consciously consider how to collectively help keep everyone safe.

Rollits, which has offices in Hull and York, has raised more than £140,000 since launching its golf day in 1970, with the East Yorkshire branch of Muscular Dystrophy UK a beneficiary since day one and Dove House Hospice in Hull receiving support for 25 years. The course at Brough Golf Club is open but uncertainty earlier in the year as to whether the event could take place has prompted the firm to come up with #RollitsCharityChallenge of alternative fundraising ideas based around the number 18.

Based at Alne, near Easingwold, York Handmade is the leading independent brickmaker in the north of England. Before the lockdown, it had enjoyed the most successful 12 months in its 30year history with a record turnover of over £2.7 million. Chairman David Armitage, said: “Before Coronavirus struck, we were flourishing, with some high-quality commissions in London, Cambridge, the North West and Yorkshire. “Obviously the lockdown has hit us, but we have kept our factory open – with strict social distancing and safety measures in place. We are wellpositioned to tackle the tough challenges posed by Coronavirus and to emerge stronger than ever.

West & North Yorkshire Business

WEST & NORTH YORKSHIRE NEWS

Home office? Asking colleagues about where their preference is to work, as I did recently, and everyone said they preferred to be in the office. The reasons are easy to understand: humans like social interaction, we like to meet and see others, so figuring how to do that is a challenge. The potential for new ways of working and behaving are triggering conversations about future best practices – a mixture of home and office, perhaps, though one size won’t fit all, that’s for sure. The pandemic has changed us forever but maybe not all for the bad: fast innovation, creativity, entrepreneurial acceleration have all occurred this year. There’s been a constant supply of advice and support from the Chamber and I know that’s been welcomed by many. That familiar – and now old – topic of Brexit is also back in the headlines of late; and, again, there is much help out there, including our international division holding workshops on how to prepare for new border controls. Those recovering from the impact of Covid-19 may not have sufficient time to take in how the end of the transition period will affect trade. Familiarity with customs procedures and documentation from January may also be wanting, as could awareness of any non-tariff barriers for specific products. We urge businesses to get in touch if they are unsure of anything. Trade between Yorkshire and the EU equalled £26.5bn in 2019 – more than half of the region’s entire international trade in goods. It’s vital that disruption to supply chains is kept to a minimum. Nick Garthwaite Chair of the Board West & North Yorkshire Chamber

Finance lessons for children at home Yorkshire Building Society has launched two new online lessons of its financial education programme Money Minds, to support Key Stage 2 pupils through the coronavirus pandemic. Money Minds is a free programme consisting of a series of activities and projects designed to promote discussion and learning amongst children and young people and is usually delivered in schools by colleagues from the Society as part of its volunteering programme. Due to current government guidance and the closure of schools, the Society has launched two new Key Stage 2 digital Money Minds lessons on the topics of ‘Vacation Venture’ and ‘Project Party’ to teach them about the importance of budgeting. This follows the launch last month of two Key Stage 1 digital lessons on ‘Keeping Money Safe’ and ‘Wants and Needs’. The 25-minute lessons are presented by colleagues from the Society.

Opera North launches new digital choir Anyone who has been missing their usual singing group during lockdown or who fancies having a go at mastering opera from the comfort of their living room can look forward to this summer’s launch of a new digital choir by Opera North. Starting in July, From Couch to Chorus comprises four weekly sessions over Zoom with participants being taught operatic excerpts by a Professional Choral Director, with input from members of the Chorus of Opera North. The idea for the project grew out of the popularity of Sing ON, weekly face-to-face singing sessions which Opera North held in a variety of venues around Leeds prior to the current restrictions. The Education team have continued to deliver these online with the feedback showing how much they have been appreciated by people who might otherwise feel lonely and isolated during lockdown.

West & North Yorkshire Business

Time for more women to forge careers in engineering A Formula 1 trackside fuel engineer, the chief programme engineer at Ford, the head of environmental science at HS2 and a project manager behind the London 2012 Olympics… what do they all have in common? Answer: they are all University of Bradford alumni and they’re all women. More specifically, they are women

forging careers in engineering. Women in engineering might be outnumbered by men but they’re not overshadowed – that’s the message from course leaders at the University of Bradford, who want to see more women taking up engineering courses. They recently marked International

Women In Engineering Day (IWED) 2020 with a special ‘virtual’ event on Tuesday June 23, which included a panel of guest speakers, many of them alumni. The event was such a success, there are now plans to stage another event later this year and to mark IWED annually.

Give a little back to parks and green spaces

£40m student accommodation gets go ahead

Parks and green spaces have been a lifeline during lockdown. We have launched a campaign ‘Give A Little Back to Local Parks and Green Spaces’ to urge Leeds residents and businesses to support our small grants programme which will be distributed to community groups around Leeds passionate about improving their local park.

An innovative £40m student accommodation scheme for B&B Pickard (Leeds) Ltd, part of Pickard Properties, was given the go-ahead by planners at Leeds City Council in July.

Projects in local spaces ‘discovered’ during lockdown because of restrictions on travel will be prioritised, as will applications from groups seeking to recruit new park volunteers or get existing volunteers back out in their much loved green spaces. ‘One of the positive aspects of the past few months has been that it has made us appreciate our local green space even more, whether that’s a community park, woodland, recreation ground or allotment,” said Lynda Kitching, chair of the Leeds Parks and Green Spaces Forum and a founding member of Love Leeds Parks.

The 604-bed scheme at Carlton Hill, Lofthouse Terrace, Woodhouse, will replace a four-floor, 239-bed development which was developed on the same site by Pickard Properties in 2001. The planning consent also includes an ancillary staff apartment, associated landscaping, parking, a courtyard and public realm. Its design, which will provide affordable accommodation with student wellbeing at its heart, is believed to be unique within the Leeds area and possibly, within the UK, responding to the issues surrounding students’ mental health.

West & North Yorkshire Business

14 FEATURE

One of the biggest takeaways from months of national lockdown has been the critical importance of digital connectivity in keeping businesses running and consumers connected. From virtual meetings and exercise classes, to online shopping and catching up with friends and family, we have been utterly dependent on technology to provide a socially-distanced gateway to normal life. It has even enabled a nationwide home working odyssey that is expected to continue even beyond COVID-19. It has been said that 82% of UK workers are planning on working from home more and many experts are expecting a permanent shift towards homeworking driven by this mass adoption of remote access technology. Strong, reliable full fibre broadband, therefore, is no longer a “nice-to-have” but an essential utility, and here at CityFibre, our goal of bringing full fibre to within reach of up to 8 million homes has never felt more important. As the nation’s third national infrastructure platform, CityFibre’s construction work has carried on throughout the pandemic and continues to expand Yorkshire’s digital capacity. Throughout, we have taken measures to help ensure contractors are following the social distancing protocols to maintain the safety of our build partners and the general public. This means that in Yorkshire’s full fibre future, which has long been a focus for investment from CityFibre, remains as close as ever. It has been a real pleasure over the years to meet with civic and business communities, connect through local events and immerse ourselves in each town and city’s digital culture.

CityFibre:

enabling a digital revolution across Yorkshire

Kim Johnston, City Manager for CityFibre

West & North Yorkshire Business

16 FEATURE What’s the deal with full fibre? First, let’s explore why the digital infrastructure that we’ve been installing throughout the county is such a cut above what we have all been relying on previously. While the term ‘fibre broadband’ is thrown around a lot, often when providers mention fibre, they are referring to connections that are only partly fibre (known as Fibre-tothe-Cabinet). These connections usually include some copper wiring for the final stretch to your home or business, which is a major factor in lagging and dropped connections. In fact, it was not even designed to carry internet services in the first place. Full fibre is different. There’s no copper wire involved at any stage. Instead, fibre connections are used for the entire length of the journey, allowing for Gigabit capable ‘lightning speed’ services and superior reliability. Simply put, full fibre gives you what you think you may be getting, or expect, from part fibre connections. In the UK, we are lagging behind our global neighbours in the worldwide broadband speed table. We ranked 34th in 2019, behind a host of European countries. Despite this, The UK is starting to make real progress in the adoption of full fibre, which is helping to drive an increase in broadband speeds and capacity across the country. With awareness of the benefits of full fibre increasing, today’s prospective home buyers are also becoming more conscious of their options when it comes to internet access. Many now see reliable connectivity as a key decision factor when selecting a new home and CityFibre is working with internet service provider partners and developers across Yorkshire to ensure gigabit-speed connectivity from day one for new homeowners. In the last three months alone, we have secured three large wayleaves with social housing landlords allowing us to connect an additional 14,500 properties across Yorkshire. It’s imperative we make up ground especially when considering how data-hungry we are as a nation. In fact, PwC says we're expected to consume more data than any other Western European country over the next four years. Having robust, fast and future-proof digital connections is essential to keep feeding that appetite.

Making a difference Full fibre can revolutionise life in Yorkshire and the UK as a whole. When it comes to business, many companies are struggling with data-heavy tasks and significant server strain, meaning employees are tapping their fingers while waiting for a file to be downloaded. Full fibre eliminates the problem, sending even the largest files at lightning speed. Moreover, because it is future-proof, it can continue to support companies however much their data consumption grows. For Leeds, as the fastest growing tech hub in the North, as well as Yorkshire’s burgeoning gaming industry,

this will enable tech-experts and developers to operate at the very cutting edge of connectivity. Beyond increased productivity, widescale full fibre connectivity gives employees the ability to work from home without worrying about their connection letting them down, providing vital flexibility and reassurance should parts of Yorkshire go into lockdown again or if their employer opts for working from home to be a long-term arrangement. Those benefits extend further still, with our full fibre network set to underpin Yorkshire’s implementation of Smart City solutions. With full fibre, it’s possible for local authorities to support a range of programmes that make a genuine difference for all citizens. There are plenty of examples across the globe, from digital tech making parking problems a thing of the past in South Korea’s biggest city, smart waste management trucks on New York’s roads or revolutionising the use of public transport in Iceland. Smart city implementation will be driven by the specific needs of the local population, whether that’s a focus on intelligent building management in Leeds or something else entirely. What we do know is this will all be powered by full fibre.

CityFibre in Yorkshire: the story so far CityFibre has been building and managing full fibre networks across God’s own country since it was established in 2011, specifically in Huddersfield, Leeds, Bradford, York, Hull, Sheffield, Doncaster, Rotherham and Wakefield. Our most advanced projects are in Leeds and Huddersfield, where we’ve been working to extend our core networks to nearly every home and business since 2018/19. As two of the first areas to be selected for our Gigabit City investment programme, these communities will enjoy near ubiquitous access to gigabit-capable broadband and close to limitless capacity, enabling the roll out of 5G, smart city technology and other applications as yet undreamed of. In Leeds, our £120m investment is progressing at pace and we are currently gaining real traction in South Leeds, with work now moving into Morley. In West Leeds, we’ve started expanding into Farsley, Hough End and Bramley, while continuing our work in Stanningley and Pudsey. Residents in these areas are now able to connect to gigabit speed services via Vodafone. In the heart of the city, we’ve also laid the foundations in the Headrow to allow for future infrastructure work to take place. Our recent acquisition of FibreNation from TalkTalk Group represented a major milestone in our rollout plans and has seen us add more soon to be announced locations to our Yorkshire portfolio. In the near future, we’re also planning to go live in Bradford, Batley, Barnsley and Halifax. This marks some real momentum in Yorkshire and further demonstrates that our vision for the region extends far beyond connecting a handful of towns and cities and calling it a day.

The more the merrier

What does this mean for Yorkshire?

Fuelling this expansion is our recently announced recruitment programme, which will create up to 10,000 jobs to support with nationwide deployment of full fibre by 2025. The recruitment programme will include the identification and training of thousands of unemployed UK residents as well as new job opportunities for qualified and experienced construction and telecoms workers. Jobs will be created within CityFibre’s growing pool of network construction partners delivering up to £4bn rollout of full fibre infrastructure to over 100 towns and cities.

All this progress spells good news for Yorkshire communities (and the nation as a whole) as we collectively set our sights on driving growth and establishing a new normal. We know for certain that digital infrastructure will be a key enabler.

Even prior to this recruitment drive we’ve had great success in nurturing new talent in Leeds. Last year we joined forces with Kirkstall Forge, Leeds College of Building and our local contractor, O’Connor Utilities (OCU) to support young apprentices through a 12-week fibre installation training scheme. Getting more skilled engineers into the workforce and helping them to secure work right away is a win-win for everyone, and initiatives like the Forging Futures Campus are a real credit to Leeds. Engaging with young people across Yorkshire is an important and rewarding part of our work in the county. We have a duty to make sure that no one is left behind and that everyone has the same opportunities and ability to benefit from advances in technology. We’ve worked closely with local non-profit Ahead Partnership to deliver presentations to schools on the future of digital and the career options at their fingerprints, as well as a number of job fairs and careers days. This includes the exciting opportunities in game design and coding which we’ve partnered with Leeds Libraries and 100% Digital on to deliver hands-on workshop sessions. We’ve also collaborated with local youth clubs and schools to fund the delivery of an interactive workshop with Makertopia that allowed children to design their own sustainable, liveable city. This is all about educating young people on the ways in which a connected city can positively impact their lives and getting them excited about what the future could hold in store.

Even before COVID-19, research we commissioned with Regeneris showed that access to a full fibre network over the next 15 years could generate £192m from increased business productivity and innovation in Leeds alone. Likewise, for homeowners in Bradford, up to £136m could be added to the value of the local property market, and a further £40m in growth could be driven from new business start-ups. All things considered, it is a crucial time to be rolling out this game-changing technology and we look forward to seeing how people and businesses across Yorkshire use the platform we are creating to flourish and prosper. We are grateful to the local communities that have welcomed our ambition to bring full fibre connectivity to almost every home and business locally and put Yorkshire on the map as a global digital destination. We understand that delivering projects of this scale can cause disruption to residents and we will continue to uphold our commitment to manage this as far as we possibly can. Right at the heart of what we are trying to achieve are the communities our network will serve. The COVID-19 crisis has demonstrated how essential fast, reliable internet connectivity is for residents, businesses and public services alike, forcing us to become even more dependent on all things digital in our working and personal lives. Full fibre internet is set to have a transformative effect on these communities and it is a privilege to lead the roll out of our state-of-the-art network to Yorkshire and beyond. To find out more about connecting to full fibre broadband in your area, visit www.cityfibre.com/your-street

Skills shortage Workplace Training and Development Commission In the Autumn of 2019, the British Chambers network launched a People Campaign to help businesses address skills shortages. The Workplace Training and Development Commission was first convened on 29 November to consider the question â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;How can we achieve a world-class system for retraining and upskilling our workforce to take advantage of rapid changes in technology, working practices, and industrial and consumer trends?â&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Our Inquiry is researching the barriers and opportunities for business investment in workplace training and development, for adults over the age of 25, and at all skill levels. The focus is on maximising opportunities and sharing best practice. We wanted to understand the extent to which businesses are actively planning to address skills shortages - and adapt to changes in technology and automation - and how employers can be better incentivised and supported to invest more in people development.

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SKILLS 19

The Coronavirus Pandemic, Employment and Workplace Training In March 2020, the Commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work was put temporarily on hold as the Coronavirus Pandemic struck the UK economy and the Chamber Network focussed its efforts on providing emergency support to businesses. Chamber research has revealed the devastating impact of Covid -19 on business. The vast majority of firms have experienced a severe reduction in trade, cashflow and confidence. Some sectors have been forced to cease operations for prolonged periods. Other firms face the ongoing risk of local lockdowns that jeopardise their recovery. While the Coronavirus job Retention Scheme and other Government interventions have helped to protect jobs and livelihoods, there have been many job losses and businesses predict significantly more redundancies as schemes are tapered and withdrawn over the next few months. Facing increased uncertainty over the duration of the pandemic, an economy in recession, reduced revenues and worsening cashflow, employers will, nevertheless, need to find the required focus and investment to upskill and reskill the workforce for the challenges that lie ahead. As the level of unemployment rises, research conducted by jobs website, Indeed reveals significant challenges for job seekers, particularly low skilled workers in the sectors hardest hit by the pandemic. Although much of the evidence

highlighted in this Progress Report was identified prior to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Commission believes the current economic crisis strengthens the case for our emerging recommendations and the need for a renewed emphasis on boosting adult skills in the workplace.

Addressing Skills Shortages The Commission found that in the years leading up to the Coronavirus pandemic, businesses of all sizes and sectors were finding it increasingly difficult to access the skilled people they needed. In 2019, Chamber research revealed that across the country, around 3 in 4 businesses were struggling to fill job vacancies. Low levels of productivity, increased automation and an ageing workforce will continue to present significant challenges for businesses. The introduction of a new points-based immigration system from January 2021 will increase recruitment and employment costs for firms unable to fill job vacancies from the local labour market and add to the difficulties they face in accessing skills. To remain competitive in a global business environment, employers will need to prioritise and invest in upskilling and reskilling people at all levels in the workforce. However, Chamber research reveals that business investment in training and development has declined steadily over recent years and in 2019 firms were investing less in than in 2014. Research by the Chamber and Indeed earlier this year, revealed that while more people were seeking jobs that

included training, the proportion of jobs relating to staff training and development was in decline. Firms, particularly where their operations, staff numbers and cash reserves have been negatively impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic, must be better supported to identify, articulate, plan for and invest in workforce-wide skills development. Individuals will need to continuously upskill and reskill for different roles as the workplace evolves. The policy imperative must now be to refocus our skills system to meet these needs. As well as highlighting examples of best practice, the Commission heard evidence of the need for greater flexibility in the skills system to enable employers to more easily access the training relevant to the needs of their people.

What do businesses want? Skilled People: Employers want to support the development of adults in the workplace to ensure people are effective in the job role and can contribute to the success of the business. Flexibility: Employers want access to high quality, flexible and cost-effective training and development - available on-line, in the classroom and in the workplace. Influence: When an employer is contributing to the cost of an individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training, the employer wants to have some influence on the content, delivery and quality to ensure it meets the needs of the business.

What are the identified solutions? We are keen to hear your views on the future of adult training, do these recommendations stand up in the wake of Covid-19? Please contact mark.goldstone@wnychamber.co.uk if you would like to feed back.

West & North Yorkshire Business

SKILLS 21 1 More focus on the needs of adult learners and less emphasis on full qualifications Employers fully support the Government’s ambition to increase the quality and quantity of vocational skills in the workplace. However, the emphasis in the system on funding full qualifications for adult learners can discourage both employers and employees from investing in training. While apprenticeships are highly valued by many employers, and can help to resolve skills shortages, they are not the solution to all workplace training and development needs. There needs to be more focus on meeting the needs of all adults in work. This may require less emphasis on qualifications and more priority being given to ensuring all employees have regular access to flexible, bite-size units of learning relevant to their current and future job role. The emphasis on quality is crucial to maintaining employer trust in apprenticeship standards, but a more flexible and modular approach to learning would allow people whose role spans several functions (a common scenario in SMEs) to gain access to chunks of IFATE accredited learning that improve their skills and productivity across a broader range of workplace activities. This change of mindset towards shorter and more agile learning will result in more adults receiving more training to become more productive. However, while employers will measure the quality and impact of training through improvements in the employee’s on-the-job performance, individuals need a different way of recording their bespoke training, modular learning and achievements, to support career progression. For example, an online ‘skills passport’ for all employees could meet this need while also providing collective data on the volume of training activity taking place in local areas and across the country.

2 New ways of funding training Businesses and individuals should be supported and incentivised to invest in skills development. Tax Incentives: To encourage greater investment in workforce development across all sizes and sectors, the Annual Investment Allowance should be extended to cover investment in human capital. Employment Costs: The cumulative cost burden of employment weighs down on a firm’s ability to invest; it should be reduced to free up resources for people development. Apprenticeship Levy: The apprenticeship levy has increased overall funding for apprenticeships but, at the same time, has displaced general training budgets and contributed to lower levels of overall training activity in many larger firms. It should evolve into a broader and more flexible training levy to ensure firms can invest in other more flexible forms of skills development alongside formal apprenticeship standards. The government should ensure additional apprenticeship funding is available to maintain access to apprenticeships for SMEs. Other workplace training: Commissioners heard best practice evidence where demand for more bespoke training provision was being met in the devolved nations. A model similar to Scotland’s Flexible Workforce Development Fund, for example, with a fast and light touch application process, could support thousands more employees across England to access training contextualised to the needs of the business and to quickly apply their new skills to the workplace. Sector-based models: Commissioners heard how some sector-based funding models had been successful in drivingup employer engagement in the codesign of courses, and greater levels of investment and training activity among businesses. Individual Initiative: Individuals must be encouraged to increase their personal

investment in refreshing, updating and extending their skillset to remain relevant in a changing workplace. The re-introduction of a Personal Learning Account, for example, together with appropriate controls, could enable employees to take the initiative in developing their own learning. Higher levels of government investment in the overall budget for adult education is essential to facilitate lifelong learning and enable individuals, particularly lower skilled individuals, to move to more sustainable careers.

3 Help to identify, articulate and plan for business skills needs. Many SMEs lack the HR skills and business transformation resources to properly identify, articulate and plan for existing and future workforce development needs. Access to funded business support should be available to help firms develop their own internal people management and people development skills. All SMEs should have access to impartial advice and support to adopt new innovative processes, conduct a workplace training needs analysis and identify relevant, high quality provision. There should be access to best practice for the SME sector on workplace training and development, including expectations around usage.

4 Place-based skills planning and delivery A greater level of trust, confidence and coordination between employers, training providers and other local economic stakeholders is needed. Skills and broader economic strategies must be aligned with business growth aspirations and based on solid research and data. Employers need a stronger voice in shaping the skills system to ensure business can develop its workforce and that people’s careers can progress in quality, sustainable jobs. Rooted in local business communities, Chambers of Commerce are ideally placed to support employers in articulating their needs and aspirations.

Supporting

SME success and resilience

Natalie Allen, Jo Griffiths & Kim Yallop part of a dedicated team at Leeds Beckett developing and supporting delivery of support to SMEs in the region.

West & North Yorkshire Business

SUPPORT 23 Leeds Beckett University is an anchor institution in the Leeds City Region, making a significant contribution to our regional economy, with a key role in driving local economic growth and supporting SMEs in the region to prosper and grow. As we react, readjust and recover from the changes the COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the business climate, this support has never been more important. We spoke to Kim Yallop – SME Engagement Manager – and Natalie Allen – Business Development Manager – at Leeds Beckett, to find out how SMEs and startups in the region can benefit from teaming up with the University. Kim Yallop joined Leeds Beckett in August 2020. With 15 years’ experience in a range of business engagement roles – including, most recently, Growth Manager for Wakefield and Kirklees Councils – Kim understands what businesses in our region want and need – and what help is out there. She is excited about sharing the unique opportunities to SMEs available through Leeds Beckett and working with businesses to deliver bespoke programmes of support. Kim explained: “A lot of businesses in our region don’t know what support is available to them. Through my previous role as Growth Manager, I can help them; and I’m looking forward to engaging businesses with the University and being hands-on in delivering programmes of support that are really specific to them and will really deliver what the business needs. “I began working with Jo Griffiths – postaward team manager at Leeds Beckett – when I worked at Wakefield Council. I quickly realised that Leeds Beckett has a very different strategy and vision to other universities – we are one of the few to have a dedicated team, and such a large offering, so wholly focused on supporting SMEs and helping them to grow. Everyone is extremely committed to the success of the businesses we work with - and truly supportive.” Kim recognises that the COVID-19 pandemic is having a huge impact on our region’s SMEs.

She explained: “I have noticed that many businesses have been taking the opportunity to evaluate their strategy and we have seen a lot of innovation – companies diversifying where their industry has been put on hold; new businesses starting up as a result of redundancy; managers looking at their company’s environmental impact and better ways of working remotely, etc. “There are lots of ways that the University can work with businesses to support them through this time – helping them to recover from the pandemic and build their resilience in the future. “We can also help tackle the skills gap many businesses are facing. We can link businesses into the fresh talent at Leeds Beckett and our academic expertise – and show them that they are not on their own.” Working alongside Kim is Natalie Allen – Business Development Manager at Leeds Beckett. Natalie joined Leeds Beckett seven years ago and creates links between businesses and the expertise at Leeds Business School. This includes degree apprenticeships, student projects, and academic consultancy. Natalie explained: “I am driven by the genuine impact that our work has on individual businesses and the regional economy. Projects such as our Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) - government-funded innovation projects where a skilled graduate and team of academic experts work with a business to achieve a specific goal - really set businesses up to be sustainable, to grow, and to get a competitive edge.” Kim added: “What I am most looking forward to in my new role at Leeds Beckett is being part of the success story of the businesses we work with. The pandemic isn’t stopping us from doing what we do - we are a tight, and focused team who are engaged and ready to use our contacts and know-how to help the region’s SMEs achieve their ambitions.”

Strengthening

SME leadership and management This summer, Leeds Beckett secured government funding through Innovate UK to lead two of the country’s first Management Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (mKTP) – and submitted a bid for a third project. The new mKTP programme was set up to help businesses improve their efficiency and productivity through the transfer of knowledge and expertise held within UK business schools. The projects are supported by the UK government with SMEs receiving 67% of the total cost of the project in funding from Innovate UK. Kim explained: “I’m especially excited about the new mKTPs. The support available is usually centred around new products and innovation – but lots of companies need help around leadership and management. mKTP puts people at the heart of the project and this strengthens the business at its core to move forwards. Leeds Beckett’s first mKTP to start is with Wakefield-based Global Doors – the project is setting in place the key

management structures Global Doors needs to meet their plans for growth.

have a huge impact on the business’s future success.”

A skilled graduate has been recruited to carry out the project as a full-time member of the Global Doors team throughout the two-year project, with the full support and input of the academic team at Leeds Beckett.

Both Global Doors and Bensons first connected with Leeds Business School through Kim’s role at Wakefield Council. Last year, Bensons took part in the University’s Expert Quartet Project. Funded by Innovate UK, the project supports SMEs in the manufacturing industry to improve their productivity.

Matthew Fletcher, Commercial Director at Global Doors, said: “Our partnership with Leeds Beckett allows us to push the business forward faster and with more confidence. It allows us to tap into the managerial experts at the university, streamlining our business processes and increasing our productivity and management capability. As a small business, to have this expertise helping and guiding us is invaluable.” Natalie added: “We submitted our third mKTP application this summer – for a project with Bensons Control Panels. Despite working through the pandemic, the team was able to fully understand Bensons’ business needs and put in an application for a significant amount of funding that will

Natalie said: “If successful, the new mKTP will set Bensons up with the strategic marketing and process improvement capabilities that they need to achieve their ambitions to launch new services, target new markets, and grow sustainably.” Matthew Barton, Director of Bensons, said: “Working with Leeds Beckett has allowed us to identify, quantify and better understand several key areas of our production process where improvements can be made to benefit both ourselves, and more importantly, our customers. We look forward to continuing to work with them on our mKTP.”

West & North Yorkshire Business

SUPPORT 25

Supporting SMEs through COVID and beyond

Flexible office services in the region

Alongside well-established programmes such as KTP, Leeds Beckett is offering a host of new and adapted support programmes for SMEs to build resilience and recover from the COVID pandemic.

Central to Leeds Beckett’s business support is its network of University Business Centres – located in Leeds, Halifax and Wakefield. The Centres offer flexible office services – both physical and virtual offices - as well as business advice, mentoring, and professional training. UBC clients also have full access to Kim’s expertise and contacts to link them in with Leeds Beckett academics, students, and knowledge transfer projects.

Accelerate – for start-ups and young businesses The University’s free Accelerate support programme has been relaunched online, with a renewed focus on helping early stage businesses to embrace the new business landscape. The next programme begins in October. Accelerate is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is part of the AD:VENTURE programme – supporting startups and young businesses within their first three years - in the Leeds City Region. It combines six online masterclasses with a weekly live webinar. Businesses can also access up to 15 hours of one-to-one mentoring support from Leeds Beckett academics and industry experts.

Small Business Leadership Programme Leeds Business School is delivering its first Small Business Leadership Programme (SBLP) - run by the Small Business Charter – in September; and will soon begin recruiting for the next programme. The SBLP is part of a £20 million government fund to support the recovery, growth, and long-term productivity of SMEs following the pandemic. The programme is free and is delivered online by Leeds Beckett academics through eight 90-minute webinars.

Sharing academic expertise Leeds Business School academic experts have been contributing webinars and learning materials to the Place-based Economic Recovery Network (PERN) – a University network of experts in regional economic recovery supporting the West Yorkshire Combined Authority in designing, planning and implementing COVID recovery efforts; and to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program (MIT REAP) – supporting people looking for work, currently furloughed, or wanting to set up new businesses.

The University Business Centre services are currently more in demand than ever, as new businesses start up as a result of COVID. Natalie explained: “During lockdown, we saw a significant increase in people signing up to our virtual office space. For brand new small businesses, it can be very useful to have a registered business address with us – with a mail collection or forwarding service - to offer a professional outlook to clients. We now have close to 300 businesses signed up to this service. Despite the current pandemic, in July, our Wakefield Centre received the highest number of enquiries we have ever had.” For more information about Leeds Beckett University’s support for businesses contact Natalie Allen : 07785 434021 n.allen@leedsbeckett.ac.uk Kim Yallop : 07557 213 958 k.e.yallop@leedsbeckett.ac.uk or connect via LinkedIn.

West & North Yorkshire Business

26 EDUCATION

Already they have been given the name ‘Generation Covid’, the young people plunged into uncertainty as the Coronavirus pandemic meant they had to work even harder in the face of exam chaos and a fall in employment. But there is a huge well of talent within this generation. So how can education and business work together to tap into this, support them to create exciting futures and ensure nobody is left behind? For almost 200 years Bradford College has been at the heart of education in the city. Today, strong partnerships with employers are more important than ever. Kelly McAllister, Head of Apprenticeships and Business Development at Bradford College, said: “The College is passionate about transforming lives and supporting our local community, and business is key to this.” The College has just become a principal partner of Bradford City AFC, which has announced Apprenticeships at Bradford College as the club’s official digital partner. Kelly said: “Our new partnership will support the college to fill skills gaps and improve employment opportunities across the region.” A further example of a successful relationship between the College and industry is the cutting-edge Northern Dental Education Centre (NORDEC). Developed after research highlighted a need to address dental hygiene and associated healthcare costs in the local population, NORDEC engages with local dental practices, stakeholders and the local community. Thanks to its 50 partnerships with organisations including small – medium enterprises and local practices, the College is able to provide dental industry apprenticeships and qualifications for a highly skilled workforce. In June, NORDEC reached the national finals of the City and Guilds Award for College Engagement with Employers category in the Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Awards. Further opportunities can be given to young people through work placements, which give learners the chance to glimpse a real-life working environment. Last year hair and beauty students ran a VIP Beauty Event at department store Debenhams. These work placements are important as not only do they offer practical experience but also boost self-confidence. In a perfect example of a mutually beneficial partnership, students have worked with Sky on a ‘reverse mentoring’ programme. Learners not only got to be part of the Sky Home Service Engineering team, they were able to provide the experienced engineers with fresh outlooks on a range of topics. Bradford College’s apprenticeships team is now undertaking initial assessments with applicants and supporting employers with their recruitment needs. If you are interested in finding out more about employing an apprentice or the funding available to your business – via the ‘Let’s Talk Real Skills’ initiative – please contact Bradford College’s business development team on 01274 728316. Let’s Talk Real Skills is managed by the West Yorkshire Consortium of Colleges and funded by the European Social Fund.

Let’s Talk Real Let’s Talk Real

Working together to transform lives of young people

Empowering teams & creativity in times of change

West & North Yorkshire Business

TRAINING 29 Nurturing in-house talent and teamwork might just be the key to a smooth Covid recovery, and the IVE Hothouse have found that this can be done remotely. Deputy CEO, Drew Rowlands, reflects on the approach. Businesses of all sizes have faced unprecedented difficulties this year, and continue to tackle many barriers as they navigate these uncertain times. “Building Back” in a recession is one such difficulty. Covid-19 has exacerbated the need to develop an innovative culture within the workplace. In order to achieve this, the priority must be on nurturing inhouse talent by building the creative capacities of teams and leadership at all levels, and establishing a collaborative culture of innovation within the working environment; and this can be done remotely. Working with businesses through the crisis has only reinforced my view that if you understand creativity and the creative process, and are equipped with the tools to apply a model of thinking across your environment, then problems can be turned into opportunities. At the start of lockdown, many organisations looked at online training, but few realised the creative and collaborative opportunities offered by video conferencing technologies. During this time, IVE have worked to train cohorts collaboratively via Zoom, from business leaders in our Creative Leadership Taster Sessions, to cultural organisations, keen to address the social cohesion and inclusivity of their workplace during the lockdown period, with whom we are delivering our Unconscious Bias, Diversity and Inclusion Labs online. Investing in team skills and collaboration continues to be high on the agenda for many organisations. In a particularly challenging, but increasingly necessary time to make this investment, businesses of any size should utilise funded and subsidised training programmes where possible. For smaller businesses, IVE offer the ESF-funded Higher Performing Workplaces, which works with businesses to embed a more dynamic, innovative and resilient culture thanks to a 40% subsidy from the European Social Fund. For larger organisations, tax incentives such as the apprenticeship levy can be a way of stabilising costs while developing people, with IVE offering Apprenticeships in Leadership and Management. It’s not just teams - individuals can learn online to bring this approach into their organisations, with the Applied Creativity in the Workplace eLearning course launching next month. IVE is a not-for-profit training provider with over 23 years’ experience and expertise in researching and developing solutions of how to effectively develop innovative workplaces. Across our programmes we examine the behaviours that are needed to establish the right environment in order for creativity, diversity and innovation to be nurtured. We have found that remote delivery of even our most interactive programmes can be incredibly effective, and that businesses who have used this time to turn inwards may come out on top. “IVE don’t solve the challenges you face, but they create the people in your organisation who do” – Simon Hicks (Managing Director recycling; Viridor UK) Go to WeAreIVE.org/Hothouse to find out more on all our programmes.

Devolution for West and North Yorkshire

After almost a decade of campaigning by the Chamber, this March finally saw a devolution deal agreed for West Yorkshire.

West & North Yorkshire Business

DEVOLUTION 31 Devolution is something the Chamber has strongly supported as we believe that decision making over the future of our regional economy can best be delivered by those closest to it. Details contained within the deal were consulted on over the summer and a joint letter from West & North Yorkshire Chamber along with Mid Yorkshire Chamber, the CBI and the Federation of Small Business set out our collective support. As organisations we represent thousands of businesses across the region, covering all sectors and sizes, we felt it was important to show solidarity in order that any future devolution arrangement truly understood the challenges facing business and that only through collaboration could we help create effective solutions. We will continue to ensure your voice is heard on this subject. Elsewhere in our region we have also supported a proposal for York & North Yorkshire devolution, which will be submitted to government this autumn. The proposition sets out ambitious plans to take control over ÂŁ2.4bn of investment funding and we believe this is a once in a generation opportunity to take control of funds and powers from Whitehall and will ensure that we are better able to deliver the infrastructure, skills, business support and growth opportunities that will improve the economic prospects and outcomes for all across the county. We know that agreeing an appropriate level of governance may expose some political tensions but we believe that we must move at pace in order to catch the next wave of devolution settlements, and ensure that we have control over the powers and funding to deliver economic recovery.

West & North Yorkshire Business

32 TRANSPORT

First zero emission bus fleet for cleaner Leeds nearing completion The first-ever zero emission bus fleet for Leeds is being prepared to enter service in a multi-million pound investment by First Bus in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Leeds City Council. The nine Yutong E10 electric vehicles (EV) are supplied by Pelican Coach & Bus, a family-owned engineering company based in Castleford which has a 100-year history in transport and is the exclusive distributor in the UK for the Chinese-made buses. Electricity charging infrastructure for the fleet is nearing completion at First’s Hunslet Park depot in the city. The equipment and installation are being managed by Zenobe Energy, a tech start-up that entered the market four years ago and is already one of the largest independent owners and operators of battery storage, with some 160MW of contracted storage assets and around a 20 per cent market share of the EV bus sector. A battery energy storage system (BESS) comprising two giant Tesla batteries - 390kW and 498kWh – will support the power requirements including fleet charging and grid services. The BESS is powered by the grid but returns electricity to support the grid when charging the buses. Total investment in the fleet and infrastructure is £7.3m and includes £1.7m funding from the Department of Transport’s Ultra-Low Emission Bus Scheme (ULEB) which First West

Yorkshire secured in 2019 with the support of the combined authority. Simon Carlisle, Engineering Director of First West Yorkshire said: “This is the first phase of our plan to bring zero emission buses into our fleet operations to further benefit the cleaner air ambitions of Leeds. We have worked closely with our local authority partners and leaders in their fields in Pelican and Zenobe Energy to combine vehicle, battery and charging technology that heralds a new era in public transport from our Hunslet depot.” He added: “The engineering team have embraced the challenges required for running electric vehicles compared to traditional combustion engine technology and I am immensely proud of what they have achieved so far.” The Yutong E10 boasts innovative battery technology onboard which stores energy generated when applying the brakes. It also has fully electric air conditioning, seat-sited USB charging points and LED-powered headlights, indicators and interior lighting. The bus can travel 200 miles on a single charge and is estimated to save 45 tonnes of carbon a year compared to a Euro 6 diesel engine. * Ian Downie, Pelican’s Head of Yutong Bus UK, said: “It is with great pleasure that we can deliver these state-of-the-art zero emission vehicles to First Bus. The passenger experience will be second to none, with smooth driving and

quiet interiors. It is a real demonstration of First’s commitment to the environment that these vehicles will soon be in operation in Leeds.” Zenobe Energy has agreed a contract using its infrastructure-as-a-service-model to provide support to First West Yorkshire. This includes match-funding the infrastructure and battery service costs for the life of vehicle, which has an 8-year warranty. Its Zenobe Management Platform proprietary software monitors and optimises all aspects of energy use on the buses and by the depot itself. Business Development Director, Arron Dowie said: ““Zenobe is proud to be partnering with First West Yorkshire to support their active transition to a zero emission bus fleet. The electrification of buses is a vital part of producing cleaner air in Leeds. We are encouraged by First’s pioneering vision to implement environmentally friendly transport infrastructure across the UK and Zenobe is excited to be a part of their journey.” The Yutong E10 buses are due to begin operating in October on the Service 5 Halton Moor Circular which includes the Leeds City Bus route through the city centre. Cllr Kim Groves, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee, said: “We have set out ambitious plans to tackle the climate emergency with a target of being net carbon zero by 2038 and changing the

way we travel is central to achieving this aim. These nine electric buses are the first zero emission buses in West Yorkshire and an important first step towards a zero carbon public transport network. “It’s more important than ever that we reduce emissions which impact on health by reducing unnecessary car journeys across the region. We are committed to working with our partner councils and bus operators to make bus travel greener and more attractive across West Yorkshire and these new buses will help achieve this.” Leeds City Council’s executive board member for climate change, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Lisa Mulherin said: “I am delighted to see the first zero emission electric buses begin to be rolled out in Leeds. Over the next year I look forward to seeing more of these operating from our new 1,200 space Stourton solarpowered Park and Ride site. It will make more and more people’s journeys greener and enhance our efforts to keep the air cleaner in Leeds. Re-building people’s confidence in using more environmentally friendly public transport is an important step toward achieving our carbon reduction targets and reducing polluting greenhouse gas emissions in Leeds.” * Euro 6 LEB Compliant information from LOWCVP and Millbrook.

West & North Yorkshire Business

34 BREXIT

Prepare for EU border change with Chamber International autumn workshops A series of autumn workshops are being held by Chamber International to help businesses which trade with the EU prepare for border changes that will come into force after the end of the transition period on December 31. The three “Prepare for Change Workshops”, which cover a wide range of topics, aim to help businesses understand the changes quickly, to reduce any disruption to their operation from January 1 2021. Chamber International director, Tim Bailey says: “We could only speculate on how goods would be controlled at our borders once we left the EU until the new border operating model was published on 12 July. “The new border operating model brings into stark reality that exporting and important businesses need to prepare for a higher level of administration.” The first workshop, Prepare for change – New Border Protocols is on September 23 and will cover a range of topics including EORI numbers, safety & security declarations, Incoterms and regulatory compliance. The second workshop, Prepare for change - Export Documentation ‘Box by Box’ is on October 13 and will cover administrative issues such as customs declarations, certificates of origin and temporary exports and ATA carnets. The final workshop, Prepare for Change - Customs and Duty Management, is on November 4 and will discuss the changes to items including declarations, duty & VAT and commodity codes,

The three-hour workshops cost £177 (ex VAT) per session for Chamber members Special Discount: Book more than one place on any workshop or combination of workshops and receive a 10% discount.

“ A smooth transition to the new border regime for trading with the EU is important to the UK economy. We hope businesses will take advantage of this chance to understand how the changes will effect their operation so lack of knowledge does not hinder their success in 2021.” Tim Bailey

West & North Yorkshire Business

CHAMBER CUSTOMS 35

New customs declarations service launches

as UK prepares to leave EU A major new customs brokerage service to help importing and exporting business has been launched by Chamber International to coincide with new border arrangements announced by the government. ChamberCustoms can now draw-up and submit customs declarations, including VAT and duty liability, which will be needed for trading with the EU, as well as the rest of the world, after the Brexit transition period ends on December 31. Analysis suggests that, from the start of 2021, a total of 202,081 UK businesses will need to complete customs declarations for the first time, as about 50 per cent of all UK importers and exporters trade only with the EU and will have to complete them and quickly get to grips with tariff classification numbers, customs valuation, customs procedures and more, because no other workable solution has been found. The HMRC-compliant service has been launched nationally by British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), using its network of accredited Chambers of Commerce, because the UK has an estimated 45,000 shortfall in trained specialists to cope with the expected huge surge in demand.

Chamber Internationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s service, which is available to both direct to businesses and through UK freight forwarders, has direct links to the HMRC Customs handling system and all inventory-linked ports, The service is headed by qualified customs broker, Ioanna Orfanidi, a bachelor of English-Russian and International Trade who speaks English, French, Spanish, Greek and Russian. Ioanna Orfanidi said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The coronavirus pandemic has starved firms of cash and focused them on short-term survival derailing their Brexit preparations. The end of the transition period is fewer than 24 weeks away and they should now be thinking about customs declarations with some urgency. Chamber International, which is planning a 45-minute webinar on the new post-Brexit customs regime this autumn, helps hundreds of new and experienced exporters throughout the UK with a wide range of specialist services to make exporting easier and more cost effective.

For import and export documentation, advice and training contact Chamber International on 08455 240 240

West & North Yorkshire Business

36 CASE STUDY

How Chamber International made a breakthrough in the race to find PPE stocks for the NHS and care sector David Attia S enior Associate Chamber International

As a market specialist at Chamber International, my original intention had been to locate PPE stocks and suppliers globally and link them to health services around the world. It soon became clear however that the NHS’ need was greater, as the Coronavirus proved increasingly hard to contain and PPE shortages meant healthcare staff were re-using single use items. Helping the government/ NHS and authenticating stocks of PPE soon became a 7 days a week task and something of a ‘personal crusade’. It became clear that Chamber International, with its vast UK and overseas, export-import and manufacturing contacts, could help the national effort to combat the pandemic. Our research identified promising stocks of various PPE items, including specialist surgical masks, hand gel and disinfectants, in China, Holland, and the UK, which we submitted to the Cabinet Office website. Weeks spent tailoring suppliers to where the PPE need was greatest, as highlighted every day in the press and during the governments daily Downing Street conferences, was sure to bring an immediate response.

Disappointingly, this was not to be the case! Understandably, the NHS has exacting standards for patient and staff safety, and procurement using public funds. To sift through these offers and prioritise the most promising PPE opportunities, Cabinet Office staff, already working to rigid procurement guidelines, had to scrutinise the manufacturers’ experience and commercial stability, their ability to meet British and EU safety and quality standards, volumes of supply and speed of delivery.

All of this takes a great deal of time. Eventually our breakthrough came with a welcome telephone call from the Cabinet Office with whom we are now in regular contact. In addition, we secured two outstanding opportunities to supply Type 2R surgical masks and surgical gowns, to Leeds & York Partnership NHS Trust and are anticipating a positive response to progress supplies. Chamber International International documentation services. 08455 240 240 info@chamber-international.com www.chamber-international.com

Chamber International together with two of its promoted partner suppliers has since joined a select group of business organisations and manufacturers registered as approved personal protection equipment (PPE) suppliers to the UK government’s Cabinet Office Covid-19 supplier support website.

Helping traders keep on trading At the end of the transition period from 1 January 2021, the amount of paperwork required to import and export goods from overseas will increase in both volume and complexity. The dedicated team of experts at West & North Yorkshire Chamber can be trusted to have the expertise and knowledge to help traders keep on trading.

Chamber Customs : Call 08455 240 240

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The COVID-19 pandemic has been so tough on businesses and sports clubs alike and it was brilliant that we were able to support the Rams.â&#x20AC;? Molly Nicholson Barclays Relationship Manager

West & North Yorkshire Business

FINANCE 39

Dewsbury Rams get over the line with a winner Dewsbury based sports club Dewsbury Rams RFC has announced it has received support from Barclays through the Government backed Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) in order to maintain the club and grounds through the COVID-19 crisis. Established in 1875, Dewsbury Rams RFC play at the Tetley Stadium, Owl Lane, Dewsbury. Steeped in history, the club competes in the Kingstone Press Championship and is at the heart of the local community. Dewsbury Rams have banked with Barclays for over 20 years and the new funding will secure the future of the club. It will help provide flexible funding to meet fixed costs, so that the grounds and facilities will still be there for the supporters once sport can return to times that are more normal and see matches played locally. Mark Sawyer, Chairman of Dewsbury Rams RFC said: “We were devastated to learn about the lockdown and the impact it would have on our historical club. We knew that we would still need to pay for utilities, insurance, maintenance, repairs, and contractual costs and with no ticket income realised this would be a herculean challenge. Barclays stepped in to the breach and we’re hugely grateful that they have been able to provide a CBIL facility which will support the club over the coming months.”

Dewsbury Rams RFC cannot wait to get the players back in to training and the gates open for the fans. Molly Nicholson, Barclays Relationship Manager put together the funding package for the deal and said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has been so tough on businesses and sports clubs alike and it was brilliant that we were able to support the Rams – the love for sport is so vital during these difficult times. I know Mark, Andrew and the team are excited to get their gates back open to the public, so securing this funding will provide some breathing space over the next few months.”

"I know how busy banks have been dealing with unprecedented high volumes of loan applications so it's great to see funding coming through for our local businesses and sports clubs such as Dewsbury Rams, to help them get through this extremely challenging period." Dewsbury MP Mark Eastwood, a big fan of the club.

West & North Yorkshire Business

40 HEALTHCARE

Employee health and wellbeing:

how businesses can adapt to the new duty of care to drive recruitment and retention The COVID-19 pandemic will in time leave many legacies on society, including a heightened awareness of the importance of physical and mental health and wellbeing . Moreover, government and public health experts are reporting a clear link between health, weight and the impact of COVID-19 on those infected; with NHS campaigns launched to galvanise the public to act now. Whilst employers have always had a duty of care for their employees, enhancing the care available is being prioritised like never before. Demonstrating long term support for employee wellbeing is also increasingly high on the agenda when it comes to retaining and attracting talent. Candidates’ financial motivations are now balanced with an expectation that employers will support their quest for good physical and mental health.

So what measures can businesses put in place to help look after employee health and demonstrate their commitment to wellbeing without breaking the bank? The high cost of traditional private health insurance has created a perception that providing health benefits for employees is beyond the budgets of many businesses. However, there are cost-effective alternatives available. For example, health care cash plans such as those provided by Bradford-based Sovereign Health Care provide an inexpensive, accessible way for businesses to offer health and wellbeing support to every employee from just a few pounds per month. Traditionally these plans work by paying employees cash back towards their everyday health costs such as dental treatment, eye tests, glasses/ contact lenses, physiotherapy and much more. Many of these treatments are used on a proactive basis by employees, but cash plans can do so much more. Providers such as Sovereign have seen increased demand for benefits which give individuals immediate support with other health issues and cash plans now include 24/7 access to a GP and confidential counselling. These services allow employees to deal proactively with many of the pressures created by the pandemic including return to work issues such as stress and child care, family and relationship matters, health concerns such as nutrition, anxiety and depression, and financial worries such as debt management, benefits, tax and budgeting. Sovereign Health Care Chief Executive, Russ Piper, said: “As businesses move into a new way of operating post-crisis, the more enlightened are seeing this as an opportunity to strengthen their business and reinvent their employee offering. Health care cash plans offer an effective way to support employee health and wellbeing and boost recruitment and retention.” For more information about the options available for your business, email appointments@sovereignhealthcare.co.uk or visit sovereignhealthcare.co.uk/business.

3 steps to aid business recovery during a pandemic The COVID-19 pandemic is making the business community re-plan, re-assess and revise notions of business continuity protocol. In this article, Benenden Health explores three steps to aid business recovery.

West & North Yorkshire Business

WELLBEING 43

1. Planning, reviewing, and planning again Businesses that have an agile mindset will find their recovery is fluid and it is best to get into the mindset that change will be continuous and long lasting. Protocols, standard operating procedures, and best practices still have their place, particularly with larger workforces now potentially spread out from remote locations. However, it is important to balance this approach with a mindset that is open to change, receptive to suggestions from team members and ultimately comfortable in tearing up the rule book where necessary.

2. Clear and honest customer communication When the going gets tough, it can be all too easy to convince yourself that your customers will look after themselves. However, in the current climate, every new customer is hard to win, and even harder to keep hold of. Customers are generally sympathetic to tougher trading conditions, so keep them on-side by being fair and transparent in your communications. The pandemic has affected almost everyone, so being candid in your communications will set you apart as an honest and relatable business

3. Prioritising the health and wellbeing of your employees Taking care of your workforce is crucial as part of your business recovery plan as your team can make or break the business in how they deliver work and interact with others. With some time well spent in engaging your team, you will have an army of ambassadors, prepared to dig deep in helping return the business to a more stable position. All members of your team will have job security, financial and emotional concerns around the pandemic. If you have yet to review your health and wellbeing provision, now is the right time to do so. Ask your team to complete a short and anonymous survey around what they need from you on this. Do consider health and wellbeing provisions that are available for employees. Depending on your need there are solutions available that provide support for both physical and mental wellbeing. The upshot of the time, resource and planning that you invest into your teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wellbeing is that they will be able to do their jobs to the best of their ability. Benenden Health has produced a coronavirus hub, with more tips and information about how to stay healthy as a business and individuals during the COVID-19 outbreak. Visit the COVID-19 hub for more information.

West & North Yorkshire Business

44 CASE STUDY About the company

Results

My Leadership Strengths was set up by Andy Jenkins, his wife Hollie Jenkins and friend Andy Hoggan. The Leeds company started out as a consultancy business, but with the support of AD:VENTURE has developed into more of a tech company offering a unique product – and with a very exciting future ahead!

The initial support helped the company gain clients for their 360 assessment tool, but Andy’s involvement with Accelerate led to so much more.

Andy Jenkins has 20 years’ experience as a senior leader and consultant across the public and private sector in both the UK and Australia. His previous roles include working for HBOS and Australia Post. In 2018 he returned to the UK from Australia and, with his two colleagues, started targeting care sector companies offering leadership 360 assessments, partly because Andy Hoggan had experience of that sector in Australia. The offer was later widened to include the health sector.

Project objectives When Andy Jenkins initially started working with AD:VENTURE it was with a view to growing the consultancy side of the business and working with more clients in the care and health sectors. “We knew that many providers in the care sector needed help because we could see from their formal inspection reports by the Care Quality Commission that those who received poor ratings overall typically had a poor leadership rating. Add to that Andy’s experience and it seemed an obvious area to target,” said Andy Jenkins. In August 2019 Andy turned to AD:VENTURE for help and was put in touch with Alan Thompson. Initially they looked at the basics of running the business and the company. Andy then applied and was accepted on to the Accelerate programme, which is a six-month acceleration programme for ambitious businesses based in the Leeds City Region, and is part of AD:VENTURE. The Accelerate programme is a series of masterclasses and one-to-one support.

The lockdown hit about half-way through the Accelerate course, but the support carried on. “Lockdown didn’t stop the one-to-one sessions with my mentor Stephanie Dawson. We just switched to Zoom and she continued to give me really insightful advice and motivation,” said Andy. “It would have been easy to put everything on ice, but the real benefit of having a mentor is they help you focus, or re-focus, which is what I did.”

“It really is a game changer for us,” said Andy. “No-one else is offering something quite like this; it’s a tool that can be used by anyone. It is particularly useful for new leaders; for example, a nurse who is promoted to a supervisory role in a care home setting.” So far My Leadership Strengths have tested the app out on leaders in Australia and the US and are looking for an organisation in the UK to carry out a full trial. Now the company has effectively become a tech business, they are hosting a session on leadership at the Leeds Digital Festival.

Feedback

Working with Stephanie, Andy identified that there were opportunities in other sectors too and so what was initially called Developing Leaders in Health became My Leadership Strengths.

“The Accelerate masterclasses we had through Leeds Beckett University were really useful. They were presented by university lecturers and were full of useful tools and ideas. For example, one where we looked at how do you price your offer,” said Andy.

But the biggest break-through in the development of the business was serendipitous - all thanks to AD:VENTURE once again.

“And you also meet other like-minded start-ups at the sessions. That’s how I met Made by Studio and that’s what led to us collaborating.

Andy approached another company who were also on the Accelerate programme to ask if they could develop a simple survey for their website.

“With AD:VENTURE you get the content of the sessions, but you also get the connections with other entrepreneurs and the tailored business support, which challenges you and makes you focus. And for me it also gave me more confidence.

The company, Leeds-based Made by Studio, suggested Andy apply for a grant from AD:VENTURE to develop something a bit more sophisticated. A £5,000 match-funded grant from AD:VENTURE meant Andy and his colleagues could develop something they call Quick Prioritisation Tool; a web-based survey app which individuals can use to assess their strengths and weaknesses as a leader. The app is easy to use; it is a straightforward survey taking just 10 minutes, and easy to understand the results too, with no need for a formal debrief. It can help individuals and organisations see gaps and training needs.

“AD:VENTURE has really helped me transform the business. We started out as a consultancy and are now also a tech company with many more ways to provide value to clients.”

Support led to new direction

West & North Yorkshire Business

46 INTERVIEW Please introduce yourself and your role at Bruntwood SciTech.

How do you expect the tech sector to perform in the next year(s)?

Deb Hetherington, Head of Innovation for Bruntwood SciTech in Leeds. My role is to help science and technology businesses based in Platform to form, scale and grow by helping them to access finance and funding, talent, mentorship and a range of professional services.

The tech sector is a rapidly growing one and one that will likely not struggle as much as other areas of the economy during recovery.

I’m also actively involved in the growth of the digital and tech sector across the Leeds City Region as a whole.

What is Bruntwood SciTech and what are it's aims? Bruntwood SciTech is the UK’s leading property provider dedicated to the growth of the science and technology sector. We’re creating a network of thriving innovation districts, working closely with local authorities, universities and NHS trusts which will help to create over 20,000 high value jobs over the next 10 years.

How are your premises different to other office spaces in Leeds? Platform has very quickly become regarded as the home of tech in Leeds. It offers everything from coworking space to serviced offices and larger managed spaces, providing the perfect environment for digital and tech businesses of all sizes from startups and early stage businesses through to scaleups and larger more mature corporate organisations. It also offers a specially curated ecosystem, to ensure that all the companies based here complement one another with a strong focus on fintech, medtech, legaltech and software development to help drive collaboration and new opportunities. We don’t just provide space, we provide tailored support to help the businesses based at Platform to scale and grow. We do this through a structured programme of 1-1s with our customers, to really understand their business, their goals and aspirations. We help them create business plans, secure funding, talent and access to new markets through our unrivalled partner network. It also has a great community feel, thanks to our range of social, health and wellbeing events such as a running club, mindfulness and yoga.

How have you adapted your office space as we recover from COVID-19? Office design and space planning is what Bruntwood SciTech does. We very quickly implemented a range of measures to support companies in return to the workplace safely. This included re-space planning all of our coworking and serviced offices to ensure compliance with recommended social distancing measures; implemented dedicated up and down only staircases and lift restrictions, introduced hand sanitiser in all common areas and increased the frequency of cleaning for high touchpoint areas such as door handles, lift buttons and shared kitchens. We also temporarily closed our meeting rooms and reduced the occupancy of our lounges and roof terrace.

Over the past several months, organisations have had to be nimble and react with speed. Those that have a digital mindset, and the capabilities to ensure productivity remains high as well as morale, will be far more likely to weather the ongoing storm. We have seen a huge increase in remote working, which has resulted in higher demand for hardware and software, which is only likely to continue. Laptop sales, connectivity infrastructure and use of software like Zoom, Teams and Hangouts has soared. Increased remote working also calls for increased cybersecurity, which has been flagged as a growing sector of tech that hasn’t necessarily been given the attention required in recent years. Blockchain as an infrastructure will see a rise in interest, along with IoT and Artificial Intelligence capabilities and an increased recognition of data importance. Consumer habits have also changed fairly dramatically over a short period of time, with individuals spending more time at home, online retail, experiences and streaming services are already seeing a rapid increase in use. These trends are likely to continue, and there is room for more than just the big 4 in the space. A Platform alumni, who is currently looking at a surge in growth, is local tech company Kwizzbit, who provide online, interactive quiz solutions for both personal and business requirements.

What can other businesses learn from Bruntwood SciTech’s businesses? The digital and tech industry is clearly one of the sectors that is thriving throughout Covid. Our newest business, Jublo, is a full service agency with translation services and is a great example of that, who has grown the skills in their business and found a market where they can rapidly scale up. Their business is busier than ever and their growth has been exceptional, having been founded in 2008 as a digital tech company and then expanding into global language translations in 2016. They now work with over 160 people across 39 countries, and earlier this year appointed 110 new translators to work on a project for a world leading e-retailer, resulting in them now translating over 4 million words a month. We also saw angel group NorthInvest pivot very quickly in the first quarter of 2020 offering online virtual pitch events which helped IP-rich start-ups based in the North of England raise almost £2m. This novel approach is something they’re looking to continue in a hybrid fashion going forward, allowing investors from further afield to dial in which is good for time, resource and the environment.

How the technology sector can help

drive the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recovery An interview with Deb Hetherington Head of Innovation for Bruntwood SciTech in Leeds

West & North Yorkshire Business

48 PROFILE

See how education can transform lives Helena Phillips, Chair of the Board of Directors of the White Rose Academies Trust, invites individuals who are passionate about education and the future of our region to consider joining her in a governance role Helena Phillips Chair of Board of Directors White Rose Academies Trust The White Rose Academies Trust is a member of the Luminate Education Group.

As newly appointed Chair of the White Rose Academies Trust Board, I am quickly learning that in education, no day is the same. Being a school governor or trustee is a challenging and hugely rewarding role. It gives you the chance to make a real difference to young people, give something back to your local community and use and develop your skills in a board-level environment. Our Members, Local Accountability Boards (Governors allocated to an individual academy) and our Trust Board of Directors, are made up of incredibly inspiring and talented people. With backgrounds and experience spanning the public and private sector, our Members, Governors and Directors bring strong business acumen, passion and knowledge to support our incredibly skilled and dedicated staff body. Whilst at times the role of Chair can be demanding and multifaceted, I am finding it extremely rewarding as I embrace the passion and commitment demonstrated by the White Rose Academies Trust staff, students and communities, which has been even more evident during the current pandemic. I feel fortunate to be part of an organisation whose values are aligned with my own and I work to ensure that these values underpin everything we do, every single day. Whilst I provide leadership and mentoring to the governing body my role is greater than this, I assume the role of confidante, adviser, manager, ambassador, coach and most importantly, friend.

White Rose Academies Trust Can you drive forward a vision, provide positive criticism and offer challenge for some of the most rapidly improving schools in the country? If so, I would like to invite you on behalf of the White Rose Academies Trust, to apply for a governance role within the Trust. In the first instance, please email Yvonne Hare, Trust Head of Communications and Projects Hare.y@whiteroseacademies.org

If you too are passionate about education and the future of our region, I invite you to join us in achieving our 2025 vision; a vision of Trust growth and one which will see all of our academies achieve an Ofsted rating of ‘Outstanding’ or indeed ‘World Class’ status (all academies are currently judged as Good). Please join me in seeing how education truly can transform lives.

Reduced business membership funded by Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership has partnered with the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce to offer new members 75% off their first year.* If you are a start-up, sole trader, or multi-million pound turnover manufacturer, sign up today to gain access to specialist support and advice on growth and business management. Chamber services include: HR advice Debt recovery

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Legal advice Health & safety

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Marketing Training

Suzanne Watson Managing Director, Approach PR Chamber of Commerce member for the last 20 years

“

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Start-up support Networking

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Healthcare Finance finder

Through the Chamber network and access to expertise I have made friends, met mentors, secured new business, grown my business and managed my business. Today, no-one knows what the future holds but I feel secure with the consistent support that the Chambers of Commerce continue to offer.

Visit: the-lep.com/WNYCC *Eligible businesses must be based in Leeds City Region, employ fewer than 50 people and be a new member.

“

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West & North Yorkshire Business

50 REPRESENTATION

Welcome on board At the Annual General Meeting held on 9 September 2020 the West and North Yorkshire Chamber elected two new board members. Newly elected members are:

New blood for Chamber policy groups The key policy development bodies within West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce have new blood installed. The three Leadership Groups for the areas covered by the Chamber – Bradford, Leeds and York & North Yorkshire – each have additional business representation to augment the voice of business with decisionmakers. In Bradford, West Yorkshire Learning Partnership’s Managing Director Alex Miles and Bradford University’s Director of Business Engagement David Spicer have both joined that area’s group; Arup’s Associate Director Alastair Gordon takes a place with Leeds; and York & North Yorkshire has recruited McArthur Glen’s Centre Manager Paul Tyler and Nestle’s Head of Finance Tony O’Hagan. Alastair is also the Chair of Leeds Chamber Property Forum. Nick Garthwaite, Chairman of West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said of the changes:

Ms Nasreen Karim of Platinum Partnership Solicitors, Nasreen also runs two other businesses and is leading on the development of the Chamber BAME Business Committee and outreach.

“It’s great to keep bringing in high-quality representation into our Leadership Groups. As President of Bradford Chamber, I saw first-hand what useful contributions our business leaders make to the conversations that we have that lead to influencing policy. The Chamber’s lobbying and representation activities work so well thanks, in part, to those meetings and I’m confident that will continue with the new look.” The Chamber’s Leadership Groups form a key part of the organisation’s lobbying and representation activities. As well as tracking economic trends and liaising with the Bank of England, the Chamber seeks business views on other policy areas affecting the economy, such as transport, property and construction, and education and skills. The organisation works with stakeholders to support policies that will help drive business growth and performance. Find our more at www.wnychamber.co.uk

York Martin Bradnam, co-opted to represent the hospitality sector Paul Tyler, first time elected Paul O’Hagan, first time elected

Bradford David Spicer, co-opted to represent the University of Bradford Craig Thomson of Airedale Chemical, Craig is the Financial Director and brings with him experience in manufacturing, international trade and finance.

Alex Miles, first time elected

Leeds Alastair Gordon, co-opted for first time as Chair of the Leeds Chamber Property Forum

West & North Yorkshire Business

TRANSPORT 51

Rail upgrades due, more disruption on the way Earlier in September 2020, Network Rail announced a programme of works to deliver improved services on the East Coast Main Line. Unfortunately for passengers, there will be disruption to existing services while that work is carried out. Between 1 March and 4 June 2021, there will be temporary closure of individual tracks and platforms at King’s Cross, with other partial closures at various points on the rail

network, including at Christmas and weekends of 26-28 February and 5-6 June. Passengers are advised to check relevant websites before travelling, and read the latest information from Network Rail. Network Rail say the upgrade will deliver improved reliability and punctuality, and help ensure increasing passenger volumes can be met.

Breathe a sigh of relief Proposals for the introduction of a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) in Leeds put on hold. Councillor James Lewis, Deputy Leader of Leeds City Council and Executive Member with responsibility for air quality recently said that as a result of the coronavirus pandemic the city has seen pollution levels fall significantly. Some of this is due to reduced traffic levels and quieter roads plus many buses, taxis, private hire and businesses are now driving cleaner vehicles and highway schemes that will reduce traffic and create more space for cyclists and pedestrians have been brought forward. As a result of the lower levels of pollution the Council is now working closely with central government to review the long

term impact that the pandemic and these other factors will have on the city’s air quality to understand whether pollution will ever reach illegal levels. If the city’s air pollution is expected to stay below legal limits then the city will no longer have the support of government to introduce a charging Clean Air Zone. Given this uncertainty the Council’s financial support will be paused until the review is complete and more direction has been received. Councillor Lewis hopes to clarify the future of the Leeds CAZ in the Autumn.

West & North Yorkshire Business

52 SOCIAL

What you missed online The Chamber has seen great activity across all social media platforms in the past several months. The selected posts below are examples of some of the valuable information and discussions shared by the Chamber and our members on a daily basis. We would love to know your thoughts on this quarter’s magazine and your local Chamber. What would you like to know more about or see more of in the future? Did any articles stand out to you? Get involved with the regional business discussion on Twitter by tagging us @WNYChamber and mentioning #YorkshireBusiness.

Our profiles Twitter @WNYChamber

LinkedIn West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

Facebook West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

Harrowells @Harrowells Business meetings are still required to be on-line, so it is good to see that @WNYChamber have a range of networking and training events planned for the next couple of months.

North Yorkshire CC @northyorkscc The @YNYChamber sees devolution as an opportunity to take control of funds and powers from Central Government to better deliver the infrastructure, skills, business support and growth opportunities that will improve economic prospects..

IVE @IVECreativity “In uncertain times, success relies on businesses’ ability to drive #innovation and recognise change as an opportunity.” Thanks to @WNYorkshire_Biz for the article on how our subsidised #training can help businesses through the current situation.

Sandy Needham DL @SandyNeedham1 Good to see £85m funding allocated for York Central infrastructure, moving this major project forward is important for the city.

Marianne McCallum @MrsMc13

West & North Yorkshire Chamber @WNYChamber We are pleased to welcome the announcement of the start of #HS2 construction. You can read more about the news here: https:// wnychamber.co.uk/news/ investment-in-hs2-will-leadto-growth/ #ChamberNews

Chaired today’s @BradfordChamber #propertyforum steering group call & couldn’t stop smiling when Steve (Centre) appeared with his #halo Great discussion too on #planningwhitepaper

York & N. Yorkshire Chamber @WNYChamber Power station ash paves the way for £1.5billion road building project http://zpr.io/HZEFq #York #Business

West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

West & North Yorkshire Business

CHAMBER CHARITIES 53

Chamber Presidents continue to support nominated charities The West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce are delighted to announce that they are to continue to support the Presidents chosen charities in Leeds, Bradford and York for another consecutive year. The three Chamber charities will remain as: The Market Place, The Children’s Heart Surgery Fund and Dance United Yorkshire, covering issues such as support with mental health for young people, children’s heart problems and engaging marginalised groups with dance. These organisations will benefit from free business support as part of complimentary membership with the Chamber, along with monetary donations from the Chamber’s fundraisers and annual prize draw at each annual dinner event. Find out more information on each charity below:

Bradford Chamber

Leeds Chamber

York & North Yorkshire Chamber

Dance United Yorkshire

The Market Place

Children’s Heart Surgery Fund

(DUY) is a Bradford-based dance and social inclusion organisation focused on connecting the very best of the professional contemporary dance world with marginalised communities across the region. We work with disadvantaged children and young people who are non-dancers and living in challenging circumstances, using the power of dance to transform lives.

is an independent charity established in 1989 that provides free information, support and counselling to young people aged 11 – 25 in Leeds.

supports babies and children born with a heart problem in Yorkshire. They raise money to help the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit provide superb care for its patients and their families.

Dance United Yorkshire Contact: Helen Linsell, Artistic & Executive Director W: www.duy.org.uk E: helen@duy.org.uk

The Market Place believes all young people are experts in their own lives and have the right to feel safe and secure, to be treated with respect, and to feel good about themselves.

The Market Place W: www.themarketplaceleeds.org.uk Contact: Emma Holmes E: Emma.Holmes@ themarketplaceleeds.org.uk

In 2017, approximately 17,600 babies, children and adults passed through the Congenital Heart Unit. They were all born with heart disease and about 40% of them face a lifetime of treatment and operations.

Children’s Heart Surgery Fund T: 0113 831 4810 E: corporate@chsf.org.uk W: www.chsf.org.uk

West & North Yorkshire Business

54 EVENTS

The creative imperative 13 October 2020 : 11:00am IVE presents: The Creative Imperative - The Importance of Adopting a Creative and Innovative Mindset in response to the post-Covid landscape.

Apprenticeships What you need to know 14 October 2020 : 11:00am

Chamber WEBINARS

The Chamber has an extensive webinar offering. Online events are designed to assist you with your businesses needs and give you the guidance and training you require. Events include networking, learning sessions and topical discussions with key speakers. Online events are free for Chamber members. Visit the Chamber website to view all upcoming events and book online. www.wnychamber.co.uk/events

Don’t miss out! Book now at http://chmbr.co/2p West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited

This session will focus on delivering information regarding apprenticeships, trainee-ships, investment in the National Careers Service, and a new ‘Kickstart Scheme’ which are the crucial elements of a new ‘Plan for Jobs’.

Learning Lunch - Effectively managing a bid 22 October 2020 : 11:00am Tender masterclass: Bid Over £800 billion is awarded through public sector tendering each year. Because of the prizes available, tendering is highly competitive and requires an all or nothing approach. It’s easy to be put off tendering because of the time, effort and resources required - no one wants to work all night to get a tender finished!

Digital productivity and virtual connection 28 October 2020 : 11:00am In this webinar you will hear from Alex La Via and explore increasing connection, how to make meetings more effective and how to create a deeper sense of belonging in your organisation.

Afordable health cover that puts my staf frst and works harder to keep them healthy... Works for me. westfeldhealth.com

Your membership of The British Chambers of Commerce gives you access to innovative, afordable health cover with an exclusive range of benefts. Together, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve developed the Chamber Primary Health Plan that will work harder to make your staf feel more valued and motivated, and encourage them to be more proactive about their health.

The plan helps policyholders to access essential healthcare, diagnosis and treatment, provides money back towards selected medical expenses, and can be combined with our hospital treatment insurance to provide truly continuous cover. As a leading provider of corporate health insurance, nobody works harder to keep your employees at their ft and healthy best than Westfeld Health.

To discover the full benefts of harder working health cover, contact us now.

08455 240 240 wnychamber.co.uk/healthcare-chamber-primaryhealth-plan

NEWLY COMPLETED QUALITY OFFICES IN A HERITAGE AREA Set your business up to thrive with our newly refurbished, contemporary serviced office space situated in the centrally located and historic area of Little Germany. • ‘Easy in, easy out’ monthly terms with no requirement for a long lease • Competitive rents from as little as £275 per month • High specification and environmental standards including BREEAM accreditation • Secure environment and reception services • Landlord’s services and membership of the Chamber included • Fibre broadband provided • Access to meeting rooms • Member services and support staff on site • DDA compliant, accessible building

“A huge advantage of

serviced oﬃce space is the access to meeting rooms for client meetings.” Sean Pearson Twenty Twenty Films

For enquiries and information on how we can help you get the right business premises contact Andrew Robertson, Property Director.

T 01274 667266 M 07827 318671 E andrew.robertson@wnychamber.co.uk

Chamber Hub, Devere House, Vicar Lane, Little Germany, Bradford BD1 5AH West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce British Chambers of Commerce Accredited