Borough Business Jan 24

Borough

BUSINESS The voice of Kingston’s business community

Issue 31: Winter 2024

Later life planning Navigating the financial, physical and mental challenges of retirement INSIDE Patron News | Skills | Economy | Health & Wellbeing | Go Business

Professional training and development programmes to meet your business needs.

At Kingston College we are committed to working in partnership to support your organisation’s skills, employment, Apprenticeship and training strategies.

For a FREE skills assessment or for more information please contact: 020 8546 2151.

stcg.ac.uk 2Part Borough of theBUSINESS South Thames Colleges Group

Welcome

to Borough BUSINESS

The Kingston Chamber of Commerce magazine for all Businesses in Kingston

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15

Patron Members

months (Go Growth). This is a fully funded programme from Kingston Council, UK Government and the London Mayor. We are taking registrations of interest and this will be happening very soon. See page 10 for more details.

There have been many Chamber activities but none of which could have happened without the team of IIona and Robyn here in the office. I am fortunate to work with such a committed, kind and generous team.

I would also like to give a shout out to Clare Mannell of CEM Bookkeeping for her utter patience with me, for ruining her Excel budget spreadsheet,s and to Julie Leach, our Chamber President, for her support and listening skills. Thank you so much.

The one thing that didn’t go to plan? There have been a few too many to mention but my favourite has to be at a Chamber social when we went Go boating. The captain of our boat managed to steer us straight from the jetty into the bridge within one minute! That was some achievement!

The past year has taught me quite a few hard lessons, at work and at home, but what has given me strength has been the kindness and support of Chamber members for which I am grateful. The one phrase I became familiar with was an old Persian saying: ‘This too shall pass’. It is a prudent reminder that regardless of what life can give us, good or bad, it will soon pass.

Savour the good, the bad will pass.

I wish you all the very best for 2024 and may it keep you safe.

Welcome to New Members ........................ 6 Patron News ........................................................... 7 Go Business .......................................................... 12 Skills ........................................................................... 15 LCCI ............................................................................. 16 Later Life Planning ........................................ 18 In Profile ................................................................. 20 News ........................................................................... 22 KBBA Finalists .................................................... 24 Chamber Events ............................................... 24 Economy ................................................................. 28 Health & Wellbeing ....................................... 31 Factoids ................................................................... 33 5 Minutes with ................................................... 34

Editorial and General Enquiries Guildhall, High Street Kingston upon Thames. KT1 1EU. 020 8541 4441 Email: office@kingstonchamber.co.uk Web: www.kingstonchamber.co.uk Chief Executive: Forbes Low Publisher: Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published January 2024 © Benham Publishing and Kingston Chamber of Commerce Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager David Wright Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: dave@benhampublishing.com

Forbes Low CEO Kingston Chamber of Commerce forbes@kingstonchamber.co.uk

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Media No. 2030 Disclaimer Borough Business is published for Kingston Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members. All correspondence should be addressed to Kingston Chamber of Commerce. Views or any political comments expressed in Borough Business are not necessarily those of Kingston Chamber of Commerce which is apolitical. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2024. Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Cover image by 123RF

The past can teach us many lessons and so before we step into 2024, I would like to reflect on 2023, on our successes and areas that didn’t quite go to plan.

Having just facilitated the Judging Day for the Kingston Borough Business Awards (KBBA), this programme highlights the truly fantastic, creative and hard working business community we have in the Borough. We received 180 entries, which is amazing, and the judges really struggled to agree on the four finalists per category but they eventually got there.

To all who entered, you really raised the standards and made this the most tightly contested Awards programme yet. The KBBA provides a snapshot of what is happening around us, and in another challenging year, our local, independent and diverse business sectors provide inspiration to us all.

The Chessington Business Expo delivered another great programme of business seminars and advisory zones and we would like to thank the many that contributed to this special day. The Future of Work Summit was a new event for the Chamber and we were delighted by the interest and attendance so this will definitely be back for 2024.

The Chamber has been working week in, and week out, on the many different networking events, from the regular Business Breakfasts, the Coffee+Connects, the Women in Business and the Netwalking. We were delighted to work alongside Kingston College on a Neurodiversity event in October. It was fascinating to learn so much about this subject and the workplace, everywhere, will really need to learn and adapt quickly to appreciate the talent from a neurodiverse workforce.

This year, the Chamber is very excited at delivering the Go Business support programme which is targeted at pre-start ups (Go Set-up) and businesses which have been up and running for at least 18

Contents

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4 Borough BUSINESS

HR Dept

Porter the Sorter

President’s Message

resident AskAsk ourour resident HR expert, HR expert, Sandra Porter Sandra Porter of The HR Dept of The HR Dept for advice on for advice on your workplace your workplace worries. worries.

‘Dad, pullisyour socks up Prevention better than a cure or you’re The law out!’ is changing When SME owners start a business, we often need to access all of resources available to This year, among a the list of new and extended us to get the business thesee ground.

We seek employment laws, weoff also a change in support from those around us that we trust, the direction of employment law. Up until have the skills we need and are keen to see nowbusiness employers have Often been expected to the succeed. this can involve family or procedures personal friends. followmembers the correct regarding any But how do you a business and maintain complaints theyrun receive regarding bullying, healthy relationships?

between family members. So, what can you do toWhat navigate the minefield? can you do as an employer to

protect your employees?

• Be clear with all family members the reasons why being consistent about the expectations 1 - Review ‘money behind bar’ practices across the team iscap important. putting anwhole appropriate on alcohol provided

by the job Company for employees will help • Create descriptions to give clarity on to demonstrate that you areto being every role in the business helpresponsible. manage discrimination or sexual harassment. performance.

2 - Protect against ‘lone working’ Business is business, right? But it’s not as easy However, the be lawa is changing so that Ensure employees aren’tissues vulnerable as that. It can minefield where youemployers have • Be warythat of discussing family when by at being personal relationships that extend will be required to take action to between prevent sexual left working their ownbyoragreeing with onetoother work.

Createon separation keepinallthe the business owner to different team family conversations outside of the workplace workplace, where possible. harassment.

This will mean that all members employers across the business. to prevent anyone from feeling alienated. will not only need to have a policy that 3 - Develop management capability We have a client expectations who has his dad, brother to • Be transparent with other team members communicates for wife, all employees train all managers to ensure that they are and aunt all as members of the team! It’s more that it may feel take unusual, but they have your maintain an appropriate working environment, approachable, any complaints of unwanted like a family tree than organisation chart. They permission to raise any issues and disregard but also to train employees in positive attention seriously and know the procedures to manage the family dynamic really well but there any relationships, where appropriate. workplace practices harassment follow if they receive a grievance. The first 24hrs are definitely things totobeprevent aware of to prevent from there being issues. afteranreceiving complaint very important. happening.

• Use impartiala third party are / outsourced HR service to investigate or take corrective actions Over time it is challenging to be able to address where required. any issues of underperformance or misconduct

Complacency is an employer’s enemy. It is all too often that we hear from our clients that they ‘never thought it would happen to them’. Harassment pervades all sectors and sizes of company. Give us a call if you need Ifany youhelp havetoquestions for Porter thefrom Sorter, email hrhelp@hrdept.co.uk for prevent harassment featuring in your 2024. consideration for future editions.

The HR Dept are an outsourced HR services provider supporting local The HR Dept are an outsourced HR services provider supporting local SMEs SMEs with their people issues and strategy. For advice on grievance with their people issues and strategy. For advice on managing relationships and harassment complaints, or for a free HR audit please call in the workplace and anything else people related call 0345 208 1290.

0345 208 1290.

Always seek employment law advice regarding management of your people issues to Always seek employment law advice regarding management of your people issues to ensure that you and your business are well protected from potential litigation risks. ensure that you and your business are well protected from potential litigation risks.

A fresh start for 2024 Welcome to our first edition of 2024. I love the start of the year for the opportunities it presents. It always feels like a fresh start and the chance to evaluate what I’d like to achieve in the year ahead (less chocolate and more gym usually feature somewhere on my list)!

I’ll be spending the first few weeks of the year working with clients on their employee performance management and helping them to set meaningful goals and objectives that will drive the business forward and develop their teams to be the best they can be.

Whether you’re employed or self-employed, take a few moments to assess what you would like to achieve, write down your goals and revisit them every few weeks to help you stay on track. If you change your mind as we move through the year, just redefine them but having a plan is a great way of helping you achieve your aspirations.

Good luck!

Julie Leach President, Kingston Chamber of Commerce The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

5

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Connect I Support I Influence Business Breakfasts I Business Expo Coffee + Connect I Future of Work Summit Kingston Borough Business Awards Kingston Green Business Community Patron Membership I Netwalking Think Green Webinars I Women in Business @Work Networking

www.kingstonchamber.co.uk

Welcome to our new members Irina Taneva Iri IR

Interactual

Irina Taneva art@irinataneva.com irinataneva.com

Ben May benmay@interactual.co.uk www.interactual.co.uk

AA-Apps & Software Ltd

JNDC Ltd

Agnes Tuba agnes@aa-apps.co.uk theworkapp.co.uk

Dean Carran info@jndc.co.uk www.jndc.co.uk

Arbery Surveyors Ltd

TheMad4Company Limited

Guillaume Freddy Vincent Brequeville info@arberysurveyors.co.uk arberysurveyors.co.uk

Dylan Baxendale hello@themad4company.com themad4company.com

ND Bright Brains Ltd

Choaccountancy Limited

Susana Gonzalez contact@ndbrightbrains.com www.ndbrightbrains.com

Chul Hyun Cho admin@choacca.co.uk www.choacca.co.uk

Strategic Wealth Partners

360 Wellbeing Limited

Amyr Rocha Lima team@strategicwealthpartners.co.uk www.strategicwealthpartners.co.uk

Simon Marett info@360-wellbeing.co.uk www.360-wellbeing.co.uk

Reasons to join...

Membership of Kingston Chamber of Commerce brings a wealth of immediate benefits to your business.

1.

Welcoming, professional and supportive environment

2.

Complimentary admission to the Future of Work Summit and Chessington Business Expo

3.

Regular networking events and business webinars

4.

Local supply chain opportunities and excellent links to the wider local community

5.

Advocacy for businesses to Kingston Council, strategic partners and MPs in the borough

6.

Business learning opportunities with the New Malden Business forum, Women in Business and THINK GREEN webinars

7.

Hosts of the Kingston Borough Business Awards, celebrating and promoting the positive impact of local businesses in the Borough

@KingstonCOC

Join us today

Find out how to join and learn how others are benefiting from their membership.

www.kingstonchamber.co.uk 6 Borough BUSINESS

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

Another successful Employability Week at Kingston College

Patron News

Awards Nomination Caps Off Successful Quarter

At Summers-Inman, we have had a successful and busy last quarter as we approach the end of the year.

Robert O'Dowd, Chief Executive, The Rose Theatre

Our Employability Weeks are going from strength to strength. The November Employability Week held at Kingston College was another resounding success with an incredible 36 Employer Presentations delivered to 1500 students across our two campuses at Kingston Hall Road and the Creative Industries Centre.

During the week of 11 November, we welcomed numerous local and national employers including the The Rose Theatre, Leybold Engineering, The National Trust, Ismail Barbers, Koosa Kids, Galsworthy House, Ace + Freak and so many more!

These sessions play a pivotal role in broadening our students' perspectives and offering them a glimpse into the professional world. It's through collaborations like this that our students gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges awaiting them in their chosen fields.

We are so grateful for the time these generous employers give; the benefit to our students is immeasurable.

These sessions play a pivotal role in broadening our students' perspectives and offering them a glimpse into the professional world.

It's through collaborations like this that our students gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges awaiting them in their chosen fields.

As professional surveyors, we supported the delivery of major healthcare projects including Community Diagnostics Centre (CDC) services, carried out over 2000 residential condition surveys, and executed various housing projects for local councils. By supporting these enabling works, we provided quality services for our clients across the UK. We recently presented on the topic ‘A Digital Journey’ at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) UK Commercial Property Conference. Our presentation reflected how we utilised digitalisation into our business and collaborated with a third-party service to ensure reduced time and improved quality of our services through the means of data management.

As an organisation, we find it crucial to give back to our community. Last month, we hosted fundraising events for Macmillan Cancer Support and Save the Children through a Macmillan Coffee Morning and Christmas Jumper Day. This was a great opportunity do something a little different for a positive cause whilst strengthening relationships amongst colleagues.

To finish off a busy quarter, we were named finalists for the category Excellence in Professional Services for the Kingston Borough Business Awards. Being shortlisted serves as confirmation of our hard work and ability to achieve success for our clients. We are thrilled to have our efforts recognised across Kingston and look forward to accomplishing even more in 2024.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

7

Patron News

Festive Festive Brass!

Brass!

It has been a busy few months at Riverside Walk as the team haveat It has been a busy few months been preparing the site for the Riverside Walk as been redevelopment of the the team upperhave parts of the property. preparing the site for the redevelopment of the upper parts of the property.

The works carried out so far will enable a quicker and less disruptive building phase of the project, The works carried out so far will enable a quicker which is due to commence early in 2024. The project less disruptive building phase the project, isand expected to take approximately 12of months with businesses opening

by Summer 2025. which is due to commence early in 2024. The project is expected to take approximatelyon 12site We have had the pleasure of performances with businesses opening

by Summer 2025. bymonths Kingston favourites, Borough Brass, in the lead up

to Christmas. We hope this has brought some festive cheer to those out and about doing their Thursday We have had the pleasure of performances on site late night Christmas shopping.

by Kingston favourites, Borough Brass, in the lead We also sponsored thethis weekend breakfast up have to Christmas.

We hope has brought some show on Radio Jackie to remind people that our festive cheer to those out and about doing businesses are here to help take the strain fortheir those Thursday night Christmas shopping. doing theirlate Christmas shop in Kingston town centre.

Meet Evans Hart!

In September, Holland Hahn & Wills merged with Evans Hart Financial Planning.

This is an exciting venture, and we are confident that we have found the right firm to partner with and secure the future of HHW for many years to come.

Evans Hart Ltd. was founded in 1986 and has a very similar ethos to HHW, with a personal approach and sound investment philosophy. For this reason, it feels like a comfortable and exciting fit to join forces and share ideas. We will continue to enjoy the Kingston office and look forward to welcoming you and any friends, family or colleagues you are keen to refer for advice on their finances!

Do look out for some of the friendly faces of the Evans Hart team who will regularly be in the HHW offices.

We look forward to introducing you in due course.

8 Borough BUSINESS

A recent photo of some of the London team

Katie achieves Chartered status We are delighted that Katie Lovatt has recently achieved Chartered Manager status and is now a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute. This is the highest accolade for managers and leaders, and a deserving result after her hard work and dedication. We are delighted to encourage such qualifications, which help us to continue to develop the high standard of service we strive to offer. www.hhw-uk.com

Patron News

Protecting your digital legacy: social media & photos when we die.

Within our modern world, our online presence is stronger than ever. It is becoming increasingly apparent that we must consider how our digital assets are dealt with after we pass away.

Your family or friends should not need to go to court to get access to your digital life when you die as long as you make arrangements before you die.

Our online profiles include online documents, photos, social media accounts and more, how do we protect these and how can our executors deal with online content? Currently there is no UK law specifically dealing with digital legacies, but you can give the right to access digital 'assets' to beneficiaries in your will.

We believe this issue is becoming more important to us all. The Law is unhelpful. As an example families may have to obtain court orders when their loved one has not specified when they were still alive, what access others should have after their death. In 2019, a woman from London finally won a three-year legal battle with Apple to get access to her late husband's photos and videos, including thousands of pictures of their daughter growing up.

So what does the Law say?

• There is no Act of Parliament that specifically addresses what happens to your personal data after your death but there are existing legal rules and precedents to navigate when it comes to issues around it. To address the lack of a specific Act, the Digital Devices (Access for Next of Kin) Bill was introduced, but given it's been sitting at the second reading stage since May 2022, it is not likely to become law anytime soon.

• You can grant the right to access digital assets after you die by naming individuals in your Will, such as executors (the person or persons you want to carry out your will). You could even have 'social media executors' to deal specifically with those accounts. And, as usual with wills, you can choose the beneficiaries (the person or persons who gain something) of any digital assets you have. This is

IQ in in IT: IT: IQ

Expanding services Expanding services in the the North in North East East and championing championing and cybersecurity cybersecurity We are excited to announce the

We are excited to new announce of opening of our officethe in opening the North our new office in the North East, allowing us East, allowing us to extend our services to our services businesses,and social toextend businesses, social to enterprises, enterprises, and charities in the region. charities in the region.

the case whether the assets have actual or just sentimental value. Think about which data you want to go to which person.

• Your family or friends should not need to go to court to get access to your digital life when you die as long as you make arrangements before you die – court orders have only been necessary where the deceased hasn't specified what access should be allowed by others when they were still alive.

It is also important to consider including an instructions within a Lasting Power of Attorney to allow appointed attorneys to have access or not, to your social media accounts, computer, laptop or tablet. Again, there are no strict rules at the moment but it is better to be clear on the subject than leave it in a grey area open to debate. Again, we can assist with the creation of Lasting Powers of Attorney and the inclusion of access to your digital life.

So we would recommend the following:

In conclusion, this is a hot topic of discussion at the moment and we believe that consideration should be given to this area of our lives when we consider writing our Wills or Lasting Powers of Attorney.

• List your digital directory on paper • Back up your most important things (preferably on an external hard drive).

• Record decisions via a digital legacy template and we can put this together with your will. (we can provide this) • Note executor/s on platforms that allow it (Apple, Facebook etc.)

For more information on creating a Will or Lasting Powers of Attorney please contact Claire-Louise, Wealth Management Executive on clsmith@pearsonhards.co.uk

We also warmly welcome Katy Murphy to the IQ in We also Katy warmly Murphy to the IQ in IT team. haswelcome joined theKaty team as our Customer IT team. Katy has joined theinteam as our Customer Experience Manager based our Northumberland Experience based in Northumberland office and is Manager looking forward toour assisting clients across office and is looking assisting clients the business, ensuringforward that weto are able to deliver across the business, ensuring we are able to industry leading service to our that customers. deliver industry leading service to our customers.

As the festive season approaches, we emphasise the As the festive season approaches, we emphasise importance of heightened cybersecurity vigilance. the importance of heightened cybersecurity Historically, this period this has period seen anhas increase in cyber vigilance. Historically, seen an threats, it crucial businesses to stay increasemaking in cyber threats,for making it crucial for alert.

Ifbusinesses you're at alltoconcerned your organisation's stay alert. about If you're at all concerned cybersecurity posture, please feel free to get in touch about your organisation's cybersecurity posture, and we will be happy to advise on how you can please feel free to get in touch and we will be protect your business overyou Christmas and into happy to advise on how can protect yourthe New Year. over Christmas and into the New Year. business We Wealso alsowant wantto tosay sayaahuge hugethank thankyou youtotoallallthe thelocal local businesses thatreached have reached to us this businesses that have out to out us this year and year to the Chamber Kingston of Chamber of Commerce to theand Kingston Commerce team for team fortirelessly workingto tirelessly to putevents, on great events, working put on great connecting connectingacross businesses across the borough. businesses the borough.

The IQ in IT team

iqinit.u The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

9

Patron News

Fully funded business support has never been easier to access.

The new year is often a catalyst for businesses starting up or looking to grow. Kingston Council is here to support your business growth and ensure you have access to expert advice and guidance by working with our partners to offer a variety of fully funded support programmes.

Kingston Adult Education’s Explore Your Business Potential programme will help individuals explore if starting a business is right for them.

Entrepreneurship should be an option for everyone so this course is specifically aimed to support people with additional barriers, such as those in social housing, different ethnic groups, women, disabilities, refugees, the unemployed and those receiving benefits, plus the 40-50+ age group.

Courses will run from January 2024 and are free to eligible residents based in the borough.

Email adult.education@kingston.gov.uk to enrol.

Kingston Council has commissioned Kingston Chamber of Commerce to offer two GO Business programmes, one aimed at helping individuals

set up their business and one to help existing businesses to achieve growth.

Courses will run from January 2024 and are free to residents based in the borough.

Visit www.kingstonchamber.co.uk/events/goset-up-programme/ to find out more and book.

You can also join the Start Up Club, which is part of the offer from the new TownSq Kingston workspace, opening on the riverside. This informal setting is ideal for those who are starting up, those who are developing their business ideas around work commitments, or those turning a hobby into a business.

For more information register at www.townsqkingston.co.uk/startup-club

Go Business

The Council is funding these programmes to support the local business community, applying funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, provided through the Mayor of London.

We can also offer advice on running a food business, applying for licences, finding business premises and even doing business with the council See kingston.gov.uk/ business-help or sign up to the business newsletter using the QR code to ensure you are always up to date with local opportunities.

Entrepreneurship should be an option for everyone so this course is specifically aimed to support people with additional barriers, such as those in social housing, different ethnic groups, women, disabilities, refugees, the unemployed and those receiving benefits, plus the 40-50+ age group.

10 Borough BUSINESS

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

11

TOP TIPS for dealing DON’T THE FUTURE ISfurlough NOW with HMRC PANIC! enquiries

Legal

THE FUTURE FUND AND THE TICKING CLOCK FOR BORROWERS your Business/Client checks, anti-money laundering and fraud and financial Russell-Cooke Senior associate Sally Johnston provides crime checks, and wider public policy aims and proper safeguarding of insights into the Future Fund, a UK Government-backed taxpayers resources’ when submissions for introduced an extension. scheme launched in 2020Job to aid start-ups during the pandemic, The Coronavirus Retention Scheme (CJRS), commonly referred toevaluating as ‘furlough’ was This could buy your business invaluable time to then seek one of the options as businesses approach the three-year maturity date.

by the UK Government in March 2020. While relatively of priorpremium to the below,unheard where the redemption willpandemic not be payable.we have, Setting scene: thebeen Future Fund since hearing 2020 sincethe March 2020, consistently or using this word.

3. Issues new shares: qualifying & non-qualifying financing

The Future Fund was launched by the Chancellor in May 2020 as a £1.4 billion scheme designed to support UK start-ups to secure investment during business could initiate a funding round with the aim of raising enough In this pandemic. article Sheetul Sowdagar from Russell-CookeYour gives some top tips your head around the Covid-19 equity through issuing shares to to newwrap investors to match an equal or greater amount than the Future Fund loan.

This will trigger a conversion through a Thefurlough key mechanism of the Government-backed scheme was that the Future fraud and dealing with enquiries. condition in the loan, called a ‘qualifying financing’.

Fund would offer UK-based companies convertible loans ranging from £125,000 to £5 million, if those companies could match investments from other If you issue shares to new investors, but the value is lower than the amount lenders. This scheme is currently delivered by the British Business Bank. of the Future Fund loan, then you can still trigger conversion of the loan if a Youbusinesses may or may know that thethis Oxford show your of being the furlough retainoftheir majority the lenders (excluding the intention Future Fund) electcooperative, for the loans to be Many thatnot benefited from investment are now rapidlyscheme to help converted (this election willbut need be help received no later ten business English Dictionary defines furlough as “to approaching the three-year maturity date. willto also address anythan issues, employees during the pandemic may days prior to the financing).

This can also occur if the financing is less somebody to leave their Forgive businesses whopermission have not converted the loans into shares thefrom HMRC. These could without the need for escalation. receivebefore queries than 25% of the Future Fund Loan, and the Future Fund consents to the maturity date, the British Business Bank have indicated that they will be duties for a period of time”. even be in cases where only legitimate conversion.

These are non-qualifying financing Tip 3: Make suretriggers. you review your electing for repayment of not only the principal, but also a redemption furlough claims had been made.

In either case, the loan will be converted into most senior class of shares premium matching the principal amount (along with accrued interest).

In the press, we have seen increasing recordsthe and keep copies. then in issue in the relevant company, with identical rights and preferences Themention risk of aofpotentially crippling redemption premium means that the clock is ‘furlough fraud.’ It has recently issued to the investor(s) inThis the financing thetoconversion price. will allowat you refresh your memory ticking to make a decision for borrowers on how to trigger conversion their a query Help – I’veofhad from been estimated that the UK Government Future Fund loan if repayment of such an onerous loan is not an option.

The Future Fund requires and 20 business days’ notice of a qualifying or nonmore importantly have all your is likely to write off £4.3 billion pounds in HMRC qualifying financing round – and on this basis, it will be important to factor in If your business has borrowed under the Future Fund scheme and the documents ready to disclose to HMRC further time. loanfurlough has notfraud. yet been converted into equity or repaid, you can evaluate the Below are some practical tips to help you if needed. following options: 4. Exit respond to any queries received.

What is furlough fraud?

Be transparent.

1. Repayment Depending on the terms ofTip the 4: transaction, an exit event, such as a share Tip 1: Do not panic! or asset sale of the company will likely trigger automatic conversion of the TheExamples first and the likely least attractive is to allow the loan to reach its of furlough fraud could option include: In theAn event you realise that aismistake Future Fund loans into shares. automatic conversion triggered if the maturity date. As outlined above, the current default is that the Future Fund Understand that HMRC may bewill following has been as made, lender receive a greater amount cashorforany theoverpayments sale of the shares than Furloughed staff being asked to redemption premium will•demand repayment of the principal, and accrued would otherwise receive have had itoccurred, been repaid its loan redemption up 2023). leads or simply askingitquestions to interestcontinue (as of the make surewith youapromptly to Future work; Fund’s latest update on 23 June premium, or if the would receive any non-cash consideration to ensure that all claims made were done so lenders inform The Future Fund and matched lenders can, however, decide separately receive repayment of the loan andHMRC. the redemption premium (the latter in • Claiming pay foror staff who to accept conversion of the loan whether to electfurlough for redemption, instead properly. accordance with specified conditions within the Future Fund loan agreement). into shares. the other (by way of a 50% majority election, no later did notIf qualify forlenders the scheme; Tip 5: Keep records for a If you head are able to find a prospective buyer, seeking advice on how to structure than 30 business days prior to maturity) elect to redeemTip their2:loans, Dothen notall bury your minimum of six years. the deal and the corresponding tax implications will be crucial. It will also be the•other loans will be redeemed.

Claiming furlough pay for ‘made up’ in the sand. important to factor in ample time to facilitate the exit, depending on the size Depending staff; on the liquidity of your business, this will be the most Even if you were successful in addressing and complexity of your business. straightforward option – and may be the only option for While businesses that to areget distracted it is easy in any queries and the matter was • Over-claiming furlough pay; unable or are unsuccessful in exercising the alternatives outlined below.

When legal advice? keeping the business running, it isshould I seeksubsequently resolved, do keep your If your business is unable to repay the loan, you may need to instruct an • Not passing The this maturity Fundfor loan is a criticalofmilestone business insolvency expert. the full amount of furlough important to understand that is notdate of a Future records a minimum six yearsfor to aassist that requires careful planning and consideration. Understanding which of the pay to the furloughed employees; going to go away. If you cannot find time any potential future queries.

2. Extend the loan above options best servesyou yourwith business will be paramount. yourself to engage with HMRC, then make • Deliberately providing false information Borrowers can request an extension to the maturity date of their Future Fund It is important to speak with a corporate solicitor for guidance on how to sure you an adviser who can We can help We would recommend seeking loan. Evidence able to instruct negotiate navigate the right course for your business. to receivesuggests furloughthat paysome from borrowers HMRC. have been extensions of up to two years – although this is entirely do at the of the advice sooner rather than later to ensure sufficient time for all of the options so discretion on your behalf.

It goes without saying that if any actions Future Fund.

While it is understood that only a very small to remain feasible.

It is often too easy to say that we ‘will deal areassociate being taken against you by HMRC, Thisminority option is available where businesses respond to an initial notification intended to defraud HMRC, it is Sally Johnston is a senior in the startups teams.

She from the Future Fund confirming eligibility for a Maturity Extension Request regularly advises startups and growing companies on a range of with this later’ and soon enough a month or please seek independent legal advice known that HMRC have started ramping up within 20 business days. matters.

Whilst advising fundraising and growth, more has gone by. It is always better to beSally’s expertise urgently. is Contact ouron senior associate their investigations and actively following her knowledge extends to share schemes and incentives, brand Guidance from the Future Fund indicates that they will consider ‘the start engaging with HMRC Sheetul Sowdagar in our professional up on tip-offs received. business commercial objectives of theMany business, the adequacy ofproactive the resultsand of Know protection, key commercial contracts and M&A. regulation team, for help. as soon as possible. This will not only owners in the UK who had accessed

Sheetul Sowdagar Sally Johnston

Direct: +44 (0)20 Phone +447440 (020)4806 8394 6442 sally.johnstone@russell-cooke.co.uk Email: Sheetul.Sowdagur@russell-cooke.co.uk

russell-cooke.co.uk +44 (0)20 8789 9111

Go Business

BUSINESS PROGRAMMES

Are you thinking of setting up a new business?

Do you want to know how to do this?

Go Set Up is the perfect programme for you.

Are you seeking to grow your business more quickly?

Do you want to tap into business expertise?

Are you seeking clarification of your goals?

Go Growth is programme to take you and your business forward.

FUNDED AND SUPPORTED BY:

DELIVERED BY: The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

12 Borough BUSINESS

Go Business

SET UP

PROGRAMME

GROWTH

PROGRAMME

If you are thinking about starting a business, the Go Set Up programme will help you with planning, getting set up, marketing, funding and finance. It will provide advice and guidance from the team of experienced start up advisors who will detail the key foundations to a successful and sustainable business.

The Go Growth programme combines specialist resources with the expertise and knowledge to help you drive growth and build capacity successfully. Go Growth offers a broad range of support, including expert webinars, essential diagnostic sessions using the Business Model Canvas tool and one-to-one business mentoring.

Who can attend the Go Set Up programme?

Who can attend the Go Growth programme?

This programme is aimed at pre-start ups, participants who want to start up a business and already taking steps to do so, or are transistioning from a current business into a new start up or wanting to move back into the workforce.

• Micro / Small Business (1-10 size business).

• Have been trading for a minimum of 18 months (so they have one set of annual accounts).

• Registered as sole trader or set up as a limited business.

What does the programme offer?

What does the programme offer?

• A Go Set Up workshop which is run by a qualified business advisor. They would cover the core essentials of how to set up a business including: business objectives, the market and marketing, legal aspects, set-up costs, pricing, financial forecasting, relationships to banks/funding.

• After each workshop, the participants will be introduced to the Go Set Up Business Model Canvas (BMC) and provided with guidance on its completion.

A business model is simply a business tool used to visualise, on a single page, all the building blocks that need to be considered if you are starting a business.

• Participants who complete their BMC will be offered an online review on their submission by a qualified business advisor.

• Eight Go Growth Online Webinar courses provided by business specialists on areas including Marketing, Finance, Contracts/HR, Digital Skills, Leadership, Sustainability, Mental Health and Cyber security/GDPR. • Go Growth Diagnostic/Business Model Canvas (BMC) sessions available to all participants.

• Go Growth Advisory Hub which would provide a one-to-one, online mentoring sessions (two sessions) of one hour, to each participant.

What will participants gain from the Go Growth programme?

• By the end of the programme, participants will have the ability and confidence to develop and implement a comprehensive and robust strategy that will take them and their business forward.

What will participants gain from the Go Set Up programme?

• By the end of the programme, participants will have had the opportunity to define their business idea, researched their product and audience, and created an initial business plan.

• Support to register their business / created the new legal entity and advice to set up a bank account.

To sign up for the Go Set-Up Programme, scan the QR code and register today

To sign up for the Go Growth Programme, scan the QR code and register today

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

13

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New Year, New Start

Skills

Meet Kingston College apprentice Kuljit

As we say goodbye to 2023, many organisations are contemplating the year ahead and what they need to put in place to grow their business during 2024.

Kuljit is a Level 3 Advanced Manufacturing in Engineering apprentice, employed by Cubic Transportation Systems, the market leader in delivering seamless, integrated and efficient mobility solutions that simplify daily commutes, reduce traveller frustration and make journeys safer.

Kuljit shares his experience of studying with us:

Achieving growth often requires upskilling of employees to support your organisational objectives. Here at South Thames Colleges Group we have a wide range of training opportunities starting in January 2024 to support your staff development.

Kingston College has January starts for Engineering, Lab Technician and Information Communication Technician Apprenticeships.

We also have Apprenticeship starts at our sister Colleges in Construction, Hospitality and Accounts/ Finance.

Apprenticeships

Contact Business@stcg.ac.uk to find out more.

Apprenticeships can benefit your business by enabling you to bring in new talent who can be trained with the skills and professional qualifications you need to support your business goals. Apprenticeships can also be used to upskill existing staff, helping you to get the most out of your workforce, providing vocational training that is tailored to your organisation.

Professional Courses

We work with you throughout the process whether you are a levy or a non-levy payer, guiding you in assessing funding and selecting the best people for your role if you are looking to attract new talent in.

From Leadership and Management courses to Beauty Specialist courses such as Level 4 MicroNeedling we have a range of flexible professional courses to support the development of your business.

Check out stcg.ac.uk/kingston-college/january-starts to find out more.

Apprenticeships can benefit your business by enabling you to bring in new talent who can be trained with the skills and professional qualifications you need to support your business goals.

I chose to study Level 3 in Advanced Manufacturing as it combines both electrical and mechanical knowledge, which is beneficial in a wide range of industries. Additionally, there are specific units that come in handy in the work place, for example project and comms are covered in this course, which can be useful for students who are looking to become project managers within the engineering environment rather than working on machinery.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the course is the hands-on experience we gain through laboratory sessions and workshops. We can then apply the theoretical concepts learned in class to real-world situations. We also have exposure to cutting-edge technology and equipment.

The course gives a holistic view of the manufacturing industry including its history, current trends, and future developments allowing us to understand the broader context of the industry, and how our work contributes to it. We also work on projects and assignments in teams, which allows us to learn important collaboration and communication skills. These projects are based on real-world challenges faced by industry partners, which gives us valuable experience working on real-world problems and a chance to explore potential career paths.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

15

LCCI

Being forward-thinking and inclusive will boost the economy Photo by Rebrand Cities

James Watkins, Head of Policy and Public Impact at London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, talks to Sarah Dale about the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), and the highlights and issues affecting the London business community.

Being a forward-thinking, inclusive Chamber is extremely important to the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

This is demonstrated in several ways from its work with the Metropolitan Police to make London’s streets safer for women and girls to its call for the implementation of new policies to ensure that the inclusion of women in the negotiations of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) will increase.

“I think in years gone by equality, diversity and inclusion was a nice to have and not seen as functional to business growth,” said James Watkins, Head of Policy and Public Impact at LCCI. “But if you scratch the surface, we must have inclusion. My colleague Esenam Agubretu has said there were too many barriers to BME businesses that were holding back business growth and creation.

“What we are saying is equality, diversity and

16 Borough BUSINESS

inclusion is not just a moral imperative, it’s fundamental to business growth.”

The LCCI’s policy proposal calls for the implementation of new policies to ensure that more women are included in the negotiations of FTAs will push forward women’s roles in trade agreements and could in turn lead to an economy boost, more jobs, and lay the foundations for the advancement of gender equality in business and decision-making settings.

Cabinet reshuffle The Cabinet reshuffle has seen various highprofile changes including the sacking of the Minister of London, Paul Scully, MP for Sutton and Cheam.

“I want it on record how much respect we have for Paul and what he did,” said James.

“He is an expert negotiator and he brought people from different political parties

together and worked with the business community. We wish him the very best for the future.”

The LCCI welcomes the appointment of James Cleverly, the new Home Secretary, and says the appointment of David Cameron, former Prime Minister and now Lord Cameron, as the new Foreign Secretary, is a “chance for a refreshed look at the Government’s Ukraine policy”.

Crime in London The LCCI recently had meetings with the Metropolitan Police and the City of London Police not only to address business crime but also women’s safety. They will continue to work closely with both police forces on these issues.

LCCI

“We want women and girls to be safe and feel safe in all London boroughs,” he said.

“But if you scratch the surface, we must have inclusion. My colleague Esenam Agubretu has said there were too many barriers to BME businesses that were holding back business growth and creation.

“What we are saying is equality, diversity and inclusion is not just a moral imperative, it’s fundamental to business growth.”

“There have been some horrific incidents involving the police too in recent times.

The Metropolitan Police said they take this very seriously and have suspended 1,000 officers for misogyny and racism.

“London overall is an incredible city for many people who don’t see crime on a regular basis but crime does happen.”

LCCI’s partnership with Ukraine The LCCI’s work with Ukraine continues and the partnership was celebrated at the City of London Lord Mayor’s Show, an event that has been running for 800 years. ‘London and Kyiv: Two Cities United’ was the theme of this year’s “stunning” float.

“Everybody was so excited and exhilarated by the whole experience,” added James.

“Ukrainian refugees very kindly volunteered to take part. There’s an arch in Kyiv, the Arch of Freedom, set up in Soviet times to commemorate the union of Russia and Ukraine. So in 2014 when Russian forces invaded Crimea they did a pretend crack to show there was no unity between Russia and Ukraine. For the float we reconstructed the crack and painted it gold rather than black to show the strong links between the UK and Ukraine.”

The LCCI will return to Ukraine in 2024 and continue their support of SMEs in Ukraine.

James Watkins, Head of Policy and Public Impact at London Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Changes at the top at LCCI Recently, the CEO of LCCI, Richard Burge stepped down as CEO and Karim Fatehi MBE has stepped up to act as Interim CEO. “As a long-serving member of LCCI’s Council and more recently the board of directors, I’m delighted to step into the role of Interim CEO of LCCI”, said Karim.

“We will continue to provide first-class services to the capital’s business community. From our

trade documentation support and trade advisory services, through to our events, networking platforms, support hubs and our advocacy work, the Chamber has a very busy period ahead. LCCI’s tireless work continues to ensure that London remains the best place in the world to do business.”

The King’s Speech The King’s Speech was eagerly anticipated by everyone and “from a London perspective, it was a very good result”, said James, quoting the new regulations introduced for pedicabs.

“When tourists go to the West End, pedicabs should be a fun experience but it’s not regulated because of an old law,” he said.

“People have been intimidated and there have been some very ugly incidents. We, along with other organisations, have been calling for them to be regulated.

Now there is a specific bill to be heard which will close a loophole of 100 years.

It’s a very positive step for the London economy and visitors that are coming to London.”

The British Chambers of Commerce has been quoted as saying the King’s Speech was disappointing and James said that you could argue that they make a fair assessment because of the work needed to address the skills crisis.

Plans for 2024 Next on the agenda for the LCCI is launching the London Mayoral election manifesto in the new year.

“We’re in the final stages now,” added James. They have also launched a report that calls for exhibitions to be supported in London.

“We’re competing with big, international cities,” he said. “We want to lever these exhibitions into London and have put forward a series of recommendations.

We want arts funding to be protected £47 billion is created in London alone in arts. It’s not just a nice to have, it’s a key part of the economy, and the cuts before Christmas last year were unacceptable.”

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

17

Later life planning

Later life planning Freedom Wealth Management is a large wealth management company that puts the client at the heart of its business and builds its brand on trust and reputation.

One key area of wealth management is later life planning.

Please find below a brief explanation of the key areas to consider when considering this important area.

Later life planning involves making decisions and taking actions to ensure a comfortable and secure future as individuals age. This multifaceted process encompasses financial, healthcare, and lifestyle considerations to promote wellbeing in the later stages of life.

Financial Planning Central to later life planning is financial preparation. Individuals must assess their current financial status, including savings, investments, and retirement accounts.

Creating a comprehensive budget helps outline anticipated expenses and ensures that resources are allocated wisely. Many people opt for retirement savings vehicles such as pensions, ISAs, collectives and bonds, to name a few tax wrappers, taking advantage of tax benefits and compounding interest over time.

Furthermore, estate planning is a critical component. Drafting a will ensures that assets are distributed according to one’s wishes.

Establishing trusts can provide added control and flexibility, especially for complex family situations. Powers of attorney and healthcare directives should be in place, designating individuals to make financial and healthcare decisions when the individual is no longer able to do so.

Healthcare Planning Later life planning necessitates careful consideration of healthcare needs. This involves choosing appropriate health insurance coverage, understanding the medical options that are in front of you, and planning for potential long-term care. Longterm care insurance is an option for those who wish to safeguard against the high costs of assisted living or nursing home care.

Advance care planning is equally crucial.

This involves expressing one’s healthcare preferences in advance, including end-of-life decisions. Creating a living will or a durable power of attorney for healthcare enables individuals to designate someone to make medical decisions on their behalf.

Photo by iStock

Later life planning involves making decisions and taking actions to ensure a comfortable and secure future as individuals age. This multifaceted process encompasses financial, healthcare, and lifestyle considerations to promote wellbeing in the later stages of life.

18 Borough BUSINESS

Social and Lifestyle Considerations Later life planning extends beyond financial and healthcare aspects to encompass social and lifestyle considerations. Housing choices are a significant factor. Some may choose to age in place, modifying their homes to accommodate changing needs. Others might explore retirement communities or assisted living facilities. Each option comes with its own set of financial and lifestyle implications.

Maintaining social connections is essential for emotional wellbeing. Planning for social engagement, whether through community activities, clubs, or regular family gatherings, helps combat isolation. Additionally, addressing transportation needs ensures continued independence and access to essential services.

Legal Considerations Legal aspects play a vital role in later life planning. In addition to wills and trusts, individuals may need to address issues like guardianship, especially if cognitive decline becomes a concern. Keeping legal documents up-to-date is crucial, as changes in family dynamics or legislation may impact the validity of existing plans.

Adapting to Changing Circumstances Later life planning is not a one-time task; it requires ongoing evaluation and adaptation. As circumstances change, such as fluctuations in health, finances, or family

Photo by Pexels

dynamics, plans may need adjustments.

Regular reviews with financial advisors, legal professionals, and healthcare providers can help ensure that plans remain relevant and effective.

Emotional and Psychological Preparation Preparing for the emotional and psychological aspects of ageing is often overlooked but crucial. Accepting the changes that come with ageing, maintaining a positive mindset, and seeking emotional support contribute to overall wellbeing.

Engaging in activities that bring joy and purpose can enhance the quality of life in later years.

Conclusion Later life planning is a comprehensive and dynamic process that addresses financial, healthcare, legal, and lifestyle considerations.

By taking a proactive approach, individuals can navigate the challenges of ageing with greater confidence and ensure a fulfilling and secure future. Regular reassessment and adaptation to changing circumstances are key to maintaining the effectiveness of these plans over time.

Later life planning is not a one-time task; it requires ongoing evaluation and adaptation. As circumstances change, such as fluctuations in health, finances, or family dynamics, plans may need adjustments.

Freedom Wealth can help and advise on all these key areas to help ensure you consider and make the correct decisions.

For further information please visit:

www.freedomwm.co.uk The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

19

In Profile

New FUSEBOX sparks the imagination of young creatives Photo by Charlotte Levy

Archie O’Neill and Daniel Cartlidge acknowledge how “highly unconventional” it is to have two young people running a charity.

Their youthful energy and enthusiasm for the arts and Creative Youth’s vision have secured them both new roles as Co-Directors – and they hit the ground running by fully opening the charity’s new arts space, FUSEBOX, in their first week.

Archie O’Neill

Daniel Cartlidge

Creative Youth charity’s new Co-Directors Archie O’Neill and Daniel Cartlidge talk to Sarah Dale about Kington’s exciting new arts space and their plans for 2024.

"Our team is overall very young, and we are extremely proud of the way we bring everyone together to also work with more experienced members of staff," “We are highly unconventional as two young people running a charity. That’s happened because we can respond and refine the services for young people because we’re young people too. Our background is in the arts – Dan’s worked in theatre and I’ve worked in visual arts.”

They both joined the charity in 2021, Daniel, 26, working as General Manager and Archie as Community and Participation Manager prior to their new roles.

Creative Youth works with young people aged from six to 26 in a range of disciplines including music, drama, dance, poetry, digital arts, visual arts, fashion and design. Around 7,000 to 8,000 people engage with the charity

including staff, young creatives and audience members.

FUSEBOX held its official launch in July, opening its café to the public on 4th September, the same day they started their new roles. The new arts space is located under the John Lewis building and the renovation was funded by the Greater London Authority and the Royal Borough of Kingston. The charity has a 10-year lease on the property.

Not only is the site a forward-thinking arts space but it is a heritage site and visitors to FUSEBOX can view the medieval artefacts. The Medieval Undercroft is dated to c.1350 and is thought to be the cellar of a merchant’s house due to its proximity to Kingston Market.

“These are really exciting times,” added Archie.

“FUSEBOX is our primary focus for the new year, as well as continuing the work of the charity which began in 2009. The local authority could not have been more supportive with getting the project off the ground. We have been very well supported by our team and the Board, by other organisations and the Chamber as we’ve made that step up.”

Daniel said: “As we establish ourselves in our roles in the new year, it will be good to continue to focus on the things that matter to

We are highly unconventional as two young people running a charity. That’s happened because we can respond and refine the services for young people because we’re young people too.

20 Borough BUSINESS

Photo by Amaan Ali

Formerly known as the Undercroft, FUSEBOX is a place for young people, emerging artists, key academic partners, and community organisations locally, nationally and internationally to come together.

our local young people such as sustainability, climate change and mental health.

“FUSEBOX is a safe, inclusive space which we plan to make as diverse as possible. It’s a very creative environment to work, with really good facilities including our own café.”

The charity has worked with Mind to offer a Mindful Arts project for neurodiverse serviceusers or those struggling with mental health issues to provide relaxed arts sessions.

The Co-Directors admit the charity is not as diverse as they would like it to be and are pro actively looking to improve their diversity in 2024. The charity has 15 members of staff with up to 50 freelancers and work experience working on the popular FUSE International festival.

The festival, formerly known as the International Youth Arts Festival, is the largest youth multi-arts festival in the UK. The 10-day event will be held from 28th June to 7th July 2024 across several venues in Kingston including Rose Theatre and will have a packed programme of music, dance, comedy, theatre, and more.

The charity joined Kingston Chamber of Commerce around 11 years ago.

“The benefits of being members of the Chamber are two-fold,” explained Archie.

“As a charity, it’s very difficult to network and connect with other businesses in the local

area and charities can feel isolated, but as a member of the Chamber, we’re a part of those key discussions and receive signposting to other organisations. That connection with local businesses is important to our ethos as a charity.

“More specifically, opening FUSEBOX has been a huge undertaking. We are now operating our own venue as a business and being able to draw on the support of the Chamber and other businesses, as well as having the Chamber use this space as a venue, which leads to other businesses having the chance to see the venue and decide to book it themselves, has been great.”

“FUSEBOX is a safe, inclusive space which we plan to make as diverse as possible. It’s a very creative environment to work, with really good facilities including our own café.”

Daniel added: “Networking gives you room to breathe from the day-to-day running of a business and a chance to connect with other people who run their own businesses. It can be lonely at the top. You’re taking care of the business and staff and service-users so networking means you can chat to others who know what it’s like. Most of the networking events happen in interesting places too such as the Rose Theatre. The Chamber is a great supporter of the arts.”

To find out more about FUSEBOX, visit www.creativeyouthcharity.org/fusebox The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

21

News

Green grants launched for community climate action Kingston Council has launched a new grant to help fund community groups taking action in support of the borough’s climate and biodiversity goals.

Working towards a greener future that protects and enhances the environment is a key priority for the council, which is why it has launched the new grant to help enable green-minded community action across Kingston.

And there’s still time to be involved - with applications open until 12th January, 2024.

The council is working to become net zero in its own operations by 2030 through the delivery of its Climate Action Plan, while helping the wider borough to become net zero by 2038.

Councillor Ian Manders, Portfolio Holder for Climate Action and Sustainable Transport, said: “We are working hard to meet the borough’s climate targets but know that there’s much to be done and that we cannot do it alone.

“Kingston is fortunate to have so many enterprising and passionate communities, and it is our intention that the new grant will help to bring their ideas to life and contribute to a greener future for everyone.”

Grants of up to £5,000 and £10,000 per year, for a minimum of three years, will be available for projects in the following areas that support the aims of the council’s Climate Action Plan:

• Supporting energy efficiency and emissions reduction.

• Increasing generation and access of renewable energy.

• Using natural systems to enhance biodiversity and reduce the impacts of climate change.

• Reducing waste and driving forward a circular economy.

• Encouraging sustainable diets, preventing food waste and creating resilient food systems.

• Promoting active travel and reducing emissions from transport.

• Developing a local “green economy”.

• Increasing Kingston’s resilience to the impacts of climate change.

Applications opened on 22nd November, 2023 and are open until 12th January, 2024.

Full information can be found on the council’s website – www.kingston.gov.uk

£250,000 smart lampposts boost for Kingston Smart lampposts are to enhance digital connectivity and improve public safety in Kingston thanks to £250,000 of funding.

Kingston Council and Boldyn Networks have been awarded the Government funding to deploy smart, multi-purpose lamp columns across the borough.

Kingston is one of only six areas in the UK to be awarded funding by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) as part of its Smart Infrastructure Pilots programme.

The £250,000 will enable the deployment of smart technology in approximately 20 sites.

Each column will be used to trial new capabilities including improving mobile coverage, electric vehicle charging, CCTV cameras and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to better manage borough services, such as monitoring footfall and air quality.

The CCTV cameras will enhance public safety through improved picture quality across a number of new locations, acting as a deterrent to criminal

22 Borough BUSINESS

and anti-social behaviour.

The cameras will not be used for traffic monitoring.

Councillor Afy Afilaka, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Governance, said: “This pilot programme will help us to reduce inequalities and boost opportunities in our borough, by using existing street furniture to increase connectivity for residents, businesses and visitors and enhance public safety.

“While Kingston is one of the safest boroughs in London, we are committed to making it even safer for all our communities, we welcome the improvement to the CCTV network, which we hope will further deter crime and anti-social behaviour, making Kingston even safer for everyone” Additionally, a new fibre ‘ring network’ from Boldyn Networks will be rolled out across Kingston town centre to further improve connectivity for local businesses and nearby residents.

In 2023, Boldyn completed work to improve connectivity to 41 CCTV locations as part of

another project funded by the Greater London Authority, via Transport for London (TfL).

This work enabled multiple clusters of CCTV cameras to record higher quality and more reliable images. The footage will be high-enough quality to use as evidence in court, representing a significant boost to public safety.

The cameras will extend the current CCTV network that links to the local police centre.

News

Working towards a greener future Kingston’s Green Business Community has celebrated a year of collaboration.

Formed in a partnership between the council and local business-orientated organisations during Sustainable September 2022, the community is part of the borough’s collective response to climate change.

The voluntary community helps businesses of all sizes by empowering them to reduce their environmental impact and running costs, while helping its members to thrive in a growing green economy.

More than 80 organisations have benefitted from a range of support, including sessions on energy crisis management, decarbonising websites, funding green projects and access to environmental sustainability courses.

Councillor Ian Manders, Portfolio Holder for Climate

Action and Sustainable Transport, said: “Kingston has a rich history of business and technical and engineering innovation and there’s a real opportunity to continue this tradition through the work of the Kingston Green Business Community.

“There are opportunities available to businesses of all sizes to grow while tackling climate change including reduction of environmental impact and running costs, and creating new jobs.”

Several organisations have achieved the nationally recognised Green Mark accreditation for improving their environmental credentials and reducing their carbon footprint, saving a projected 8.36 tonnes of CO2e annually.

“There are opportunities available to businesses of all sizes to grow while tackling climate change - including reduction of environmental impact and running costs, and creating new jobs.”

King Charles celebrates Korean culture in New Malden His Majesty the King has visited the Royal Borough of Kingston to spend time in New Malden and meet the area’s Korean community.

Large crowds gathered along New Malden High Street to give King Charles III a warm reception, with pavements packed with people waving flags and cheering.

After spending time greeting the crowd, which included local schoolchildren and families in traditional Korean dress, he was welcomed to New Malden Methodist Church.

There he was met by the Mayor of Kingston, Councillor Diane White, Leader of Kingston Council Andreas Kirsch, the Korean Ambassador to the UK Yeocheol Yoon, New Malden’s Korean councillors and several other dignitaries.

During a tour around the church, His Majesty met community, faith and cultural groups and signed the visitors book for a new exhibition marking the 140th anniversary of UK-Korea diplomatic relations organised by the Korean British Cultural Exchange.

He was then treated to a short musical performance by the London Korean Hummingbird Choir accompanied by a dance performance by local Korean dancer and choreographer Su young Park.

During the visit, which took place in November, he also visited a stall showcasing a selection of Korean specialities prepared by Chef Hyungsoo Yim. The King was accompanied by Justina Jang (KBCE) to local business Cake and Bing Soo Cafe where he was presented with an Earl Grey flavoured birthday cake with ‘Happy Birthday’ in Korean, by the owners, Mr Jongsoon Kim and Mrs Soyoun Jun. He met some young people from the local Korean community, before making his way across the road to the New Malden War Memorial to meet members of the local Royal British Legion branch and two Korean Veterans.

New Malden’s Korean community is one of the largest in Europe, the area is sometimes described as London’s ‘Koreatown’.

The Royal Borough of Kingston has become the first place in Europe to declare 22nd November as ‘Kimchi Day’ to celebrate this special connection.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

23

KINGSTON BOROUGH

BUSINESS AWARDS2024

Meet the Finalists!

MADE IN KINGSTON, FOR KINGSTON

With over 180 entries across 15 categories, it is an understatement to describe the awards as fiercely competitive.

Choosing the finalists from across the borough was no easy task, given the many impressive entries showcasing innovation, dedication, excellence, and a commitment to going the extra mile. Nevertheless, after an intense Judging Day, the scores from the independent judges have now been completed.

We are very proud of all the entries who raised the quality bar and our congratulations to all the finalists!

BEST CHARITY / SOCIAL ENTERPRISE Sponsored by Rotary Club

BEST IN PROPERTY OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Pearson Hards Solicitors

EXCELLENCE IN CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Sponsored by Holland Hahn & Wills

Creative Youth Charity Momentum Children’s Charity Oxygen RBKares

Harrison Jacks Humphrey and Brand Residential MB Associates Ltd Super Structures Associates Limited

B2B Facility Solutions Just Clear The White House Nursing Home The Wych Elm Kingston

BEST FREELANCER / SOLE TRADER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by LeBoo Media

BEST IN SPORT AND FITNESS Sponsored by Forbes Design Associates

EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY Sponsored by Canadian and Portland

Annie Armitage Photography Digital Mother Eastop-Scopes Virtual Assistants Parallel Notion Coaching

Be Happy Yoga Good Life Gymnastics Limited Mini Athletics Kingston & Wimbledon Ltd QMC school of Capoeira

DoubleTree by Hilton The Cheeky Pea The French Table The Wych Elm Kingston

BEST HEALTH AND WELLBEING PROVIDER Sponsored by IQ in IT

EXCELLENCE IN PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Sponsored by Russell-Cooke Solicitors

Comfort Care At Home Your Healthcare CIC The White House Nursing Home Giselle Monbiot

Ditton HR HR Dept Ry Group Summers-Inman

BEST INDEPENDENT LOCAL RETAILER Sponsored by DoubleTree Hilton by Kingston

BEST START UP OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Kingston University

OUTSTANDING GREEN BUSINESS CHAMPION Sponsored by Unilever UK & Ireland

Fenton Yard Flowers Pure Vintage Clothing Sage’s Health Store Surbiton Fish & Chips

Lambert Sports Clinic Kingston Logistics Social Blox Thrifty Towel

AuLaw Organic Farm UK C.I.C. Auxilium Business Consulting Ltd Genuine Solutions Joltify LTD

BEST IN DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS Sponsored by Bluprint

DEVELOPING YOUNG PEOPLE’S SKILLS Sponsored by Kingston College

REMOVING BARRIERS CHAMPIONS Sponsored by Kingston Council

AA-Apps & Software Ltd Business Clan Digital Mother March Branding

Achieving for Children Anstee Bridge Beyond Blocks Sensational Kids

Comfort Care At Home Kingston College Oxygen Reed in Partnership

WWW.KBBA.CO.UK

24 Borough BUSINESS

OUTSTANDING BUSINESS SOCIAL IMPACT Sponsored by Kingston First

Chessington World of Adventures Comfort Care At Home Friends of Anstee Bridge Genuine Solutions

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

25

Chamber Events The Royal Borough of

Kingston

2023 IN NUMBERS Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber has worked hard to meet and answer the numerous demands during 2023.

We successfully delivered on many of our objectives, but we should be under no illusion that we can do any of our work by ourselves. Our achievements have been a result of many pulling together.

Your membership is very important to us, so we would like to thank you for your support of Kingston Chamber and the business community. These pages provide a snapshot of our activities during 2023.

Together, we will work hard to make this year a successful one for many businesses.

NUMBER OF

MEMBERS

NUMBER OF

NETWORKING EVENTS HOSTED IN 2023 WEEKLY MAILCHIMP

NEWSLETTERS SOCIAL MEDIA

FOLLOWERS

221 43 2,000

1,698 1,337 4,502 1,110

26 Borough BUSINESS

Chamber Events

ATTENDEES AT THE NEW

FUTURE OF WORK SUMMIT

ATTENDEES AT THE

CHESSINGTON BUSINESS EXPO

ENTRIES FOR THE 2024 ATTENDEES AT THE

KINGSTON BOROUGH BUSINESS BREAKFASTS BUSINESS AWARDS ATTENDEES AT THE

COFFEE + CONNECT NETWORKING ATTENDEES AT FOUR

WOMEN IN BUSINESS LUNCHES ATTENDEES AT THREE

NEW MALDEN BUSINESS FORUMS ATTENDEES AT SEVEN

NETWALKING MORNINGS

155 190 180 369 133 108 115 93 The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

27

Economy

Economic growth ‘stuck in the slow lane’, says BCC forecast The UK economy is set to remain in the slow lane, according to the latest forecast report from the British Chambers of Commerce.

In its latest Quarterly Economic Forecast, the BCC marginally upgraded its 2023 and 2024 GDP forecast but lowered the outlook for 2025 as economic growth for all three years flatlines.

The report said the UK economy looks set to continue expanding until the end of 2025, but growth will remain very sluggish.

A growth rate of 0.6% in 2023 will drop to 0.4% in 2024, nudging up only slightly to 0.6% in 2025.

Prolonged high interest rates, trade barriers, particularly with the EU, and limits on consumer spending are all seen to feed into a low growth climate.

The unemployment rate is also expected to stay higher for longer, hitting 4.8% by the end of 2025.

Key points in the forecast include: • 2023 GDP forecast upgraded to 0.6% from 0.4% in previous forecast.

• GDP growth in 2024 upgraded and 2025 downgraded from 0.3% and 0.7% to 0.4% and 0.6% respectively.

• Interest rates have now peaked at 5.25% but will ease only slightly in 2024 to 5%, before dropping to 4.25% by the end of 2025 – still well above the average for the past 10 years.

“It will take a Herculean effort to shift the dial on investment and consumer spending, against that background, and inject some much-needed vitality.”

• The inflation rate has slowed to 4.6% in Q4 2023, but will remain above the 2% target in 2024, at 3.1%, before dropping to 1.9% in Q4 2025.

As the country heads towards an election, she said politicians will have to show how they will work with the business community to build on the Autumn Statement commitments and develop “a much-needed long term economic plan to give companies confidence to invest in people, trade and grow”.

• Imports, exports and general Government spending all declined in 2023. In real terms, Government spending and business investment will contract in 2024, both by -0.8%.

• Imports and exports are both expected to grow slowly in 2024 (0.3% and 0.5% respectively) and 2025 (1.1% and 1.2% respectively). This is weak by historical standards and less than the global average.

Vicky Pryce, Chair of the BCC Economic Advisory Council, said: “The BCC’s latest forecast shows the UK economy has yet to find a way to break out of its current rut.

“While it’s welcome that GDP should continue to expand there is an underlying fragility that is eroding confidence.

“The Government set out several pro-growth measures in the Autumn Statement, but businesses and consumers have had their fingers badly burned by the pandemic and ensuing economic shocks.

David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The UK economy is one of the most advanced and innovative in the world.

“However, the cumulative effect of three years of economic shocks ranging from Covid to Brexit, as well as policy uncertainty, have significantly weighed down on our ability to grow further.

“Steps like making full expensing permanent, and pledges to improve planning and grid connectivity can all make a difference.

“Long-term business and investor confidence can only come from a clear plan for infrastructure, skills, trade and technology.

“The BCC has long called for a longer-term plan from Government, otherwise any bump from the Autumn Statement will soon be lost.”

Long-term business and investor confidence can only come from a clear plan for infrastructure, skills, trade and technology.

28 Borough BUSINESS

Why meetings are an essential business tool

Advertorial

Meetings enable teams to solve problems, map out new strategies, reach important decisions, and work together to drive the business forward.

What’s also essential is to make those meetings as engaging and productive as possible. That’s because 95% of meeting attendees lose focus and miss parts of the meeting, according to Owl Labs.

We’ve all heard the expression ‘Zoom fatigue’, and it’s clear that digital communication and hours of screen time can take its toll.

But it’s also because we’re human, and social interaction is part of our natural construct.

According to a recent survey, over 80% of business professionals believe we miss something important when we can’t clearly see body language or other visual clues (Chubb survey, April 2021).

What is clear is that entrepreneurs value

LET'S GET BACK TO

in-person meetings as an opportunity to engage with colleagues, customers and suppliers to collaborate and share ideas.

City Skyline has fully equipped meeting and conference facilities which come with audiovisual equipment, catering if required and on-site support from the management team.

They can be pre-booked by the hour or full day by both internal and external clients.

Every meeting room comes with a range of equipment including; white boards, flip- chart’s, stationery, high-quality conference call facilities and fast-speed internet access. The rooms can be set up for either boardroom meetings, training purposes, or can be open plan for networking events.

What is clear is that entrepreneurs value inperson meetings as an opportunity to engage with colleagues, customers and suppliers to collaborate and share ideas.

• Newly Refurbished

• Free Wi Fi

• Air Conditioning

• Hot Desking

• Private Parking

• Meeting Rooms

• Fully Furnished

• 3 to 24 Month Term

• Phones & Internet

• Virtual Office Packages

THE OFFICE!

Tel: 0800 505 4444 sales@cityskyline.co.uk www.cityskyline.co.uk

Serviced offices and meeting rooms The Royal Borough of

Kingston Serviced Offices: 46-50 Coombe Rd, New Malden, KT3 4QF Also Offices at: Global House – Ashley Avenue, Epsom KT18 5AD 29 Chamber of Commerce

Looking FOR A LIFE LESS ORDINARY?

Imagine a place where you can be as independent as you choose, where everything is designed with your enjoyment, health and well-being in mind.

There are clubs and activities or you can simply catch up over a cuppa.

At Aria Care, our care is from the heart and shows in all that we do.

DEER PARK VIEW, TEDDINGTON

GALSWORTHY HOUSE, KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES

HOME OF COMPASSION, THAMES DITTON

Freephone to find out more about our homes.

0808 223 5401 | ariacare.co.uk

30 Borough BUSINESS

ACH631

Health & Wellbeing

Kick-start your new year for a healthier mind and body For many of us, January is a time for making positive changes for a healthier lifestyle. But rather than making a list of resolutions, that are often ditched before the first month of the year is even over, try introducing some simple routine tweaks that can help make lasting changes for the whole of 2024.

Set some fitness goals Making health and fitness a priority at the start of the year is hugely beneficial to mental and physical wellbeing. But remember to be realistic when it comes to goal setting. Set the bar too high, especially during the cold and dark winter months when it can be hard to keep motivated, and you’re likely to give up quickly.

Small, fun and achievable goals – a daily walk, a new fitness class, a swim – will be easier to stick to.

And even if it feels difficult at the start, keep going.

It’ll soon feel easier and become a vital part of your weekly routine.

Develop a new self-care habit Do you get to the end of the day and realise you’ve hardly taken any time just for yourself?

Start 2024 by practising self-care and make it a habit that becomes a year-long activity.

Book out 30 minutes a day just for you and find an activity that becomes a time to relax.

This could be something as simple as taking a bath, listening to music or reading a book – have a go at putting together a 2024 reading list or playlist.

Or use the time to practise mindfulness or relaxation. Whatever you choose, it’s about making ‘me time’ every day.

Try Dry January Many of us would like to cut back on our drinking - and after the excesses of Christmas and New Year celebrations, it can be the perfect time.

So why not take part in the Dry January challenge?

From clearer skin to saving money and sleeping better - there's a whole lot to gain.

A month alcohol-free also has lots of health benefits from lowering blood pressure to reducing the risk of diabetes.

Find out more at alcoholchange.org.uk/dryjanuary

Get better rest Are you getting enough sleep?

A bad night’s sleep can leave us feeling tired, miserable and struggling to concentrate.

So be more mindful of your evening routine. You might think you’re in bed at a reasonable time, but if you’re watching TV or late-night scrolling, you’re keeping your brain alert and stimulated reducing the likelihood of quality rest.

Good sleep improves concentration, boosts our immune system and supports our emotional and mental wellbeing.

Healthy eating habits How many of us think ‘new year, new diet’ – only to find ourselves floundering and reaching for the chocolate within a matter of weeks?

It’s better to introduce healthy living goals into your everyday life to establish better habits for the long term.

So, plan ahead, think about what you’ll be eating and keep portion sizes in check.

Set small goals such as adding more vegetables to your meals or drinking more water.

Do you get to the end of the day and realise you’ve hardly taken any time just for yourself?

Start 2024 by practising self-care and make it a habit that becomes a yearlong activity.

If you fancy a challenge, why not give Veganuary a go?

The annual campaign has been encouraging people to try vegan since 2014.

Find out more at veganuary.com The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

31

New Alpine Menu.

No skis required.

Délicieux dishes waiting for you at 6 Riverside Walk, Kingston.

0208 546 9422 | kingston@cote.co.uk

32 Borough BUSINESS

Can you trust your memories?

Factoids

Elizabeth Loftus is one of the most highly regarded psychologists of all time, and also one of the most controversial.

In the 1970s, Loftus published a series of influential studies about the fallibility of eyewitness testimony. She has been trying to make the implications of her findings known ever since, but only now is her work is beginning to have a real impact. Her research into using false memories to modify behaviour, such as eating disorders, is regarded by some as highly unethical: others though consider the implications as positively transforming.

Unreliable witnesses

Lost in the mall

Led by Elizabeth Loftus, research in the early 1970s demonstrated that an interviewer could influence interviewees’ responses by manipulating the phrasing of a question. In an oft-cited 1974 experiment, she found that witnesses to a car crash could be persuaded to testify to false memories, such as seeing a car travel at different speeds, depending on the wording used to describe the resulting crash.

Loftus’“Lost in the mall” study, published in 1996, showed that about one fifth of study participants could be led to believe that they had experienced an event that never actually happened!

In the 1980s, amidst fears that police questioning techniques were producing inaccurate or unreliable eyewitness testimonies, an alternative set of methods were proposed. In a 1985 paper, R. Edward Geiselman suggested that witnesses be encouraged to relive a previous event, recalling unrelated facts regarding a crime scene, such as the weather and any passers-by, so that they may more accurately experience and recall memories specific to a particular crime.

This was termed the ‘cognitive interview’, and was found to produce more accurate recollections of events than standard interview methods.

24 participants were to be presented with four stories from when they were between 4 and 6 years old, three of which were true, and one false.

To get the true stories, the researchers spoke to the participants’ relatives, to get three events for each person which had really happened. The chosen events were not emotionally difficult to recall. Then, each family was asked to provide an example of another event that could have possibly happened, but never did.

memory does not work in this way: we do not store information exactly as it is presented to us.

In reality, people store memories in the way that makes the most sense to them. We make sense of information by trying to fit it into schemas (a pattern of repeated actions), which are a way of organising details.

In each case, the false event was getting lost in a shopping mall. Relatives provided details of a specific shopping mall it could have been along with other details to make the fake story realistic.

Of the 24 participants, five falsely recalled the made up ‘lost in the mall’ event as a genuine real memory (although participants understandably found the implanted memory much less clear).

Considering the very low level of suggestion or coercion involved in the interviews, it showed the possibility of implanting false memories.

Making it fit Many people believe that memory works something like a videotape.

Storing information is like a recording: remembering it is like playing back what was recorded. However,

In Elizabeth Loftus’s mind, memory is like a Wikipedia page: anyone can add to it or, with the right factors, rewrite it. One of her key discoveries was proving that people will recall events differently, depending on how they are questioned, whether by a psychologist or a police officer.

In reality, people store memories in the way that makes the most sense to them.

We make sense of information by trying to fit it into schemas (a pattern of repeated actions), which are a way of organising details.

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

33

5

minutes with Aria Care

Q Who are you?

Aria Care Group delivers high-quality care and support in the social care sector, with welcoming communities that include residential homes, those offering nursing as well as dementia care. Our communities offer a lifestyle to our residents, where we encourage independence, communication and develop their future with them not just for them.

Aria Care reflects our commitment to providing excellent care and delivering a quality lifestyle to the elderly people in our communities. We are delivering a service which our residents and families can trust.

Q What's your business all about?

We care from the heart and our community is at the heart of everything we do. We think our company is unique due to our attitude to building and sustaining relationships with our communities, taking the time to understand individuality and offering a home to suit everyone. We create long term alliances; for Aria Care, it’s important that we get to know our residents and what makes them feel at home. Then we can truly build together an environment that is trusted.

Freephone: 0808 223 5401 34 Borough BUSINESS

Q Three words to describe the company?

Caring, Community, Compassionate

Q Biggest achievement?

Proud winners of the Large Care Home Group award at the 25th National Care Awards.

Celebrating our commitment to excellence, we are looking forward to continuing with our goal to delivering compassionate and personcentred care.

Q Where are Aria Care homes in the local community?

All our homes offer something a little bit different. Please get in touch to find out more about: Deer Park View – located in Teddington Galsworthy House – located in Kingston-upon-Thames Home of Compassion – located in Thames Ditton

Visit: www.ariacare.co.uk

We care from the heart and our community is at the heart of everything we do. We think our company is unique due to our attitude to building and sustaining relationships with our communities, taking the time to understand individuality and offering a home to suit everyone.

RIVERSIDE WALK KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES

WE’RE READY FOR 2024, ARE YOU? at Riverside Walk

Sally Baker Photography

www.riversidewalkkingston.co.uk

The Royal Borough of

Kingston

Chamber of Commerce

35