Southwark Business Today March 23

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Issue 41: March 2023
An architect’s journey and restoration of the Old Justice, Bermondsey page 12 News Southwark shops show big appetite for healthier foods Page 7 Remembering When... The Thames Tidal Flood barrier was built Page 24 Looking for a Perfect London Venues Looking for a Perfect London Hotel with a City View? Page 11
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
Dan Press of Purcell

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The Southwark Chamber of Commerce

Dear members

Life and business have been very interesting indeed over the last few years; I think it common ground that the way we did things is not the way we will do things to be successful going forward. This is the last item I will ever write for this magazine, I am retiring after a good stint, and it makes me think that when I said a few years ago that business is like a river, in that if you are not swimming forward you are being pushed backwards, I was more right than I could have expected.

With new circumstances come new challenges and opportunities and I urge you all to not only deal with the challenges but also to seek out the opportunities. If it is possible to work from home occasionally it must be a good idea not to come into the office if you have flu or a cold; it benefits everyone. Similarly if the new working patterns change the way your customers act it should be an opportunity to offer them something which can take advantage of this.

We are approaching the 100th anniversary of the foundation of Southwark Chamber of Commerce and as we move on to the second hundred years I hope you will join with us in taking advantage of all that Chamber membership can offer. Please see the

form at the back of this magazine and join hands with us. It’s much more fun to go on the journey with a group of likeminded individuals.

Remember the Pilgrims in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales met at the Tabard Inn in what is now Borough High Street to begin their journey.

Best wishes to you all.

Consultant Solicitor and Notary Public

A Director of Southwark Chamber of Commerce Limited

For and on behalf of Anthony Gold Solicitors LLP

Editor Sarah Dale Email: Sarahdale@benhampublishing.com

Contributing Editor Susan Isaacs

Publisher 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

March 2023 © Benham Publishing

Advertising and Features

Karen Hall

Tel: 0151 236 4141

Email: karen@benhampublishing.com

Studio

Chris Millett

Email: chris@benhampublishing.com

Media No.1970

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 3 Welcome to Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
magazine
all businesses
Welcome Disclaimer Southwark Business Today is mailed without charge to all Chamber members and distributed to businesses in the Borough. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at Southwark Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in publication are not necessarily those of Southwark Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission of the Editor. © 2023. 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. Contents 5 Legal 7 -9 Up Front 12-13 The Big Interview 15 Local Business Spotlight 16-17 Arts & Culture 22-23 Skills 24-25 Remembering when… 27 Voice from Westminster 31 Health & Wellbeing 32 5 Reasons to Join 33 Last Word 33 Chamber Events 34 Join Us
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in Southwark.
Enquiries Southwark Chamber
Commerce 169 Walworth Road, London SE17 1RW Email: admin@southwarkcommerce.com Web: www.SouthwarkCommerce.com
5 24 27 15
Cover Photo Credit: Warren King Photography

“Fire and rehire”- is it legal and what are the alternatives for employers?

In times of restructuring and commercial changes, employers may consider ‘fire and rehire’ to cut overhead costs and amend employment terms. Whilst this process is legal in the UK, this method of changing employees’ terms and conditions is often seen as controversial as employees who refuse to agree to proposed new terms are then ‘fired and rehired’ on far less favourable grounds, for little to no consideration.

What are the risks?

Employers who choose to go down this route are at risk of unfair dismissal claims being brought against them for the actual dismissal. Also, this method of pressuring employees by introducing the risk of losing their job is seen as a forceful and intimidating method of amending employees’ contracts to suit the needs of the business and that can affect staff morale too.

ACAS guidance

Firing and rehiring is deemed to be a last resort method by ACAS (the Advisory Conciliation and Arbitration Service), who advised in the November 2021 guidance that it was to be used if and only when all other options have failed.

As with any dismissal, the ACAS guidance clearly states that before dismissal, the employer needs to have made all attempts to consult with the employee(s) as to the changes to their contract and what that would mean for them. If the employer is looking to

fire and rehire 20 or more employees, then the guidance goes further and there must be a collective consultation of 90 days or less. Should the correct procedure not be followed, this will feed a claim for unfair dismissal.

Additionally, in March 2022, the UK government announced a new statutory code, which aims to “clamp down on controversial tactics used by unscrupulous employers.” Employers will therefore not be free to ‘fire and rehire’ on their own terms.

What are the alternatives?

Given the risks and issues related to ‘fire and rehire’, it is easy to see that there should be better alternatives available for employers and employees.

Settlement agreement (formerly known as compromise agreements), have been around for years, and are proving to be a more risk averse and kinder way of dealing with redundancies, amongst other work-related disputes. You can find further information on Settlement

Agreements and the advantages to both employer and employee in resolving disputes amicably here.

https://anthonygold.co.uk/services/ dispute-resolution-for-individuals/ employment/settlement-agreements

Other changes could include:

- Voluntary redundancies;

- Temporary furlough;

- Halting recruitment;

- Encouraging work from home to cut overheads;

- Agreements between employer and employees for contractual changes.

All would serve the purpose of effectively reducing costs, without destroying morale, and losing talent. If it is not avoidable, employers must be alive to the fact that it will be necessary for them to put forward their reasons and ensure a just consultation procedure is followed before executing the fire and rehire.

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 5 Legal

New service connects Canada Water community to jobs and training

Canada Water Connect was established in 2022 by British Land, the developer of the 53-acre Masterplan, and ELBA, an organisation with 30 years’ experience in enabling successful partnerships between businesses and the community.

To celebrate the official launch of the local service, the Canada Water Connect team held an event on Monday, 20th February at T&T2 in Surrey Quays Shopping Centre. The open drop-in was well attended by residents, schools, businesses, charities and other organisations in the area, using the chance to discuss the many opportunities for local people that are being created by British Land’s development.

The Canada Water Masterplan will create a new town centre with new homes, offices, public spaces, facilities,

Case study: Connecting Riette to a new career

“I felt stuck, as I didn’t think anyone was going to take on a short, middleaged lady on a building site no matter how good her grades, but then I met Ian, who got me an interview with HTC Mechanical. My fantastic now-supervisor, Emmett, gave me a chance, and I’m working really hard to justify the faith put in me.”

shops, restaurants and jobs. There will be jobs available at various levels in many sectors, including construction, retail, hospitality, leisure, estate management, and with the many businesses that will be located here. We are working with a number of referral partners including Southwark Works, Construction Youth Trust, the Southwark Construction Skills Centre and many others, to get local people into meaningful, sustained employment.

Ian Walker, a south Londoner born and raised, is the Employment & Skills Manager at Canada Water Connect. He is already hard at work helping local jobseekers find suitable roles on the development and finding people pathways into training to equip them for employment in and around Canada Water.

Riette, a former set designer who had seen her career grind to a halt because of the pandemic, recently began a new career on the Canada Water development. With help from Canada Water Connect, she pursued her interest in plumbing and was hired to work with McAleer & Rushe on one of the first buildings in the Masterplan (known as Plot K1), which will deliver 79 new homes for Southwark Council.

After Employment and Skills manager Ian helped her with the application and interview process, she is now working towards an NVQ qualification in plumbing while installing bathrooms on site.

To find out more, including the many employment and training opportunities currently available, to list jobs and training opportunities you are offering locally, and to register for updates, visit www.canadawater.co.uk/connect or email connect@canadawater.co.uk

Contact us: canadawater.co.uk team@canadawater.co.uk 0800 470 4593 (freephone) @CWmasterplan Canada Water Masterplan
British Land’s Social Sustainability Executive Freddie Broadhurst with Canada Water Connect’s newest recruit Kita Berman van Heerden, Strategic Lead Julie Hutchinson and Employment & Skills Manager Ian Walker Local people attended to discuss opportunities on the development Riette is enjoying a fresh start with the help of Canada Water Connect

New commission to work together to free up more land for Southwark people

A new approach to improving the way land is used in the borough is underway.

Southwark Council is launching Southwark Land Commission, the first of its kind in London, and only the second in England.

It will bring together a panel of experts, community groups and major landowners to work to free up more of Southwark’s land for the benefit of local people.

Dr Miatta Fahnbulleh, who is the chief executive of the New Economics Foundation, has been announced as the chair for the commission.

The first meeting of the commission will take place on Tuesday 28th February.

Cllr James McAsh, cabinet member for the climate emergency and sustainable development, said: “Southwark is blessed with diverse communities, full of talent, history and vibrancy. Over 300,000 of us live alongside one another in just 11 square miles. Having so many people in such a small space is part of what makes our borough such an exciting place to live, work and visit. However, it also means that the land we have is precious. We must use it for the benefit of us all.

“The Southwark Land Commission is an exciting new project to take this forward. Bringing together a panel of experts, community groups and major landowners, the Commission will interrogate how more of our borough’s land can be freed up for the public good. We’ll look at how power to shape land can be radically devolved to the communities who use it.

“The main organisation involved with the Commission is Southwark-based PRD, with support also being provided by We Made That and PMV Planning.”

The Southwark Land Commission is an exciting new project to take this forward. Bringing together a panel of experts, community groups and major landowners, the Commission will interrogate how more of our borough’s land can be freed up for the public good.

Southwark shops show big appetite for healthier foods

The shelves of Southwark’s shops are being stocked with healthier food thanks to local stores joining a pilot scheme.

The trial included 35 stores in low-income areas in the borough where they stocked 22% more products that are lower in salt, sugar and fat – the equivalent of eight or nine new products per store.

Supported by Southwark Council, the pilot has seen stores reporting that the new healthier products sold better than expected and all said they intend to keep these healthier options available, as well as further growing their range.

The Good Food Wholesale and Retail project launched in 2019.

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 7 Up Front
Photo by Anna Pelzer on Unsplash

Abandoned railway arches given new lease of life

Five abandoned railway arches on Camberwell Station Road are to be given a new lease of life, thanks to a £1.1m investment from The Arch Company.

Arches 344-348 have been vacant for over five years and were “unlettable” when The Arch Company first took them on.

However, having seen the demand for light industrial space in the area, The Arch Company’s is confident its retrofitting project will ensure these spaces reach their full potential.

Craig McWilliam, CEO at The Arch Company, said: “We look forward to creating five additional productive spaces in the heart of Camberwell, which will in turn support up to 25 new jobs for the area.

“Our Project 1000 investment plans are the biggest retrofit project in commercial property, with a thousand empty or derelict spaces such as this nationwide being brought into use by 2030.

“We will invest in further spaces in Camberwell under this development plan.”

The works taking place include fully

Our Project 1000 investment plans are the biggest retrofit project in commercial property, with a thousand empty or derelict spaces such as this nationwide being brought into use by 2030.

stripping out and relining each of the arches, replacing the concrete slabs, installing toilet facilities, restoring utilities such as water and electricity and improving the exterior with smarter shutters.

They are in line with Southwark Council’s plans to invest £1.5m into improving the public realm from later this year, which includes £1m from the GLA’s Good Growth Fund.

Further spaces on Camberwell Station Road – including the former station building – are also being considered for future retrofit plans.

Cllr James McAsh, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency & Sustainable Development, said: “We very much welcome The Arch Company bringing these five empty arches back into use for small businesses to call home.

“Together with the £1.5m we secured to improve the public space, their investment and the local community’s input is helping us to completely transform the street.

“We look forward to seeing new businesses thrive and our residents enjoying the new, greener environment designed with walking and cycling in mind.”

8 Southwark BUSINESS TODAY Up Front
Photo © The Arch Company

Helical

named as preferred investment partner for Southwark station office scheme.

A preferred investment partner for the development of new offices at Southwark Station and other commercial offices above or close to Central London tube stations has been revealed.

Transport for London (TfL)’s wholly owned commercial property company, TTL Properties Ltd (TTLP) has selected Helical as its preferred investment partner for the office developments, after a competitive procurement process involving accomplished office developers and investors.

TTLP, advised by JLL and Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, assessed the potential partners’ sustainability strategies, partnering approach, and investment proposals for its development sites at Southwark, Bank and Paddington.

The partnership will see the delivery of new high-quality and sustainable office space above or close to the three Tube stations.

All three sites have full planning permission to deliver sustainable commercial office developments that provide exceptional workplaces and positively impact the local community.

Southwark Over-Station Developmentlocated above Southwark Tube station on the Jubilee line, is set to be one of the greenest and healthiest large-scale commercial buildings in the UK.

The 17-storey hybrid timber building will measure around 220,000 sq. ft and will provide a mixture of commercial office space and retail space and offer external terraces on most floors.

It is expected construction would start in 2025.

All of the developments will be constructed on the basis of Net Zero Carbon and the joint venture will collaborate with tenants to target a rating of BREEAM Outstanding and Platinum WELL v2 Core.

Scott Anderson, Head of Property Development at TTL Properties Ltd, said the new joint venture complements its wider commercial development programme. It will also help deliver operational benefits and generate vital additional revenue to be reinvested in a safe, green and reliable public transport network.

‘We’re delighted to have selected Helical as our preferred investment partner as we take forward our commercial office portfolio and create best-in-class commercial office workspaces that reflects our confidence in London and will positively impact the capital and its green recovery,” he said.

Matthew Bonning-Snook, Property Director at Helical, said the partnership with one of London’s largest landowners represented a hugely exciting opportunity to deliver three superbly located first-class office schemes.

Southwark Council criticises ‘real terms loss’ in budget settlement.

A Southwark Councillor said it was “devastating” to be facing difficult choices about the services it is able to provide for local people, following its budget settlement from central Government.

A Southwark Council news report said the drop in the Revenue Support Grant (money that can be spent on any services, not specific ones) over the years, and inflation at a high of 10.5% means that the council has to operate on less money in real terms.

Cllr Stephanie Cryan, cabinet member for Communities, Equalities and Finance said its “depleted budget year on year” was eroding funds for services that people need and want.

She added more flexibility and devolution from the Government would help the council provide what residents ask for and “would allow us more certainty to plan ahead”.

But as it stands, she added, “it is a tough challenge with a loss in money in real terms, as what we receive is outstripped by inflation”.

The council previously set out what it planned to spend in its Council Delivery Plan – a clear set of objectives and promises to local people

She said: “Budget Settlement has only been given to councils for one year in recent times, but we cannot work hand-to-mouth and have to look to our goals for 2030, and our long-term capital investment plans, in order to manage public money wisely and look to the future.”

Southwark Council received more from central government in its budget settlement than expected, but said it is “still not enough”.

It said the gap between what the council needs and what it receives will impact on investment promised to residents, such as street cleaning, leisure centres, libraries and parks.

It added much of the money is ring-fenced to statutory duties that the council has to provide.

The council news report said raising council tax and tenants’ rent may seem the answer, but so little of that benefits councils directly.

The council previously set out what it planned to spend in its Council Delivery Plan – a clear set of objectives and promises to local people.

The council now needs to see if its bold investments can remain viable “in a world where the money we receive from the Government does not match the costs of services that inflation affects, or even preausterity levels of funding”.

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 9 Up Front
” “

Meetings & Events AT THE DIXON

EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES AT THE DIXON

The Chambers - A former magistrate court with restored wooden panelling and a 100-year-old roof lantern that floods the room with natural light, this event space is the ideal canvas on which to paint a spectacular gathering.

Ideal for events with a capacity of up to 50 persons. This room includes a 75” LCD Screen and Click-Share technology, and all your needed stationery.

Be sure to contact us to find out more about this historic venue and our offerings.

EAT, STAY, DRINK AND INDULGE

Where culinary provenance meets timeliness grandeur.

When it comes to inspiring dining and drinking experiences, there are few cities to match London.

We’ve added to this rich tapestry with two outstanding venues - Provisioners restaurant and our Courtroom bar.

The menu at Provisioners reflects its surroundings, combining timeless classics with modern flavours revolving around a Pizza, Pasta & Prosecco. At the Courtroom bar you’ll find a fantastic selection of delicious cocktails, to be sipped in an atmosphere of wood-panelled heritage.

For those coffee lovers, kick start your day with our exclusive coffee brand, Shakedown Coffee. Roasted and brewed just a few footsteps away from the old jail cells of the Magistrates’ Court. Making it the ideal space for co-working, whilst indulging in our brunch offerings.

Looking for a Perfect London Hotel with a City View?

London is a city of such excitement with so much to see, do and learn.

But sometimes in the hustle and bustle of the city, it can be hard to find a place to relax and wind down. That’s where the Lost Property, St Paul’s Hotel is a real hidden gem in London. Offering 145 beautifully furnished rooms, this newly opened hotel is perfect for London locals and visitors to the city alike, situated opposite St Pail’s Cathedral and short walking distance from Tate Modern and the Millennium Bridge.

You can also find easy transport via the Tube which offers an easy route around the city. Located east of the hotel is the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. Heading west alongside the Thames, you will find the London Eye and the famous Buckingham Palace.

This quirky hotel in London is unique in that it gives guests a beautiful view of the city below, while also offering stunning views within the walls of the hotel.

Visual spectacles, unique objects, and eccentric sculptures are displayed throughout the corridors. At this stylish hotel, unexpected forms and layered finishes offer authentic discoveries.

Our hotel offers a variety of rooms, including suites with amazing city views. With artwork, distinctive design touch points, and exquisite bed linens, each room gives visitors a peaceful escape inspired by London’s rich past and charm. It has been created to give you a distinct and modern impression, ensuring that your stay with us feels new and exciting.

At the Lost Property Hotel, you can find plenty of luxurious amenities including our on-site Found restaurant, Tattle coffee house and fitness centre. Found Bar & Restaurant serves delicious British and French classic favourites throughout the day created using local ingredients from London’s markets. For the coffee lovers, be sure to visit Tattle coffee shop serving premium Monmouth Coffee alongside one of our freshly baked pastries.

Lost Property, St Paul’s • 3-5 Ludgate Hill, St Paul’s, London www.lostpropertyhotel.com • info@lostpropertyhotel.com • +44 (0) 204 553 0555

From Bricks to Beer: An architect’s journey

DAN PRESS always knew he wanted to be an architect. Now he has worked on impressive projects such as Battersea Power Station and The Old Justice.

12 Southwark BUSINESS TODAY The Big Interview

Dan Press always wanted to be an architect. Growing up surrounded by the rich built heritage of his hometown of Nottingham, Dan Press always knew he wanted to be an architect. But it was coming face to face with the Empire State Building, during a trip to New York in 2000, which cemented his ambitions.

Five years ago, he joined Purcell, an architectural practice specialising in heritage and conservation architecture with ten UK offices and four in the Asia Pacific region. Purcell’s varied portfolio has given Dan the opportunity to work on iconic landmark buildings like the recently reopened Battersea Power Station as well as smaller, community-driven projects. It was Purcell’s commitment to making a positive impact through conserving, reusing and modernising existing buildings that attracted Dan to the practice.

At Purcell’s London studio in Bermondsey Square, Dan is part of a team of 80 people. As a local employer, the practice actively contributes to Southwark’s economy and culture and are very much a part of the burgeoning creative scene. One of the local projects Dan is most proud to have worked on is The Old Justice Pub in Bermondsey, steeped in local history and just a stone’s throw away from the office.

Used by Sir Paul McCartney for his music video ‘No More Lonely Nights’ and film ‘Give My Regards to Broad Street’, the Grade II-listed, Tudor-style pub’s original design has been attributed to eminent pub architect Sidney C Clarke. Dan and his team were appointed by the LPA

and Southwark Council to lend their expertise to the restoration, deemed necessary after damage to the original and distinctive wooden bar and paneling by developers.

‘For Purcell’s London team, restoring The Old Justice was about giving a much-loved place a new lease of life and purposeful future’ said Dan, who worked with Coniston and Blou Construction to return the historic pub’s interior to its original space: a move championed by locals, who led the petition responsible for the pub’s listing. ‘Being based in Southwark and Bermondsey has really allowed us to connect with local residents,’ he said. ‘It helps us to know what their needs are. As a local business, that’s important to us’.

Being able to walk into a finished, restored building is a part of the job that doesn’t get old for Dan, who is looking forward to visiting The Old Justice once it fully reopens.

‘I’m really enjoying watching The Old Justice come back to life’ said Dan. ‘We wanted to give it a stable future. There’s nothing more satisfying than projects like The Old Justice, where you can be a part of reviving a place to be used again by the local community’.

Reflecting on his career so far, Dan said ‘I’ve always known I wanted to be an architect, and growing up surrounded by history in Nottingham has definitely influenced my path to working at Purcell and within heritage architecture’.

Looking to the future of heritage architecture, Dan said, ‘I’m very interested in heritage and modern technologies: there is an interesting relationship between the two. For example, we’re actively engaged in using heritage as a driver for a sustainable future: where we once protected and rescued heritage for social and cultural value, we now also do so for carbon efficiency’.

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 13
The Big Interview
‘I’m really enjoying watching The Old Justice come back to life’ said Dan. ‘We wanted to give it a stable future. There’s nothing more satisfying than projects like The Old Justice, where you can be a part of reviving a place to be used again by the local community’.
“ “

Improving the lives of local people in Southwark

Big Local Works (BLW) is a charity located in the heart of Bermondsey at the Blue Market Place, that was set up in 2017 to help to improve the lives and economic prosperity of people in the local neighbourhood. BLW is dedicated to providing a ladder of support ranging from benefits and welfare guidance, employability/life skills training, and supporting local entrepreneurship and enterprise.

Europe’s first Yurt Campsite, Canvaschic, which became recognised by prominent industry publications as starting the luxury camping craze and the pioneer of the ‘Glamping’ trend”. After 10 years Luds felt he needed a fresh challenge and returned to UK to manage a campsite in Dorset until another prospect arose that lured him back to London.

Day to day operations are managed by Lodewijk van den Belt, affectionately known to one and all as ‘Luds, who works closely with the board of trustees to develop the charities services, identify new initiatives and funding.

Luds was raised in the Netherlands and came to live in England aged 15, when his family relocated to Tonbridge in Kent. After leaving school he went to university to study Industrial economics, and a variety of jobs followed after completing his studies. In 2001, he went travelling around Europe and settled in the South of France, where he had the opportunity to take over a rundown campsite.

Luds told us. “I wanted to do something different, so had the idea of founding

“I have always had a desire to create better places and improve people’s lives and in 2016 the opportunity arose to become project director at Peckham Levels. I felt that it was something I needed to be part of, and I led a team that transformed this once underused multi-storey car park into 60 creative studios, a co-working space and a successful food and drinks destination”.

In 2019 Luds got itchy feet again and joined Big Local Works, which has become a key stakeholder in South Bermondsey under his direction, and shortly after his arrival BLW partnered with Blue Bermondsey BID to successfully apply for £2M funding from the Mayor of London for the Made in Bermondsey community led regeneration project.

The main focus of the project was for substantial improvements to the Blue Market place, where the infrastructure and amenities were not fit for purpose. The works also included a facelift for the BLW office in September 2021, to create a space better adapted to cater for BLW’s growing influence and ambitions.

Luds says “the GLA felt there was real value in having a market hub here with the ambition for BLW to eventually take over management of the market from Southwark Council and in 2022, we became the new market operators”.

BLW are dedicated to building on the momentum of the Made in Bermondsey project and demonstrating the social value of the market as more than just a place for trade, but also a community space for a multitude of events and activities, where different generations and cultures can share experiences.

Luds stressed that this is “a marathon not a sprint, with the most inspiring and ambitious aspect being the potential to empower and encourage local residents, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to harness the economic and social opportunities the market can offer”.

To find out more about BLW, the Blue Market, and the opportunities it offers, either pop into the office or drop Luds an email. luds@biglocalworks.org.uk

Local Business Spotlight

Justice for Bermondsey pub restored to former glory

Southwark Council is delighted to celebrate the restoration of inside The Old Justice, Bermondsey.

• The Old Justice is a Grade II Listed public house in Bermondsey designed by famous architect Sidney C Clark

• The historic pub has had starring roles in Sir Paul McCartney’s film ‘Give My Regards to Broad Street’ and his music video for the hit song ‘No More Lonely Nights’

• Following action from Southwark Council, the beautiful interior has been fully restored to its original condition using traditional methods

Constructed in 1933 in the ‘brewers Tudor’ style, the pub’s interior has splendid timber panels, and a bar and lounge.

In 2017, it was Grade II listed by Historic England as a ‘rare, particularly well-preserved example of a small-scale urban pub influenced by the improved pub movement, giving a tangible sense of how such pubs would have looked and operated in the 1930s’.

Soon after its listing, the bar and timber panelling was removed without Listed Building Consent by the pub’s owners. Unauthorised works to a listed building are a criminal offence. The council took planning enforcement action requiring the interior be restored using what was left of the bar and traditional joinery methods.

The council supervised the restoration of pub’s interior, which were led by local conservation architects Purcell. The owners paid for the works which finished in June 2022. The lease is currently being marketed for public house use.

Cllr James McAsh, cabinet member for climate emergency & sustainable development, said: “I’m delighted that The Old Justice’s stunning interior has been restored to its former glory. It would have been a terrible shame to lose such a beautiful piece of Southwark’s history. I’d like to thank the local community who played an important role in helping preserve the heritage of the pub.

“Listed buildings, such as The Old Justice, are considered of national importance with special architectural or historic interest. We take our duty to protect listed buildings very seriously and will always investigate reports of unauthorised works.”

Dan Press, architect from Purcell, said: “It was a privilege for our London team to lend their expertise to the restoration of the Old Justice, where we were appointed by the LPA and Southwark Council to repair and reinstate the pub’s bar servery using traditional methods.

“Applying our specialist knowledge of historic joinery techniques and forensic capabilities, we worked alongside Coniston and Blou

Construction to return the historic public house’s interior to its original state. The Old Justice now has a sustainable future and is one step closer to serving its community once more.”

Listed buildings, such as The Old Justice, are considered of national importance with special architectural or historic interest.

Arts & Culture 16 Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
Photograph ©geograph.org.uk Photograph ©Purcell Photograph ©Purcell Photograph ©Purcell

of

the South

The team behind Prince of Peckham introduces: Queen

Reinventing pub culture, one boozer at a time.

twist on a classic game, a charming host will pick out a range of prizes provided by all the best business in the local area from a revolving drum of fortune, accompanied by cocktails from their top-class bartenders and food by the mighty White Men Can’t Jerk. Following on from the blueprint set at Prince of Peckham, weekends will be dedicated to DJs and dancing, kicking off with Queens on Friday night, celebrating sisters in music with Sweets Lewis on the decks.

Reserved Matters Application submitted to Southwark Council for a new Park and Pavilion within the Canada Water Development

The team behind Prince of Peckham are proud to announce the coronation of Queen of the South, Tulse Hill’s very own boozer, opening this Spring.

While people are searching for a sense of belonging and community now more than ever, many British boozers have gone from being community hubs to laying empty and derelict. Having done the same in Peckham, landlord Clement Ogbonnaya has taken the opportunity to rejuvenate pubs back to the heart of the community.

Queen of the South will be a community hub. An inclusive multi-functional and welcoming home to one and all; bringing together co-working, food – from local legends White Men Can’t Jerk – drink, music and local art together all under one roof.

Queen of the South will be brought to life on opening with Tulse Hill Tombola. A special

A full and diverse programming schedule will be at the core of Queen of the South. Always creative, never limited to genre, forever adding to the guest experience to take them on a journey that will ultimately define the success of the venue. With spaces across all four floors available for events, the new pub will become a destination in itself. An essential stop off point for both emerging acts and established ones alike. At the heart of Queen of the South is its desire to be a social space. A constantly changing and evolving collection of rooms dedicated to lifting people up and showcasing talent all year around by providing spaces to local community groups and artists for free.

Furthermore, a progressive and diverse art offering will adorn the walls with local artists championed including a huge custom indoor mural by Mr Cenz. A London-based graffiti artist known for his distinct female portraits abstracted in unique and aesthetically pleasing ways and who’s outdoor mural at Prince of Prince has become a landmark itself. With Prince of Peckham having a strong tradition of providing it spaces to emerging artists to display their work, this is something that will be celebrated in full at Queen of the South.

With love, with soul, with the future in mind. Welcome to Queen of the South.

Developer British Land has submitted a Reserved Matters Application to Southwark council, to create a new 3.5-acre Park next to the Printworks building. The Park will include a Pavilion building with a café and public toilets, along with places to play and connect with nature.

About the Park and Pavilion

The Park, one of the most significant open spaces to be delivered in the Canada Water development, will be connected into the 160+ acres of parks and woodlands in the area (such as Russia Dock Woodland and Southwark Park) through a series of green pedestrian routes running through the development. The design also draws on the location’s industrial heritage, linking into the history of the Printworks and the former Quebec Dock through play spaces and new footpaths.

The Park will comprise five-character areas: a woodland, a meadow, a dry garden planted with drought-tolerant plants, an open lawn and a shaded area. In combination, these areas will boost local biodiversity and provide safe and attractive environments for local wildlife.

There are also plans for a Horticultural Learning Garden where people can learn about the wildlife and biodiversity within the Park,

Arts & Culture
Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 17
Illustrative overview of the new Park

Hybrid working has created a new set of challenges Says Reg Groombridge, CEO, WhosOff.com

AEmployee expectations have changed. 72% of professionals now rate long-term flexibility as a better perk than a high salary, while two-thirds of people will only apply for roles that offer hybrid working.

Increasing flexibility has been great for people’s work/life balance, but it’s created new challenges for companies – like managing staff whereabouts. Today, it’s difficult to keep track of who is working from home versus who’s on leave or off sick.

To be truly flexible, businesses need a smarter way to manage staff logistics – and leave management software is providing the solution.

Most tools that companies currently use can’t run a hybrid workforce. Leave management software enables firms to record every type of office absence – from holiday and time off

in lieu to working from home and sick leave –for a complete record of who’s off.

The leading leave management platforms are designed for the demands of hybrid working. Staff can use their web browser or smartphone app to check absences and book leave. This keeps the whole team on the same page.

At WhosOff, we’ve seen how leave management software gives firms greater visibility and control. Employees are happier and more motivated when their working structure fits their lives. And companies benefit from greater insight into their team’s daily movements.

WhosOff is offering readers the chance to try its leave management software free of charge. Visit whosoff.com to get the rest of this month and all of next month free.

CIPD surveyed over 1,000 senior HR/decision-

makers and found 57% were in favour of a day one right to request flexible working. The result of this consultation has concluded in the UK Government pledging to change the policy, enabling employees to make flexible working request from day one of their employment (law date change TBC).

Support Link Age Southwark’s 30th anniversary fundraising events

Link Age Southwark is celebrating 30 years of alleviating loneliness and reducing social isolation for older people and those living with a diagnosis of dementia.

The charity, a Southwark Chamber of Commerce member, is inviting everyone, including fellow Chamber members and local businesses, to support and take part in events it is organising throughout 2023.These will showcase its work and help raise valuable funds towards the friendly volunteer support it provides in the borough.

On Saturday 15 July, the Dulwich Picture Gallery will play host to the charity’s annual Sunset Soiree event which will feature a photographic exhibition showcasing the breadth and diversity of the people involved with Link Age Southwark and its work. Tickets: www.linkagesouthwark.org

On Sunday 10 September, the charity is inviting everyone to take part in its inaugural ‘Sponsored Strollathon’. Set in Dulwich Park, the Strollathon will be a fun, family-friendly, accessible event, with distances to suit all ages and abilities: it’s a great opportunity for workplace teams and team-building! Every Strollathon participant will receive a medal and T-shirt, refreshments, fundraising support and much more. Registrations are open online: www.linkagesouthwark.org

Link Age Southwark would be delighted to talk to local businesses about sponsorship opportunities for both these events. More information about them can be found at www.linkagesouthwark.org/30th-year. You can also contact Link Age Southwark on info@linkagesouthwark.org or 020 8299 2623.

Funds raised will help Link Age Southwark continue its proud, 30 year track record of connecting the

people they support with their local community and building lasting friendships between older people and volunteers.The charity’s services include befriending; socialising; exercise and activity groups and events; hospital, telephone and digital buddies; intergenerational work with local schools; specialist support for people living with mild to moderate dementia, and one-to-one support on a range of issues from form filling to claiming pension credit.

Sophie Wellings, Chief Executive of Link Age Southwark said: “Our 30th year is a huge milestone for the charity.The work we do continues to be of real importance, particularly given the impact of the last two years and the current cost of living crisis.We’d love as many local businesses as possible to support us in raising funds so we can continue supporting local older people for another 30 years.”

www.linkagesouthwark.org/30th-year

Economy
Photo by Mart Production at Pexels

Warwick Business School at The Shard

For the Change Makers

Warwick Business School offers a range of postgraduate and executive level courses suited to London professionals

■ Executive MBA daytime and evening format available

■ Distance Learning MBA

■ Executive Diplomas

wbs.ac.uk/go/southwark

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Labour shortage a huge drag on economic growth

“Government plans to get the UK’s untapped labour force into employment are a step in the right direction, but we need to see more action to address the barriers that are holding people back.

The ONS said a record number of people moved out of “economic inactivity”, defined as people not looking for work, between July and December last year, as more people got jobs.

The most active age groups moving out of economic inactivity were in the 16-24 age group and the 50-64 age group.

Although the ONS figures show a rise in people moving out of economic inactivity, the British Chamber of Commerce argues that businesses are still “crying out for people to fill job vacancies at all skill levels” with 1.134 million vacancies and has urged the government to make this their priority.

The latest ONS Labour Market figures have revealed that in the three months ending in December 2022, the highest unemployment rate estimates in the UK were in the North East and London (4.5%), with the lowest in the South West (2.1%).

In the same time scale, the figures show that the highest employment rate estimates in the UK are in the South West (80.3%).

Jane Gratton, head of people policy at the BCC, said: “Businesses are crying out for people to fill job vacancies at all skill levels, and this must be the number one focus for government if it’s serious about economic growth.

“There are still a huge number of vacancies, currently sitting at 1.134 million, and this is

“The Spring Budget represents a golden opportunity for the Chancellor to ease the pressure on family members who have been squeezed out of the labour market by childcare costs.

“Older workers need carefully tailored careers advice, job seeker support and rapid retraining opportunities to help bring their skills and experience back to the workforce.

“Businesses should play their part by

Jane Gratton, head of people policy at the BCC, said:

stopping firms in their tracks. It means they are struggling to meet the orders on their books, and it puts any plans for growth far out of reach.

“It is also ramping up pressure on wages, currently at the highest rates seen in the private sector outside of the pandemic. This has been identified by the Bank of England as a factor in its decisions to raise interest rates to tame inflation.

adopting flexible working policies, wherever possible, and by supporting staff training needs.

“And crucially, government should reform the Shortage Occupation List to help firms fill urgent job vacancies from outside the UK when they cannot recruit locally. The list should include jobs at all skills levels where there is clear evidence of a national shortage.”

22 Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
More people are entering employment or returning to work as the cost of living continues to affect households across the UK, according to new figures released by the Office for National Statistics.
Skills
“Businesses are crying out for people to fill job vacancies at all skill levels, and this must be the number one focus for government if it’s serious about economic growth.

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employees. Since the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the job market, many employers have reassessed the skills and expertise they seek in their staff. As business goals evolve to ensure both short- and long-term success, so does the staff skillset needed to align with the new organisational vision. This has driven many people to upskill, retrain, or fast-track their learning to keep up with an ever-changing environment.

London South Bank University (LSBU) are proud to offer accelerated degree programmes at their new Croydon campus, shaped by leading academics to meet employer demands, and enable professionals to earn a degree in just two years, pay lower fees and launch their career sooner. Now more than ever, is the time for professionals to invest in themselves with the expertise that will make them stand out in the job market

So what expertise do employers value today? We will explore the emerging in-demand skills and evaluate LSBU’s commitment to developing high-calibre graduates who are ready to meet the changing needs of the business world.

1. Data literacy

Businesses have seen unprecedented change and have come to realise the importance of getting to grips with their data, in order to have a better view of their organisation and make informed decisions. This has led to analytical skills becoming a sought-after attribute in new employees. Whether businesses need to identify risks or investigate a problem, professionals who can interpret data, identify trends and integrate new information are increasingly valuable.

LSBU supports students in meeting this employer demand, particularly with modules which cover the use for data in decisionmaking, such as Data for Decision Making or Professional and Digital Skills. The teaching explores the range of ways of handling, analysing and presenting data. The goal is to enable storytelling, drawing key insights from data and using this to drive informed business decisions.

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2. Soft skill success

Whilst proficiency in the technical side of finance or business management remains vital to organisations, there is also a rising need for professionals who possess soft skills, such as persuading and influencing stakeholders and colleagues. Finance professionals especially are moving away from simply reporting, and are now shifting focus to providing advice to facilitate growth.

LSBU ensures their students are equipped with a toolkit of soft and hard skills to succeed in their careers. Both the finance and business accelerated degrees are shaped to include management modules, which explore the complexities of organisations and key management, organisational behaviour and people management strategies.

3. Aptitude for technology

Today’s fast-moving world requires businesses to effectively utilise technology, and the right kind of technology, in order to keep up with change. The pandemic has fast-tracked digital transformation in many organisations and it’s an asset to have the skills to use the latest digital trends and apply the most relevant to their business goals. Exploiting these technologies helps organisations remain agile and resilient to future environmental changes. The rich learning content in LSBU’s accelerated degrees explores digital skills, finance in a digital world and digital transformation in organisations. That ensures graduates enter the job market ready to apply the theory, concepts and practices to support business change.

4. Critical thinking

Another skill that is essential to businesses is critical thinking. Since the start of the pandemic, effective critical thinking is more important than ever in making business decisions due to the vast quantity of

To learn more about how you can fast-track your career with LSBU’s accelerated degrees, visit www.lsbu.ac.uk/croydon

information circulating in the world, especially as much of it changes on a daily basis. This makes business planning difficult so the ability to think ahead and evaluate the most reliable information, for the long-term, is vital. The learning environment and programme structure at LSBU nurtures critical thinking, innovation, creativity and enterprise. The application of theory to practice, in order to develop and implement appropriate business strategies, consolidates the use of these skills in a real business environment.

5. Autonomous working

An increasingly common hiring trend by HR managers is skills-based hiring, of which the ability to work independently is highly sought after. As remote working practices thrive, employers seek employees who can work proactively and autonomously to ensure their role is a success, irrespective of working location.

LSBU aims to enhance the skills needed for independent learning, in order to ensure that students are prepared to take responsibility for their own personal development during the course of their degree programme and in their future careers. Self-managed study supplements and complements classroombased learning, building up knowledge with a mix of learning activities that are supported by the virtual learning environment.

London South Bank University’s strong links to professional bodies, industry specialists and former students, keep it at the forefront of a changing business world. This market intelligence feeds into maintaining first class business courses for its students, especially those studying the Accounting and Finance or Business Management accelerated degree programmes who want to retrain sooner and enter the workforce with highly competitive skills.

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 23 Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 23
Skills

Remembering when the Thames TidalFlood Barrier was built on the riverThames at Woolwich and became operational in 1982

The Thames is a tidal river which flows upstream as far as Teddington lock.

Before the Romans invaded Britain the Thames was much wider and had flood plains on both sides of the river. The Romans built up the embankments and down through the centuries the flood plains were reclaimed and developed, driving the tidal flow further up river and making flooding a more frequent problem.

One of the worst floods happened in 1953 causing, immense damage to property and a high loss of life. As a result it was

decided that a Tidal Flood Defence Barrier should be designed and built on the river near Woolwich. The Barrier had to be high enough to hold back. a high tide and be retractable to allow commercial shipping into and out of the Port of London.

A design was approved with 10 steel gates which when the barrier is open sit flat on the riverbed. The gates having the same width as Tower Bridge when open. Each gate take 10 to 15 minutes to close, one and a half hours for full barrier closure. Around 90 people are employed at the Barrier and it is manned 24 hours a day every day of the year. The total

cost to complete in 1982 after 8 years of construction was £535 million, and it costs £8 million a year to maintain and operate.

Good value compared to the huge cost of flood damage. The Barrier has now been closed to prevent flooding 200 times, including 50 times during the Winter of 2013/14, protecting buildings in central London and 1.25 million people from flooding.

It is, predicted to still be effective until 2100. Along with a long term plan to prevent flooding in the Thames Estuary due to Global warming.

24 Southwark BUSINESS TODAY Remembering When

“The Barrier has now been closed to prevent flooding 200 times, including 50 times during the Winter of 2013/14, protecting buildings in central London and 1.25 million people from flooding. It is, predicted to still be effective until 2100. Along with a long term plan to prevent flooding in the Thames Estuary due to Global warming. ”

Remembering When Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 25
Photo by Kevin Grieve on Unsplash

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A week can be a long time in politics VOICE from WESTMINSTER

As it is my first column of 2023, happy new year! The last few years have seen Southwark businesses hit by Brexit, covid and the disastrous ‘mini-Budget’ which has damaged the national economy. 2023 looks set to continue providing significant challenges for local businesses, but there are some opportunities including the new monarch being crowned King Charles III in May. It was a pleasure to welcome the King to Great Suffolk Street’s Africa Centre in January but the once in a generation coronation will bring hundreds of thousands of people to the capital and I hope will provide a much-needed boost for jobs, leisure, retail and hospitality here in Southwark, especially given the growth in hotels our side of the Thames in recent years. Sadly, the challenges of 2023 have started already. The Bank of England has put up interest rates by 0.5% to a 14 year high, which increases the cost of borrowing and energy costs are rising just as the Government cuts assistance with bills.

Employers are also concerned about potential hikes in business rates following the two-year delay due to covid. When inflationary pressures from increasing energy costs began in the autumn of 2021, Labour called on the Government increase the threshold for small business rates relief from £15,000 rateable value to £25,000. Sadly, Ministers failed to step in but when next in power Labour has committed to cut and then scrap rates, replacing them with a system fit for the 21st century.

For eight years serving Bermondsey and Old Southwark I have pushed for investment here, as I know that a thriving capital leads a thriving country. Projects like the Bakerloo Line extension are crucial for unlocking new homes and jobs. Sadly, Ministers have failed to deliver despite the London Mayor, Southwark and Lewisham Councils backing the extension. The Government turning its back on London only denies opportunities to the wider UK economy. As part of the ‘Levelling Up’ agenda London has received just £76 per person, the average for England is £342 and, to date, London has received just 6% from the Levelling Up Fund despite having 13% of the UK population. Ministers have also prevented London accessing any funds from the Community Ownership Fund, the Towns Fund, and Transforming Cities

Sadly, the challenges of 2023 have started already. The Bank of England has put up interest rates by 0.5% to a 14 year high, which increases the cost of borrowing and energy costs are rising just as the Government cuts assistance with bills.

Fund. This neglect and negligence harms the whole economy at a time the country needs to pull together.

The other significant struggle Southwark businesses tell me they face is in recruitment. So I was shocked to hear the Department for Work and Pensions’ Permanent Secretary describe the Government ‘Kickstart’ scheme as a success in select committee recently despite the job creation scheme failing to help 87,000 of its targeted young people find work. The lack of ambition is astounding but indicative of a Government which has run out of steam. Ministers have overseen a decade of decline in skills and training opportunities which is making Britain poorer. Fresh leadership is desperately needed, and the sooner the better!

” “ Voice from Westminster Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 27

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Inspiring visit to Ukraine

“ I have worked a lot in war zones – Afghanistan, Lebanon, territories in Africa – and what struck me about Ukraine is how much business is going on. They are simply getting on with it.

ichard Burge has recently returned from an inspiring visit to Ukraine. Here he talks about what the visit meant to him and how new links with the country can mutually support business communities both in London and in Ukraine.

“It’s a very determined country,” said Richard.

“I have worked a lot in war zones –Afghanistan, Lebanon, territories in Africa – and what struck me about Ukraine is how much business is going on. They are simply getting on with it.

“There were two reasons for going. The first was to show solidarity with the business community of Ukraine through their Chambers of Commerce and the governance of the cities of Kyiv and Lviv. You can say a lot of nice things by Zoom but sometimes, you have to get on a plane, give people a hug, sit down with a vodka and talk.

“It’s not brave going to Ukraine; it’s more dangerous probably travelling around London.

“The second reason is Ukraine traded

Rwith Moscow in Russia and we want them to trade with London. It is the start of a campaign for London – with its glorious diversity - as the global city of choice for the business sector of Ukraine as they switch their focus from Russia to the West.”

Richard went to Ukraine with Andrew Marsden, City of London sheriff, Tom Sleigh, director of corporate affairs at the Bank of London, and Igor Bartkiv, Ukraine project officer at the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

With no direct flights to Ukraine at present, the group travelled by train from the Polish border – a “sleeper train from Kyiv to Lviv is an adventure!”

The group spent eight days in the country and met the trade minister in Ukraine, other Government officials, the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the chair of the Women in Business group in Ukraine, and local business owners including IT and manufacturing.

“There are a lot of SMEs,” continued Richard.

“It is a very advanced country – technology, a lot of skills. They have certainly taken a leaf out of London’s gin-making book, vodka is seeing a resurgence. It’s a very encouraging industry.

“I am very encouraged by their determination and their way of getting on with it. Lviv Opera House continues to run four performances a week, which really takes your breath away.”

The MOU with the Ukraine Chamber of Commerce has been signed.

“This commits us to holding two significant trade events every year, one in the UK and one in Ukraine or Poland,” he said.

The trip was very successful, he added, and achievements included the continued development of the Liverpool/London business event to coincide with the Eurovision Song Contest; links between London and Lviv/Kyiv in the IT and digital sector, women in business and energy generation and trading; the commitment of the Barbican Centre to look for ways of promoting Ukrainian music and performance; and Ukrainian participation in the next Lord Mayor’s Show, which is sponsored by the City of London Corporation.

Initial steps have also been made to provide support and fundraising for the Unbroken project in Lviv for prosthetic limbs and post-trauma care. The Unbroken National Rehabilitation Centre provides care for adults and children affected by the war in Ukraine.

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 29
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Take a break and focus on your mental wellbeing

According to the NHS, evidence suggests that there are five steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing.

1. Connect with other people

Good relationships are important for your wellbeing because they help you build a sense of belonging and self-worth, give you an opportunity to share positive experiences and help you support others.

• Take time daily to be with your family e.g. eat dinner together

• Arrange a day out with friends.

• Switch off the TV to talk or play a game with your children, friends or family

• Have lunch with a colleague

• Visit a friend or family member who needs support or company

• Volunteer at a local school, hospital or community group

• Have a video chat to keep in touch with a relative or friend who you can’t see face-to-face or ring them for a chat (try not to rely solely on social media and text messages to keep in touch)

2. Be physically active

Not only does being active improve your physical health and fitness but it also improves your mental wellbeing by raising your self-esteem, helping you to set and achieve goals; and causing chemical changes in your brain to positively change your mood.

Don’t feel you have to spend hours in a gym if that’s not your bag. Have a read up on different activities you can try to keep active including running, aerobic exercises, classes, and strength and flexibility exercises.

3. Learn new skills

This can boost self-confidence, raise self-esteem, help you build a sense of purpose and connect with others.

• Try learning to cook something new

• Take on a new responsibility at work such as mentoring a junior staff member or learning a new business-based skill such as making presentations

• Work on a DIY project such as fixing a garden gate. There are lots of free video tutorials online

• Sign up for a college course to learn a new language or practical skill

• Try new hobbies e.g. writing a blog, taking up a new sport or learning to paint

4. Give to others

Carrying out small acts of kindness can create positive feelings, give you a feeling of purpose and self-worth and help

you connect with others. Start by asking friends, family or colleagues how they are and really listening to their answer. Offer to help someone you know with a home DIY or work project. Or volunteer in your community by helping at a school, hospital or care home.

5. Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness)

• Notice the everyday e.g. food you eat, environment etc

• Pick a regular time to be mindful e.g. your morning commute or lunchtime walk

• Try something new e.g. go somewhere new for lunch

• Try and empty your mind from thoughts and worries. Gentle yoga or walking can help

• Practise mindfulness when you find yourself either reliving past problems or pre-living future worries because it brings you back to the present.

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 31
Health and Wellbeing
A new year is the time we traditionally look at every aspect of our lives – home, family, work, health – and do a general audit to see what’s working and what we can improve on. Whether or not you are an advocate of the New Year, New You premise, there is no better time than now to have a look at your mental wellbeing.
Photo by Katerina May at Unsplash

Reasons to Join Us GROW YOUR BUSINESS

THROUGH QUALITY NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Our broad range of members share advice, experience and peer support for business owners who want to take their business to the next level.

Whether you are a sole trader, micro-business, a mid-sized firm or part of a global organisation, our members reflect the diverse business

1 Networking events

• Develop new business relationships

• Find trusted suppliers and meet new customers

• Regular mailings on news & up-coming events in the Borough Social events

2 Advice and Support

• Seminars on new developments, local policy, and key business issues

• Access to peer-to-peer advice

• Engagement with Local councillors

3 Affiliate benefits from London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI)

• Access to selected LCCI events as advertised by SCC

demographic of Southwark. We help our members build strong commercial connections within London.

We support them in being part of the Capital’s community and economy. Membership is great for networking and building your business.

4 Southwark Business Today

• Free bi-monthly copy of Southwark Business Today

• Discounts for advertising in Southwark Business Today

• Members can submit articles about their business sector

5 Discounts & Promotions

• Discounts at local establishments

• Member to member discounts

32 Southwark BUSINESS TODAY
JOIN TODAY Email : admin@southwarkcommerce.com www.southwarkcommerce.com 5

OUR EVENTS DESIGNED

TO HELP YOUR BUSINESS GROW

NETWORKING

We’ve designed our events to help you broaden your network, learn something new or get involved with key topical issues for businesses in Southwark. Our networking events are great for regular members to make and maintain useful contacts, and we always welcome first-timer.

BUSINESS EVENTS

Our events cover a variety of topics, often hosted by key speakers. Examples include:

4 Meet your councillors - Council initiatives for business

4 Discussions on Business Rates

4 Marketing and social media presentations

4 Apprenticeship and meet the buyer sessions

Non Members are welcome to attend two FREE networking events before joining.

SOCIAL EVENTS

Joining the Chamber is a great way of growing your network. Examples of some of our social events:

4 The Annual River Cruise

4 Lunch in the Houses of Parliament

4 Southwark Business Excellence Awards

4 Private tours of Southwark’s most iconic buildings

4 Christmas drinks at Southwark Cathedral

For further details on all forthcoming events

Email: admin@southwarkcommerce.com

www.southwarkcommerce.com

Owner/Manager

I left school with no skills and had many different jobs over the years, but as someone once prophetically said to me ‘find a job you like, and you never work again’ and they were right. In 1987 destiny led me to running my own fishmonger’s stall at the Blue Market Bermondsey and it never feels like work. Being within a great community and interacting with all manner and diversity of people over the years is good and given me a passion for putting something back, and alongside other business owners, I helped found Blue Bermondsey BID in 2014.

Q1 What was your first job and what was the pay packet?

Working in a wine and spirits warehouse loading the lorries for £15.00 per week.

Q2 If you were prime minister, what would be your first decision? Shake up the benefits system.

Q3 What is the biggest challenge in your business?

Mitigating rising costs of goods and running costs.

Q4 If you could do another job what would it be?

Rock star.

Q5 What is your favourite London building?

My home.

Southwark BUSINESS TODAY 33 The Last Word

Join Us

The Chamber is made up of active and successful business people from a wide range of sectors, who are based in Southwark, believe in Southwark and wish Southwark to prosper.

Successfully helping Southwark Businesses for 97 Years

Our Committee Chair (Temporary)

Shade Abdul BA(Hons) DipArch(UCL)

RIBA FRSA

Director, Deft.Space President

Neil Coyle MP (MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark)

Vice President

Lord Roy Kennedy (House of Lords)

Vice President

Rt Hon Harriet Harman QC MP (MP for Camberwell and Peckham) Patron

The Worshipful Mayor of Southwark Patron

Sir Simon Hughes (Former MP)

Executive Members

Vice Chair/Legal Advisor Peter Mantell

Notary Public and Solicitor

Vice Chair/Equalities/ Shade Abdul

Diversity and Inclusion

Procurement

Membership Secretary Lyn Hamblin

Honorary Treasurer Agata Wiak

Council Representative Councillor

Martin Seaton

Employment William Harwood

Publicity

Susan Isaacs

Small Business Parminder Kanda

Welfare Cait Wilkinson

Social Enterprise Support Jacy Stewart

Administrator TBA

Marketing Julie Leggatt

Social Media Maia Hazell

Ex Officio Sonia Sutton

Executive Member Ken Hayes

Executive Member Cedric Whilby

Executive Member Roderick Lynch

Executive Member Amadin Ryan

Executive Member Mark Purboo

Executive Member Teekall

Mair-Macfarlane

Making the most of your SCC membership

Once you’ve joined us you have access to the opportunities we provide to help support you and your business. Whether you simply want to attend our networking events, run a seminar or sponsor or run an event, we’d love you to get involved. We like our members to make the most of their membership and get as involved as much as they can.

Membership Application

• Sole trader £100 per annum

• Small/Medium sized companies 2 to 50 employees £150 per annum

• Large companies - 51 employees plus £300 per annum

• Corporate/PLC’s by agreement.

• All new members pay a one off administration fee of £25

Company:

Address:

Post Code:

Telephone: Email:

Number of Employees:

Full Name:

Position:

Payment Details:

BANK DETAILS: Handelsbanken

SORT CODE: 40-51-62

ACCOUNT NO: 76489843

To join, please send your details to:

Southwark Chamber of Commerce

169 Walworth Road, London SE17 1RW

Email : admin@southwarkcommerce.com www.SouthwarkCommerce.com

Twitter: @southwarkcomm Facebook: southwarkcommerce

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/southwark-chamber-of-commerce/

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