The Masthead November 2019

the

masthead

Official Magazine for South East London Chamber of Commerce - Issue 12

How businesses can think small to achieve big in the

Green Revolution The need to tackle climate change has never occupied a higher place on the UK’s political agenda than today. P 34

• Interview with Andy Tookey, Managing Partner, Baily Garner on seeking growth in an ever-changing industry. P 26 • BEXLEY - A new creative workspace • GREENWICH - Latest news from Royal Borough of Greenwich • LEWISHAM - Putting Lewisham on the map • BROMLEY - Orpington Better for Business • EDUCATION & SKILLS - Great things

happening in Greenwich • VISIT GREENWICH - Optimism in Creative Woolwich • ASK THE EXPERT - Preparing for winter

• IN CONVERSATION WITH...Glemnet • CONSTRUCTION - Boost for initiative to attract people of diverse backgrounds into

construction • HEALTH & WELLBEING - Experts to help UK take advantage of ageing society opportunities •

ALL ALLNEW NEWCAMRY CAMRY

SELF-CHARGING SELF-CHARGINGHYBRID HYBRID FROM

FROM

23% 23%BIK BIK

Adaptive Control AdaptiveCruise Cruise Control Leather Leatherinterior interior

18 inch alloy wheels 18 inch alloy wheels

ReversingCamera Camera Reversing

7” touchscreen 7” touchscreen

DAB Radio DAB Radio

Bluetooth Connectivity

Bluetooth Connectivity Air conditioning

Air conditioning

Cruise Control

Cruise Control Sat Nav

Sat Nav

Contract hire/leasing/finance options available.

Contact us today for a personalised quote.

Contract hire/leasing/finance options available.

Derek Palmer 07468 861109 derek.palmer@jemca.co.uk

Jemca Toyota Sidcup Business Centre 146-150 Maidstone Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 5HS Jemca Sidcup 0208Toyota 309 4464 Business Centre jemcasidcup.toyota.co.uk

Jemca Toyota Bromley Business Centre 146 Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, Kent BR1 5TD Jemca Toyota 0208 860 1303 Bromley Business Centre jemcabromley.toyota.co.uk

Contact us today for a personalised quote.

Derek Palmer 07468 861109 derek.palmer@jemca.co.uk

146-150 Maidstone Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 5HS 0208 309 4464 jemcasidcup.toyota.co.uk

146 Burnt Ash Lane, Bromley, Kent BR1 5TD 0208 860 1303 jemcabromley.toyota.co.uk

Model shown is Camry Hybrid Excel 2.5 VVT-i Auto £31,295. Additional charges may apply on selected paint colours and finishes. Prices correct at time of being published. 5 year/100,000 mile manufacturer warranty. Terms and conditions apply. Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km): combined 50.5 (5.6) – 51.3 (5.5). Combined CO2 101g/km. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results. Fuel consumption and CO2 produced varies significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which replaces the New European Driving Cycle test procedure (NEDC). All CO2 figures quoted are NEDC equivalent. This means the CO2 figures are based on the new WLTP test procedure is Camry Hybrid Excel 2.5 VVT-i Auto £31,295.

Additional may apply onand selected painttocolours and finishes.

Prices but calculatedModel (usingshown a standard European calculation method) to allow comparison with thecharges NEDC test procedure will be used calculate vehicle tax on first correct at mpg timefigures of being published.

5 year/100,000 manufacturer warranty.

Termswww.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp and conditions apply. Official fuel consumption figures in mpg registration. All quoted are full WLTP figures. Moremile information can be found by visiting: *Camry Hybrid Range BIK available from 23% – 24% (tax year (5.6) 2019/20). is Camry Hybrid ExcelCO 2.5 VVT-i Auto with 24% BIK. (l/100km): combined 50.5 – Model 51.3shown (5.5).

Combined 2 101g/km.

Figures

are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel

Welcome 3

find

inside 8

5 Chamber News 7 Economy 8-10 Focus on Bexley 12-13 Focus on Greenwich 16-17 Focus on Lewisham 18-19 Focus on Bromley 20-21 Education & Skills 23 Legal 24 News 26-27 Big Interview with Andy Tookey 28-31 Chamber Events

21

32-33 Visit Greenwich 34-36 Cover Feature Environment 37 Ask the Expert 38 In Conversation with...

40-41 Strategic Partners 43 Construction 44 Finance Update 47 Health & Wellbeing 49 The Person behind the Business 50 New Members 50 and finally...

26

32

Welcome to The Masthead the South East London Chamber of Commerce magazine.

A

utumn is upon us and October is an important month for us all.

September was a busy month for the Chamber; we held our Networking Lunch and AGM at Davy’s Wine Vaults and the Charity Quiz on behalf of Bridge Mental Health & Wellbeing Services.

Both events were a sell-out, thank you to everyone for their support with these events.

Editorial and General Enquiries South East London Chamber of Commerce Unit TW/145, Trinity Wharf, Harrington Way Warspite Road London SE18 5NR Tel: 020 8317 3365 Email: office@selondonchamber.org

www.selondonchamber.org

@SELondonChamber

@SELondonChamber South East London Chamber of Commerce

The Rt Hon Nick Raynsford was the guest speaker at the networking lunch and he gave us an update on the TCPA’S Raynsford Review on the current planning system. As Deputy Chairman of Crossrail, Nick lifted the curtain on many of the current problems. Next year, Nick will speak at Chamber events on both topics. Places are selling fast for the next Executive Lunch on Thursday, 31 October. Heidi Alexander, London’s Deputy Mayor for Transport will be the guest speaker and attendees will have the opportunity to ask her questions on transport. Expect talk on the extension to the Bakerloo Line, Silvertown Tunnel, Piers for Thames Clippers, and more.

The AGM was well attended and Raff Gallo, Finance Director also took over the post of Vice President. Terri Johnson stood down after three years in this role and has done a huge amount of work for the Chamber during her time as VP. We need to extend a big thank you to Terri and I am delighted to confirm she remains on the Board. We have a new director whose responsibility will be IT. Nick Coxon, All So Pro is a specialist in all things IT and will be leading our strategy on social media.

Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published: Oct 2019 © Benham Publishing

Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: mark@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1687

During the year we co-opted two further specialists to the Board. Christofi Christou, Peabody and Neil Coates, LSEC. Both have responsibility for business development and can act as

Disclaimer The Masthead is published for South East London Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members.

stand-ins for their colleagues already on the Board, Paula Hines and Louise Wolsey.

The Board is busy reviewing the membership categories and changes will now be announced in the January issue of Masthead; expect new Chamber benefits.

We have some exciting events coming up: A joint evening event with Southwark and South Side Chambers in Greenwich; training events and a breakfast meeting with the Leader of Bromley Council, Cllr Colin Smith, plus Christmas lunch at The Bromley Court Hotel.

I look forward to seeing you at one or all of our events.

Helen McIntosh FCIPR President All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at South East London Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in The Masthead are not necessarily those of South East London Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2019 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 forthe 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.

October 2019

Chamber News 5

Culture & Business Networking Event

CROSS BORDER NETWORKING

IN WHAT MAY BE A POST BREXIT WORLD Southwark Chamber of Commerce is pleased to be working with South East London Chamber of Commerce and South Side Chamber of Commerce to do our bit for networking across borders. We are also pleased that Dexter Moscow, renowned expert on business networking, will be giving us his thoughts.

It is proposed that Southwark and South Side Chamber members gather at London Bridge City at 17:15 on Thursday, November 7th, taking the Thames Clipper to Greenwich arriving 18:05. From Greenwich Pier we will go to the Admiral Hardy and join South East London Chamber members for drinks, a light buffet and general networking to be followed by a talk by Dexter Moscow on networking to be continued.

Members can leave when convenient, but we will generally return from Greenwich at 21:00.

ABOUT DEXTER MOSCOW Today it is not enough to be excellent at what you do.

Today you have to be a Master Communicator.

For 16 years I was retained on a freelance basis as QVC The Shopping Channel’s chief guest trainer coaching individuals how to sell their products to an invisible audience.

I also appeared live, presenting and selling £millions worth of products for major brands.

This experience informs my unique approach to corporate communication, selling ideas and influencing skills.

As a speaker and business coach, those working with me attending my presentations and sales courses have gained heightened communication abilities, new insights and increased confidence in ‘selling’, themselves and their business proposition.

My experience working with the professions, in retail, on TV and in major corporates has led me to write my book Stand Up and Sell which seeks to help individuals become more persuasive and influential. I hope you enjoy the journey.

in association with Greenwich Cultural Forum Date: Thursday 21 November Time: 18.30 - 20.00 Venue: London South East Colleges, 95 Plumstead Road, London SE18 7DQ

Join us at the first of this Network’s events.

This is your best networking event for meeting leaders from the cultural sector in Royal Greenwich to explore business and cultural partnerships.

This event will enable you to make new and reinforce existing professional connections by meeting Chamber and Greenwich Cultural Forum members.

The evening will feature a short performance and speeches by Business and Culture leaders on their reciprocal collaborations.

Complimentary drinks and nibbles will be provided. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ culture-business-networkingevent-tickets-75140602565 For further details about London South East Colleges please see page 21

Email: admin@southwarkcommerce.com Or call Sonia on: 07477581977 Costs in advance: £25 including first drink and light buffet.

The Clipper costs £9.10 Return.

October 2019

6

Thames Barrier The View Conference Centre

Meeting, event hire for up to 60 people with catering.

Please telephone 0208 305 4188 Please tephone or 0208 305us4188 email at or email us at Thamesbarriertheview@environment-agency.

Thamesbarriertheview gov.uk for more details. @environment-agency.gov.uk for more details.

Please note there is no access on the Thames Barrier Structure.

Please note there is no access onto the Thames Barrier Structure.

October 2019

Whitefoot Photography

Unique meeting rooms with views of the River Thames and London. Our rooms are light and spacious and offer various room layouts to suit all occasions. With a range of audio visual equipment.

Economy 7

Flexible working continues to increase but late payments deter freelances Research from ETZ Payments has indicated that the flexible workforce is likely to continue to expand.

Three quarters of UK workers A are ‘in favour of a four-day week’ The pressure is growing on the UK’s employers to consider introducing a four-day week.

N

ew research, commissioned by KnowYourMoney.co.uk, has uncovered the importance of flexible working practices to employees.

More than a third of full-time workers in the UK are currently looking for a new job because they would like a role with greater flexibility, the research revealed.

The online comparison website commissioned a study among more than 2,000 UK adults, who were all in full-time or part-time work. It found that 71% of people consider flexible working – in terms of both the hours and location they work – as important to their job satisfaction.

However, half (50%) cannot work remotely when they want or need to, and 46% have no flexibility in the hours they work.

Consequently, one in three (29%) of full-time workers have left a job in the past 12 months because they wanted a role that offered greater flexibility.

Furthermore, 37% of full-time staff in the UK are currently

looking for a new job for the same reason – this figure rises to 52% among those aged between 18 and 24, and 46% for 25-34-year-olds.

KnowYourMoney.co.uk’s research also demonstrated employees’ strong appetite to reduce the working week from five to four days.

Three quarters (75%) of UK workers are in favour of a fourday week even if they have to squeeze their full five-day hours into one fewer days, while 49% would take a relative (20%) pay-cut to move from a five-day to a four-day week.

Elsewhere, the survey uncovered that 45% of workers find it harder now than in the past to detach themselves from their jobs because they receive work emails on their smartphones around the clock.

Moreover, more than two-fifths (42%) do not feel their employer supports or cares about their mental health and almost a third (32%) are unhappy with their current work-life balance.

Nic Redfern, Director of KnowYourMoney.co.uk, said:

“Working practices have changed radically over the past two decades – the rise of new tech has made it far easier and more common for employees to work remotely and flexibly.

“However, our research clearly shows many workers feel their employers have not yet caught up with the flexible working trend, so it’s important managers take note of these findings and assess how they can cater to the demands of their workforce.

“Evidently, organisations are at risk of losing talented staff if they cannot provide more flexible structures, whether that’s relaxing the set offices hours, allowing employees to work from home, or even offering the option of a four-day week.

“Ultimately, technology shouldn’t increase employees’ stress level by preventing them to switch off, but instead should be embraced to create new opportunities for people to achieve a better work-life balance.”

“Three quarters (75%) of UK workers are in favour of a four-day week even if they have to squeeze their full five-day hours into one fewer days, while 49% would take a relative (20%) pay-cut to move from a five-day to a four-day week.”

survey of more than 2,000 British workers found that 35% of UK employees would rather have flexible working options than a pay-rise and 43% said that flexible hours are the most important thing to them when choosing a job.

Despite the growth in the flexible employee arena, many are being put off working in a freelance fashion due to late and inconsistent payments, according to the survey.

The research from ETZ Payments found that: • 14% of Britons have considered leaving, or have left, freelance work due to inconsistent or late payments • A quarter of Britons can’t afford big ticket commitments such as weddings, holidays, and home improvements due to the freelance payment structure • 15% of Britons have had to turn to payday lenders or short-term finance solutions due to inconsistent payments from their freelance work

Nick Woodward, CEO of ETZ Payments, said: “Flexible working has shot up over the past twenty years mainly thanks to advances in technology.

Our research shows that this exponential growth is unlikely to slow down with millions of Brits wanting to work flexibly and valuing that over a pay-rise.

“However, it is disconcerting that employees are being put off the gig economy due to the late payments that plague the arena.

It is important that employers, if they want to attract and retain the best talent, address the issue of late payments within their company.”

October 2019

8 Focus on Bexley

The Engine House Bexley A new creative workspace in Bexley.

T

he Engine House is a thriving creative ecosystem in the heart of the Bexley riverside growth area. It comprises over 120,000 square feet of flexible studio and office facilities.

It offers virtual, co-working and small to large private office spaces and a great range of working options to suit all types of businesses.

meeting booths. At The Engine House businesses can grow in an affordable way, with prices starting from just over ÂŁ1 a day.

The centre is currently undergoing a transformational refurbishment which should be completed by early December. When this is complete it will offer new hot-desking and co-working spaces, a state of the art CAD and 3D Suite, as well as a new gym, break out space, refurbished coffee shop and

Offers include exclusive events from fun and exciting networking, together with structured business support, with the aim of connecting members and building The Engine House community. Members will also have full access to pay as you go wellbeing events and activities.

October 2019

Members can also benefit from the Business 2 Business Community programme, a business support network of Engine House members.

The CAD and 3D Suite will allow businesses to prototype their ideas, with experts on hand to help get their product to market quickly. The suite will also offer AutoCAD certified training courses on 2D & 3D Modelling.

The Engine House launch will take place on 30 January 2020.

For updates follow the

Engine House on Twitter @The_EngineHouse

For more information visit

www.enginehousebexley.co.uk or call 020 8320 1000.

Focus on Bexley 9

CAD & 3D Suite at The Engine House Bexley

The CAD & 3D Suite will offer services and solutions for entrepreneurs with an idea, to manufacturing businesses looking to transition from the traditional manufacturing into the digital sectors.

There is a high demand for all levels of CAD technicians: from simplistic prototyping, architectural & industrial engineering to aerospace technology.

Offering Business Development solutions

1. Concept: Our team will support you from the very first steps of your prototyping journey. From a simple sketch, our team will work with you through initial consultation to determine if your idea is ready for prototyping. Working alongside you, we’ll suggest ideas and revisions to help optimise your design before we take it to the next stage of 3D modelling.

2. CAD design: During this stage of the design process we can experiment with materials and finishes and generate photo quality renders for your final product.

We’ll also be on hand to help calculate those allimportant accurate measurements for later in the production stage.

3. Rapid prototyping: Working closely with Formlabs 3D printing technology developer and manufacturer - we will be able to print your prototype in a matter of hours using our Stereolithography 3D printing facility.

With rapid prototyping you can get a look and feel for your final design and inspect the integrity of the part before committing to mass production.

4. Ready for production: Taking every stage of your design into consideration, The Engine House can offer continuous small batch production runs of your design or alternatively use research, design and integrity testing to find the most effective manufacturing method for full scale production.

AutoCAD training – 2D & 3D courses

Offers include exclusive events from fun and exciting networking, together with structured business

In an era of endless opportunity, everyone - regardless of age or education – is able to train in computer aided design. The Engine House can help to upskill existing business employees or people wanting to reskill, to help them gain full time job employment.

AutoCAD training 2D & 3D courses • 12 February – 14 February 2020

support events, with the aim of

• 1 April – 3 April 2020

connecting members and building

3D printing workshops

The Engine House community.

• 20 May – 23 May 2020 Our workshops offer a hands-on introduction covering all the basics of CAD & 3D printing, introducing the techniques, tools and online resources needed to create your own projects.

Find out more by emailing lewie.winters@enginehousebexley.co.uk or call 020 8320 1000

October 2019

NEW OFFICE. NEW ME. An exciting, new co-working space in Bexley for businesses of all shapes and sizes.

enginehousebexley.london

Focus on Bexley 11

Bexley Business Excellence Awards 2020 After the success of the 2019 Bexley Business Awards, the launch date for the 2020 awards has been announced.

T

he Launch event will take place at The Engine House Bexley on 30 January 2020 and we are planning another great night at this wonderful new location.

A Gala dinner will be held at Hall Place & Gardens on 18 June 2020 to celebrate

the Bexley Business Awards winners and how we are working with local businesses and our other partners to make the plans set out in our Growth Strategy a reality.

We want to work closely with local businesses to support their growth and further expansion.

“The Launch event will take place at The Engine House Bexley on 30 January 2020 and we are planning another great night at this wonderful new location.�

Become a Bexley school governor Governors are the strategic leaders within Bexley’s schools, helping to ensure that every child receives the best possible education.

W

orking as a team, governors set the vision and ethos

of the school and hold the headteacher to account for the educational performance of the children, the performance of staff and for sound financial management.

Interested?

We need your life skills, your experiences and common sense.

There is a time commitment during the evening and occasionally during the school day, including time for governor training.

Why not take the opportunity to use your business skills to give something back to the community and join the largest volunteer workforce in the country?

Contact governorsupport.els@bexley.gov.uk for more information.

October 2019

12 Focus on Greenwich

Latest news from Royal Borough of Greenwich Prepare your business for Brexit

Time to get cultural The Royal Borough of Greenwich is bidding to become the London Borough of Culture in 2021, an opportunity to celebrate the borough and everyone who lives and works in it.

T

he Mayor of London’s scheme will provide the successful borough with funding to host a year-long celebration and Greenwich needs your help to win the crown.

Council officers want to hear what you’d like to see and do across the 12 months of the year of culture.

Are you dedicated to dance, fanatical about film, hungry for history? Or do you want to share something about your own heritage or culture?

Maybe you’ve got a taste for the world-wide menu that’s served in the borough and would like to celebrate with a community feast. Or do you want to get people shopping at local markets so they can all enjoy the bargains?

It doesn’t matter how big, small, finely tuned or loosely formed your ideas are, the council would like to hear from you.

You can offer your views at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/ GrinForGreenwich

October 2019

The Government has launched an online tool to help businesses and organisations prepare for Brexit.

The tool can be used to find out what your business or organisation may need to do to prepare for the UK leaving the EU, what’s changing in your industry, and information on specific rules and regulations such as: • employing EU citizens • importing, exporting and transporting • operating in the EU • regulation and standards for goods and products • using personal data • European and domestic funding • intellectual property • energy and climate • public sector procurement.

The free tool is available at: www.gov.uk/business-uk-leaving-eu

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is working with the Mayor of London to monitor the position and to ensure businesses have access to up-to-date resources and advice.

Further information for London businesses is available from the Mayor’s Growth Hub at: www.growthhub.london/brexithub

Brexit information events for Greenwich businesses

A programme of workshops and drop in sessions are being organised for local businesses.

Updates will be provided via this business e-alert service at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/businessalerts

EU Exit Import and Export Trader Helpline

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has launched the EU Exit Import and Export Trader Helpline for traders and hauliers importing from/exporting to the EU after October 31 2019.

The helpline number is 0300 3301 331. Lines will be open from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday.

Woolwich to benefit from share of £95 million Historic High Streets fund

Sixty-nine high streets across the country, including Woolwich, will be given a new lease of life thanks to a £95 million Government fund. The fund delivered through Historic England’s successful Heritage Action Zone initiative will turn empty and underused buildings into creative spaces, offices, retail outlets and housing to support wider regeneration in the successful areas by attracting future commercial investment.

Cllr Danny Thorpe, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: “Receiving the High Streets Heritage Action Zone grant is going to mean a huge boost for the current and future residents in Woolwich, by improving our living and working environment, as well as giving our local economy a much-needed boost. We’re extremely proud of Woolwich’s rich cultural and historical heritage, and this funding will enable the rejuvenation of our landmark buildings, and expansion of local businesses and green spaces.

People are at the heart of our diverse community and improving our town centre and providing more community space will benefit everyone.”

What can the Council do for your business?

In Royal Greenwich, professional advice is available on many aspects of running your business from tendering for contracts to recruitment and marketing. We also run an e-business support programme to help businesses reach their potential online which includes free workshops and seminars.

To keep up to date with our latest business news sign up to receive our newsletter directly in your inbox: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/businessnewsletter Find out about all the advice and support we can offer your business by visiting our website: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/businesssupport

Focus on Greenwich 13

‘Made in Greenwich’ London’s historic district of Greenwich has a brand new attraction that showcases the talents of local artists, craftspeople and food entrepreneurs.

‘M

ade in Greenwich’, a shop and community hub, has recently been opened by GCDA (Greenwich Cooperative Development Agency) and is packed with locally made and exclusive goods that reflect the diversity of the area. You can find everything from a piece of handcrafted jewellery made of pottery salvaged from the River Thames to a beautiful lino print, a colourful scarf, wax fabric lampshades, eye catching cushions, a flattering headpiece or even a macramé plant hanger. Foodies are catered for too, with spice rubs, sauces

and jars of honey from a local school. And if you’re looking for a souvenir of your visit, there are ‘Made in Greenwich’ mugs and a range of beautiful cards by artist Edward Hill who used to run a gallery in the same space.

The shop is the brainchild of Claire Pritchard, the CEO of GCDA, which aims to help create thriving communities in which people can truly flourish.

The not-for-profit organisation supports people to improve their health and wellbeing by building professional skills and tackling poverty through partnership, projects, hubs and campaigns.

“I have always dreamed of GCDA having its own platform to showcase and celebrate the amazing entrepreneurs hidden within the borough,” says Claire, “so when we were invited to take over the premises in Creek Road, we just couldn’t say no. Many of the people selling their goods in

Photo by Sandra Westbrooke

the shop have been through our business training courses, and it provides a supportive route to market for them. I am just so excited about the potential for ‘Made in Greenwich’. Not only do I want it to become a thriving hub for the Greenwich community, I also hope it will become a model for other boroughs too.”

The shop’s curator, designer and writer Mary Jane Baxter, has a creative background that includes two craft books and a stint as a judge on the popular BBC daytime TV series Paul Martin’s Handmade Revolution. Using the tiniest of budgets, she has managed to create a delightful interior that makes the most of upcycled materials including recycled paint from The Forest Recycling Project and wallpaper remnants donated

by Pickwick Papers in Greenwich.

IKEA came up trumps too by sponsoring the shop-fit which gave the space the look and feel of an

indoor/outdoor market. IKEA also supplied furnishings for the rear of the shop, an intimate light-filled creative space that can be hired for workshops, pop-up events, talks or training.

“IKEA is committed to being a good neighbour and a true partner in the local community. We love working with GCDA and we are delighted to have helped them in creating an inspirational space” said Maria Malpartida, Marketing Manager IKEA Greenwich.

If you are interested in hiring the space for yourself or your organisation, or are simply looking for beautiful Christmas gifts that are locally made, then do visit ‘Made in Greenwich’ at 324 Creek Rd, SE10 9SW. Shop opening hours are Thursday – Sunday 1000 – 1700

Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @MIGreenwich Contact: maryjane@gcda.org.uk

CHRISTMAS AT THE DOUBLETREE BY HILTON LONDON GREENWICH FESTIVE DINING (LUNCH & DINNER)

FROM £30.00 PER PERSON PRIVATE PARTIES FROM £51.00 PER

PERSON

FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA FROM

£25.00 PER PERSON NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER FROM

£45.00 PER PERSON FESTIVE DAY DELEGATE RATES FROM

£35.00 PER PERSON (MINIMUM 10 DELEGATES)

CONTACT OUR CHRISTMAS TEAM TO BOOK ON 0208 469 4443 OR LONGW_RES@HILTON.COM

October 2019

SAVOUR THE FESTIVE FLAVOURS OF PENINSULA RESTAURANT Get in the festive spirit and indulge in a three-course menu in the elegant private dining suite.

Perfect for small, but select celebrations up to 24 guests. Festive group dining menu starts from ÂŁ55 per person including Christmas crackers and decoration.

Bookings essential, please contact dining@iclondon-theo2.com | 0208 463 6908 Live the InterContinental Life.

InterContinental London – The O2 15

Indulge in The Gift of Luxury this Christmas Perched on the side of the River Thames, InterContinental London – The O2 offers you a warm welcome this festive season.

F

rom traditional fine dining, to intimate group celebrations, to buffet lunch with all the trimmings, InterContinental London – The O2 is the perfect place to create timeless memories this Christmas.

Festive Culinary Delights The Michelin-Guide and 3 AA Rosette winning Peninsula Restaurant will be serving three and seven-course festive set menus in the lead up to Christmas, perfect for celebrating festivities with friends, family and colleagues.

The menu puts an elegant spin on some festive favourites, featuring braised pheasant with madeira and trompette des morts, beef bavette with potato terrine, and for dessert, smoked dark chocolate with clementine and pistachio.

The festive menus are available from 3rd December to 21st December 2019, and are priced at £65 per person for the three-course and £85 per person for the seven-course.

For those looking for something a little more casual, Market Brasserie is offering a festive three-course menu which is available for lunch and dinner.

The menu features some Christmas classics, including game terrine with mulled braised onion and chestnut purée, and roast turkey roulade stuffed with apricot. For pudding, the spiced English custard tart is not to be missed.

The festive menu is available from 2nd December 2019 until 5th January 2020 (excluding lunch on Christmas Day) and is priced at £48 per person.

Festive Afternoon Delicacies Served in the relaxed ambience of Meridian Lounge, a special festive afternoon tea is on offer, featuring an assortment of homemade delicacies with an extra dash of festive cheer. Turkey and cream cheese sandwiches are served with special cranberry mousse, while the valrhona

chocolate and mulled wine cake is every sweet tooth’s dream.

To complement, enjoy a selection of the finest loose leaf teas, or treat yourself to a glass of champagne or a gourmet hot chocolate, after all ‘tis the season to be jolly.

Festive afternoon tea is available from 4th November 2019 until 5th January 2020, and is priced at £42 per person, or £55 per person which includes a glass of LaurentPerrier Rosé champagne.

Christmas Day Celebrate the spirit of Christmas at both Market Brasserie and Peninsula Restaurant. Tuck into a Christmas buffet lunch with all the trimmings at Market Brasserie, from traditional stuffed turkey to smoked salmon gravlax and a range of desserts, all available for £72 per person. And in the true spirit of Christmas, we’ll keep the feast going until you can’t fit anymore.

Alternatively, enjoy a more intimate occasion with family and friends with a 7-course Christmas dinner menu in Peninsula Restaurant from £85 per person.

‘Tis the Season for a Party Celebrate the festive season with a Christmas party in one of our dedicated functions spaces.

The versatile Greenwich Suites can host up to 200, while the elegant private dining room in Peninsula Restaurant can host smaller Christmas celebrations for up to 24 guests.

For those after a little more extravagance, the aptly named Eighteen Sky Bar is available for exclusive hire for larger events.

Contact details For full Christmas dining details please visit iclondon-theo2.com/christmas or get in touch using the below: e: dining@iclondon-theo2.com t: 0208 463 6908 1 Waterview Drive, Greenwich Peninsula, SE10 0TW

October 2019

16 From the Mayor’s Office

From the Mayor’s Office ...

Putting Lewisham on the map, Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham

L

Lewisham Mayor’s Business Awards

ewisham is home to thousands of small independent businesses, exciting cultural venues and diverse communities. We wouldn’t be a successful borough without them.

Lewisham is London’s small business capital. Our Mayor’s Business Awards are an opportunity to celebrate those businesses that have made a real difference to the community.

The award categories reflect our values and the best of Lewisham, from Best Living Wage Employer to Investing in Skills.

As Lewisham continues to grow, more people choose to make their home and set up business here.

We want everyone in Lewisham to share in that growth and for it to leave a lasting impact.

Borough of Culture

Lewisham is launching its bid

to be the next London Borough of Culture. We have so much to offer and becoming a Borough of Culture would put us on the map.

The opening of Catford Mews is a fantastic example of how Lewisham can grow while keeping our unique identity and independent businesses. What was formerly a vacant shop in Catford’s town centre has been reclaimed by the community and transformed into Lewisham’s first multi-screen cinema in a generation, with a pop-up food market, community space and more. Catford Mews shows that we are a creative and forwardthinking borough and that our best years are ahead of us.

To back Lewisham’s Borough of Culture bid visit iamlewisham.uk

Meet the Buyer event: Thursday 7th November 2019 9am-12pm Professor Stuart Hall Building, Goldsmiths, University of London, New Cross SE14 6NW

To find out more about the awards or to nominate a local business contact economicdevelopment@ lewisham.gov.uk

Community Wealth Building

The Council and our public sector partners have signed the Lewisham Deal, a collective agreement to invest in local businesses and boost the local economy. As major employers in Lewisham, we have a central role to play in tackling poverty and encouraging local people to spend more in the borough.

The Lewisham Deal commits us to championing the Living Wage, insourcing and delivering highquality jobs for residents.

A free event for small and medium sized businesses on how to win public and private sector contracts, access funding and advice on how to grow your business.

Organisations at the event include Lewisham Council; Goldsmiths, University of London; Phoenix Community Housing, Lewisham Homes, Lewisham College, Lewisham Construction Hub.

We hope to encourage more Lewisham employers to commit to the principles enshrined in the deal to help residents across the borough.

Back the Bakerloo

We have been working closely with TfL and Southwark Council to secure Government funding for the Bakerloo Line Extension.

The Bakerloo Line Extension would connect Lewisham to the underground network for the first time in its history. Not only would it help us build 27,5000 more homes and create 6,000 new jobs in our borough, it would also unlock benefits for the whole capital. The Bakerloo Line Extension would connect our talented workforce to our great city and help to clean up the air we all breathe by reducing traffic congestion. With TfL set to consult on the proposed route later this year, we need help from local businesses. During the consultation please say how the Bakerloo Line Extension would enable you to deliver in Lewisham, from jobs to apprenticeships to workspaces.

To Back the Bakerloo visit www. backthebakerloo.org.uk/

At this event you can: • learn how to look for public sector contracts • learn how to write winning bids • have specialist one-to-one sessions with buyers and procurement officers • network with other businesses to meet potential partners.

We will also have workshops on: • Small and Medium Enterprise Funding • Get ready to grow – taster session of the deK Business Growth Programme

This event is free but you need to book by emailing economyandpartnerships@lewisham.gov.uk or calling 020 8314 9306.

October 2019

Focus on Lewisham 17

Lewisham College is officially re-launched Current and former students and staff mixed with community partners and colleagues from other schools and colleges.

We were fortunate too, to be joined by local councillors and local authority and other key stakeholders. to pupils from Sedgehill School’s musical ensemble performing classical tunes throughout the evening.

G

uests enjoyed a drinks reception, followed by speeches from Asfa Sohail, Principal, Vicky Foxcroft, MP and Peter Lauener, Chair of NCG. However, a highlight of the evening was listening

A timeline was produced with help from the book ‘Artifex Semper Auxilio’ which is a history of the college through its many incarnations since it was established in 1930s.

Displays of photographs from the past few decades were set up for people to look at. Visits from past Prime Minister, Tony Blair, The Duke of Edinburgh and former boxer, Frank Bruno were documented.

Asfa Sohail, Principal, said: “I’m so pleased that we are able to re-launch the college as a true community resource, in the presence of many of our valued partners and stakeholders.

“My vision is to make this organisation the number one college in London and beyond.

Like our local stakeholders, I am passionate about making the difference to our learners and local communities. Together, we can make this happen.”

Celebrate the success of a local business and increase their profile within the community Nominate now!

You can nominate a local business for a business award in one, or more, of the following categories: • Shapes Lewisham Award: Best Creative Business • Best Green Business

• Best London Living Wage Employer • Best Restaurant/Café/Bar

• Best Street Food Business • Best Independent Shop

• Best Hair and Beauty Service • Investing in Skills Award

Submit your nomination by 18 October 2019 Shortlisted businesses will be notified by early November.

Date: Wednesday 13 November 2019 Time: 4–6.30pm

Venue: Buster Mantis, 3-4 Resolution Way, Deptford, London SE8 4NT.

For more information on the awards please contactthe Economy and Partnerships Team on 020 8314 9306 or email economyandpartnerships@lewisham.gov.uk

GET AHEAD. GET AN APPRENTICE To be successful, you need a talented, loyal workforce.

Apprentices offer enthusiasm, knowledge and a desire to do well helping you tackle the challenges of the future.

Let us match you with the perfect trainee, taking away the headache of selection. If you’re a levy-payer, we can help you maximise the benefits too.

Contact us today:

LEWISHAM.AC.UK/APPRENTICESHIPS apprenticeships@lewisham.ac.uk 020 3757 3050

October 2019

18 Focus on Bromley

Orpington: Better for Business

Orpington’s Finest Awards 2019

Nestling on the southern boundary of the largest and greenest London borough, Orpington has been voted as one of the best places to raise a family, with high quality housing, great amenities and a full range of primary and secondary schools, including the outstanding selective schools of St Olaves and Newstead Wood.

T

he provision of further education and skills is also well represented in Orpington, being home to London South East Colleges’ Hospitality, Catering & Enterprise facility as well as the head office of JTL, a not-for-profit organisation offering advanced apprenticeships in electrical installation, engineering maintenance, mechanical engineering services and plumbing, alongside heating and ventilating.

Orpington, or the London Kent Gateway as it is commonly referred to, is the only major town centre in the Borough of Bromley and 1 of only 35 identified in the London Plan.

It offers exceptional transport links, looking north towards the capital and south into the garden of England, the continent and beyond and this connectivity is just one of the reasons that employers cite for locating in the town and why it is home to so many head offices, some of whom met with the Deputy Mayor of London for Business and Enterprise, Rajesh Agrawal, on his recent visit hosted by Orpington 1st BID. Orpington railway station, a transport hub served by Southeastern, boasts a journey time to central London of only 16 minutes, and has now been boosted by connections right across the country.

Transport for London and Arriva Kent provide excellent bus services to both local and regional centres and the M25 passes to the south of the town providing easy access and a journey time of only 30 minutes to Gatwick airport.

Orpington is also the closest major town centre to the borough’s own airport, Biggin Hill. A mere 15-minute drivetime makes a stay at the Orpington Premier Inn even more attractive for the business traveller.

Cyclists are not forgotten either with the town being identified

by TfL as a cycling hotspot, the station has just unveiled its new cycle hub and LBB are investing in a new cycle path.

Orpington is changing and those changes are providing opportunities for business, residents and investors. The town is poised for a transformation, modernising and future proofing the centre to accommodate new residents and new enterprise, putting the community at its heart.

As customer requirements change and shopping habits alter so does the town and the

“Orpington, or the London Kent Gateway as it is commonly referred to, is the only major town centre in the Borough of Bromley and 1 of only 35 identified in the London plan.”

Light Up Oprington

October 2019

mix of shops and services within it. From record shops to pop up boutiques and from a cinema that also hosts conferences, to the new Health & Wellbeing Centre, the town is evolving into a new and exciting place offering something for everyone.

Hidden within the beautiful Grade II listed Priory gardens, lies the oldest building in the borough which today houses a thriving collection of artist studios including upholstery, ceramics, set design and photography, adding an exciting new dynamic to the business community.

The Business Improvement District, Orpington 1st, was recently awarded a silver gilt in the 2019 London in Bloom competition in recognition of the horticultural efforts and the community partnerships demonstrated in the town’s environmental ambitions.

The installation of a Pop-up Pallet Park attracted a range of activities, from outdoor yoga to art classes. Orpington was also the first town in the borough

Odeon Cinema

to celebrate World Ocean Day, highlighting the town’s commitment to reducing single use plastic.

A calendar of events and festivals helps to strengthen the relationship between businesses and residents with one of the most significant being Flavours of Orpington, a celebration of the town’s thriving hospitality sector.

The week long festival includes Foodie Friday, where Market Square is transformed into a live music venue, an enhanced market and demonstration kitchen on the Saturday showcases the towns finest chefs and this year there was even a spaghetti eating contest delivered by A Mano which won best hospitality at the annual business awards, Orpington’s Finest.

Still to come this year is Light Up Orpington on November 14th when the high street is pedestrianised for an evening of entertainment and a magnificent fire work display. Followed on December 8th by the 2019 Orpington 1st’s Santa dash when 500 Santas will run from the Priory to Market Square marking the end of the 2019 events calendar.

Town centres are challenging places but by embracing change they become centres for Opportunity making them better for business.

Priory Gardens

Foodie Friday

Your Bromley 19

Bromley town centre is ready to celebrate

B

romley town centre continues to attract new businesses and we are now proud of our two town centrebased hotels –Travelodge and Premier Inn, our two cinemas – Picturehouse in High street north and Vue at St Mark’s Square, our two theatres - Churchill Theatre and the Little Theatre, a fabulous Leisure Centre with swimming pool, bowling lanes run by My Time Active. In addition, we have an Ikea in the High Street and gyms too numerous to list.

Offices continue to thrive including creatives Splash Damage and the town centre’s offer of both short and long term co-work space also continues to increase.

Bromley town centre’s business partnership, Your Bromley (Business Improvement District (BID), is the headline sponsor of the Bromley Business Awards this year. “We want to show our pride in the variety and standard of businesses and our commitment to continue to aiming for the very

best for Bromley town centre” said Andy Bawn, chairperson of Your Bromley.

Halloween will be marked in Bromley town centre with a spooky Halloween trail, running from 19 to 27 October. Maps to assist trailblazers will be available from the Your Bromley’s gazebo in the High Street, opposite H&M. Each participating child will receive an activity pack and goody bag for use in later trick or treating as an incentive for taking part, with free entries into draws every day for those who complete the whole trail and correctly spot 25 spooky monsters displayed in businesses throughout the town also being available too.

The Christmas lights in Bromley town centre will be turned on this year on Sunday 17th November with a fun packed afternoon from 12.00 where crowds will be entertained by local bands and dance schools.

This year a Jingle Bell Jog, organised by My Time Active/ the Pavilion Leisure Centre will provide the first spectacle of the day with a thousand people in festive costumes running from Shortlands through the pedestrianised section of the High Street to Market Square.

The jogger in the best outfit will be presented with a prize on stage which will be in Market Square.

A glittering parade led by the star from the Churchill Theatre’s Pantomime Aladdin will lead to the grand finale on stage and a Local Hero will assist with the switching on of the lights. Some lucky visitors will also receive surprise treats. A bigger than ever German Christmas market, Ferris wheel and a couple of children’s rides will be in situ from 15 November through to 4 January.

Visit www.yourbromley.com/christmas to find out more.

SUNDAY

17

TH

Everything you could wish for in

NOVEMBER

romley

Join us for a magical day at the Christmas lights switch on With leading star of the stage and screen Christopher Biggins

Enjoy spectacular stage performances • Parade • Traditional German Christmas Market and more!

@yourbromley

Brought to you by Bromley Business Improvement District

Find out more at yourbromley.com/christmas

October 2019

20 Education & Skills

R

esearch by graduate jobs specialist Milkround revealed that 50% of jobseekers would be put off by phrases like ‘low hanging fruit’ and ’blue-sky thinking’.

The research showed that Britain’s job hunters are increasingly baffled by job ads, confused by titles like ‘Coordinator of Interpretive Teaching’ and ‘Conversation Architect’. Indeed, 48% of graduates admit to turning up to an interview still unsure as to what the role even entails.

Three quarters (75%) of graduates want adverts to be written in plain English, while 55% feel stressed by the job application process.

Whilst companies may think adverts which are riddled with technical jargon, buzz-words and abbreviations attract the best candidates, 77% of graduates think that they can be ambiguous while three in five (59%) said that not understanding these terms would prevent them from applying in the first place.

Six in ten (64%) of graduates feel they can’t apply for a role if they don’t understand the job description and 71% claim that business acronyms in ads such as ‘SLA’, ‘DOE’, ‘POC’ and ‘B2B’* leave them feeling underqualified.

More experienced UK adults are equally baffled with nearly two in three (68%) saying they would prefer if job ads were simplified, proving it isn’t just recent graduates at a loss when it comes to deciphering job ad jargon.

Most misunderstood job jargon amongst graduates included: • Open the kimono 82% of graduates had not heard the term • Cloud-first (76%) • Growth hacking (73%) • Blue-sky thinking (67%)

October 2019

Why ‘low hanging fruit’ and ‘blue sky thinking’ can put off jobseekers A new study has revealed that a significant number of UK job-seekers are put off by companies that use meaningless jargon.

• Thought shower (64%) • Brand architecture (61%) • Low-hanging fruit (64%) Whilst both males and females are calling for clarity, the gender divide shows a marked difference in ad preferences and what terms graduate job hunters are comfortable with. Men are slightly more comfortable with acronyms and terms with a definitive, translatable meaning such as FTC, CRM and KPI: 61% of men claim to not understand business acronyms versus nearly three quarters of women (74%) who are confused.

Overall, women are consistently less likely to have heard of

acronyms and business terms with three quarters (74%) claiming that not understanding acronyms makes them feel underqualified for the role (versus 61% of men).

Three quarters (77%) of women would lack confidence in applying for a role at all compared to 65% of men.

Meanwhile, women find descriptive jargon less off-putting than their male counterparts showing they are more comfortable with phrases which are open to interpretation and often hold no definitive meaning such as ‘action-orientated’ and ‘ninja’. Four in ten (42%) of men claim to find jargon confusing, compared to only 26% of women.

“More experienced UK adults are equally baffled with nearly two in three (68%) saying they would prefer if job ads were simplified, proving it isn’t just recent graduates at a loss when it comes to deciphering job ad jargon.”

Milkround worked with Language Expert Steven Poole to conduct the research and he said: ”Research has long shown that business jargon makes people feel oppressed in the workplace, but the news from increasingly jargon-infested recruitment advertising is even worse: this new data shows that companies using jargon in their job ads are actually preventing candidates from even going for a role and so pushing talent away.

For the sake of both employees and employers, it’s time to cancel the buzz words and try saying what we really mean.”

Most off-putting candidate descriptions in job ads included: • Ninja • Laser-focused • Self-starter • Entrepreneurial mindset • Action-orientated • Hit the ground running • Proven track record Industries most guilty of jargonriddled job adverts with 4+ average per ad in order of worst offender were: 1. PR 2. IT 3. Sales 4. Marketing 5. Engineering 6. Legal 7. Property 8. Administration 9. Insurance 10. Banking Georgina Brazier at Milkround said: “Our research shows the need for businesses to offer concise information and clarity so top talent isn’t put off by jargon, abbreviations and buzz-phrases.

Gone are the days of limited characters within a newspaper job ad. Employers have the scope to include clear outlines and expectations, offering budding candidates full details of the role on offer.”

Education & Skills 21

Great things happening in Greenwich Dr Sam Parrett OBE, Principal and CEO of London South East Colleges.

I

t’s an incredibly exciting time for the creative and cultural scene in Greenwich. Together with a number of organisations, we are working with the Royal Borough to ensure that the importance of the arts is being recognised and celebrated.

This comes at a time when ‘culture’ is getting a bigger billing than ever before – with Ofsted adding cultural capital into its new inspection framework as a way of trying to ensure that children are getting access to a wide range of cultural knowledge and experiences.

And Greenwich is certainly a good place to start, harbouring much artistic talent and potential within its colourful and culturally diverse community. The career opportunities in the region within the creative industry are also vast, with growing demand for photographers, graphic designers, arts officers to name but a few.

In the next five years over 3500 new jobs will be created in this sector across Greenwich and its surrounding boroughs.

So, with this in mind, London South East Colleges chose to open its specialist Performing Arts facility at its Greenwich campus in 2017.

In the past two years this department has gone from strength to strength, providing

expert training to young people in a range of disciplines from dance and drama to production arts. Students are successfully progressing to highly respected institutions to further their training – including RADA, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Trinity Laban, Guildhall, LAMDA, Birmingham Conservatoire, Rose Bruford and many more.

Our students have been involved with a number of exciting community projects throughout the past year including: performing at the Woolwich Carnival, acting an historical drama for the opening night of The Exchange in Bexley, working with the M.A Applied Theatre students at Rose Bruford and with The Mandala Theatre Company at The Tramshed in Woolwich.

Students have also taken part in an acting masterclass with the University of Greenwich and performing a commissioned piece for Ravensbourne University.

Working in partnership with other local institutions and organisations is at the heart of what we do at London South East Colleges – and is helping to ensure that the arts are fully accessible to people living in and around Greenwich.

This is why we are working closely with the Royal Borough of Greenwich (RGB), supporting its bid to become the London Borough of Culture 2021. We know that Greenwich possesses the creativity and passion to win this accolade, which would have a both a positive economic and social impact on the whole community.

“When London South East Colleges took over the former Greenwich Community College in 2016, it was a failing college at risk of closure.

We knew what a vital part of the community it was and have worked hard to ensure it thrives, offering people in Greenwich a wide range of educational choices and pathways.”

We have some fantastic activity to showcase and are very much behind this important bid. It is also encouraging to see the announcement of a Tourism sector deal from the Government. Again, a very important industry for Greenwich and we look forward to working with our partners to hopefully secure some of this funding.

When London South East Colleges took over the former Greenwich Community College in 2016, it was a failing college at risk of closure. We knew what a vital part of the community it was and have worked hard to ensure it thrives, offering people in Greenwich a wide range of educational choices and pathways. And our belief in the college and the community has certainly paid off. We were delighted to secure funding earlier this year to help us create a brand new £24m campus – thanks to support from RGB and the GLA. This will be a leading education facility, designed and purpose built to meet the needs of learners for generations to come. It will enable residents to gain the skills and qualifications they need to progress into higher value jobs and fulfil their career ambitions.

All of this exciting activity is making the Royal Borough of Greenwich a great place to be right now – whether you are living, working or learning here.

We very much look forward to continuing to work with all our partners to ensure that our vibrant, colourful and talentfilled community gets the national recognition it deserves.

October 2019

22

Corporate headshot photography SE London, Docklands, City of London, Kent

Team and individual business, profile photos.

Available at company premises or studios in Greenwich and Bromley Contact Warren: 07779 337765 / warren@wkphotography.co.uk www.wkphotography.co.uk

Advert.indd 1

Design by

05/07/2019 09:20

October 2019

Legal 23

Are you prepared for upcoming changes to onboarding procedures?

With effect from 6 April 2020, the requirement to provide new employees with certain minimum information about their employment terms is going to change.

T

he government announced the changes in its Good Work Plan in December 2018. The new rules are likely to affect some employers’ onboarding procedures.

Overview of current regime Currently, employers will be aware that employees who are due to be employed for longer than one month are entitled to a ‘Statement of Particulars of Employment’ within two months of their start date.

The document is sometimes referred to as a ‘Section 1 Statement’ as the right comes from section 1 of the Employment Rights Act. There are three categories of information which employers must provide: • ‘The principal statement.’

This is information that should be provided in one document.

This includes the identity of

the employer and employee, commencement date, holiday entitlement, place of work and the person to whom the employee should appeal in a disciplinary situation and to whom they may submit a grievance.

• Information that may be given in another reasonably accessible document. This include terms about incapacity and sick pay, notice periods and pension information.

• Information that may be given in a supplementary statement.

This includes confirmation as to whether the employee will be required to work outside of the UK for more than one month and details of any collective agreements.

Changes from 6 April 2020 The changes will affect any person starting work on or after 6 April 2020.

The key changes are as follows: • The written statement of particulars will be a ‘day one right,’ that is to say that the information will need to be provided on or before the employee’s start date. There are some exceptions to this, information about pensions, collective agreements, training entitlement and certain information about disciplinary and grievance procedures can be given within the first two months of employment.

• The obligation to provide a written statement will be extended to workers, as well as employees.

• Workers/employees will have the right to a written statement even if their employment is expected to last for less than one month.

• Most of the information will need to be provided in a single document.

• Employers will need to provide the following additional particulars: - the days of the week the worker is required to work, whether the working hours may be variable and how any variation will be determined; - any paid leave to which the worker is entitled; - details of all remuneration and benefits; - any probationary period; and - any training entitlement provided by the employer, including whether any training is mandatory and/or must be paid for by the worker.

For advice on contracts of employment and recruitment procedures, please contact Laura Claridge on 01689 887873 or email laura.claridge@cwj.co.uk

Employment Advice for Businesses CWJ’s experienced employment team are able to assist with: • Advising and negotiating employment contracts and directors’ service agreements • Settlement Agreements • Day to day HR support • Tribunal claims and Appeals • Employment implications following sale or transfer of a business(including TUPE)

www.cwj.co.uk

Call us now on 01689 887887 October 2019

24 News

Accountancy firm powers forward despite uncertain times McBrides Chartered Accountants has incorporated Shea & Co of Forest Hill in a move that will see founder John Shea become a consultant to McBrides and bring senior manager Charles Antwi and four audit and accounts seniors across to the McBrides office in Sidcup.

S

hea & Co was established in 1992 to focus on owner-managed businesses and UK subsidiaries of larger international companies.

Their clients include leading UK shipping and property-based companies.

McBrides has a 45-year track record providing full accountancy services and business advice to owner-managed businesses and PLCs across London and the south east. The firm has expertise advising services groups in the professional, creative and property sectors.

Nick Paterno, managing partner at McBrides, said: “I’m delighted to welcome the Shea & Co team to our firm and believe they will settle in well given our shared focus on providing superb client service. This is exciting news for all of us – we’re driving forward and remain confident of repeating the growth we’ve experienced over the last few years.

“The merger brings great potential for clients who will benefit from greater expertise and strength of service, and to our staff too who will enjoy strong development opportunities within the enlarged firm.”

John Shea said: “My team and I are looking forward to working with our new colleagues and are confident that our clients will continue to receive the attention they’ve been used to as Shea & Co clients.

“The accounting world is changing with audit standards becoming more onerous and taxation becoming more complex. Our clients will certainly benefit from the opportunities to scale up and the technology as a result of the combination.

“I have known McBrides for over 25 years and my experience of them has always been that they are a quality firm dedicated to providing a broad range of accountancy and business services to their clients.”

Post-merger, McBrides will have a turnover of £4.5m and comprise seven partners and nearly 50 members of staff.

October 2019

Join the Blackheath Fireworks crowdfunding campaign This year’s Blackheath Fireworks is under threat due to government funding cuts.

T

he event is organised each year by Lewisham Council, which is calling for support from the general public and businesses to make sure the display continues to light up the skies of south east London.

The council wants to raise £20,000 with a crowdfunding campaign to help the display take place on Saturday 2 November at 8pm.

Councillors hope this year’s event will include: • a funfair from 12 noon • food and bars from 5pm • a fireworks display from 8pm which will last around 15 minutes.

It is the biggest free and unticketed display in London and regularly attracts thousands of people from across the capital and the south east.

An organised display is the safest way to watch fireworks and many locals who attended

the event as children now enjoy the display together with their own children. Each year it is an amazing aerial display, which can be seen for miles, brought to life by local company Emergency Exit Arts.

Donations don’t go unrewarded. By supporting the crowdfunder you can get your hands on official Blackheath Fireworks merchandise such as: • a tote bag • a tea towel • Christmas cards.

Everyone that donates will be automatically entered into a prize draw to win the chance to press the button and start the display, plus a VIP view for you and six friends.

To support the campaign go to: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/ blackheath-fireworks-2019 The prize draw will close on 27 October at 11.59pm, and the overall crowdfunder

campaign will run until 11.59pm 8 November.

Councillor Jonathan Slater, Cabinet Member for Community Sector, said: “Lewisham Council has organised a free fireworks display for more than 30 years. With more than 80,000 attendees, Blackheath Fireworks is London’s largest free fireworks display and we want residents to continue to enjoy it. However, the event is very expensive to run and the future of the fireworks is at risk due to government funding cuts.

I encourage anyone that has enjoyed the display in the past and would like it to continue to donate to help keep the fireworks going.”

Each year the event is funded

by Lewisham Council, Royal Borough of Greenwich, a variety of business sponsors and donations from the general public on the night and online.

Cycle scheme brought forward Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has announced that construction of the next section of Cycleway 4 will start ahead of schedule, helping communities in south-east London enjoy the benefits of the new route between Tower Bridge and Greenwich sooner than planned.

H

e said that work on the Creek Road section will start later this year - instead of April 2020 as originally planned - during a visit to see the ongoing transformation of Rotherhithe roundabout which has one of the worst safety records in the Capital.

Once complete, Cycleway 4 will add 10km of segregated cycle route to London’s network – enabling thousands more people to make everyday journeys by bike. New pedestrian crossings are set to make the area much easier for people walking to get around.

The Mayor also announced that London’s cycle hire scheme, Santander Cycles, is set to be expanded along the new route between Tooley Street and Canada Water station when the Cycleway opens.

New docking stations along the route will make it even easier for people to start cycling in south east London and it will be the first time that the scheme has reached Bermondsey and Rotherhithe.

Last year saw the highest ever numbers of people using the scheme, with more than 10.5 million hires over

12 months. The scheme currently covers 100 square kilometres of London, making it Europe’s largest cycle hire scheme.

Sadiq Khan, said: “I’m delighted that we are bringing forward construction on this latest segregated cycle way so that people can enjoy the benefits of this major new Cycleway route sooner. By creating new crossings and segregated routes we will make it safer and more convenient for many more Londoners to walk and cycle, which is crucial to clean up our toxic air.”

26 Big Interview

Seeking growth in an ever-changing industry Construction Consultancy Baily Garner has been combining excellence and innovation in one of the UK’s most volatile sectors for more than 40 years.

October 2019

Big Interview 27

A

ccording to the man who is now its Managing Partner, the reasons for its success range from a devotion to quality, a dedication to good customer service and an ability to adapt in a sector which has seen great change following the Grenfell Tower disaster and due to the ongoing uncertainties around Brexit.

Andy Tookey’s career route was a somewhat circuitous one.

He said: “Like many eighteenyear-olds, I left school not knowing what I wanted to do but with an idea that it would be in the sciences.

“I worked in a hospital and hated it but I also had a Saturday job in a builder’s merchants and through that I met someone who offered me a job as a bricklayer’s labourer, which I loved.

“I did that for two years but my parents were dismayed that I was working as a labourer and persuaded me to look at surveying as a career.

“I went for an interview for a degree course at university in Leicester but they had made a mess of the advertising and needed three A levels when I only had two. I walked out and saw an advert for a company near to where I lived, got a job as a surveyor and completed my degree part-time at Thomas Polytechnic (now Greenwich University). This is where I met my now fellow Equity Partner, Tim Bush.

“I was made redundant during the recession in the eighties and finally ended up at Baily Garner, where I have been ever since. Although lowly Assistant Surveyors at the time, both Tim and myself viewed Baily Garner as our business and several years down the line, along with our other Equity Partners, that is exactly what it became.”

Three years ago, Andy assumed the title of Managing Partner amid big changes.

The company had been run by five Equity Partners, including Andy, but two of them decided to step down, including Co-Founder and Chairman Brian Baily, who retired.

The remaining three invited six Partners from the Practice to join the Board and took over the company.

A chartered surveyor, qualified project manager, value manager and asset manager whose experience has ranged from planned maintenance to large regeneration projects, Andy heads up a company alongside his fellow Partners that is based in London and Birmingham.

It has a strong track record across the housing, health, education, care, blue light (emergency services) and commercial sectors, as well as in regeneration and mixed use, and the work ranges from restoration to new builds.

Past projects include schools, hospitals, fire stations, churches and care homes.

The company’s team of 170 people combines architects, building surveyors, quantity surveyors, electrical, mechanical and environmental engineers, project managers and through a sister company, health and safety specialists.

Andy said “For all the business is ambitious to grow, it retains a similar feel to a family-run business. A lot of our key people have been with us ten years or more and that is important to us.

“A good quality of service is paramount, too. People with whom we deal compliment us, saying how come we employ such nice people? Anyone who is not a “BG person” tends not to last long with us.

“We want to expand the business but, although we are ambitious, we are also cautious.

We want to move up into the next category from SME but the business has to be sustainable.

“Three years ago, our annual turnover was nine million pounds, this year we are hopeful of achieving around £12m “One of the big moves was to open an office in the City of London, which has been a

success, carrying out mainly commercial property work for big companies, including a lot of due diligence on existing properties or new developments they are planning to purchase.

“One of our big clients is Aviva, with whom we are working on two big projects; student accommodation on the south coast and a town centre development.

“Also key has been the company’s acceptance onto the Metropolitan Police’s Framework of approved contractors, which has enabled us to push forward both our sector development (blue light) and technological and digital ambitions.”

Through all it does, quality remains a central focus, something which Andy says has been moving up the agenda for the construction industry generally following the Grenfell Tower disaster, when 72 people died in a massive fire which has led to a major review of building safety.

Andy said: “The big thing for the industry at the moment is quality. It had always been there but now it has moved up the agenda and is, rightly, given priority.

“Our new business plan reflects that, stressing as it does, the need to gain success through quality.

“It acknowledges that the industry needs to positively change. I think there is a realisation that we had, as an industry, become obsessed by cost and margins and people were then complaining that they did not receive quality.

Hopefully, out of tragedy will come change.

“One of our big strengths is our capacity to adapt, to be light on our feet. We have reshaped the business over the past three

“One of our big strengths is our capacity to adapt, to be light on our feet.

We have reshaped the business over the past three years and have invested more heavily in training at all levels.”

years and have invested more heavily in training at all levels”. ”One of our strengths is that our senior people, including me, are not only ensuring we develop ourselves but are still actively involved in projects.

This is good as it keeps your hand in. As we grow that will not always be possible, so we have to ensure that the people coming up are well trained.

They are, after all, the future of the business and we have some excellent people coming through.”

In the past eight years, 16 apprentice opportunities in both technical and administrative roles were created. So far, 12 roles have been made permanent.

Andy said: “Our approach ranges from forming direct relationships with local apprenticeship centres, to regular attendance at careers fares and school career open days in local schools in Greenwich, such as Crown Woods, Greenwich Free School, John Roan, Eltham Hill School and Eltham College.

“Successful candidates are supported with a full induction programme relating to their role and fully paid fees relating to any required external study or qualification. With role models working their way through the business, we have both the environment and the track record to inspire those young local people looking for the opportunity to pursue their career without formal further education as a pre-requisite.

For all his confidence, Andy acknowledges that the impact of Brexit cannot be ignored.

He said: “Brexit is having an effect, mainly on those decisionmakers behind the really big projects, who are waiting for more certainty before they commit.

“However, business objectives still need to be met and opportunities do exist. Those companies behind smaller and medium sized projects are taking the view that life goes on and are still investing. They may not be significant contracts for the large global consultancies but they are important to our turnover and despite the mess that is Brexit, I am confident about the future.”

October 2019

28 Past Chamber Events

Making the right connections

Each month the Chamber hosts a variety of events which offer members a superb opportunity to meet and chat to fellow business people. Here, we review a few of our past events.

Executive Lunch at Davy’s Wine Vaults Greenwich Sponsored by Meyer Homes, Thursday 18th July

We made our first visit to the refurbished Davy’s Wine Vaults for the Executive Lunch sponsored by Meyer

Homes. We ate in the Cooperage and were delighted to hear Rob Elder, Agent for London at the Bank of

England talk about the economy and answer some pertinent questions.

Photo: Warren King. Left to right: John Anderson – Berkeley Homes, James Davy – Davy’s Wine Vaults, Helen McIntosh – Chamber President, Rob Elder – Agent General Bank of England

Rob has agreed to speak with us again in 2020 when hopefully, our economy will be more settled.

Summer BBQ at The Clarendon Hotel Thursday 25th July

We were so lucky to have beautiful weather this year for the Chamber’s annual BBQ. Temperatures soared to 38 degrees and we were not complaining.

Chamber members came along with their stands and did 1-minute slots to share with attendees, a quick overview of their business. We had an update on the development of the Bakerloo line coming to South East London, from Stuart Clapham - Senior Programme Manager – Bakerloo Line Extension.

The food was delicious and plenty of it. We hope we will be as lucky next year, with the weather.

October 2019

Photo: Warren King.

Past Chamber Events 29

AGM & Networking Lunch at Davy’s Wine Vaults Greenwich Thursday 19th September

This year’s AGM had a bonus – a short talk from The Rt Hon Nick Raynsford, President of the Town & Country Planning Association. We were at capacity (52) when we returned to Davy’s Wine Vaults. Nick gave an update on the TCPA’s Raynsford Review of the Planning System. He also put his Deputy Chairman of Crossrail hat on and gave a short update.

We will be holding events on both topics in 2020.

The AGM followed the successful lunch.

Photo: Warren King. Left to right: Alan Wright - BPTW, The Rt Hon Nick Raynsford President TCPA, Helen McIntosh – Chamber President, John Anderson – Berkeley Homes.

Charity Quiz Night

100 people participated in the quiz and there were 11 winners of the raffle, all prizes generously donated by Chamber Members: McDonalds, DoubleTree by Hilton London Greenwich, Drury Tea & Coffee, Bromley Court Hotel, Everest Inn, The Albany Theatre, Russell King Associates, The Clarendon, Author Rachel Kelly and Stir.

This year’s Charity Quiz Night in support of Bridge Mental Health saw a fabulous turn out at the Clarendon Hotel. Quiz Master for the evening was Raymond Sheehy CEO at Bridge.

This was the second quiz we have held and the questions were challenging and they kept the teams on their toes.

The winning table was INDBC/Bridge and we are pleased to announce £1,190 was raised for Bridge Mental Health.

Thank you to all those who supported this fun, fundraising event.

at The Clarendon Hotel Thursday 26th September

Winners of the Charity Raffle:

1. Geoff Coe from Starkey Financial Planning won afternoon tea for two at The Clarendon

2. James Brown from INDBC won a set of two Samsonite suitcases donated by McDonalds 3. Ian Westcombe from Bridge won a night’s stay for two at the Doubletree by Hilton London Greenwich

4. Shirley Moffat from South East Enterprise won afternoon tea for two at Bromley Court Hotel 5. Fiona Stewart from Starkey Financial Planning won a £50 gift voucher from Bridge

6. Ian Parks from Canary Wharf Group won a bottle of Champagne donated by Russell King Associates 7. Julie Gardner from Handelsbanken won a lovely Hamper donated by Stir

8. Charlie Speller from Handelsbanken won a Pyramid Tea & Coffee Selection Box donated by Drury Tea & Coffee

Photo: Warren King. Helen McIntosh, Chamber President with Raymond Sheehy, CEO Bridge with some of the raffle prize winners.

9. Stuart Cook from Handelsbanken won two signed copies of Rachel Kelly’s book Walking on Sunshine

10. Tim Higham from Merston Won Theatre tickets to see a family show donated by The Albany

October 2019

30 Forthcoming Events

Event Name

Date & Time

Venue

Additional Information

Chamber Training with DRF How to Create the Perfect Business Plan & Grow Your Business

Wednesday 16th October 09.30 - 11.30

The Clarendon Hotel, Montpelier Row, Blackheath SE3 ORW

Speaker: Dave Millett, DRF Consultants Topic: Business Plan Workshop Cost: Member £20 | Non-Member £30

Lewisham Link 'n Drink

Wednesday 23rd October 17.30 - 19.00

Everest Inn, 41 Montpelier Vale, Lewisham, London SE3 0TJ

Free informal meeting in a relaxed atmosphere, open to businesses from all boroughs. Canapés served.

Host: Chamber President - Helen McIntosh, Cost: Free to attend

Executive Lunch Sponsored by Conran Estates

Thursday 31st October 12.00 - 14.00

DoubleTree by Hilton London Greenwich, Catherine Grove, Greenwich SE10 8BB

Speaker: Heidi Alexander - Deputy Mayor of London for Transport Cost: Member £50 | Non Member £60

Greenwich B2B Link 'n Drink

Tuesday 5th November 18.30 - 20.30

The Greenwich Tavern, The Treehouse, 1 King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9JH

In association with Greenwich B2B, informal networking with a presentation.

Chamber Host: Board Director - Rupert Chichester Cost: Free

Chamber Training with Green Robin Solutions

Wednesday 6th November 09.30 - 11.30

The Clarendon Hotel, Montpelier Row, Blackheath SE3 ORW

Topic: What is Business Optimisation Trainer: Rob Walker, Green Robin Solutions Cost: Member £20 | Non-Member £30

The Admiral Hardy, College Approach, Greenwich, London SE10 9HY

SELCC C is pleased to be working with Southwark Chamber of Commerce and South Side Chamber of Commerce to do our bit for networking across borders.

Dexter Moscow, renowned expert on business networkig, will be giving us his thoughts. Further details on meeting place and times can be seen on the Chamber website Cost: £25 for including a drink & light buffet

Cross Border Networking in What May be A POST BREXIT WORLD In Association with Southwark Chamber & South Side Chamber of Commerce

October 2019

Thursday 7th November 18.15 - 21.00

Forthcoming Events 31

Event Name

Date & Time

Venue

Additional Information

Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards

Wednesday 13th November 16.00 - 16.30

Buster Mantis, 3-4 Resolution Way, Deptford London SE8 4NT

Nominate your local Lewisham business in one or more categories. Nominations must be submitted by 18th October 2019.

Please see Chamber website for more details

Bromley Breakfast Meeting

Thursday 21st November 07.30 - 09.30

The Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley Hill, Bromley BR1 4JD

Speakers: Cllr Colin Smith - Leader, London Borough of Bromley & Cllr Peter Morgan - Portfolio Holder for Renewal, Recreation & Housing, London Borough of Bromley Cost: £21 Member |£26 Non Member

Culture & Business Networking Event in Association with Greenwich Cultural Forum

Thursday 21st November 18.30 - 20.00

London South East Colleges, 95 Plumstead Road, London SE18 7DQ

Join us for the first of this Network.

This is your best networking event for meeting leaders from the cultural sector in Greenwich to explore business and cultural partnerships.

Cost: Free to attend

Bromley Link 'n Drink

Wednesday 27th November 17.30 - 19.00

The Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley Hill, Bromley BR1 4JD

Free Informal meeting in a relaxed atmosphere, open to businesses from all boroughs. Chamber Host, Board Director - Terri Johnson.

Cost: Free to attend

Greenwich B2B Link 'n Drink

Tuesday 3rd December 18.30 - 20.30

The Greenwich Tavern, The Treehouse, 1 King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9JH

In association with Greenwich B2B, informal networking with a presentation.

Chamber Host: Board Director - Rupert Chichester Cost: Free to attend

Christmas Lunch

Thursday 12th December 12.30 - 14.00

The Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley Hill, Bromley BR1 4JD

Celebrate the festive season in style with Christmas at The Bromley Court Hotel Cost: £35 Member | £45 Non Member

October 2019

32 Visit Greenwich

Exciting times in ‘Eventful Greenwich’ Those people living and working in Greenwich will have appreciated the increase in exciting and vibrant events that have been taking place in the area, ranging from music and dance festivals to food-based events and exhibitions.

T

Greenwich Performs, Nitto ATP Finals at The O2 and Christmas in Greenwich. Key events for Xmas 2019 and 2020 are currently being planned.

he increase is all part of the Greenwich Events Strategy which sets out to make Greenwich an ‘eventful destination’ with the aim of encouraging year-round visits to the area.

The area is already popular with visitors but many of the visits happen in the main tourism season. The strategy, which is being driven by a host of organisations including the Royal Borough of Greenwich, the University of Greenwich, Old Royal Naval College, Royal Museums Greenwich, The O2 and Visit Greenwich, is based on a programme of events that will further animate the area.

By creating a series of events, the organisations supporting the strategy hope to extend the visitor season so that it runs all year round. Greenwich has always been busy between April and

October 2019

Greenwich has also taken advantage of events in the annual calendar, among them Black History Month, Totally Thames, Open House, London Design Week and London Festival of Architecture.

September but the numbers drop off outside the main season; the events strategy seeks to attract people during off-peak times as well.

There are many other advantages, including extending the visitor day, thereby growing the evening economy with its pubs and restaurants, encouraging repeat visits and bringing in new visitors who know little about Greenwich, all of which benefits local businesses and residents.

Following recommendations contained in the Greenwich Events Strategy when it was launched in 2018, the organisations identified a number of events to attract visitors.

Starting with The Big Half in March and the Marathon in April, there was also Greenwich + Docklands International Festival, the Moon Exhibition, Moon Festival, Greenwich Music Time, Medieval Joust at Eltham Palace & Gardens, and the forthcoming

In addition, the Arts Council funded programme Woolwich Cultural Destinations has made it possible to run a rich programme of events in Woolwich, including additional events as part of GDIF, Moon Festival, Woolwich Carnival and El Carromato’s Big Dancers at Woolwich Winter Warmer plus new events Protein Dance and Zoo Humans (Dance Umbrella).

The opening of Woolwich Works, the new Creative District opening in Autumn 2020, will provide an even bigger programme.

Visit Greenwich 33

Forthcoming event highlights include:

• The Moon exhibition at the National Maritime Museum an engrossing new exhibition presenting a scientific and cultural history of the Moon, our nearest celestial neighbour, encompassing exploration, mythology, art and science. Until January 2020.

• Astronomy Photography of the Year exhibition, showcasing the world’s greatest space photography.

National Maritime Museum until April 2020. www.rmg.co.uk/whats-on/astronomy-photographer-year/exhibition • Nitto ATP Finals at The O2, world class tennis event. November. www.theo2.co.uk/events/detail/nitto-atp-finals • Park It in the Market, last Thursday of each month, gathering for classic car and bike enthusiasts www.greenwichmarket.london/events/detail/park-it-in-the-market-31st-oct • Greenwich Market Light Switch On. 20 November.

• Christmas Late Market at Greenwich Market 4, 11, 18 December www.greenwichmarket.london/events/detail/christmas-late-market-wednesday-4th

• Enchanted Eltham 12-15 December, a beguiling mixture of light and sound www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/eltham-enchanted-12-15-dec-2019/ • SAMPLE at Greenwich Peninsula, seasonal pop-up market. www.greenwichpeninsula.co.uk/whats-on/events/sample/ • Woolwich Winter Warmer. All the way from Spain, El Carromato’s Big Dancers bring their playful, illuminated performance to Woolwich as part of this annual Christmas themed community event. www.visitgreenwich.org.uk/events/woolwich-winter-warmer/ • ABBA: Super Troupers The Exhibition, The O2 . Bringing to life the world of chart-topping Swedish pop sensation ABBA, this new and immersive experience charts the groups’ music, lyrics, creative process and influence as one of the most iconic pop bands of the modern age. www.theo2.co.uk/events/detail/super-troupers You can find out more about events in the area at Visit Greenwich’s website at

www.visitgreenwich.org.uk/events/

Optimism in Creative Woolwich

The new Creative District developments in Woolwich will have a significant impact on the position of Greenwich as an events destination.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is investing £31m to bring a series of landmark buildings on the Woolwich Arsenal and nearby areas into use for the cultural and creative industries.

The ambition is for this to make Woolwich into a cultural tourism and events destination in its own right, complementing the offer of Historic Greenwich and the Peninsula.

As well as supporting creative production that will feed into the events sector, the developments incorporate significant new venues with a performing arts focus, including an open-air performance space, a black box theatre space, and a large-scale performance venue with a capacity of up to 4,000 people.

October 2019

34 Enviroment

How businesses can think small to achieve big in the Green Revolution The need to tackle climate change has never occupied a higher place on the UK’s political agenda than today.

T

he impact of Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg and the school pupils’ strikes she has inspired and the recent activities of Extinction Rebellion, primarily in London, have focused attention like never before on the need to halt Mankind’s contribution to potentially disastrous global warming.

a business in South East London do faced with what often comes over as a global problem?

In addition, a recent United Nations report saw scientists warn that one million species of plants and animals are at risk of going extinct, with species being lost at a rate of tens or hundreds of times faster than in the past, unless governments, companies and individuals take action.

However, a few simple measures can not just benefit the environment, they can also benefit the bottom line. One recent estimate suggested that businesses spend at least 4% of their turnover generating waste because the cost of waste is not just the cost of its disposal but also includes wasted energy, water, raw materials, consumables and labour.

Just about everyone agrees on the need for action but what can

October 2019

At a time of difficult trading conditions and economic turmoil, saving the planet can come pretty low down the list of priorities for businesses trying to make a living and many managers find themselves wondering if they really can make a difference anyway.

Enviroment 35

Many business people may still assume that such issues relate primarily to big industry where major changes in processes can bring about major savings. However, there is a growing awareness among many owners of businesses of all sizes that changes in the office can have a significant effect as well, that switching off the light at night, turning off that leaking tap and recycling paper is not just a ‘good thing to do’ but it can also save money.

Agencies working in the waste minimisation field say that the largest controllable outgoing in an office is often energy consumption but that a few commonsense measures can cut bills by at least 50 per cent, according to some estimates. The same is true when it comes to other everyday office functions.

The call does not just relate to the company itself because there is growing pressure on companies to ensure that the businesses in their supply chain are doing the same.

Small businesses seeking to carry out work for larger companies are increasingly finding themselves required to demonstrate their green credentials.

Sound scary? Wondering where to start? Here are some simple ideas that businesses of all sizes can adopt.

RECYCLING

LIGHTING

• Ensure that all photocopying and publications are produced in double-sided format on recycled paper · Consider setting aside one business printer for draft documents only – and load it with scrap paper

• Artificial lighting can be automatically controlled through daylight sensors, motion detectors and zoned controls to switch off lighting in unoccupied areas – some estimates suggest that they could cut lighting costs by as much as 15%, possibly more

• Use electronic material where possible to reduce printing and faxing

• Replace high wattage lamps with low energy versions, which could make energy savings of 65-75%

• Use paper recycling bins, including one next to the photocopier

• Make the most of natural light - cleaning windows and skylights regularly will allow maximum daylight to enter the building and significantly reduce the need for electric lighting.

• Post reminder notices on the walls to ensure that staff remember to switch off lights, printers and faxes etc when not in use.

ENERGY • A single computer and monitor left on 24 hours a day can cost more than £50 a year, according to some estimates. Switching them off out of hours and enabling standby features could reduce this to £15 a year each and prolong the lifespan of equipment • Measure how much energy you’re using. Keep track of bills, and how they change after the introduction of energy-saving tips.

HEATING • Temperature control – keep a thermostat set at the minimum comfort level. Heating costs will go up by 8% each time the temperature goes up by just one degree.

• Keep the thermostat away from draughts or hot and cold spots - these will all affect the thermostat and automatically increase heating costs • Don’t put equipment that generates large amounts of heat, like photocopiers, near cooling vents - the cooling system will need to work

harder to cool an area that is constantly being heated.

• Maintain equipment properly - poorly maintained heating equipment could be adding as much as 10% to a heating bill.

WATER The rate of water use by businesses in the UK is 1.3 billion cubic metres each year – the equivalent of 1,400 Olympic swimming pools every day. However, businesses that take action to cut the waste typically achieve a 20-50% decrease in the amount of water used, which in turn cuts costs both in water supply and water disposal charges.

Tips include; • Identify areas of wastage, including leaks. Keep water-using equipment well maintained and check it periodically for leaks.

• Make sure staff are fully aware of the importance of water minimisation. Ensure staff are encouraged to report leaks and that leaks are repaired quickly.

• When purchasing new equipment, take its water efficiency into account. Fit water minimising controls where possible, eg push taps, flow regulator/ restrictors, cistern displacement devices an low flush toilets.

October 2019

36 Enviroment

“Together, we must end the moral, economic, and environmental scandal of food waste. The UK is showing real leadership in this area, but I urge businesses to join me in signing the pledge so we can bring about real change.”

Food and hospitality industries urged to act Businesses in the worlds of food retail and hospitality have been urged to take action to drive down food waste, seen as important as the planet seeks to make more efficient use of land.

waste and inspiring others to follow their lead.

Every year, about 100,000 tonnes of readily available and perfectly edible food goes uneaten and the Step up to the Plate campaign aims to stop good food going to waste through a range of measures.

The call came from the Government’s Food Surplus and Waste Champion Ben Elliot ahead of a recentlyheld symposium called ‘Step up to the Plate’, which he hosted alongside Environment Secretary Michael Gove at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum.

These include setting an ambitious target to halve food waste by 2030 in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 and encouraging others to take the problem seriously and to change their habits to be Food Value Champion at work and at home, buying only what they need and eating what they buy.

Attendees were asked to sign up to a number of commitments on measuring and reducing their own food

Food Surplus and Waste Champion Ben Elliot said: “Wasting food is an environmental, moral and

October 2019

financial scandal. We intend for the symposium and pledge to spark action, not just conversation, and inspire us all to champion change. It’s time to ‘Step up to the Plate’.”

Environment Secretary Michael Gove said: “Together, we must end the moral, economic, and environmental scandal of food waste.

The UK is showing real leadership in this area, but I urge businesses to join me in signing the pledge so we can bring about real change.”

Susan Barratt, Chief Executive Officer at Institute of Grocery Distribution, said that 90 food businesses across the UK have already committed to reduce food waste.

She added: “The time is right for change, so it is

encouraging to see so many representatives from both industry and government coming together to tackle this growing issue.”

Helen Munday, Chief Scientific Officer, Food and Drink Federation, said the organisation encouraged members the industry as a whole to do more. She said: “Food Waste is an important issue to our members and by working across the value chain, we can make a real change happen on this important social and environmental issue.”

You can find out more about the pledge at https://www.gov.uk/ government/news/slashingfood-waste-major-playersurged-to-step-up-to-the-plate

Ask the Expert 37

How do you prepare your tyres for winter?

If you drive for work, it is vital that you make sure that your tyres are safe ahead of winter. But what do you need to do to ensure that is the case?

F

or a start, checking the condition of your tyres is a must. Their condition is best checked before the start of the winter season, so they can be replaced or repaired, if need be.

Careful inspection will only take a few minutes and it will allow you to fully assess the condition of your tyres. To do the job properly: Clean the tyre from sand, dust and pebbles stuck inbetween the tyre treads; you may also wish to wash the tyres. Some detergents may accelerate the aging process of the rubber so it is best to use dedicated cleaning agents.

Inspect the condition of the tyre and check the tread depth. Winter tyres may wear

unevenly, so check them in several places.

If you find bulges, cuts or ripped blocks, then go to a professional service centre to check the problem.

The tread depth in new tyres differs depending on the model, but most often it is between 8 and 10 mm. Experts suggest buying a new set of tyres when the tread depth is about 4-4.5 mm for winter.

Tread is critical to keep you safe and should be checked regularly, because good condition of the tyre tread is the best guarantee of the tyre’s wet grip capacity and effective prevention of aquaplaning.

The right tread depth is particularly important for winter tyres which work in much

more extreme conditions than summer tyres. As the tread wears down, winter tyres lose their properties, which reduces driving safety.

To check the tread depth, you can use a caliper, ballpoint pen, pencil or matches. The easiest way to do it is to insert a match into your tyre’s tread groove and mark the tread depth on the match with a pen, then measure the distance marked on the match with a ruler.

The tread depth is not the only aspect that should be taken into account. Rotten or damaged tyres also need replacing. In particular, cheap winter tyres from unverified manufacturers tend to have less durability. Not all cheap

winter tyres are of low quality, but it is best to choose reputable winter tyre brands.

Another important aspect is the age of the tyre. Old winter tyres increase the risk of an accident while driving so investing in new ones ahead of winter makes sense.

Mark Smith is Assistant Manager at Grips Wheels and Tyres in South East London, which prides itself on the high quality of service it provides.

They have more than 50,000 new and used tyres in stock at any one time from specialist to budget tyres so know they can meet your needs.

You can find out more at www.gripstyres.co.uk

Quality tyres at the lowest price possible At Grips Tyres in South East London we pride ourselves on the high quality of service we provide.

We believe that the key to a successful business is to listen to our customers’ needs and do everything we can to help them in any way possible. Our regular customers return to us time and time again because they know that we will go the extra mile for them.

Contact us today to discover how we can help you.

0208 697 8000 www.gripstyres.co.uk Whatever you drive we can supply the right tyres at the right price

October 2019

38 In conversation with Neil Linter

Barriers come down as the communications revolution gathers pace A

Communications technology is undergoing dramatic change and the pace is quickening all the time as the barriers to take-up are removed.

t the heart of the revolution is the move towards Cloudbased telephony and IT as it takes over from the traditional telephone line, PBX and IT Server.

One of the people excited by the rate of change is Neil Linter, Managing Director of Beckenhambased Glemnet, an independent service provider of Cloud-based telecoms and IT services to businesses of all sizes, from start-ups through to SMEs and large enterprises.

The company moves businesses away from traditional telephone lines and on-premise servers to telephony and IT solutions hosted on the web-based Cloud.

For Neil, the big catalyst for change is the introduction of full fibre, a technology that supplies superfast and more reliable

broadband, allowing customers to move their communications into the Cloud ahead of BT’s ending of traditional phone lines in 2025.

Neil said: “The move to the Cloud is gathering pace because the barriers that were preventing people taking up the idea are coming down.

“One of the challenges has been helping people to understand the idea of the Cloud. They are used to a cabinet sitting in the corner of the room with lights flashing but there is none of that in the Cloud.

“Another issue has been availability and reliability but full fibre is addressing that as it is introduced in more and more areas, providing broadband that is very fast and very robust.

“That is important because one of the things some people

say is ‘what’s the point of having this superfast broadband if you cannot access it because it keeps crashing?’ Full fibre is the solution.

“Cyber-security has also been a concern for some people who are worried about the security of their communications.

Our message is that you are better off putting your faith in a company like Microsoft which has invested half a billion pounds in cyber security rather than relying on a £150 server you bought on the high street.

“As each one of these barriers is removed, we are finding growing demand for our services. We have moved 1,500 users onto the Cloud from the NHS alone.”

One of the big advantages of moving to the Cloud is the flexibility of the system, which means that,

Glemnet Ltd is an independent service provider of cloud solutions, Telecoms and IT Services to businesses of all sizes - from start ups through to SMEs and large enterprises.

Set up in 2001, we have a wealth of knowledge and experience to find the perfect solution for your business’ communication needs.

With offices in Beckenham and London, we’ve been serving local businesses for 18 years. www.glemnet.com | 020 8639 0230 | info@glemnet.com

October 2019

although some devices can still be traditional phones and PCs on desks, others could be operated from anywhere through laptops, Tablets, and Apps on a mobile smartphone.

No longer are companies tied to expensive static phone lines and inflexible local networks, something which will be phased out in the years to come anyway.

Neil said: “There is a need for businesses to embrace the Cloud and to do it now because in 2025 BT will no longer be running traditional telephone lines. People may think that 2025 is a long way off but the process of phasing out is already under way in some areas.”

The revolution, it seems, can only quicken its pace.

• Hosted cloud telephony • Calls and lines • Cloud solutions - including storage and security • Business broadband • Business mobile • IT services and support

Call 020 8639 0230 for your tailored solution.

CALLING ALL WINE LOVERS TO GREENWICH Founded in 1870, Davy’s are still fully independent, family wine merchants based in Greenwich.

To find out more, buy wine online or make a restaurant reservation, please visit Davy.co.uk.

davy’s wine shop

davy’s wine vaults

OVER 600 QUALITY WINES FROM AROUND THE WORLD

WINE BAR AND RESTAURANT

EVERYDAY DRINKING AND FINE WINES

EXCLUSIVE SELECTION OF WINES

CHRISTMAS GIFTS AND HAMPERS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK FREE CUSTOMER PARKING VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL SELECTION

MODERN BRITISH MENU OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK PRIVATE EVENT SPACE FOR PARTIES AND CORPORATE EVENTS NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS!

davy.co.uk •    davysoflondon davy ’ s wine merchants 161-165 greenwich high road, greenwich se10 8ja

40 Strategic Partners

Connected, with Heritage Berkeley Homes have completed The Officer’s House in Royal Arsenal, a landmark building that blends the area’s heritage with modern modular built homes, commercial opportunities, and excellent transport links.

B

uilt over 250 years ago, the Grade II listed Officers’ House overlooks the newly opened Major Draper Square and popular Dial Arch Square.

It has been carefully renovated to provide 34 new homes, as well as a mixture

of commercial space totalling 3,800 sq ft.

Major Draper Square provides a new public square for Greenwich, already home to; The Tap Room, Tesco Metro, and London Stone Properties. With further commercial space made

available by the completion of Officer’s House, and the forthcoming Building 10, Major Draper Square is set to become a focal point for Woolwich residents.

Located 300m from DLR & National Rail station, and with Crossrail adjacent to the

square, Major Draper Square and The Officer’s House make for one of Greenwich’s best connected destinations.

Commercial units are available through agent Bruce Gilingham Pollard.

For more information please contact 020 3551 5620

“Located 300m from DLR & National Rail station, and with Crossrail adjacent to the square, Major Draper Square and The Officer’s House make for one of Greenwich’s best connected destinations.”

October 2019

Strategic Partners 41

Crossing history Pedestrian crossings across the Royal Borough of Greenwich have been painted in the pan-African colours to celebrate inclusivity and mark Black History Month which takes place in October each year.

B

lack History Month gives us the opportunity to recognise, appreciate and celebrate our diverse communities, the role models that are inspiring the next generation, and the rich heritage that has shaped the Royal Greenwich we know today.

The rainbow crossings in Woolwich, Greenwich and Plumstead town centres – which were launched to celebrate Pride earlier this year – along with an additional crossing in Charlton, have been re-painted red, gold, green and black for the occasion.

An African card making workshop, a talk on black entrepreneurs in history and a Martin Luther King tribute are just a few of the events that are also lined up to celebrate Black History Month across the borough.

Cllr Miranda Williams, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Third Sector, said: “Black History Month is essential in promoting learning, providing information and contributing to community cohesion. People from all different walks of life live in Royal Greenwich and it’s important that all our young

residents are inspired by people they can relate to and see stories that mirror their own experience.”

The crossings have been funded by U+I, Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich Hospital Trust, the University of Greenwich, Berkeley Group and Peabody.

A spokeswoman for U+I, the primary sponsor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich Black History Month programme, said: “Diversity is the one thing we all have in common. It is the very foundation of community – the bringing together of society and celebrating our uniqueness and togetherness all in one place. In such a fast-changing world, it is vital that we recognise the rich heritage that shapes the towns and cities we live in today, and shine a light on the role models for future generations. It is our privilege to partner with the Royal Borough of Greenwich for Black History Month.”

There are lots of events happening throughout Royal Greenwich celebrating black and minority ethnic history.

From children’s workshops to

poetry events and concerts, there really is something for everyone – and most events are free.

Celebrate stories from the past, present and future of Greenwich residents, listen to music from Europe’s first majority BME orchestra Chineke! and see the Caribbean Social Forum’s exhibition from Motherland to Mother Country at the official Royal Borough of Greenwich event on Wednesday 9 October at Woolwich Town Hall.

Tickets are free but places are limited so reserve your place on Eventbrite.

BME orchestra Chineke! will also be running workshops in schools across the borough.

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is currently bidding to be London Borough of Culture 2021. Residents are encouraged to share photos, videos and comments on social media from any of the events they attend using the hashtags #MyLocalCulture and #GrinforGreenwich.

For full details of the Black History Month programme of events in Royal Greenwich visit royalgreenwich.gov.uk/blackhistorymonth

The Thamesmead Business Forum, that runs on the first Monday of each month is proving a useful addition to our enterprise offer locally

W

e have had guest speakers from

developers including Durkan,

the Learning Enterprise Advisor Network and the GLA at recent forums.

The forums have

representatives from all the

Thamesmead developers and some of the sub-contractors

who discuss the possibilities of

supporting local businesses into their procurement frameworks and gaining local tenders.

We are partners of the GLA’s

Night Time Borough Champions network which is made up

“Diversity is the one thing we all have in common. It is the very foundation of community – the bringing together of society and celebrating our uniqueness and togetherness all in one place.”

of mostly local authorities to activate London at night.

This quarter we supported

45 local people with business information, advice and

guidance as well as introducing them to procurement opportunities.

October 2019

BUILDING ON TRUST: CONSTRUCTIVE SOLUTIONS FOR ANY BUILDING PROJECT ‘Red Key Concepts LTD’ is a privately owned dynamic, professional Construction Management and Design & Build company based in Kent but covering the whole South East of England. Established in 2016, we, as a team pride ourselves on our combined 20 years experience of specialising in the project management techniques to oversee the planning, design and construction of projects from conception to delivery. We aim to take away the stresses and strains that come with construction projects by proactively managing the construction budget to deliver the project on time and to an exceptionally high standard.

Construction Management The cost-effective and adaptive solutions we can offer for your projects and programmes continues to ensure that we provide you with the best service possible. We tailor the specific delivery system, project approach and pricing structure to fit each and every client and project needs, for successful project solutions and outcomes. Our in house buying team ensures packages and materials are sourced and secured at the best possible price without compromising quality. Our open book policy ensures transparency between client, QS and contractor throughout the entire

project which allows for changes and upgrades to be made without the client incurring unnecessary and often inflated costs. We have a proven track record which demonstrates the advantages of using our ‘open book’ business model within the commercial sector (flag ship car showrooms, NHS facilities and establishments, warehouse developments to name but a few) and residential sector (new build developments, bespoke high end houses, property conversions).

For a monthly construction management fee agreed at the start of a project our transparency enables clients to see the trade discounts we can pass directly onto them, they pay what we do effectively ‘at cost’ without the quality and service being compromised.

Design & Build On the back of the success of this ‘open book’ business model we recognised there was also a need still for a ‘traditional’ contract solution.

We, as a company are committed to each and every project from conception to delivery and being in an advantageous position now to offer prospective clients both business models. We can identify the best possible solution for their construction and development

CONSTRUCTION, MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT

www.redkeyconcepts.com tel: 01227 649030

needs by truly understanding their requirements. Design and Build is a project delivery system used in the construction industry.

client will be kept fully updated but we take away the day to day hassles and stress that are often associated with the construction process.

Based on our combined 20 years experience of working within the construction industry we can confidently identify the following benefits for our clients by instructing us to be their DesignBuild Contractor:

‘Red Key Concepts Design and Build Ltd’ are able to offer you the client a traditional main contractor service. We operate a highly professional policy in all aspects of what we do to ensure that the project is delivered at cost by a team of skilled and experienced Sub Contractors and Suppliers, under the strict guidance of the Red Key Management Team.

This business model is designed for the construction projects where we the contractor carries out both the design and the construction work.

By being involved at such an early stage we can proactively put the best possible team together being able to communicate instantaneously at every level which in turn speeds the whole process up, improving our/the clients project schedule.

The ‘fixed price’ offers clients the cost certainty from day one so we would not only oversee the design and build to ensure that the costs are kept within budget but also have the ability to report on the costs at any stage should the client so wish. By having control of the project we can monitor and ensure that the team all work together for a successful delivery of a completed project. You as the

It is inevitable on any project, that there will be variations and additional works. As a traditional Main Contractor we would look to manage these by proactively finding solutions and reporting such elements immediately and suggesting ways to mitigate affects on programme and budget rather than look to profit from them.

For regular updates on the ongoing projects and exciting job opportunities please visit: www.redkeyconcepts.com www.facebook.com/redkeyconcepts www.twitter.com/redkeyconcepts www.instagram/redkeyconcepts

Construction 43

London businesses express concerns in commercial property sector

Boost for initiative to attract people of diverse backgrounds into construction

Businesses in London have expressed a degree of concern as new figures from the chartered surveyors organisation RICS show that the UK commercial property sector remains flat.

A campaign has been launched to ensure that the construction industry has enough skilled people to cope with a predicted upturn in activity in areas including London.

I

ndustry training organisation CITB will be targeting more than 11,800 people to attract them into construction careers, as part of the Pathways Into Construction programme.

The CITB says that the prediction that suggests construction output is expected to grow by 1.3% per year with 168,500 jobs being created by 2023 presents a big challenge for employers seeking to recruit more people, with particular concern about the level of recruitment from diverse backgrounds.

According to CITB, just 16% of construction employees are female and 7% are from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.

This has happened, in part, says CITB, because construction employers have relied over the years on traditional recruitment methods, such as word of mouth.

Pathways Into Construction will attract people from underrepresented groups over the next three years with CITB’s investment establishing recruitment schemes that employers can use.

The programme will see a £10m investment in 270 colleges, construction employers and federations, infrastructure projects, councils, housing associations, armed forces organisations, charities, prisons, recruiters and training providers across

England, Wales and Scotland to connect employers with people who traditionally don’t enter the industry.

Stephen Cole, CITB Head of Careers Strategy, said: “With thousands of jobs being created in the coming years, Pathways Into Construction will demonstrate that we need to stop fishing in only half the pond and diversify the talent pool to meet future skills needs.

“We’ll explore the best routes, which employers can adopt in future, to bring underrepresented groups into the industry, not only filling the skills gap but also supporting employers by recruiting domestic talent with Brexit on the horizon.”

“With thousands of jobs being created in the coming years, Pathways Into Construction will demonstrate that we need to stop fishing in only half the pond and diversify the talent pool to meet future skills needs.”

A

key finding is the number of businesses seeking to relocate because of Brexit, which in turn leaves empty properties and reduces demand for the construction of new ones.

The RICS UK Commercial Property Market Survey for the second quarter of the year showed that, as Brexit looms, many firms are looking to relocate at least some part of their business as a result; 32% stated they had seen evidence of this which, although unchanged from Q1, was up from 23% six months ago. Going forward, 52% of respondents nationally do expect relocations, depending on how the Brexit process unfolds.

Fifty three per cent of respondents nationally feel the market is in some stage of a downturn, with the proportion virtually unchanged over the past three quarters. The percentage of contributors taking this view is slightly higher in London, at 63%.

Tarrant Parsons, RICS Economist, said: “The overall picture remains little changed across the UK Commercial Property Market in Q2, with the disparity between a strong backdrop for the industrial sector and weakness in retail still very evident.

While expectations continue to point to solid rental and capital value growth in the former, further declines are expected in the latter.

“Brexit uncertainty also remains a notable headwind, causing caution across both occupiers and investors while they await clarity on the UK’s future trading relationship with the EU.”

October 2019

44 Finance Update

Are you up to speed on R&D tax credits?

By Matt Reid, Senior Tax Adviser Corporate & Business Taxes, McBrides Chartered Accountants

D

id you know that limited companies can claim cash back from HMRC for research and development (R&D) your business has undertaken?

According to HMRC statistics, claims made by SMEs in 2016/17 generated average cash refunds of £53,876. So, making an R&D tax relief claim (as it’s known) can provide a welcome boost to cashflow for companies seeking to innovate or improve their products or services.

The rules relating to R&D tax relief vary depending on the size of the company, though most companies that claim are small or medium-sized entities (SMEs).

What you need to ask is have you undertaken any projects that have sought an advance in overall knowledge or capability?

It must be not just new to you but something that your

competitors are not doing either.

You also need to make sure your developments are scientific and technical, not aesthetic.

In other words, it is not a question of a product or process looking better, but rather it must function better or be able to be produced in a more streamlined or cost-effective manner.

You also need to have incurred costs directly related to the project. In the main, these will be salary payments to staff, or to subcontractors and/ or other companies. But you can also claim for ‘consumable’ items that have been used in the project, like materials for prototypes and/or utility costs.

In order to be able to work out the levels of costs that can be included in a claim, you will need to consider when the project started and ended.

The rules refer to R&D activity starting when you first identified the technical issues that needed

to be resolved and end when you solve the uncertainty or stop working on it. That highlights an important point; your work might not result in the outcome you were hoping for, but it does not stop the project and the costs involved from being regarded as qualifying R&D and so be eligible for tax relief.

The effect of a claim is that the costs identified as being spent on qualifying projects or activity are ‘enhanced’ such that every £1 spent is worth another £1.30 in R&D tax relief terms.

When this enhanced expenditure is then deducted from your taxable profits – or added to your loss – it will result in:

• a corporation tax reduction if you are profit-making • a cash credit if you are loss-making

• or a combination of the two.

Claims for R&D tax relief need to be made via a company’s tax return and can be made up to two years after the end of the accounting period to which they relate.

While it is not strictly necessary, we would usually recommend that a claim is supported by a report that sets out the work or project that is the subject of the claim and gives further details of the costs that have been included.

Doing this means it is more likely that a claim will be accepted without further enquiry from HMRC. It’s certainly worth looking into or speaking to your accountant to find out if you could claim.

You can reach Matt Reid on matt.reid@mcbridesllp.com or 020 8309 0011.

fully understand both my business “ they and my aims for myself and my companies.

As such, they are an integral and vital component of our planning strategy

”

MCBRIDES CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

October 2019

Trusted advisers always ready to help mcbridesllp.com

45

What to look for when choosing a care home Penny Hammond – General Manager of Leah Lodge & Rectory Court, part of the Cinnamon Care Collection has 35 years experience in healthcare and trained as a General Nurse initially in Newham East London.

P

enny discusses key areas to consider when selecting short or long term residential care at Rectory Court or specialist dementia care at sister home Leah Lodge, Blackheath, S.E. London 1. What should you look for when choosing a care home for a loved one?

‘Care’ is key - select an environment in which your loved one will be looked after by experienced, caring individuals.

I recommend you visit a prospective home without an appointment to see what day-today life is really like and to find exactly the right match for your loved one. My home, Rectory Court in Blackheath offers luxury residential care and nearby Leah Lodge offers specialist dementia – sister homes offering an oasis of calm in a busy metropolis, within a stone’s throw of each other.

I also think outside space in a City is important to promote a sense of well-being. Residents at Rectory Court benefit from established landscaped gardens and Leah Lodge has a charming courtyard with a century old mulberry tree and a separate palm garden.

2. When is the ‘right’ time to consider care?

People need care at different stages. The Cinnamon Care Collection of UK wide homes offer permanent and short stay (respite - maybe after an operation or hospital stay or to give a carer an opportunity for a rest or to go on holiday. We can also offer long term, specialist dementia friendly care environments, such as at Leah Lodge with themed spaces, including an art studio, retro kitchen and a music zone to stimulate resident engagement and to aid reminiscence.

3. How do you differ from competitors?

The Cinnamon Care Collection is an exclusive group of luxury care homes and retirement villages in beautiful locations throughout the UK. For the second consecutive year, the Cinnamon Care Collection has been recognised as one of the Top 20 Care Home Group by the country’s leading independent care home reviews website - carehome.co.uk and in fact Rectory Court was recognised as one of the top 20 most recommended care homes in London (out of 1,406 homes in the Capital.)

We like to think we offer something special, that illustrates the difference between good care and great care. Our aim is to help older people live happier, healthier, more fulfilled lives and give peace of mind to their families who entrust us with their wellbeing.

We are determined to be the difference, both in the expert 24-hour care we provide and the luxurious quality of our homes.

The Cinnamon Care Collection’s ethos is to shape care around the individual with every need catered for, from favourite foods and activities, to group outings and tailored events.

For more information visit: www.cinnamoncc.com/care-homes or call 0208 297 5860

Rectory Court & Leah Lodge Luxury Care Homes in Blackheath

Our care homes in Blackheath are unlike anything you may have seen before.

The difference is not just the beautifully renovated buildings and spacious rooms, it is the compassion and dedication of the people who work here which give our homes their special ambience.

Residential Care I Dementia Care I Respite Care Luxury Dementia Care at Leah Lodge t: 0203 925 2489 www.cinnamoncc.com/leah

Luxury Residential Care at Rectory Court t: 0203 925 3431 www.cinnamoncc.com/rectory

October 2019

Become a Mental Health First Aider Mental Health First Aid at Work (MHFAW) is a two day training course which teaches people how to identify, understand and support someone who may be experiencing a mental health issue.

The course is externally accredited by OCNL and has a value of 2 credits at level 2. Course workbooks are assessed, and successful candidates are awarded a pass certificate.

Candidates are provided with a manual to keep and a workbook to complete and submit for assessment.

After verification your workbook will be returned to keep as a reference.

MHFAW won’t teach you to be a therapist anymore than regular first aid would make you a paramedic – but just like physical first aid teaches you how to preserve life and prevent worsening, it will teach you to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis; and potentially stop a crisis from happening.

There will be assignments to complete in your workbook at the end of each day of learning.

We limit numbers to 12 learners per course so that the instructor can keep people safe and supported while they learn.

For further information or to book, please contact Tel: 0208 298 9677 Email: carol.goss@bridgesupport.org

www.bridgesupport.org

Successful candidates will receive a pass certificate awarded by Open College Network London, accredited at level two with a value of two credits.

CALL US NOW

On 0208 298 9677

Health and Wellbeing 47

Almost half small business owners ‘admit that more should be done to tackle workplace stress’

Experts to help UK take advantage of ageing society opportunities An initiative has been launched to encourage companies to recruit more older workers and to take advantage of the economic benefits presented by advances in healthcare leading to an ageing society.

T

he UK Longevity Council has been created to advise businesses how best to use innovations in technology, products and services to improve the lives of an ageing population.

With the number of people aged over 65 set to nearly double to more than 20 million in under 50 years, the Council will bring together business leaders, health experts and others from society to discuss the challenges that this presents.

Part of the Government’s Industrial Strategy, the Council will advise on the steps needed to help everyone lead healthier lives, while exploring how the UK can position itself to lead the world in the growing market for age-related products and services.

The team will advise on: • how we can think differently about work, finances, housing, communities and health, and explore new technologies, products and services that will benefit and enrich our older population • what the Government’s priorities should be in relation to demographic change • supporting local and international work to ensure that the UK is a global leader and UK businesses can capitalise on global opportunities

Andy Briggs, business leader and insurance industry expert, has been appointed as the Government’s new Business Champion for the ‘Ageing Society Grand Challenge’ and will help lead the UK Longevity Council.

Andy Briggs said: “Britain has an ageing society, along with many other developed countries, and this provides challenges as well as opportunities. I encourage all businesses to embrace this excellent opportunity, both by developing worldleading products and services, and by employing more older workers.”

“The UK Longevity Council has been created to advise businesses how best to use innovations in technology, products and services to improve the lives of an ageing population.”

More than one in four small business owners admit that they are too busy to think about how to improve mental health and almost half (48 per cent) admit that they should be doing more to support mental health in the workplace.

T

he research from Xero, produced to mark the recent Samaritans Big Listen 2019, a day to raise awareness around the importance of good mental health and the services that Samaritans provide, found that one in ten SME owners admitted the stresses of running a business negatively impacted on mental health.

They said that it caused sleepless nights (41 per cent), drinking of more alcohol (21 per cent) and having more arguments at home (13 per cent).

SME owners identified managing staff, business admin and the responsible of the success of the company as the top three main causes of stress.

When asked what their business provided to support employee wellbeing, the most popular way was found to be allowing office pets (37 per cent), followed by offering support in workload management (35 per cent) and offering staff digital wellbeing tools such as Unmind, Headspace or Calm (33 per cent).

Other popular methods included a focus on improving the office environment, such as having plants (34 per cent) and ensuring there is enough natural light (29 per cent).

The top areas causing the most stress for small business owners, in addition to managing staff (42 per cent), were: 1. All the admin (35 per cent) 2. Feeling responsible for the success of the company (31 per cent) 3. Keeping up with compliance (26 per cent) 4. Paying for office overheads and expenses (24 per cent) 5. Keeping clients happy (23 per cent) 6. Imposter syndrome (20 per cent) 7. Filing taxes (19 per cent) 8. Time pressure (17 per cent) 9. Multitasking (14 per cent)

October 2019

EVERY SUPERHERO NEEDS A SIDEKICK Batman has Robin Harry Potter has Hermione Sherlock has Dr Watson Shaggy has Scooby-Doo You’ll find Dr Watson keeping Sherlock on the straight and narrow; Robin next to Batman; Scooby right behind Shaggy.

A strong leading man (or woman) is nothing without a quippy, slightly less attractive partner at their side somebody with an extra bullet or little bit of advice when it’s needed. Which pretty much describes us and our great relationship with accountants.

breakthrough partnership

Our Breakthrough Partnership programme provides R&D Tax Relief assistance designed especially for Accountants.

We can give your team CPD Accredited R&D training at your offices or a nearby venue and full support in submitting returns and the defence of any formal HMRC enquiries.

We’ve completed 750 R&D claims in the last 4 years with a 100% success rate, helping our clients get back £40 million.

Let us help you too.

Email brady@breakthroughgroup.co.uk or find out more at www.breakthroughfunding.com/for-accountants

The Person Behind the Business 49

Excitement as the great survivor reaches fifty

For a theatre to survive 50 years in a world of such competing entertainment offerings is a remarkable achievement but that is exactly what Greenwich Theatre is doing.

A

lthough the theatre is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, it actually has its roots in events more than 150 years ago and its story is as dramatic and colourful as any of the plays the venue has ever staged.

It was entrepreneur John Green who established the Rose and Crown Music Hall on the Crooms Hill site, followed in 1871 by new owner Charles Crowder who re-opened the venue as Crowders Music Hall, offering burlesque, concert and ballet acts.

The years that followed saw it undergo more name changes then, during the Second World War, an incendiary bomb crashed through the roof into the auditorium. The theatre closed and remained empty until Greenwich Council bought the site for demolition in 1962 but agreed to support the idea of a new theatre if there was enough local enthusiasm to justify it. Ewan Hooper, a local actor and director, accepted the challenge and on 21st October 1969 the theatre re-opened Presiding over the latest chapter in the story is James Haddrell, who started working at the theatre eighteen years ago and became Director in 2007.

He said: “Survival over the past fifty years has not been a given, there have been challenges and the theatre even went dark at one stage, but I think the reason we have survived is that we have been determined to stand out from the crowd.

“If you look at theatres like ours around the country, they are carbon copies of each other. You can open their brochures and they all look the same. We set out to be different.

“Yes, we are dependent to an extent on what shows are touring but we get involved in the whole process, working with the theatre companies, helping with rehearsal, offering feedback on the scripts.

“Obviously, we need to break even – that is success for us – but we realise that for some companies playing to audiences of 55 could be a success in itself, which is why we created a new studio space. We do everything we can to help new talent emerge.”

The company’s work with young and emerging artists has grown rapidly and it runs a hugely oversubscribed artist development programme, supporting young or new companies as they grow.

“Survival over the past fifty years has not been a given, there have been challenges and the theatre even went dark at one stage, but I think the reason we have survived is that we have been determined to stand out from the crowd.”

Over the years, stars who have helped develop their early careers on the Greenwich boards have included Mia Farrow, Charles Dance, Glenda Jackson, Susannah York, Vivien Marchant and a very young Rupert Everett, who made his debut at Greenwich.

James said: “You do get people who say it was better in the old days when the big names appeared but they forget that the big names were not big names at the time.

Its Panto Sleeping Beauty between November 22 and January 12 will feature the usual script by Andrew Pollard but transfer the classic tale to a setting in which a theatre is opening in Greenwich in 1969.

James said: “We wanted to find a way to celebrate our 50th anniversary that was different. We are very excited that we will do it through the Panto.”

“People can come to our shows knowing that some of the performers they see will go on to be massive in twenty years.”

Also key to survival has been the theatre’s work with the community, particularly young people.

The theatre presents the annual Greenwich Children’s Theatre Festival every April, runs a range of activities, events and workshops in local schools, provides a home every year for the Shakespeare Schools Festival and won the London Region Edge Award for vocational training for teenagers.

James said: “It is not a cliché to say that today’s children are tomorrow’s audiences.

However, while there are plenty of shows for five or six year olds there are not many for nine year olds and virtually none for thirteen year olds.

So, you get young people into the theatre-going habit at six but then lose them. We try to offer them something.”

True to form, the theatre has found an inventive way to mark its 50th anniversary.

October 2019

50 New Members

And finally...

Russ Hammond Supreme Leader www.russellshammond.com So, what is it I actually do?

Aside from racing around Europe on motorcycles at every single opportunity, I do photography.

Welcome to our new members Academy Consulting Tel: 020 7287 7282 Email: mike@academy.eu.com Contact: Michael Bull

Feel Good Co-Operative Tel: 07908 034081 Email: feelgoodcoop@hotmail.co.uk Contact: Hazel Homewood

Accountancy and Tax Practice Ltd Tel: 07383 068977 Email: info@atpractice.co.uk Contact: Krishna Bhattarai

OM Professional People Tel: 01322 294171 Email: info@omprofessionalpeople.com Contact: Stella Fuller

Blackheath Halls Tel: 020 8463 0100 Email: e.perry@blackheath.com Contact: Emily Perry

Positive Planet UK Tel: 01463 758406 Email: lisa.lambie@positiveplanet.ngo Contact: Lisa Lambie

Clarkson Wright & Jakes Tel: 01689 887827 Email: amy.hickman@cwj.co.uk Contact: Amy Hickman

Russell S Hamond Photography Tel: 07704 357417 Email: russell@russellshammond.com Contact: Russell Hammond

As a member of our Chamber, you are joining a unique organisation with a strong campaigning voice for business to local and national government.

You can access a range of services, networking events and support to help your business do better. Importantly, you can also access other members to find new suppliers, promote your business services, or join forces on new opportunities.

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

For more information telephone: 020 8317 3365 email: office@selondonchamber.org

“As a member you’re well connected with access to our range of benefits and services, including our directory of local member businesses.”

October 2019

I’ve spent years in commercial studios shooting products, fashion, and editorials and more recently I also help, advise, and provide images for start-up, fledgling, and established companies.

Over many moons I’ve photographed everything from campaign shoots for luxury fashion brands aboard super-yachts in Monte Carlo, to giant mobile cold storage rooms in Nigeria.

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

I was very young, still in school.

It was in Café Rouge as a runner, clearing tables, and it was about £2.80 an hour if I remember rightly.

It was a long time ago.

What would you do with your last pound?

Buy noodles. I’ve been a student.

I could make a pound last a couple of days if I had to.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

I’m brand new to London, so just finding the right people in the industry is something I’ve found pretty difficult. To mangle a line from the Wizard of Oz, I’m not in Cheshire anymore, Toto.

If you were Prime Minister, what would be your first decision?

Give the north it’s own government.

I didn’t realise the disparity between the regions until I moved down here.

It’s different worlds.

If you could do another job what would it be?

Nothing. Seriously. I wouldn’t swap what I do for anything. This is what I wanted to do as a child.

What book are you currently reading?

Holy Sister, book 3 of The Book Of The Ancestor by Mark Lawrence.

I’m dreading finishing it. It’s so, so good.

NEW HORIZONS NEW HORIZONS

ALL NEW LEXUS UX ALL NEW LEXUS UX The Lexus range can help you reward company car drivers whilst improving your bottom line. Take the All New Lexus UX. From the daring front end with its dramatic Lexus signature The Lexus range can help you reward company drivers whilst your bottom grille, to the sporty silhouette and bold rear design, car the Lexus UX takesimproving a brave new approach line.

Take the All New Lexus UX. From the daring front end with its dramatic Lexus signature to SUV thinking. Plus, our Self-Charging Hybrids help minimise personal and company car grille, to the sporty bold rear design, the Lexus UX takes a brave new approach tax, NI, VED and silhouette whole-life and costs. to SUV thinking. Plus, our Self-Charging Hybrids help minimise personal and company car tax, NI, VED and whole-life costs.

LEXUS SELF-CHARGING HYBRID -CHARGING LEXUS SELF HYBRID P11D BIK CO MPG 2

£29,730 - £38,930 22% - 23% P11D BIK (Figures exclude UX E-Four) £29,730 - £38,930 22% - 23%

94g/km - 97g/km CO2 94g/km - 97g/km

46.5 - 53.2 MPG 46.5 - 53.2

(Figures exclude UX E-Four)

Contract hire/leasing/finance options available.

Contact us today for a personalised quote.

Contract hire/leasing/finance options available.

Derek Palmer Contact us today for a personalised quote.

07468 861109 derek.palmer@jemca.co.uk Derek Palmer 07468 861109 TO TEST DRIVE NOW AT AVAILABLE derek.palmer@jemca.co.uk LEXUS SIDCUP Ruxley Corner, Sidcup, DA14 DRIVE 5HS AVAILABLE TO TEST NOW AT 020 8269 8218 LEXUS SIDCUP www.lexus.co.uk/sidcup Ruxley Corner, Sidcup, DA14 5HS 020 8269 8218

www.lexus.co.uk/sidcup Models shown for illustrative purposes only and may not be to UK specification. UX model range in mpg (l/100km) official fuel consumption figures: combined 46.5 (6.1) – 53.2 (5.3). Combined CO2 94 - 97g/km. BIK 22% - 23%. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results. Fuel consumption and CO2 produced varies significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which replaces the New European Driving Cycle test procedure (NEDC). All CO2 figures quoted are NEDC equivalent. This means the CO2 figures are based on the new WLTP test procedure but calculated (using a standard European calculation Models shown for illustrative purposes andtest mayprocedure not be toand UKwill specification.

UX model rangetaxinon mpg fuelfigures consumption figures: combined 46.5 (6.1) – 53.2 (5.3). method) to allow comparison with theonly NEDC be used to calculate vehicle first(l/100km) registration.official All mpg quoted are full WLTP figures.

More information can beCombined found COby2 94 - 97g/km.

BIK 22% - 23%. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO 2 figures other cars Please tested to thethat same technical procedures. visiting: www.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp.

All information contained in this advertisement was correct at the time ofwith going to print. note while every effort is madeThese to figures may notaccurate reflect real life driving and CO2 produced variesand significantly on anotice. number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, reproduce information, weresults. reserveFuel theconsumption right to change specification, equipment availabilitydepending without prior conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which replaces the New European Driving Cycle

STAND OUT Recruit an Apprentice

Finding people with the right skills is not always easy.

Employing an apprentice can be a great solution as they learn on the job and bring new skills to your business. We can: » » »

Help you understand the apprenticeship levy Find you an apprentice Offer specialist advice regarding your training needs and much more...

Get in touch today apprenticeships@lsec.ac.uk | 020 3954 4965 LSEC.ac.uk

GREENWICH ADULT AND COMMUNITY LEARNING We have a wide range of affordable short courses that will help you progress at work, start your own business or transform your leisure time.

Learning also improves your well-being and helps you to make new friends. It also lets you be creative, discover new interests and keeps you active.

Get in touch today to find out more.

LSEC.ac.uk/acl-courses | 020 3954 4000