The Masthead August 23

the masthead

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR SOUTH EAST LONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

AI the Power and Potential

Internationally best-selling business author Bernard Marr talks about the future of AI

SKILLS

London South East Colleges celebrates students’ remarkable achievements

NET ZERO

Business says a partnership with Government is vital to meet the UK’s commitment to be Net Zero by 2050

DAREN BAYTHORPE, DIGITAL GREENWICH explains why Gigabit Connectivity is Critical for businesses across South East London

WIDE RANGING, LIFE CHANGING

INSPIRING SUCCESS WHERE CAREERS ARE MADE

WELCOME

The SELCC Strategic Growth Plan and sustainability agenda is progressing well. We are delighted that Digital Greenwich Connect have joined as a Strategic Partner. DGC is a joint venture between RBG’s innovation company, Digital Greenwich and ITS Technology Group. Daren Baythorpe, CEO of ITS is the Big Interview on Page 30 and we are holding a series of free webinars with DGC around the business need for full fibre connectivity. All our free business webinars can be found on the Chamber’s website.

We had a successful Quiz at The Bromley Court Hotel and raised £510 for the London Air Ambulance Charity, our official charity. The BBQ did not take place on the chosen date in July – who would have thought that a gas leak at The Clarendon Hotel would cause them to shut down for three days? The hotel was at capacity and the team managed to relocate guests to other hotels across London….. the new date for the BBQ is Thursday, 24th August. The Golf Day at Royal Blackheath was a great success and we are already planning next year’s. There is much positivity at the Chamber, with lots of summer activity across the region, however, we were all sad to learn of the death of Lord Kerslake, the Chairman of Peabody Trust. Bob was an inspirational man who will be missed by all who knew him.

Helen McIntosh FCIPR President

Chamber photography by Warren King

The attendee went on to say that it is a lot easier for people to comprehend how to upgrade their kitchen – even choosing the right cupboard door handles! - than trying to work out whether you need insulation, double/ triple glazing, solar panels, heat pumps (air -source or ground-source), battery storage or a combination of them all.

What is retrofit?

Retrofit refers to any improvement work on an existing building to improve its energy efficiency, making them easier to heat, able to retain that heat for longer, and replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy.

Also, there are currently more well-known companies that can help you with your kitchen than those that can retrofit your property. The availability of skills is also a factor which I’ll come on to later.

The fact is, I need to do both in my home which is also my office! So where to start? And how do we deliver retrofit at scale across the five boroughs covered by the SE London Chamber, as well as across London and UK, in order to meet our net zero targets while reducing the impact of the cost-of-living crisis?

I installed double glazing some time ago so I’m not quite at the start. I’ve also had one of the rooms properly insulated during a recent renovation – it has gone from being the coldest to the warmest room. However, there is still a lot to do which I’ll share in future columns.

It would be great to hear your stories about your retrofit journey especially if you’re a company involved in the delivery of retrofit.

Are you Retrofit?

By Mark Jenkinson, Director, Crystal Associates Director,

SELCC

Are you thinking of retrofitting your home or office?

Or are you more likely to upgrade your kitchen?

This is a question posed to me at a recent event on retrofit I was speaking at.

Mayor’s Green Finance Fund

One source of new funding which could help the wider roll-out of retrofit and other measures is the Mayor’s Green Finance Fund (GFF). Launched at an event I attended during London Climate Action Week; the GFF will lend up to £500m to projects that help London meet its net zero ambitions. The aim is to accelerate decarbonisation by lowering the cost of borrowing for eligible organisations: GLA Group, London Local Authorities, Social Housing Providers, NHS bodies, Universities, and Colleges. Eligible projects must deliver benefits in at least one of the following three categories: energy efficiency, clean transportation, or renewable energy. The minimum loan size is £1m, which could consist of aggregated expenditure for smaller projects and is a low interest rate. Round One is open for expressions of interest until 29 September 2023. Find out more on the GLA website or drop me a line. 1

What’s your carbon footprint?

I’m not one for reading instructions which is possibly why I’m currently watching Wimbledon on a 13-year-old TV! However, when it comes to implementation of any actions, such as retrofitting, its clearly good to have a plan. And before you develop a plan you need to know where you currently stand.

For those that read my column in the last edition of Masthead, I mentioned we are starting to measure the Chamber’s carbon footprint; I will advise of progress in future editions.

What is carbon footprint?

Carbon footprint refers to the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions associated with all the activities of a person or other entity (e.g., building, corporation, or country).

I know at least one person read my column –I won’t embarrass you by mentioning your name – and as a result, we’re focusing our next Bexley Link ‘N Drink on 19 July on how to measure your carbon footprint, as well as the usual great networking. There are up to 50 carbon management tool licences and support for Bexley business up for grabs, courtesy of Bexley Council, to help you get started. No worries if you miss the event, just get in touch, and make sure you come along to the Bexley Office Drinks hosted by Metro Bank on Wednesday 20 September.

Do you have the skills you need?

Do you have the green and digital skills you need for your organisation to get on the net zero journey and also deliver your company’s services? We know there is a skills shortage; the last edition of Masthead featured the ‘Heritage and Carbon’ report which highlights that more than 105,000 new workers are required just to retrofit historic buildings up to 2050.

I’ve been continuing to work with our Strategic Partner, London South East Colleges, and the Local London Green Jobs & Skills Partnership to develop these skills. We need employers large and small to get involved and support. So please drop me a line if you want to hear more.

What’s next?

Before most of us start to head off on our summer holidays there’s still much to do. As the Climate Clock launched on 29 June during Climate Action Week warns us, we only have 6 years and 24 days remaining to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees. Down to 17 days at the time of writing which coincidentally was the Earth’s hottest day on record!

Please share with me the good stuff you are doing. Also make contact if you need support. Apparently, a good workout song for keeping retro and fit is Daft Punk’s ‘Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger’. Bad pun aside, this is clearly the approach we urgently need to adopt in order to keep ourselves and the planet fit!

Economic Council to power up growth

The Council will comprise a range of respected national and international economists and business leaders to provide expert advice and feedback to the BCC and its Chamber Network. Its work will focus on the BCC’s long-standing and renowned programme of business research.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said: “We’re a year out on a General Election and now is a pivotal moment for business. That is why we have set up an Economic Advisory Council to help shape and guide our economic policies to boost the UK’s growth and prosperity.”

The BCC spent six months working on forming the EAC to unite “a diverse range of prominent economic and business experts”.

“These people are national and global leaders in their fields, and they will help guide and shape our economic priorities and focus into the future," she added.

“Our aim is to fuse the practical acumen of entrepreneurs with the technical expertise of economists to help produce policy that will make a real difference to the UK’s growth prospects.

“The membership of the council reflects the diversity of our economy – with experts in the subject areas of financial services, logistics, trade, and taxation sitting on the EAC.”

Vicky Pryce, Senior Member of the BCC EAC, said: “I am delighted to be joining the BCC’s Economic Advisory Council. Having previously worked with the BCC in an advisory role several years ago, it’s great to be back working with this brilliant organisation once again.

“The BCC and its regional chambers play such an important role in assisting firms to navigate and succeed in a complicated and constantly changing economic landscape.

“I am very much looking forward to assisting in bringing greater clarity on what is nowadays – and likely to remain for some time – a challenging economic environment for all.”

EAC members include: Vicky Pryce, former Head of Government Economics Service; Ben Allen, Proposition Leader, Financial Sponsors and Executives, Coutts Bank; Steven Gray OBE, UK Export Finance Representative, West & Central Africa; Martin Shelford, Start-Up Founder and Business Strategist; Adam Uszpolewicz, former CEO of Aviva-Poland; Dame Teresa Graham, former Deputy Chair of the Better Regulation Commission (BRC), Chair of the Administrative Burdens Advisory Board (HMRC), Chair of the UK Finance SME Advisory Group; Professor Mairi Spowage, Director, Fraser of Allander Institute, University of Strathclyde; and Professor Dennis Novy, Professor of Economics, Warwick University.

High inflation still a major concern for business

David Bharier, Head of Research at the BCC, said on the latest ONS inflation figures:

“The CPI rate of 8.7% shows that inflation is remaining elevated for longer than expected. After 18 months of price shocks, the impact

of sustained inflation remains the top issue for the vast majority of firms we speak to. What started as a commodity price shock has now created a wage-price spiral.

“However, much more positively, the producer input price (PPI) rate has slowed significantly once

again to 0.5%. With our research showing that gradually fewer firms expect their own prices to rise, energy and commodity costs may fall away as drivers of consumer inflation.

“With the interest rate currently at 4.5% and expected to rise further to tackle inflation, widespread

skills shortages, and trade frictions on the rise, the cost of doing business is the highest in years. Action by the Government to help with the squeeze on the labour supply, reform of business rates and support on exports would go some way to helping them face the future with more confidence.”

A new Economic Advisory Council (EAC) has been launched by the British Chambers of Commerce to build on its Quarterly Economic Survey and develop policies to boost the economy and business growth.

Lewisham has one of the highest proportions of independent businesses in London. We like to take every opportunity to celebrate and promote their success so it’s with great pleasure we announce nominations are now officially open for this year’s awards.

Among the 14 categories are best sustainable business, best visitor attraction and best pub. We’re encouraging all local businesses to get involved and have provided a suite of social media assets, to help drum up support from customers, suppliers and partners – for the best possible chance of winning.

New foodie destination for Lewisham

Anew hot spot for food lovers is coming to the borough this summer. Lewisham Food Market launches on Sunday 6 August in Cornmill Gardens and will take place on the first Sunday of each month thereafter.

It is the second venture for the team behind Catford Food Market which received two new accolades – Best Local Food Market in South London and Food Market of the Year, London and the South East – at the UK Enterprise Awards earlier this month.

The team will be emulating their winning formula by offering opportunities to local traders, while also continuing the mission to reduce food mileage and promote sustainability.

Vendors confirmed for the Lewisham Food Market launch include Himalayan dumplings purveyors Mandala, shuckers of the best oysters in London, Rock Oysters and Raastawala, stalwarts of the Catford location,

Get involved in the Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards 2023

The annual Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards are back for 2023 - and they're bigger and better than ever with 14 categories up for grabs.

The awards are the ultimate celebration of local talent and success, celebrating innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity, while honouring the brilliant people going the extra mile. Last year’s awards received over 2,000 nominations and over 4,000 votes for winners, which just goes to show how important our businesses are to the community.

The awards are free to enter and open to all independent businesses and contractors based in the London Borough of Lewisham. Nominations must be made online before Friday 4 August. Finalists will be announced in early September, with the winners voted for by residents in the Autumn.

Last year’s victors include Horniman Museum and Gardens, Le Delice café and IFE Foods, with

Rivoli Ballroom picking up the Legacy Award. Who will join the class of 2023? All will be revealed at a ceremony in November.

Victoria Pinnington, Director of Communications and Income Generation for the Horniman Museum and Gardens, said:

“We were delighted to be Lewisham’s Best Visitor Attraction, made all the more special because it’s voted for by the residents of our wonderful borough.”

To get involved in this year’s Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards, whether to enter or to lend your support to another business, visit lewisham.gov.uk/businessawards

Have you considered recruiting an apprentice?

We’re excited to have two Lewisham apprentices shortlisted in this year’s London Borough Apprenticeship Awards.

will be serving up fabulous North East Indian cuisine.

Cornmill Gardens is a fully pedestrianised green space which overlooks the River Ravensbourne and is opposite Lewisham’s rail and DLR stations. It is hoped this central location – just nine minutes from central London – will draw visitors from outside the borough too.

Lewisham Council is delighted to be supporting the market with £16k in funding which is being delivered over eight months.

For more details or to make an enquiry, please visit lewishamfoodmarket.com.

The awards celebrate the exceptional impact apprentices have made in local government in London and it’s the second year in a row that our apprentices have made the shortlist – last year we had three winners – which goes to show the strength of our apprenticeship programme.

We are doing all we can to ensure the local workforce has the right skills for the borough's businesses and apprentices offer an excellent source of fresh new talent. If you are looking to grow your team or you’d like to provide existing employees with the chance to upskill, we can help you access financial support and find the right candidate so please get in touch.

Contact our Apprenticeships team today or visit our website for more information.

Croydon a place of opportunity for business

PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN

Creating a London borough that is a place of opportunity for business, earning and learning is a key priority for me as Executive Mayor of Croydon. We are doing some exciting work through our apprenticeship programmes and academy to create a pipeline of skilled workers, both within the council and with local businesses. We are also excited to be part of a new creative hub in South London, to provide opportunities for local business start-ups to collaborate and hone their digital skills.

Una Foster, Senior Economic Development Officer, Croydon Council, said: “What I love about my apprenticeship is I get to learn the theory and put it into practice the next day at work, helping me understand it so much more than if I read it in a textbook.”

Carol Squires, Head of Employment, Skills and Economic Development, Croydon Council, said: “I supported Una’s apprenticeship as I recognised her as a great member of the team with a lot of potential. Una’s apprenticeship means she is constantly learning and progressing her career while doing some great work for us here at the council.”

INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE

Croydon Council has been benefiting from apprenticeships for many years, providing local people with learning opportunities and jobs within the public sector. In return, the programmes have enabled the council to build the right skills for its workforce, which helps us to meet skill shortages and deliver good services to the community we serve.

This financial year, I am delighted that we are continuing with this initiative and extending our programme to offer 42 new entry apprenticeships and 30 professional development apprenticeships across the organisation.

Apprenticeships provide a fantastic route for people to learn and upskill while earning and I’m always impressed with the talent we bring into the organisation through these schemes. Recruiting new apprentices also gives the council the opportunity to support Croydon’s residents, particularly young people, and vulnerable or disadvantaged groups.

There are programmes available for people at any stage in their career though, not just for young people starting out. In fact, many of our apprenticeships are taken up by employees through Croydon’s internal apprenticeships programme, which can lead to a more rewarding career and help with staff retention.

As well as spearheading apprenticeships among our own workforce, Croydon helps local employers to tap into talent through our business apprenticeship scheme, which funds the training costs and helps find local apprentices for eligible Croydon businesses. We also link up job seekers, training providers and businesses looking to recruit through our Croydon Apprenticeship Academy.

Business owners can find out about government grants available to employers to help run apprenticeships. If you are a local employer, I would encourage you to take up the support available so you too can help upskill the local workforce while reaping the rewards for your organisation and the South London economy.

CREATIVE DIGITAL SKILLS LAB FOR BUSINESSES

I am delighted that Croydon is partnering with StartUp Croydon on the opening of a new creative digital lab for businesses to upskill, share ideas and develop digital content in a prime location in South London.

The creative digital lab will be one of the sole providers of industry standard digital facilities, charged at affordable prices, for companies across South London. It will also become a centre for collaboration between local businesses, where people can work together and spark innovation and access training.

Working with Start Up Croydon and South London Partnership, Croydon has been successful in securing £500,000 of investment from the City of London and the Greater London Authority for the lab, which will open in the autumn – during Croydon’s year as London Borough of Culture. The project will also be supported by the worldclass knowledge and expertise of six universities in the BIG (Business, Innovation and Growth) South London, powered by the South London Partnership, which supports economic growth by helping local businesses to grow and improve their productivity.

The facilities, in Weatherill House, just off Purley Way, will include: a digital audio production suite, post-production video and audio editing facilities, recording studio for podcasts and voiceovers and training suite.

Register your interest in the Creative Digital Lab, either as a potential user, a volunteer to provide your support to the next generation of creatives, or if you are interested in delivering creative, industry-related training. See www.startupcroydon.co.uk for more information.

More information about Croydon Apprenticeship Academy is available on the council website at: www.croydon.gov.uk/apprenticeships.

Jason Perry Executive Mayor of Croydon

The Real Living Wage Good for Business - Good for Society

The Royal Borough of Greenwich is championing the London Living Wage to help tackle in-work poverty and build an inclusive local economy, driven by good jobs that pay a fair wage.

Earlier this year, we allocated £36,000 for a new small grants scheme to cover the cost of three years of accreditation for local businesses via the Living Wage Foundation. We’re delighted that, since launching, 13 more businesses have come on board, cementing their commitment to paying all their staff the London Living Wage by gaining the accreditation.

These businesses are BeGenio, Brothers Bakery, Cakehole, Cleaning Express Services, Dress Up Accessories, Emergency Exit Arts, Greenwich Enterprise Board, Haneker, The Lord Herbert, Peter’s Panas, Mo-Sys, MumsAid and The Trafalgar Cafe.

Ruthie Carlisle Brown from Emergency Exit Arts,said: "Whether we are taking art to the streets of Royal Greenwich, running workshops in London schools or bringing a giant puppet to your local festival, we are committed to ensuring

all the people involved in making it happen are treated with respect and paid a wage that they can live on... By becoming an accredited Living Wage employer, we can show what we have stood by for so long: everyone deserves a fair and liveable wage”.

Kazim Kilic from Brothers Bakery, winner of the Best Food & Drink Venue at the Best of Royal Greenwich Business Awards 2022, said: “We want to do all we can for the community and our staff. Becoming an accredited Living Wage Employer is just another way we will show how much we care”.

Michael Geissler from Mo-Sys, said: “We draw a lot of people into the borough, both highly specialised and lots of others who want to get involved and build their experience in the field but might be on a lower salary. For us it’s important that they are paid the London Living Wage at least. We know it’s difficult in London to get on your feet. You can’t survive on the

minimum wage. We want to help that and try to be as fair as possible as employers”.

Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business and Skills, said: “The movement for fair pay is gaining momentum in Royal Greenwich. We’re delighted to be part of a growing movement, but we couldn’t do it without the vision of local employers who understand the longterm business benefits of adopting the real Living Wage. It’s more important than ever with the cost-of-living crisis so we urge local businesses to support their staff through these difficult times. We know these are particularly challenging times for businesses as well, so we want to thank them for stepping up and for their leadership and encouraging other employers to as well. We invite all Royal Greenwich businesses who are considering becoming London Living Wage Employers to get in touch and see how we can support them to join up.”

Find out how to become a Living Wage Employer and, if you’re a Royal Greenwich-based-business, apply for the grants, by visiting: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/become-a-living-wage-employer

Mo-Sys Engineering

Trafalgar Cafe

Brothers Bakery

Emergency Exit Arts

Peter's Panas

Council cash boost to help fund apprenticeships at local businesses

Whether you’re struggling to hire, or looking to build up your team with motivated, loyal staff with the skills your business needs, recruiting an apprentice might be the right next step for you.

The Council’s Greenwich Access to Apprenticeships Fund (GAAF) round 3 is now available to help Royal Greenwich employers to train and assess apprentices and upskill their staff, through one of the new apprenticeship standards. This year, the Council is making over £260,000 available to local employers. This fund covers the full cost of training an apprentice.

Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business and Skills said: “Apprenticeships can be life-changing for learners and give businesses a massive boost. That’s why they’re at the heart of our work to create an inclusive economy in Royal Greenwich, where everyone has the opportunity to secure a good job. We want to promote apprenticeships and make it as easy as possible for employers to create high-quality opportunities for residents, bringing real benefits to organisations. The GAAF scheme makes it a no-brainer for employers to recruit more apprentices and train their staff.

“Apprenticeships have benefited the Council enormously, so we speak from experience. We’re proud that, since 2012, over 1000 people have achieved their qualification with us and gone on to fruitful careers. In fact, many have now become managers and are employing and supporting apprentices themselves. Now we’re delighted to be able to help fund smaller businesses to increase apprenticeship opportunities through the fund”.

GET IN TOUCH

The Council’s employment and skills service, Greenwich Local Labour and Business (GLLaB), can support businesses with information on the fund, eligibility, identifying candidates and hiring an apprentice. Get in touch with GLLaB to find out more: • apprenticeships@royalgreenwich.gov.uk

• 020 8921 2440

Employer Yvonne Nyarkbo, Director at Olives Healthcare Services, said about the scheme: “I had been working alone. I was tired and needed help in the office. My business advisor introduced me to GLLaB as I didn’t know about the funding available. She took the specifications for the job, created the advert and supported me with the interviews. From this, I was able to take on an apprenticeship. I have found the GAAF scheme very useful and am in the process of asking for a second apprentice for the role of Business Development Assistant and to study Level 3 in Business Administration. The communication has been positive every time, and my experience has been amazing’.

Elijah Omoniyi, Director, Famous Recruitment, another employer who benefited from the scheme, added: “I contacted GLLaB for support with my recruitment for an Apprentice Recruitment Consultant. I was informed about the Greenwich Access to Apprenticeship Fund, which was a massive help in affording the apprenticeship cost. I was given step-by-step information on how to set up my digital account and always had someone on hand to support me. My GLLaB advisor promoted the vacancy and found me a great candidate for the role. My apprentice supported my business well and completed the duration of her apprenticeship. She now has a Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner qualification. I look forward to GLLaB supporting me with another apprentice.”

Read more:

royalgreenwich.gov.uk/greenwich-access-to-apprenticeships

Get involved in Woolwich Lates

The Woolwich Lates summer programme is in full swing, as part of the Mayor of London’s Night Time Enterprise Zone, which the Council secured for the area last November. The initiative is aimed at boosting the town centre’s evening economy, after 6pm. If you’re a business on the high street in Woolwich, check out the events taking place and some ideas on how to get involved: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/woolwich-lates-for-businesses

WOOLWICH LATES EVENT HIGHLIGHT

GREENWICH+DOCKLANDS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL LATES

General Gordon Square Friday 25 August, 7pm

For the first time ever, Woolwich will play host to the grand opening of the popular Greenwich+Docklands International Festival with Open Lines, which will drawing audiences from across London and beyond to witness a breathtaking high wire spectacle. View the full programme: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/woolwich-lates-programme SAVE

Mark your diaries: our prestigious annual awards celebrating businesses in Royal Greenwich are back for 2023, with the glittering awards ceremony taking place on Friday 10 November.

Whether you’re a start-up, a small enterprise, or an established company, get ready to enter this year’s awards for FREE to get your business the recognition it deserves.

NOMINATIONS OPENING SOON, visit royalgreenwich.gov.uk/businessawards to find out more.

To find out more about the advice and support available to your business, visit our website at: royalgreenwich.gov.uk/businesssupport

BROMLEY COMES ALIVE WITH MUSIC AND FLOWERS

“Bromley has been a hive of creativity over recent weeks. Make Music Day came to the town centre for the first time on 21st June and our team facilitated over 50 different performances at fourteen different venues, bringing pop, rock, folk, jazz and more to Bromley. This was quickly followed by the return of our popular Floral Fest event, with thirty primary schools from across the Borough creating beautiful planters that represented their school values. The wonderful Charlie Dimmock came back to Bromley to help with the judging process, which we’re sure gets harder every year! Both of these events proved very popular with businesses and visitors alike.”

Frances Forrest BID Manager Your Bromley BID

Floral Fest 2023

This year’s Floral Fest saw schools bring to life the theme of ‘School Values’ with their floral creations. Gardening guru, Charlie Dimmock, joined us and Gary Carvosso, Chairman of Coolings Garden Centre with representatives from many of the schools, for the judging event.

After a difficult deliberation the eventual winners were:

Most Creative: Poverest Primary School

Best Use of Colour: Darrick Wood Junior School

Best Use of Theme: Pickhurst Academy the ARP

Please keep in touch with Your Bromley by subscribing to regular e.shots via yourbromley.com. Follow Your Bromley BID on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @YourBromley

The public had the chance to vote for the People’s Choice winner on the Your Bromley website and the winner of this prize was Churchfields Primary School. All winners will receive £100 to spend in the BID business of their choice.

Make Music Day 2023

21st June was International Make Music Day and dozens of musicians performed in Bromley town centre in 14 different locations, providing free musical performances to residents, visitors and town centre employees. We’d like to thank The Pavilion, The Churchill Theatre, The Glades, Splash Damage, The Partridge, The Railway, O’Neill’s, Barrel & Horn and Carved Dive, and for taking part in the day and hosting live music, alongside our busking spots on the High Street. We’d also like to thank all the wonderful, talented musicians who gave their time free of charge to take part in the day.

Bromley has a strong musical heritage and we’re already looking ahead to celebrating this with Make Music Day 2024! Save the Date: Fri 21st June.

Crystal Palace Park Regeneration Plan progresses as Bromley appoint specialist team

The plan makes significant headway as Bromley Council appoint specialist team led by HTA Design.

coming years, including the restoration of some of the most beloved historical sites.

The HTA team will deliver this first significant stage of the Regeneration Plan, which will see widespread improvements across the park in the

The estimated £17.5m works includes the restoration of the Grade I listed Crystal Palace dinosaurs and the landscaping around their island, and the regeneration of the Italian Terraces that will become an amazing space to host community events. The works will also improve the Lower Paxton axis of the park by the Penge entrance, including a new playground and Information Centre.

Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing said: “It is an exciting time for this iconic park as we begin to bring forward our ground-breaking plan and create a future for the park that is fitting of its remarkable past. I know local residents and visitors will be eager to see progress being made on the headline restoration works including in this next stage, but there is also much more work going on around this to ensure that a long-term model is created for the park, that firmly connects its heritage to the local community and economy.”

News of this appointment follows the National Lottery Heritage Fund recently selecting Crystal Palace Park to be included in their latest round of grant funding, which will lead to funds for the dinosaur restoration and connected works. Additional funding is coming from a number of sources, including the sale of residential developments next to the Park, in accordance with the £52m Regeneration Plan. Works are already underway as part of the wider plan, with the restoration of the Grade II* listed subway making good progress and to be completed later this year.

Bromley’s buzzing night time economy gets a boost this Summer

An exciting evening of lively entertainment, sports activities and wellbeing offers is delivered in Bromley as part of the town centre’s selection as one of London’s Night Time Enterprise Zones, funded by the Mayor of London.

Bromley will host series of exciting evening events to allow more residents and visitors to benefit from the town centre in the evening, alongside town centre improvements such as lighting upgrades.

‘High Street Lates – A Sport and Wellbeing Festival’ is the second free event on 25 July from 4-9pm, with great activities like crazy golf, a Formula 1 Simulator, live music, bars, street food and a climbing wall for visitors of all ages. This follows ‘Library Lates’, which kicked off the BR1 Lates programme in April. Library Lates saw an evening of dancing, cocktail making, celebrity book reading and electrifying

performances that saw thousands visit the town centre on a single night.

The Night Time Enterprise Zone programme will see over £250,000 invested in events and improved infrastructure in Bromley town centre with Bromley Council and partners, Your Bromley BID, collectively providing match funding to the grant received from the Mayor of London. The event programme is being delivered in partnership with Greenwich Leisure Limited, Proactive Bromley and Your Bromley BID.

To stay up to date with the events programme, including a Winter Lights Spectacle to come at www.bromley.gov.uk/br1lates.

Support for Bexley businesses

The London Borough of Bexley has secured funding through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to deliver a range of projects at a local level within the “Supporting Local Businesses” initiative.

To help prepare for the commissioning and delivery of these projects, the Council carried out a survey that 255 local businesses, across a range of sectors and sizes, took part in.

When asked which areas or aspects of business support or training they would be interested in, the five highest responses were:

1. Attracting more customers

2. Increasing sales

3. Marketing and promotion

4. Using social media

5. Energy advice

Bexley businesses can get support on some of the above areas through the E-Business programme and the Climate Essentials offer.

The Council is now preparing additional support projects under a new ‘Talking Business’ programme, funded by UKSPF, which will help more local SMEs to thrive and grow.

These new projects will be rolled out from late summer / autumn 2023. Look out for more announcements on the BBE website and through our free e-newsletter at www.bexley.gov.uk/bbe

New cinema for Sidcup

Leader of the Council, Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE said: “It’s fantastic to see a cinema in Sidcup again after such a long time. We have seen how popular the new cinema is after just a few weeks of trading. Together with the new library the Sidcup Storyteller building has been a great success. By bringing both these things back to the centre of the town we hope to bring the community back to the High Street and welcome new visitors to Sidcup. As well as this we have been able to build flats conveniently placed just off the High Street. This is a real success story and great news for the borough.”

The new Sidcup Storyteller building was the venue for a special event this month (4 July) to mark the opening of the new cinema.

Along with the library, cinema and café, the new four-storey Sidcup Storyteller building, which has been built on the site of the old Blockbuster video shop, is home to an additional studio, a new Changing Places toilet and nine residential flats.

The cinema is a partnership between London Borough of Bexley and independent operator, Really Local Group. The cinema will screen a range of film titles from new releases, family favourites, classic titles and arthouse specials. Find out more about the Storyteller Library, including events, membership information and opening times, at www.bexley.gov.uk/bexley-libraries

Details of offers and memberships and tickets for the new cinema are available to purchase at sidcupstoryteller.co.uk.

You can follow Sidcup Storyteller on Instagram (@sidcupstoryteller), Facebook (Sidcup Storyteller) and Twitter (@sidcupstorytllr).

There are a number of large and small commercial opportunities currently available in Sidcup. To find out more please use email sue@sidcuppartners.co.uk

What local businesses think about Bexley’s Business & Employment service

The London Borough of Bexley is partnering with Climax Community to offer small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) a free 12-month membership to the Climate Essentials online carbon management system. By signing up Bexley SMEs can get help to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and cut energy bills.

Through its e-business partnership with South East Enterprise (SEE), the Council has helped over 200 small businesses to get online and improve their sales, social media and SEO.

Mercedes Gale, from local business ‘4YaParty Weddings and Events’ said:

“I'm always telling people about the amazing opportunities that Bexley Borough gives small businesses to try and increase uptake as I know if we don't use it we will lose it. South East Enterprise and Climate Essentials being a prime example of an amazing resource that doesn't get used enough in my opinion!”

Find out more www.bexley.gov.uk/bbe

• Leader of the London Borough of Bexley, Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE with the Mayor and Mayoress of Bexley and the founder of the Really Local Group Preston Benson

Committed to making Sidcup a vibrant place to live, work and socialise

Sidcup’s Business Improvement District (BID), Sidcup Partners, is one of over 330 BID organisations across the UK working to promote and enhance their town centre area. This is done by investing funds raised via the BID levy, paid by members within the defined BID area, directly into projects, initiatives, events, festivals and promotions that actively boost local business and the wider local community.

Sue Petty is the new Executive Director of Sidcup Partners. Here’s what Sue had to say about her role: “As your new BID Executive Director since 31 March 2023, I’m happy to share with you the latest projects and initiatives in Sidcup which all contribute to our wonderful community. Previously, I was Senior Partner at Your Move Petty Freeman with both MARLA and MNAEA qualifications, then Chair of Sidcup BID - I’ve lived and worked in the Sidcup area for over 20 years. Prior to working here, I worked in London at Lloyds Bank for 16 years before leaving to start a family. Family life is very important to me, and I’m blessed in having a wonderful family to support me. I’m committed to continuing to make Sidcup a safe and happy environment for my grandsons to grow up in, and I will give my 100 percent commitment to all of the members in the BID area to enable them to achieve the best possible return on their business. Alongside me at Sidcup Partners is Dominic Price (Chairperson), and Directors: Liz Twort; Jenny Offord; Richard Pitt; Mary Oliver and Joey Hosier. Head of Finance is Tyler Smith, and our advisers are Martin Pinnel from Bexley Borough Council and Dave Catlow from the Metropolitan Police.”

Online shopping is a barrier to traditional ways of exploring the high street, and therefore the main challenge for every BID is to provide incentives for local residents to physically interact with the range of shops and services on their highstreets.

Recently, Sidcup Partners has invested in a number of projects that help to address these issues from different angles. Themed ‘Town Trails’ for Easter, the Coronation and now Summer, are aimed at families with young children and encourage interaction between businesses and potential customers, with bright and fun pictures to find along the way. “Feedback about the trails from all - families and businesses in the community, has been fantastic, with almost a third of trail participants coming from out of the Sidcup area to enjoy the activity. We are planning more themed trails throughout the year to give children a fun activity to enjoy, and our businesses benefit from the additional footfall. A real win-win!”

41 Sidcup businesses are offering exclusive Student Discounts. There are some brilliant offers! You can pick up a leaflet listing all the offers from Bird College or Rose Bruford

College, or check the Sidcup Partners website. There are a wide range of businesses kindly providing discounts to students, from food & drink establishments to tech specialists, clothing stores and health, beauty and fitness providers.

Sidcup Partners is the go-to organisations for its businesses to ask for help with any aspect of improving and enhancing their service, from recycling services and environmental issues, to security, repurposing empty units and facilitating business networking events.

Sidcup Fringe Festival is taking place on Saturday 2 September on Rose Bruford College Grounds from 10am – 7pm. This fantastic BID sponsored event will include music, kids’ entertainment, a variety of stalls, local community groups, food & drink (including a bar), and lots more fun.

This year’s Summer Trail is taking place during the summer holidays, with free trail maps available to pick up and great prizes to be won!

For more information about the events above and additional information about Sidcup Partners, please visit sidcuppartners.co.uk

Net Zero Change Pivotal to UK Plc’s Competitiveness

Business says a partnership with Government is vital to meet the UK’s commitment to be Net Zero by 2050.

The proposal is a centrepiece of a new report from business leaders which recommends how we successfully transition to a Net Zero economy.

Among its other recommendations are:

• Government must ensure the UK doesn’t fall behind on Net Zero, and promote the advantages of a low carbon UK economy.

• Reaching Net Zero means action beyond energy production – including upgrading our transport systems, homes, businesses, and land use.

• All major Government spending and policy decisions should be stress tested to check they help deliver the UK’s Net Zero aim.

• There must and can be a step change in the way we move people and goods, how we heat our buildings and what we produce and consume.

• Action is needed now, if UK business is to remain competitive in a global race for investment.

• To truly unlock the UK’s potential, business and government should focus on a five Is framework – Integrity, Investment, Implementation, Innovation and Influence.

The report, by the Advisory Business Group, has been sent to the Government’s independent statutory Climate Change Committee (CCC) for consideration.

The group was formed last November by the CCC to provide solutions from the business community to keep the UK’s Net Zero commitment on track.

It has been chaired by Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce. The CCC will now consider the report before making its final recommendations to Government.

Commenting on the proposals, Ms Haviland, said: “Net Zero is simply about commercial competitiveness and positioning companies to seize the global benefits that the lowcarbon transition will bring.

“But if the UK is to stand even a chance of hitting the Net Zero target by 2050 then businesses and government must work together to achieve it.

“With the right framework in place, UK firms can lead on creating and manufacturing the technology to allow us all to live greener lives. Which is vital for supporting the consumer behaviour required to reach Net Zero.

“Everyone understands the imperative, but research also shows that many firms, especially smaller ones, do not fully understand how to capture those benefits.

“There is a real danger that these businesses will get left behind unless politicians and business leaders come together to galvanise action. The UK is poised to be a global leader in Net Zero competitiveness and inward investment, but that opportunity may slip from our fingers.

“With so many business sectors making up our economy, the pathway to net zero will not be the same in each one – farmers, builders, creatives and accountants will all need to take different routes.

“What is essential now is building Net Zero into all aspects of Government policy and spending, to demonstrate the commitment. Giving that clarity and certainty will drive business confidence to invest.

“We need to know how businesses will be supported to switch from industrial scale heating systems; plans for electric vehicle charging networks; how our freight systems will be decarbonised, and our energy sources diversified and stabilised.

“Once we have the full picture it will then become much easier for firms to make their plans with confidence and work out how they can finance them.”

Responding, after receiving the report, Climate Change Committee Chief Executive, Chris Stark, said: “I’m grateful to our Advisory Group on Business for this report, which offers important ideas to realise the potential of business to support the UK’s journey to Net Zero.

“Our own analysis emphasises the integral role that the private sector must play in the transition. It is businesses that will develop and deploy low carbon technologies, their capital investment is the majority needed for Net Zero, their offering to consumers will drive the change in Net Zero lifestyles.

“The Advisory Group’s recommendations and insights will now feed into a new report we are preparing on the potential for business action on climate change later this year.”

❛❛With the right framework in place, UK firms can lead on creating and manufacturing the technology to allow us all to live greener lives. Which is vital for supporting the consumer behaviour required to reach Net Zero.❜❜

Partner with the University of Greenwich

As a local employer and education provider in London and Kent, we want to work with businesses that reflect our values in collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.

“Visit Greenwich are proud partners of the University of Greenwich. We work with about 200 businesses across the local visitor economy to drive growth. There are a vast range of skills needed by these businesses including event management, marketing, and hospitality. We are extremely keen to ensure University of Greenwich students have the opportunity to transfer their skills and enthusiasm to these businesses.”

Barrie Kelly, CEO Visit Greenwich

The University of Greenwich offers a wealth of talent to help you to build or extend your workforce, drive innovation and deliver impact.

• Expand your workforce at a lower cost with a student placement

• Upskill or reskill to retain your existing staff

• Bring bright and hungry graduates into your workforce

• Help us to create the graduates that you need for your business

Speak to a Partnerships Relationship Manager today. Simply complete our online enquiry form at: www.gre.ac.uk/partnerships

Starlink

LP Networks’ expert guide: Are you Embracing Starlink? Reliable High-Speed, Low Latency Internet for UK SMEs.

Starlink

LP Networks’ expert guide: Are you Embracing Starlink?

Reliable High-Speed, Low Latency Internet for UK SMEs.

The Future of the Internet for SMEs?

with Lee Pepper, Owner LP Networks

with Lee Pepper, Owner LP Networks

The Future of the Internet for SMEs?

Reliable and high-speed internet access is no longer a luxury but a necessity for businesses. The advent of Starlink, a satellite internet constellation by SpaceX, holds the potential to revolutionise internet connectivity for SMEs in the UK. Offering high-speed, lowlatency internet access, Starlink aims to bridge the digital divide in traditionally underserved areas, including rural and remote locations.

Reliable and high-speed internet access is no longer a luxury but a necessity for businesses. The advent of Starlink, a satellite internet constellation by SpaceX, holds the potential to revolutionise internet connectivity for SMEs in the UK. Offering high-speed, lowlatency internet access, Starlink aims to bridge the digital divide in traditionally underserved areas, including rural and remote locations.

Benefits for SMEs

Benefits for SMEs

Starlink brings numerous advantages for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With download speeds between 25-220 Mbps (depending on package), significantly faster than traditional satellite internet, businesses can enjoy enhanced efficiency and productivity, particularly when dealing with large files such as video editing and graphic design. Additionally, Starlink offers low latency, ranging from 20 to 40 milliseconds, comparable to traditional broadband, enabling real-time communication

Starlink brings numerous advantages for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With download speeds between 25-220 Mbps (depending on package), significantly faster than traditional satellite internet, businesses can enjoy enhanced efficiency and productivity, particularly when dealing with large files such as video editing and graphic design. Additionally, Starlink offers low latency, ranging from 20 to 40 milliseconds, comparable to traditional broadband, enabling real-time communication

0800 970 8980

through video conferencing and other applications. Moreover, Starlink’s reliability in inclement weather ensures uninterrupted internet access for SMEs operating in rural or remote areas where traditional services are often unreliable and inconsistent.

through video conferencing and other applications. Moreover, Starlink’s reliability in inclement weather ensures uninterrupted internet access for SMEs operating in rural or remote areas where traditional services are often unreliable and inconsistent.

Considerations and Drawbacks

Considerations and Drawbacks

While Starlink holds tremendous potential, it is crucial to consider certain limitations. Currently, Starlink is available only in select areas, limiting its accessibility for some businesses. Moreover, the upfront costs associated with Starlink hardware and service are higher than traditional broadband internet. Additionally, the environmental impact of Starlink’s satellite network is a subject of ongoing discussion. These factors should be carefully weighed before deciding to sign up for Starlink.

While Starlink holds tremendous potential, it is crucial to consider certain limitations. Currently, Starlink is available only in select areas, limiting its accessibility for some businesses. Moreover, the upfront costs associated with Starlink hardware and service are higher than traditional broadband internet. Additionally, the environmental impact of Starlink’s satellite network is a subject of ongoing discussion. These factors should be carefully weighed before deciding to sign up for Starlink.

a remote rural area. With traditional broadband speeds hovering around 5 Mbps, we recommended Starlink as a potential solution. After conducting a proof of concept and achieving speeds of up to 140 Mbps, with consistent performance never falling below 100 Mbps, our client eagerly embraced the service. By mounting the dish at an elevated position and integrating it into the existing network, our client experienced a remarkable 30-fold increase in internet speed, revolutionising their operations.

a remote rural area. With traditional broadband speeds hovering around 5 Mbps, we recommended Starlink as a potential solution. After conducting a proof of concept and achieving speeds of up to 140 Mbps, with consistent performance never falling below 100 Mbps, our client eagerly embraced the service. By mounting the dish at an elevated position and integrating it into the existing network, our client experienced a remarkable 30-fold increase in internet speed, revolutionising their operations.

Real-World Experience

Real-World Experience

To highlight the practical benefits of Starlink, we recently implemented this technology for a client located in

To highlight the practical benefits of Starlink, we recently implemented this technology for a client located in

Starlink represents a promising technology that can revolutionise internet access for UK SMEs. However, it is crucial to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a decision. Despite some limitations, Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency, and reliable internet service make it an excellent option for businesses seeking to enhance their connectivity and productivity. Contact us to explore how Starlink can benefit your business today.

Starlink represents a promising technology that can revolutionise internet access for UK SMEs. However, it is crucial to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a decision. Despite some limitations, Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency, and reliable internet service make it an excellent option for businesses seeking to enhance their connectivity and productivity. Contact us to explore how Starlink can benefit your business today. 0800 970 8980

Enhancing Workplace Culture, Unlocking Potential

As a beacon of hope, our mission is to equip workplaces, schools and community groups with the tools, techniques and confidence to spot the signs and symptoms of poor mental health and inspire hope for recovery in the UK.

Why Mental Health First Aid?

Impact of mental illness in the workplace

Approximately 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental illness each year. In 2016, 15.8 million UK work days were lost due to mental illness.*

The largest causes of sickness absence for our country’s workforce is depression, stress, and anxiety. Mental illness costs UK businesses around £35 billion every year, this equates to £10.6 billion lost to sickness absence, £21.2 billion in reduced productivity, and £3.1 billion in substituting staff members who vacate their roles due to mental illness.

Our Courses

Discover a flexible range of online and in-house training options for your organisation, from Mental Health Awareness sessions to a full Mental Health First Aider® certification valid across the UK.

• Mental Health First Aid

• 1 Day Adult MHFA Champions

• ½ Day Adult MHFA Aware

• 2 Day Youth MHFA

• 1 Day Youth MHFA

• ½ Day Youth MHFA

Online or In-House Options

Pharus Training

Psychological safety allows for inclusion. Inclusion creates diversity. Diversity facilitates performance.

With an increasing demand for Mental Health training and education across schools and workplaces, Pharus Training delivers Online and In-house Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training to organisations to help create cultures where people feel comfortable talking about their mental health!

Our courses are safely facilitated by expert MHFA Instructor Members to guide you through a reflective journey of hope for recovery, leaving learners with a deeper understanding of how to better support themselves and others.

Much like Physical First Aid Training, MHFAiders® are empowered to provide support where it is needed and begin to shape a healthier workplace with a thriving culture with confidence, community, and access to exclusive resources and events.

Pharos of Alexandria

Pharos of Alexandria, inspired by one of the Seven Wonders of the World, was a lighthouse built by the Greek Ptolemaic Kingdom of Ancient Egypt during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus. Built in the 3rd Century BC, Pharos of Alexandria stood for over 1500 years surviving many Egyptian regimes and conflicts.

Located on the tiny island of Pharos in Alexandria, the technological triumph finally collapsed in 1323 and has been the archetype model of all future lighthouses since.

Expert MHFA Instructors

Training Benefits

- Reduce stress levels

- Reduce sickness absence

- Prevent burnout

- Improve inclusion and diversity

- Improved psychological safety

- Enhance potential

- Increase employee engagement

- Boost performance

- Boost resilience

Testimonial

Our courses are delivered online or at your workplace by one of our qualified and quality-assured Mental Health First Aid Instructor Members with a diverse background and experience in mental health and a unique ability to engage and motivate learners.

Our Instructors are here to help raise awareness of and challenge mental health stigma and discrimination across society by making mental health education fun, empowering, and inspirational.

“Before this course I thought I knew how to deal with mental health but I was nowhere prepared. I am very happy with the topics covered. It really gave me an insight into mental health. I have a friend struggling with mental health and my mum died due to mental health challenges. This course has raised my awareness and am happy to recommend it to more of my friends and family.”

Walk and Talk for Mental Health

Recognising the signs of poor mental health is central to the Pharus Training philosophy. From pain to purpose, our love for inspiring hope for recovery has become a survivor’s mission that will never change! Meet your team of MHFA Instructors, book our courses or schedule a discovery call at www.pharustraining.com or email us at info@pharustraining.com

The Council’s Greenwich Access to Apprenticeships Fund (GAAF) for 2023/2024 is now available to help local employers hire more apprentices and upskill their staff

This year, the Council is making over £260,000 available to local employers.

Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business and Skills said: “Apprenticeships can be life-changing for learners and give businesses a massive boost. That’s why they’re at the heart of our work to create an inclusive economy in Royal Greenwich, where everyone has the opportunity to secure a good job. We want to promote apprenticeships and make it as easy as possible for employers to create high-quality opportunities for residents, bringing real benefits to organisations. The GAAF scheme makes it a no-brainer for employers to recruit more apprentices and train their staff.

“Apprenticeships have benefited the Council enormously, so we speak from experience. We’re proud that, since 2012 over 1000 people

have achieved their qualification with us and gone on to fruitful careers. In fact, many have now become managers and are employing and supporting apprentices themselves. Now we’re delighted to be able to help fund smaller businesses to increase apprenticeship opportunities through the fund”.

The fund is aimed at helping organisations to invest in high-quality training and hire and retain talented staff, equipped with the future-ready skills they need to thrive and succeed. There are almost 800 nationally recognised apprenticeship standards available to new or existing staff, ranging from Level-2 to Level-7, which is equivalent to master's degree.

The apprenticeship levy contribution is paid by all large employers, including the Council. The GAAF allows the Council to transfer up to 25% of its annual apprenticeship levy funds to

employers in Royal Greenwich, including small businesses, third-sector organisations, charities, social enterprises, and apprenticeship training agencies.

The fund can only be used to cover 100% of the training and assessment costs of an apprentice, through one of the new apprenticeship standards. Employers will still need to cover the salary costs for an apprentice as this is not covered by transferred levy funds.

GET IN TOUCH

The Council’s employment and skills service, Greenwich Local Labour and Business (GLLaB), can support businesses with information on the fund, eligibility, identifying candidates and hiring an apprentice. Get in touch with GLLaB to find out more: apprenticeships@royalgreenwich.gov.uk

McBrides Chartered Accountants reveals new managing partner

McBrides Chartered Accountants has revealed Tanya Hamilton as its new managing partner as Nick Paterno steps down from the role after 13 years at the helm.

A ‘home-grown’ talent, Tanya joined the Sidcupheadquartered firm as a graduate 28 years ago qualifying as a chartered accountant in 1998 and was made partner in 2014 and worked alongside Nick developing a specialism advising clients in the professional services sector. During her time as partner at the firm, Tanya has led recruitment, training and development, and initiated successful community fundraising and education initiatives.

The changes which became effective from 1 July 2023 come as the firm celebrates its 50th anniversary. Tanya will become only the third managing partner in the firm’s history. Nick will step back from management responsibilities and concentrate on advising his client portfolio and business development.

Tanya Hamilton said: “I’m delighted to step up and take on the challenge of managing McBrides and continue the excellent work that Nick has pioneered over the last 13 years. On behalf of our other partners, I thank him for leading the firm so ably, particularly through the challenges presented by the pandemic.

“As we look to our next 50 years (and more!), I’m excited to create an environment where

we provide our clients with the highest quality services, recruit the best local talent and provide staff with exciting career development opportunities, and ensure we continue to work responsibly with our local community.”

Nick said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of managing McBrides over the last 13 years and I am proud of how far the partners and team have progressed the practice over that period. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary in business, it’s feels like this is a good opportunity to hand over the reins to Tanya.

“Having worked together for so long, I know Tanya will expertly steer McBrides into a new and exciting phase of growth. I’m looking forward to supporting her and having more time to work with my clients and help them achieve their goals.”

Student success celebrated at glittering awards evening

London South East Colleges celebrated students’ remarkable achievements at its annual Awards Evening, with over 20 winners collecting prizes.

The sparkling evening was hosted by BBC presenter and broadcaster, Ashley JohnBaptiste. He introduced the event then gave an inspiring talk about his own life experiences before presenting the winners with their awards.

Two performances by students from the London School of Performing Arts added to the celebrations, showcasing some amazing dance and singing talent.

Taking place in the Rose Theatre at Rose Bruford College, the event recognised the hard work, commitment, tenacity and talent of students from across LSEC’s campuses in Bromley, Bexley, Greenwich and Lambeth.

Categories included Apprentice of the Year, Adult Learner of the Year and Further Education Learner of the Year – through to awards for Wellbeing, Resilience and Outstanding Contribution to the Community.

Exceptional Teamwork was also celebrated, and special recognition awards were presented to several students for their contribution to college life.

CEO and Group Principal of London South East Colleges, Dr Sam Parrett, said: "We have heard some remarkable stories of individual and collective success this evening – which have made us all feel very proud. "

“From exceptional academic achievements and fantastic career progression, through to community-focused action and commitment to volunteering, our students are truly inspirational."

“As a college deep-rooted in our communities, we know that education really does have the power to transform people’s lives. Our exceptional staff work tirelessly every day to help students achieve and we are also very grateful for the fantastic support we receive from local employers, trustees and our local authorities. "

“Thank you to everyone who has joined us for this special event and congratulations to every winner. We wish you the very best of luck in the future as you pursue your career ambitions.”

Event host, Ashley-John Baptiste, spoke to the audience about his own experience of education and overcoming immense challenges. He said: "This has been an amazing evening and it’s very special to be back in south east London, where I grew up."

“The award winners’ astonishing achievements are truly inspirational, with many of them overcoming significant challenges to get where they are today. This is testament to their resilience and determination, which they should be extremely proud of."

“As a looked after child from the age of two, I myself faced many barriers to success. Yet, I defeated the odds and ended up with a degree from the University of Cambridge –not something that was expected of a boy who had been in care for his whole life."

And here I am today as a successful broadcast journalist and presenter - proving that, with the right attitude, anything really is possible.

“Congratulations to every student here tonight. I wish you the very best of luck in your lives and future careers. Have faith in yourself and your own abilities as you have incredibly exciting futures ahead.”

Among the award winners was 17-year-old Oleksandra Denysenko, who won FE Student of the Year (Bromley Campus). Her desire to learn and to become a role model ‘female techie’ of the future was celebrated. She said: “I came to the UK from Ukraine last year and have been determined to pursue my dream job in IT. I joined a Level 3 IT course and it has been fantastic. I love attending college and the tutors are so supportive. I was so surprised to win this award but very happy.”

Kye Jahans (18) is a Level 2 Plumbing student at the College’s Holly Hill campus and won FE Student of the Year (Bexley). He was commended for his mature attitude, ambition and passion for his studies. He said: “I did a year at sixth form but realised it wasn’t for me, so came to LSEC to study plumbing. It’s a friendly environment, with supportive tutors and I am really enjoying my course. I’m going to progress to a Level 3 course in September and then want to get an apprenticeship. I’d recommend this college to anyone – if you put the work in, you’ll do well.”

Naomi Spence (19) won the Chair’s Award, presented by Dr Sam Parrett CBE. She was given this prize for her community-focused attitude and the positive impact she made on the College’s Prince’s Trust programme, which she completed at the Orpington campus. She said: “This college has given me so many opportunities and I am honoured to have won this award. Both LSEC and the Prince’s Trust programme really push people to develop important skills and it’s great to be able to help other people at the same time. I am now going to university to study Marketing Management and am aiming for a career in the media.”

Paula Carolina De Avila Ribeiro, an adult health and social care student from the College’s Greenwich Campus, received the Wellbeing award for her caring and supportive attitude towards others. She said: “My college experience has been life changing and I’m so grateful to my tutor who has been amazing. I now know that helping others and positively impacting their lives is exactly what I want to do – so am delighted to have secured a full-time position at a local charity, which supports the community.”

The full list of winners can be found at https://www.lsec.ac.uk/news/3673-studentsuccess-celebrated-at%20-glittering-awardsevening

For more information about London South East Colleges and the many courses, qualifications and apprenticeships we offer, please visit: www.LSEC.ac.uk

Volunteering and social action: a solution to our skills issues?

By Dr Sam Parrett, Group Principal and CEO of London South East College

Colleges deliver far more to their communities than just education. Offering accessible pathways to people of all ages and all backgrounds to gain the skills and knowledge they need to achieve great jobs, is a genuine driver of social mobility.

To this end, we know that colleges generate extensive social value and community wealth, which has been demonstrated by the sector’s Good for Me Good for FE campaign. Launched in 2021 and having quickly built a network of 140 colleges and charitable partners (including the AoC), this initiative has quantified the added value that colleges provide to their communities in monetary terms, via voluntary and fundraising activities.

In the last two years, almost £4m of social value has been generated by our network. This has been evidenced via a social value calculator, developed using the TOMs framework in partnership with the Social Value Portal. Colleges have come on board to report and celebrate the voluntary work that their staff and students are doing in their communities – which has driven even more, impactful activity.

One of the many successes and indeed learnings from this project, has been the positive impact that volunteering activities have had on the employability skills of individual students. This is particularly crucial at a time when attributes such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, creativity and digital literacy are in such demand from employers.

Recent research published by the NFER , from its Skills Imperative 2035 programme, sets out the importance of fully preparing people for a rapidly changing job market, by equipping them with the types of transferrable skills listed above. These will be in high demand in the next 15 years and beyond, and without them, there will be a real risk of underemployment and related social issues.

In addition, the government’s local skills improvement plans (LSIPs) put real emphasis on the importance of making post 16 technical education and training ‘more responsive and closely aligned to local labour market needs.

’ This reiterates the calls from industry to ensure they have access to a pipeline of well skilled employees, who understand the working environment and can communicate effectively, as well as having technical capability.

This focus on ‘work readiness’ is even more crucial with AI and other technological advances moving at such pace and impacting on many jobs in all industries. As educators, we need to acknowledge and address this via the creation of innovative curricula, pioneering industry partnerships and a willingness to do things differently.

Every student needs to develop a suite of skills that goes beyond technical course knowledge. In the past, traditional work experience has supported this and like all colleges, we have focused on making placements as meaningful as possible. But as demand for high quality work experience grows - particularly with the introduction of T Levels and their 45-day placement requirement – we need to think more creatively about how students can get the opportunity to develop these essential employability skills.

And this is why we must encourage the recognition of voluntary and community work as a valuable form of work experience, with social action benefitting everyone. For example, a student giving their time to support a local project will be adding value to their community, while also developing the student’s own employability skills. This will ultimately help them to access a good job in the future, aiding their own social mobility and the wider economy.

In addition, it is well documented that volunteering has a positive impact on a person’s wellbeing. A study of 17,000 people by the University of East Anglia revealed that volunteering is associated with enhanced wellbeing, including improved life satisfaction, increased happiness and decreases in symptoms of depression.

At a time when mental health issues are so rampant, encouraging a culture of community and supporting others has never been as important. This was very much part of the rationale for developing Good for Me Good for FE, particularly post pandemic. It also represents the kind, caring and inclusive nature of our sector.

As Anchor Institutions embedded within communities, college networks have never been so important. Among the recommendations made by The Independent Commission on the College of the Future report was an imperative to ensure employers can ‘make the education and skills system work for their needs’.

To do this, we need to develop creative new ways to meet such requirements by strengthening links with other colleges, employers, charities and other stakeholders. This is more important than ever with changing skills needs and a huge shake up of job roles on the horizon.

Good for Me Good for FE has shown exactly how effective collective, national action can be in terms of generating real impact locally. It has also presented a potential solution to a wider problem of expanding opportunities for young people to gain experience of work and develop crucial, indemand employability skills.

Having clearly evidenced the extent and impact of social action taking place within our sector, we must now maximise the potential it has to support longer-term career success and the wider economy.

New Bexley Culture Network invites other organisations to join forces

A coalition of Bexley-based cultural organisations seeking to develop a wide-ranging cultural programme for the borough’s 60th anniversary in 2025 is calling for other local creative groups to join them in their mission.

The Bexley Cultural Network is made up of local 17 cultural organisations with a strong commitment to making positive change across Bexley’s neighbourhoods through arts, crafts and culture. It includes community-led organisations, charities, and cultural groups.

The network has kicked off its work by setting out its cultural manifesto – a pledge to work together, share learning and create diverse and inclusive cultural work. They are now inviting other local cultural groups inspired by the manifesto to join with them and take advantage of the many benefits of collaborative working.

Over the coming months, the Bexley Cultural Network will meet quarterly to map out a series of high-quality events and activities

for 2025 which will celebrate the heritage of the borough, highlighting each of its six town centres. Championing democracy, the group will be chaired by different member organisations on a yearly basis, and will meet quarterly in different cultural venues throughout Bexley.

Adriana Marques, current Chair of the Bexley Cultural Network and Peabody’s Head of Thamesmead Cultural Strategy, said: “I’m delighted to be launching the Bexley Cultural Network alongside our partners, setting out our approach to working together to benefit communities throughout the borough. Coming together in this way enables us to harness our expertise, share resources and make the most of the fantastic creative spirit across the entire borough. The 60th anniversary celebrations in 2025 are a wonderful opportunity for us to

New recruit to lead residential conveyancing team at Judge & Priestley’s Sidcup office

Judge & Priestley Solicitors, the leading provider of comprehensive residential conveyancing services in the South East and Kent region, is pleased to announce the addition of James Ray as the new lead solicitor of its Residential Conveyancing Department in the Sidcup office.

This strategic appointment marks a significant milestone in the company's continued growth and commitment to providing exceptional residential conveyancing services to its clients.

With a proven track record and extensive experience, James Ray brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Judge & Priestley. Having worked for over 10 of years in residential conveyancing James has successfully handled numerous high-value transactions, earning him a reputation for delivering outstanding results.

As the new lead of the Residential Conveyancing Department, James Ray will spearhead the expansion of Judge & Priestley's already robust residential conveyancing services operating from their Sidcup office.

With the ever-increasing demand for efficient and reliable property transactions, he will lead a team of skilled professionals dedicated to providing seamless and personalised service to clients in and across the surrounding areas of Sidcup.

Commenting on the appointment, Madelaine Henwood, Partner, and head of Residential Conveyancing at Judge & Priestley stated, "We are thrilled to welcome James Ray to our team. His extensive experience and leadership skills will undoubtedly strengthen our department and we look forward to working closely with him to further enhance our residential conveyancing services and deliver exceptional value to our clients."

James Ray, Solicitor added “I am excited to join and lead a strong conveyancing team in Sidcup. It is a pleasure to join a firm dedicated to providing outstanding service to clients and look forward to continuing to offer the

show residents from the borough and beyond just what a brilliant place Bexley is. We’re really looking forward to getting stuck in and welcoming others on board who share our aspirations and ambition.”

Julie Stanning from Bexley Music (LSEAT) said: “The Bexley Cultural Network is a great way of bringing cultural organisations together, whatever their specialism. By setting out of a manifesto, we hope to inspire groups across the borough to collaborate with us. There are real benefits from working together towards a common purpose – and the network is a great way of helping individuals and organisations feel value, supported and inspired.”

To find out more about the Bexley Cultural Network and how to join, contact ThamesmeadNow@peabody.org.uk

same to the people in the local area. I am happy to add to the extensive experience of the team and am excited to begin my journey with Judge & Priestley.”

Judge & Priestley is renowned for its unwavering commitment to professionalism, integrity, and client satisfaction. With their dedicated team of experts, Judge & Priestley continues to provide an unparalleled conveyancing experience, ensuring a smooth and stressfree process for all parties involved.

For more information about Judge & Priestley and its comprehensive range of conveyancing services, please visit www.judge-priestley.co.uk or contact Nita Newsome at nnewsome@judge-priestley.co.uk

Boston Manor House, Hounslow

L-R Pam Grewal, Margot Wells, Madelaine Henwood, James Ray and Xenon Matthews

Boston Manor House, Hounslow © Diane Auckland, Fotohaus Ltd

AI The Power and Potential

Internationally best-selling business author Bernard Marr talks to Sarah Dale about the future of AI, the positives and the pitfalls, and how businesses should prepare for the future of technology.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been around since the mid-20th century, but its evolution has accelerated tremendously in the past few decades. The initial stages were characterised by a lack of progress due to limited computer processing capabilities and data. However, with the advent of increased computational power, advancements in machine learning, and the availability of vast amounts of data, AI has evolved significantly.

Today, we are in the era of AI that is capable of deep learning. This means that AI can learn and improve from experience, solving complex problems without being explicitly programmed to do so. It's the technology behind self-driving cars, generative AI tools such as ChatGPT, recommendation

systems, and many other advancements that were just science fiction a few decades ago.

Futurist Bernard Marr, an internationally best-selling business author, is a CEO and strategic advisor to some of the world’s biggest organisations including Amazon, Microsoft, Google, IBM, Toyota, and the United Nations. A prolific writer, he has penned 22 best-selling books, writes a regular column for Forbes and is a frequent contributor to the World Economic Forum.

“AI's power and potential are immense,” said Bernard, who lives in Milton Keynes with his wife and three children.

“From automating mundane tasks and providing real-time analytics to creating complex algorithms that can outperform humans in specific tasks, AI has already shown us a glimpse of its potential.”

AI can learn from data, identify patterns, and make predictions, all at a scale and speed that is beyond human capability. This makes it a powerful tool for addressing a wide array of challenges across various industries, including healthcare, finance, education, and transportation, to name a few.

In medical healthcare, AI has the potential to drastically improve diagnostics, patient care, and research. AI algorithms can analyse medical images, genomics data, or electronic health records to detect diseases such as cancer at an early stage, often with greater accuracy than human physicians. They can also predict disease progression or recommend personalised treatment plans based on a patient's unique profile.

Moreover, AI can automate administrative tasks, allowing healthcare professionals to spend more time on patient care. In research, AI can sift through vast amounts of biomedical literature to identify potential new drug candidates or predict their possible side effects.

“For business leaders, it's crucial to understand that digital transformation isn't just about implementing new technologies; it's about fundamentally changing how your organisation operates,” said Bernard.

“You need to create a culture that embraces change and fosters innovation.

“First, develop a clear vision and strategy for your digital transformation.

Identify the business areas where emerging technologies like AI could have the greatest impact. This could be improving customer service with chatbots, enhancing decision-making with data analytics, or automating routine tasks.

“Second, invest in skills. Your workforce needs to be able to leverage these technologies effectively. This might involve hiring new talent, reskilling existing employees, or partnering with external organisations.

“Lastly, prioritise data management. The value of AI and other emerging technologies lies in their ability to extract insights from data. Ensure you have robust data governance, privacy, and security measures in place.”

AI does pose a risk to jobs, particularly those involving routine or repetitive tasks, however, it can also create new jobs. In fact, many of the jobs that exist now didn’t a few decades ago.

AI is expected to create new roles related to developing, managing and maintaining AI systems. However, this transition requires proactive measures, including reskilling and upskilling of the workforce, to ensure people can take advantage of these new opportunities.

From automating mundane tasks and providing real-time analytics to creating complex algorithms that can outperform humans in specific tasks, AI has already shown us a glimpse of its potential.❜❜

Like any technology, AI can pose dangers if not properly managed and regulated. Some potential dangers highlighted by Bernard include:

• Privacy and security: AI systems can process vast amounts of data, which can be a risk if these systems are not properly secured. They can be used for malicious purposes, such as surveillance, data theft, or cyberattacks.

• Bias: If AI is trained on biased data, it will produce biased results, leading to unfair outcomes. This is especially concerning in areas like hiring, lending, or law enforcement, where bias can have serious real-world consequences.

• Ethics and accountability: As AI systems become more autonomous, it can be difficult to determine accountability. For example, if a selfdriving car is involved in an accident, who is to blame? The manufacturer, the owner, or the AI itself?

• Socio-economic impact: AI might increase inequality if the benefits are not widely distributed.

Bernard’s latest book, Future Skills: The 20 Skills and Competencies

Everyone Needs to Succeed in a Digital World, outlines the essential skills needed for success in an increasingly digital world.

“As the technology landscape evolves, most of the future workforce will be doing jobs that don’t yet exist,” he said. “Even our current jobs are not immune to change; they will evolve, some will become obsolete, and many new ones will emerge.”

With this in mind, his book aims to prepare everyone - not just those in the workforce today, but those who will join in the future - for this rapid evolution. He explores the need for skills beyond just the current job market, including the jobs that may exist in the future as we delegate more tasks to machines. Interestingly, these future skills lean more towards softer skills, the areas where machines are currently unable to match human capabilities.

“The aim of the book is not only to inform but also to encourage individuals to cultivate these skills, in order to succeed in the digital era,” he added.

“It emphasises the importance of continual learning, adaptability, and a keen awareness of technology, while also underlining the importance of emotional intelligence, ethical awareness, and personal wellbeing. In essence, it provides a comprehensive guide to thriving in a future that, while uncertain, holds many exciting opportunities for those prepared to navigate it.”

Bernard predicts that AI will become increasingly integrated into our daily lives, in ways we can and cannot currently imagine.

“We will likely see more applications in areas like personalised education, preventive healthcare, and sustainable energy management,” he said.

“AI will become more explainable and transparent, addressing current concerns about 'black box' decisionmaking. We'll also see the rise of 'edge AI', where AI processing happens on

As the technology landscape workforce will be doing jobs jobs are not immune to change; become obsolete, and many

For business leaders, it's crucial to understand that digital transformation isn't just about implementing new technologies; it's about fundamentally changing how your organisation operates.❜❜

local devices, reducing data privacy concerns and improving efficiency.

“In terms of regulation, I expect to see more comprehensive frameworks emerge to address ethical, privacy, and security issues.

“However, the future of AI depends on our actions today. By investing in research, promoting ethical use, and ensuring equitable access, we can harness the potential of AI while mitigating its risks.”

Future Skills: The 20 Skills and Competencies Everyone Needs to Succeed in a Digital World

By Bernard Marr

landscape evolves, most of the future that don’t yet exist. Even our current change; they will evolve, some will many new ones will emerge.❜❜

(Wiley, £18.99) is out now.

WHY GIGABIT CONNECTIVITY is Critical for Businesses across South East London

We talk to Daren Baythorpe about Digital Greenwich Connect, the impact of full-fibre connectivity, and its effect on businesses in our region.

Though hard to believe, in 2010, there was almost no ultrafast connectivity in the UK. Today more than half of all premises in the country can now be reached by full-fibre.

It’s a technology that delivers speeds of over one gigabit per second (Gbps). The government aims to have all premises connected to fibre by 2030, with a growing emphasis on enabling speeds of up to 10Gbps where practicable.

Undoubtedly, the deployment of this improved digital infrastructure has been a strong success story for the UK in recent years, but there’s still more to do. And that drive towards increasing coverage and access to a business’s fibre is dependent, in no small part, on alternative network providers known as altnets.

The role of altnets and other innovative new ways of serving regional markets are leading the march towards the 2030 deadline.

By moving beyond a reliance on the established incumbents, there’s now an ecosystem of altnets, reaching multiple buildings across the country and building networks that are fit for the future.

One of the newest networks in the country is a joint venture called Digital Greenwich Connect, operating in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Introducing Digital Greenwich Connect

Digital Greenwich Connect is a new digital highway in South East London. It’s a £2m joint venture between DG Cities, an innovation company set up and owned by Greenwich Council and full-fibre provider ITS.

Daren Baythorpe is CEO at ITS, leading the growth and development of the UK’s Faster Britain gigabit-capable full-fibre network.

Digital Greenwich Connect is one of the newest networks to join the Faster Britain family. The exciting new partnership launched earlier in the year with an ambition to make the Royal Borough of Greenwich one of the most digitally connected areas in the country.

A 21-km full-fibre, gigabit-capable network infrastructure, Digital Greenwich Connect is substantially improving connectivity in the area at an affordable price while enabling public service transformation and improving digital skills.

It aligns with the Council's ambitious new corporate strategy: 'Our Greenwich', and, according to Baythorpe, to a new and highly connected world.

"We have the ambition to drive a modern, ethical, and sustainable regional economy that allows every business and person to connect and thrive. Collaboration with local authorities is a key way of delivering against this.

“Many companies are sitting on old networks that do not meet the challenges faced by modern businesses. The reality is that companies have faced a dearth of fibre that’s harmed their productivity, efficiency, and scope for innovation.

“It’s something that we’re changing in this area of London.”

Digital Greenwich Connect: An Exemplar for Smarter Business and Minimised Environment Impact

ITS is dedicated to advancing high-quality gigabit connectivity for businesses and is not held back by finding ways to replace copper cables or protect legacy services.

Through Digital Greenwich Connect, the impact on businesses in the area will be transformational.

"It became clear during the Covid pandemic how much we all needed better connectivity. As gigabit connectivity is rolled out, there are so many benefits: from children being able to do their schoolwork more easily to businesses fulfilling their potential and employees having better access to cloud-based systems from multiple locations.

“As well as the enhanced speeds, businesses connected to the network can have much more confidence in the service levels and bandwidths they are getting, with proper resilience and security built-in. And for the broader UK economy, the benefits are equally significant.

“Gigabit connectivity – like that across the Royal Borough of Greenwich - also supports cities’ smart transport developments, smart systems, and the delivery of more intelligent health services to its citizens. It’s something we’re really excited about.”

Innovative new deployment techniques are being used as part of the network, minimising the impact on the environment, local residents, and public transport users by utilising existing public infrastructure wherever possible.

Internet service providers using the network will be able to offer speeds of 1,000mbps and beyond, providing a highly reliable service for businesses, public services, and residents.

Full fibre partnerships driving choice

Collaborations between the public and private sectors are vital to ITS's work to ensure outcomes are highly tailored to local needs. Digital Greenwich Connect is an exemplar of this new kind of partnership. In addition, hundreds of internet service providers – often with regional or expert insights - network operators and resellers are all partnering with ITS to consistently expand the provision of ultrafast full-fibre gigabit connectivity.

Looking ahead, expectations are that the national rollout of full-fibre connectivity will provide profound and long-lasting economic benefits to all parts of the UK.

“Just as with copper over the past century, fibre is a technology that will be relied upon by multiple generations," Baythorpe concludes.

“We’re excited to be a part of a transformation that will boost the regional economies and provide unprecedented capabilities for businesses across industries."

To find out about full-fibre connectivity to businesses, visit www.digitalgreenwichconnect.com

Cllr. Anthony Okoreke

River Thames

River Thames

We’re transforming the digital infrastructure of the Royal Borough of Greenwich

2 joint venture partners

21km of ultrafast network

1 local authority

Passing:

2 joint venture partners

1500 businesses

21km of ultrafast network

Passing:

12,000 council-owned apartments and houses

1500 businesses

12,000 council-owned apartments and houses

Royal Borough of Greenwich

Royal Borough of Greenwich

• Underpinning the technologies modern businesses rely on

• Enabling organisations to innovate and grow

We’re transforming the digital infrastructure of the Royal Borough of Greenwich

• Helping attract investment and employment opportunities

• Underpinning the technologies modern businesses rely on

• Connecting residents with fast and affordable internet access

• Enabling organisations to innovate and grow

• Working with the community

• Helping attract investment and employment opportunities

• Connecting residents with fast and affordable internet access

• Working with the community

To check your postcode for ultrafast connectivity

visit www.digitalgreenwichconnect.com or scan this QR code

To check your postcode for ultrafast connectivity

visit www.digitalgreenwichconnect.com or scan this QR code

Construction work is underway on a new leisure centre in Woolwich

Professional cricketer and local sportswoman, Phoebe Franklin, joined Royal Greenwich councillors and Plumstead Manor School pupils to celebrate the start of construction work at a new state-of-the-art leisure centre in Woolwich.

The new three-storey building will offer space for a wealth of sports including cricket, basketball, football, squash and much more, alongside swimming pools, extensive fitness suites, spa, café, creche, soft play area and flexible community rooms.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Anthony Okereke said: “This is a flagship project for the Council and will be one of the best leisure centres in the country. I’m really proud of what we’re delivering for our residents, setting a new benchmark for high quality design. As well as facilities for lots of different sports and leisure activities, it’s been created to be truly accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities and those with dementia. I’m delighted Phoebe and the Plumstead Manor School students were able to join us and I hope more local schools will visit to see this impressive building in construction.”

Royal Greenwich resident Phoebe joined Cllr Okereke to break ground on the new development, which is expected to take around 30 months to build.

“It’s fantastic to help construction get underway on such an exciting project,” she said.

“This will give local people access to top quality sporting facilities, so people of any age can try out a new sport that they might find a love for. It would have been amazing to have indoor facilities like this when I was young, to have the chance to train all year round in any kind of weather. I’m looking forward to coming along and trying out the new nets.”

ENGLISH AND MATHS is for everyone

Weknow that as adults, many of us zoned out during the English and Maths lessons at school and couldn’t see their value in everyday life. Fast forward 10 or 20 years, and many of us still struggle with the basics, which holds us back from achieving more with our lives and our careers.

The good news is there is still time to brush up on your knowledge and even gain those valuable qualifications to allow you to study at a higher level and improve your life and job opportunities.

Many higher-level courses (Level 3 and above) require you to have English and Maths at Level 2 as a standard entry requirement. So if you are planning a career change or want to become a nurse or train in another profession – it is important to ensure you gain the English and Maths qualifications as well.

The building’s design includes a range of sustainability measures which support the Council’s plans to become carbon neutral by 2030.

Aidan Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “The new leisure centre will be fitted out with modern environmental technology including an air source heat pump and solar panels to make sure the building is energy efficient and sustainable. We want the centre to achieve a BREEAM sustainability rating of Outstanding, which would make it one of only two in the UK of this standard. The regeneration of Woolwich is a key priority for the Council.”

The project will create around 140 jobs, as well as apprenticeships and training opportunities. Over 100 jobs are expected from the new leisure centre and commercial spaces when the development is complete.

Students from Plumstead Manor School joined the visit to hear from the Council’s construction company Morgan Sindall Construction about how the new leisure centre will be built. This is one of a series of visits from local schools.

Giles Smith, Assistant Head Teacher at Plumstead Manor School, said: “Visiting the site has been brilliant for our students; it was a great opportunity to learn about engineering, construction and project management within a local and relevant environment. It was also inspiring for them to meet Phoebe and hear from a professional sports person about a very different type of career, and the hard work and dedication it takes to be successful.”

The centre is due to open in late 2025.

Croydon College is leading the charge to help as many adults as possible to improve their English and Maths through a whole range of courses that can be joined at days and times to suit you.

For those needing to improve their English reading and writing skills – Croydon College offers courses from entry level right up to full GCSEs. The expert staff at the college will assess your current level of English and will advise on the right course for you. That could be a functional skills course which is more practically based, or the full GCSE if you are at a higher level already.

There are lots of people who feel very anxious about the word Maths and have avoided diving in to improve their skills for fear of failing. The college is running a new initiative called Multiply Maths which is aimed directly at those people. These are short courses, often workshop based, that help with Maths for everyday life. Whether that’s working out the family budget or helping your children with their homework. Courses range from just one or two hours to longer courses of 6 weeks or more. For employers who want to help their staff improve their English and Maths skills (including English for Speakers of Other Languages- ESOL), these courses are designed for you too. The college can talk to you about bespoke programmes to help groups of staff improve their basics – or can provide the information and advice you and your staff might need to work out what programmes are most suitable.

The good news about these courses is they are completely free to people who don’t already have a Level 2. So, there are no costs involved –only your time and commitment, which will lead to more opportunities for your future.

To find out more about the courses on offer and how to join them, visit the college website at www.croydon.ac.uk or come along to the college during opening hours to talk to a member of the admissions team.

HOW LONDON AND AFRICA are closer than you think

A big issue for the business community is obtaining business visas.

“As a country and in London, one of the biggest problems we are facing is business visas and how difficult the Home Office makes it to obtain one,” he added.

“There are delays with visas, and that’s got to change. Business visas should be dealt with by the Business and Trade Department not the Home Office, the same as student visas should be dealt with by the Department for Education not the Home Office. They don’t need the Home Office getting in the middle of it. The Home Office should only deal with immigration not business visas.”

LEVELLING UP LONDON

Levelling Up London is “here to stay”.

“The focus is always on particular places, but it would be better to focus on people rather than places to hit its target,” he said.

Nurturing strong, positive links between London and Africa is on the agenda for the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

“Africa is a continent of wonderful countries and we are flying the flag for Africa here, in the best city in the world,” said Richard Burge.

“We are establishing an African Hub in the City to support businesses across London who want to engage with Africa. We need businesses to pursue the adventure of trade. It can be difficult but no more difficult than trading with America.”

“We are hoping that the Hub will inspire a lot of businesses that not only will be a good market, but it will also be a lot of fun. That’s what I’m keen to show businesses.”

Information on where the Hub will be located will be released soon.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Free trade agreements (FTAs) between the UK and Australia and New Zealand are due to come into force on 31 May 2023, which has been welcomed by the British Chambers of Commerce.

“FTAs are proceeding, but let’s not get too excited,” he said.

“It’s just replicated what we had before; not much has changed, but they imply trust and are a helpful step forward. Can we do this with other countries? It shows it can be done.”

“We are no closer to a trade deal with America. What can we do to make trade easier? With America, it’s about trade facilitation and individual states. We often make the mistake of thinking of America as one country but a lot of it is dealing with individual states. Individual states are keen to do that because they are competing with other states.”

“I wonder if in London we need to articulate Levelling Up much more in terms of what London needs, instead of saying that we are hard done by. We need to put a positive case forward for London.”

Recruitment in London is “still a big issue”, especially in the hospitality industry.

“There are four major hotels opening up in London and this will inevitably take good staff from other hotels,” said Richard.

“Generally, there is relatively low unemployment in London. We do have a problem with over-50s leaving the workplace since Covid. As employers, how do we bring back these experienced middle managers who are the glue of workforces? The incentive for them to return to work isn’t there; we haven’t got the pull to draw them back right yet. Financial incentives aren’t enough.”

London is “proving to be as resilient as always”.

“It’s a complex time,” he said. “We have a skills shortage, but we also have a pocket of people who can’t get a job.”

Richard Burge shares his thoughts on boosting trade with Africa, Levelling Up London, and the importance of working collaboratively with other Chambers.

“Overall, our international work is expanding and we’re getting a lot of interest from overseas, but Britain’s influence has diminished.”

“People are still investing and still want to talk to London, but the UK is seen as a declining brand and I don’t think that this is going to be solved by a flash campaign, it needs to be through policy change.”

Having a local Chamber’s support is important for networking, recruitment, growth and sharing ideas.

“Businesses have access to their local Chambers,” he said.

“The Chambers across London are active; things are going well and will continue to go well. We have 19 Chambers affiliated to us [LCCI] and it is a genuine network.”

“Other Chambers are a great place for support too, whether it’s here or overseas. Every problem you face, someone else has faced it so I always say that I talk to people and steal their solutions!”

SUPPORTING THE UKRAINE

A key part of Richard’s role is engaging with other Chambers internationally and in June, he attended the Geneva World Chambers Congress.

His recent visit to the Ukraine has forged good links with the Chambers there.

“We have got a major role in the Ukraine Congress,” he said.

“We’re forming business ventures with the Ukraine Chambers.”

“The focus of the G7 Summit this year is how we can all continue to support the Ukraine.”

The LCCI is hosting a joint float with Kyiv at the Lord Mayor’s Show in November.

“Our Chamber offices will be turned into Ukraine – decorations, food such as dumplings – for the day. It’s all about keeping Ukraine as a focus. This is going to go on and on, so we need to keep reminding people that they need our support.”

❛❛

Overall, our international work is expanding and we’re getting a lot of interest from overseas, but Britain’s influence has diminished.❜❜

Making the right connections

Each month the Chamber

hosts

of events which

to meet and chat to fellow business people. Here, we review a few of our past events.

members

Lewisham Link ‘N Drink at Ignition Brewery

SELCC were glad to be back at the Ignition Brewery in Sydenham for our Link ‘N Drink Networking event, a big thank you to Nick O’Shea, who gave our attendees peek at the behindthe-scenes of their brewery. We were met with both members and non-members from across South East London and it was great to make lasting connections

Wednesday 26th April 2023

Croydon Link ‘N Drink at the Crown & Pepper

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our first Croydon Link ‘N Drink of the year, and certainly not the last, we were met with both members and non-members from across South East London and it was great to make lasting connections, and a special thank you to the Crown & Pepper for hosting this networking event.

Wednesday 10th May 2023

SELCC Charity Quiz Night

With the combination of entry money and raffle tickets at our SELCC Charity Quiz Night, we managed to raise £510 for London’s Air Ambulance Charity, this will go further in providing support to those in need of medical attention across London.

It was great to have so much support and such a fun night! Congratulations to South East Enterprises for taking home the win!

Lots of prizes were up for grabs on the night, graciously donated by our members. Two hampers of Coffee & Tea donated by The Drury Tea & Coffee Company; three magnums of respectively - Champagne, Rioja and Claret from Davy’s Wine Merchants. A meal for two from

Zerodegrees; A studio headshot from Warren King Photography; a Classic Tea treat for two from The Clarendon Hotel, as well as a Champagne Afternoon Tea Voucher for Two from The Bromley Court Hotel.

We also were given an interesting talk from Emily Lockwood at Bromley Court Hotel who let our attendees know of their Loyalty Club Card, which is available for anyone to join, you will gain access to generous discounts, whether you are looking to host a meeting over coffee, or organise business events.

Thursday 25th May 2023

You can find out more here: https://bromleycourthotel.co.uk/loyalty-club-card/

a variety

offer

a superb opportunity

Greenwich Office Drinks at Drury Tea & Coffee Company

SELCC members and other likeminded people gathered at The Drury Tea & Coffee Company premises on the Royal Arsenal Riverside for a fantastic night of networking.

We want to give a special thank you to The Drury Tea & Coffee Co Ltd for sponsoring such a fantastic event and to all the hard-working staff for making our guests feel at home, and for those delicious espresso martinis and the food that Boulangerie Jade catered was spectacular.

This was not all, our members got an interesting tour of their factory and witnessed the coffee being grounded, and well done to Rick Pacitto from Metro Bank for winning the Latte Art competition, which won him a hamper of their finest coffee, He will be running a raffle with his colleagues and all proceeds are to go to Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice.

Wednesday 31st May 2023

Executive Lunch with David Woods, Senior Manager of British Business Bank

Members and Strategic Partners joined us for our Spring Executive Lunch at the DoubleTree by Hilton London Greenwich, where guests were treated to a delicious two course meal and an inside look at the latest Range Rover model from our sponsors, Group 1 Automotive

Our guest speaker, David Woods, Senior Manager of the British Business Bank spoke on the work of this state-owned economic development bank established by the UK Government and its aim to increase the supply of credit to SMEs as well as providing Business Advice Services.

Thursday 8th June 2023

SELCC Golf Day 2023

We enjoyed returning to Royal Blackheath Golf Club for our annual Golf Day 2023 and being joined by both our members and Strategic Partners.

One of these, Group 1 Automotive was the sponsor of the Golf Day and they brought with them two of the next generation of Jaguar/Land Rovers for our guests to view and win the chance of test driving them over a very special weekend.

Group 1 Automotive’s amazing prizes included a Jaguar F-Type for the weekend. Robert Rutnam from McBrides LLP was the lucky winner for the longest drive; Peter King from Metro Bank won a Range Rover for being the closest to pin; finally, Metro Bank claimed an Off Roading Experience for being the best team on the green.

SELCC will be announcing the date of the Golf Day 2024 at Royal Blackheath in the next issue of Masthead. So all golfers can save the date.

Friday 16th June 2023

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

SELCC Summer BBQ 2023

Thursday 24th August 2023, The Clarendon Hotel, 12.30 – 14.30

Due to unforeseen circumstances, we had to reschedule our SELCC Summer BBQ.But this only means more of our members and business partners can join us for a day out in the beautiful walled garden of The Clarendon Hotel in Blackheath Village. This is the perfect time to connect with other like-minded businesses in Southeast London, with the potential to make new friends and partners. You can book for our events here: https://www.selondonchamber.org/events/ £35+VAT – Member | £45+VAT – Non-Member

Croydon Link ‘N Drink

Wednesday 26th July 2023

Crown & Pepper, 17.30 – 19.30

Don’t miss our upcoming Link ‘n Drink, a chance to engage in some informal networking in Croydon, to make local connections with other businesses and grow a resilient SME network in Croydon.

What it means to be a digital business – Part 2 of 3

Wednesday 9th August 2023, 10.00 – 11.00

A buzzword for many, but just what is the cloud? How is it helping businesses across sectors and how can it support your business in a more connected world?

Join us for part two of our three-part FREE webinar series in Partnership with Digital Greenwich Connect where Justin Robinson from Digital Greenwich Connect will be running through what exactly the cloud is and what you need to know about it.

Why SMEs need Cybersecurity with Bryan Altimas

Wednesday 23rd August 2023, 10.00 – 11.00

Half of the UK’s SMEs have suffered from cyber-attacks, with ransomware attacks being the most frequently experienced, followed by dodgy phishing emails. Join us for our FREE webinar with Bryan Altimas from Riverside Court Consulting to learn about how your business can become more cyber secure.

What it means to be a digital business – Part 3 of 3

Wednesday 30th August 2023, 10.00 – 11.00

The average cybersecurity attack costs £900k to businesses. From the financial sting to the reputational impact, it’s becoming a top priority for all businesses.

Join us for the final part of our three-part FREE webinar series in Partnership with Digital Greenwich Connect where we will be running through how businesses can protect themselves from cyber-attacks, and to explain what Zero Trust is all about.

Bexley Office Drinks at Metro Bank

Wednesday 20th September 2023, Metro Bank, 17.30 – 19.30

Don’t miss our upcoming Bexley Office Drinks, a chance to engage in some informal networking in Bexley, to make local connections with other businesses and grow a resilient SME network in Bexley, and enjoy a drink with some delicious snacks, sponsored and hosted by Metro Bank.

We’ll be hearing from Mark Jenkinson, Director at Crystal Associates and a SELCC Board Member in which he’ll be giving a speech about Green Skills and the steps you can take to lower your carbon footprint for a better and much greener planet.

What sustainability really means for businesses?

Wednesday 27th September 2023, 10.00 – 11.00

Do you know what sustainability could mean for your business? As well as the benefits that your business would be open to having should you embrace it?

This FREE webinar is perfect for you, join us as we team up with CU London (Coventry University Group) to discuss the transition your business can take to improve their sustainability approach and switching to greener energies.

Menopause in the Workplace

Wednesday 11th October 2023, 10.00 – 11.00

One in ten women who have worked during the menopause have left a job due to their symptoms and the loss of this talent from the workplace is significant for many employers.

Join this FREE Webinar with Thackray Williams LLP, as they will provide guidance on what businesses and organisations need to be doing to ensure they have the right policies in place to support staff, when it comes to all things Menopause.

How a communications specialist can improve your reputation

There are so many channels to reach your target audience and here at Izzy PR, we’ve worked with clients who have fallen over trying to do them all – when only a handful were ever going to be effective. Planned, consistent and well thought out communications are vital if you want to reach the right target audience with the right message at the right time – when they are in a position to buy. Think Christmas crackers –don’t bother marketing them in June! Here's what a communications specialist can do for you – that adds real value and kudos to you and your brand:

1. A strong message and strategy: effective communication of the key attributes, values, and goals of either you or your organisation. The strategy ensures consistent and coherent messaging across various channels.

2. Positive media relations: Yes! It is possible to work with journalists to gain great, positive coverage, but it takes time to do and needs to work on the basis of information rather than selling.

3. Crisis communications management: In the event of a crisis or negative incident, a crisis communication plan is created, which usually involves managing the media, finding out what they know, what they don’t and crafting a suitable response to limit any reputational damage.

4. Social media management: From content creation that include posts putting the key messages and values across, engaging with your audience, partners and stakeholders, to monitoring your timelines in case of anything negative – a comms specialist can bring it all together on social media.

5. Thought leadership: With the right story and media relationships, you and your company can be positioned as a thought leader in your industry or field. This involves creating high-quality, well researched, in-depth content such as articles, blog posts, whitepapers, and presentations that demonstrate expertise, knowledge, and innovation. Your expertise will be shared and gain you credibility.

6. Training and coaching: Is everyone in the company delivering the company culture and key messages to the best of their abilities? If someone from a company doesn’t it, puts you off in the future – even though they might be the one-off rogue. Expectations around communication can be set and monitored.

Sarah Hawes izzypr.co.uk

WhosOff Online success delivered

WhosOff’s CEO, Reg Groombridge, has seen a noticeable shift in the way companies are managing essential HR tasks like coordinating staff time off.

“The pandemic accelerated the remote working movement. Even within companies where staff have returned to the office, people are often still working from home at least part of the week.”

“This switch to hybrid working is driving investment in HR tools like WhosOff because there’s less face-to-face interaction between

employees. You can’t just lean across the desk and ask someone if they’ve booked next week off. You need online systems that your whole team can use to see accurate information, wherever they’re located.”

The remote working movement has also affected recruitment, making vacant roles available to a wider geographical spread of people. While this is good news for applicants, it means companies are working harder to retain their top talent.

“There’s more pressure on companies to provide a good employee experience. When

recruitment is a challenge, you can’t afford to lose your most valuable people – and a basic mistake like miscalculating someone’s holiday allowance or not logging their time off request can have a huge impact on people’s loyalty to your business.”

“Likewise, it’s important to protect the health and wellbeing of your workforce, to mitigate the risk of someone going off long-term sick. We’re seeing more companies using WhosOff’s absence management feature to track staff sick leave, so they can identify people who may be struggling with their physical or mental health and offer appropriate support.”

Ever-rising employee expectations have created a stronger business case for investing in HR technologies. When WhosOff launched in 2007 it was one of the very first online staff leave planners, and most businesses still used paper forms or spreadsheets to track time off. Now, companies of all sizes are modernising their operations to help them attract and retain the best people.

“Fortunately, essential HR tools have become much more affordable in recent years, which means SMEs can use the same, sophisticated software as much larger companies.

The more people see your company, hear from you or see your branding, the more you are noticed by them.

New investment scheme launched to boost funding for climate projects

Lewisham Climate Action Investment aims to raise £1 million for projects to reduce carbon emissions and tackle the climate emergency.

Lewisham Council has officially launched the scheme which allows residents and businesses to invest from as little as £5 and earn a return on their investment.

Launched in partnership with ethical crowdfunding platform Abundance Investment, the scheme aims to raise £1 million to invest in local projects across the borough. The money raised will fund a range of projects aimed at encouraging more sustainable modes of transport and reducing carbon emissions, including: more secure cycle hangars to encourage residents to travel by bike; new electric vehicle charging infrastructure to make it easier for people to switch away from polluting vehicles; more planting and greenery on local streets to improve biodiversity and encourage walking; establishing green transport hubs at train stations and in town centres - with cycle hire and car club facilities, secure bike storage and electric vehicle charging points; and repairs and improvements to existing footways and cycle infrastructure to support walking and cycling.

The scheme is a type of Community Municipal Investment, an investment model which allows residents to invest their money in projects that benefit the local community and receive a return on their investment. Lewisham is one of the first councils in the country to launch this type of community investment scheme, having previously signed the Green Finance Institute’s Local Climate Bond pledge in November 2022.

Since declaring a Climate Emergency in 2019, Lewisham Council has launched an ambitious Climate Emergency Action Plan, setting out

plans to help the borough reach net zero by 2030. Reducing emissions from transport and encouraging more sustainable modes of travel is a key part of this strategy and the launch of the Lewisham Climate Action Investment will help build on the progress already made in this area.

Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, said: “We want to build on the progress we’ve already made tackling the Climate Emergency, with the support of our community and we’re joining the UK’s leading councils in launching this type of community investment scheme, which will make a big difference to all of us and to future generations.”

Karl Harder, Co-founder and Joint Managing Director of Abundance, said: "It is great to see Lewisham giving all of its residents the chance to take action on the Climate Emergency whether they have £5 or more to invest through this Climate Action Investment. Local councils are in the vanguard of those taking action and launching an investment like this is a great way to show that while the news about climate sometimes feels overwhelming, there are lots of practical steps we can take now to do our bit to tackle the crisis."

Emma Harvey-Smith, Programme Director, Green Finance Institute, said: “Local authorities play a key role in decarbonising the economy but require greater access to capital to invest in green projects. Community Municipal Investments are an innovative financing mechanism that deliver a win-win for local authorities, their communities and the planet. They enable councils to borrow at a cheaper rate than the public works loan board rate, while providing residents with the opportunity to receive a return for investing in reducing emissions in their local area.”

Bexley Council launches new equality, diversion and inclusion policy

A Fairer Bexley: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy 2023-2026 has been launched to reinforce the Council’s commitment to tackle inequalities and ensure that Bexley is a borough where everyone feels safe, valued, included and that they can reach their potential.

The Policy sets three new equality objectives:

• we will work with our partners to reduce inequalities between people and places in the borough and champion equality.

• we will commission and deliver effective and inclusive services that meet the needs of all residents.

• we will recruit, develop and retain a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects our population.

The adoption of this Policy, which was launched on 21st June, follows a public consultation held earlier this year. Councillor Sue Gower MBE, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing,

Tennis ace Roger Federer officially opens Greenwich Council’s revamped courts

The revamped tennis courts at Bostall Gardens have been declared “one of the most beautiful in the world” by 20-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer.

The tennis ace officially opened the Royal Borough of Greenwich Council’s tennis courts. Bostall Gardens is the first of six park tennis courts to potentially be refurbished thanks to funding from LTA. The courts feature a special artwork by internationally acclaimed street art duo Low Bros as part of the Neon Legacy initiative with Mercedes.

Roger Federer unveiled the two tennis courts and joined budding tennis stars from Alexander McLeod Primary School and Abbey Wood Tennis Club for a coaching session.

Roger Federer said: “It makes me really happy to be here in London where I have such great memories over the years – the Olympics, the O2 Arena and then as well at Wimbledon.

“This court is one of the most beautiful in the world and I’m so happy to give it back to the community. Tennis is such a great sport for everybody getting together and seeing each other and just hanging out as well at the court. I really hope this place is going to be a place where people love to come, the community, the neighbours, and just have the best times and create memories for a lifetime.”

said: “This an important milestone for our Council and the community we serve. We firmly believe that every resident deserves to be treated with dignity, respect and fairness regardless of their background or characteristics. The latest Census showed that Bexley is an increasingly diverse borough – let’s celebrate this diversity.”

Councillor David Leaf, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Resources, added: “This Policy will guide all our actions and decisions. We want to make sure that the services we provide and the money we spend is making Bexley even better for all of our residents. We can’t tackle inequalities alone and that’s why the Policy has a strong focus on partnership working.”

Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “To have the support of a sporting legend on this project proves just how important park courts are in making tennis accessible to all in our local communities. We know Roger’s presence today will inspire the next generation of tennis players, whether that’s to pick up a racket for fun, to stay active or get involved competitively. Updating our tennis courts is just one of the many ways we are working to make sport and physical activity accessible to all through our Greenwich Get Active initiative.”

Tom Gibbins, LTA Tennis Foundation Lead, said: “The Parks Tennis Project is a gamechanging investment that has already seen hundreds of unplayable or poor quality courts across Britain refurbished for the benefit of local communities. We want to inspire as many people as possible to pick up a racket and play on their local courts and are delighted to have such an inspirational figure as Roger Federer supporting that mission.”

SUGAR STUDIOS

Expansive, Flexible and Creative Space

The industrial past of the old Tate & Lyle sugar refinery has been revived into London’s most homely, flexible and accommodating studios and event space.

Walking in, you’ll find the utmost hospitality, with an onsite café truck (retrieved from a layby in Wales) called Sugar Café renowned for its toasties, homemade brownies, an open reception and inviting lounge.

Sugar Studios is a spacious and impressive studio that boasts four spaces including a huge Infinity Cove (drive in access), Greenscreen, White/Blackbox studio and a Big Space which is ideal for theatre / dance rehearsals and workshops, as well as set builds.

Sugar Studios - the sister company of MDM Props (one of the largest prop, model and art fabricators in UK) was born in response to its demand by theatrical clients, so we decided to make it happen!

The women led team at Sugar Studios pride themselves on an impeccable service, wellkept studios and flexibility and aim to meet any brief requiring studio space. The whole concept has been mindfully curated to adapt to all areas of production, theatre, film, music videos, advertising, dance rehearsals, photography and events.

Having recently branched into events, the sugar team are working on lots of exciting ideas including workshops and exhibitions, and with future plans to create a community workspace.

To find out more about the big brands we’ve worked with, head over to our Instagram profile to view our portfolio.

Sugar Studios

would love to show you around and welcome you, but for those who can’t make it this time around, here’s a sneak peek for you:

Sugar Studios Virtual Tour.

Greenwich’s best kept secret...

New murals have been unveiled in Woolwich town centre

Four inspiring new murals have been unveiled in Woolwich town centre as part of the Royal Borough of Greenwich Council’s work to showcase the area’s rich cultural heritage and celebrate the local community.

The distinctive, colourful murals were made by local artists, designed in collaboration with Royal Greenwich residents, schools and community groups.

An excited group of pupils from Nightingale Primary School joined Cllr Adel Khaireh, Cllr Aidan Smith, Cllr Sam Littlewood and artist Haffeera Cader Saul to unveil a mural on Barnard Close recently, which they had helped to create. Haffeera produced the ‘Area of Prosperity’ mural following a series of workshops with Year 4 pupils and local residents.

Artist Ellen Strachan also joined councillors to unveil her mural ‘Work in Woolwich’ on Calderwood Street, designed with pictures and stories from people who work in Woolwich or have worked there in the past.

Cllr Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “These stunning murals tell the personal stories and aspirations of our community, bringing creativity and colour to Woolwich town centre. It’s fantastic to see how proud the artists and the Nightingale pupils are of their artwork, and to see Woolwich’s rich history brought to life.

Super-sized

“On behalf of the Council, I’d like to thank all the different artists, community groups, schools and people who got involved and shared their memories and ideas. I hope they will all be enjoyed for many years to come.”

Lisa Risby, Child Welfare Officer at Nightingale Primary School, said: “We have a strong sense of community here at Nightingale, and local heritage is important to us, so we were honoured to be part of a project that ties these themes together. The children really enjoyed the workshop and have been looking forward to seeing their work on show. It's great to see how the flowers they have drawn have been incorporated into the wider piece.”

Cllr Aidan Smith, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “I’m so impressed with these special artworks and how they have instantly brightened up empty spaces in the town centre. Alongside wider improvements which will get underway this summer, they help make Woolwich a more attractive and vibrant place for residents, businesses and shoppers.

“The upcoming works will provide improved facilities for traders in Beresford Street market including fully accessible public toilets, as well as new planting, better seating, lighting and play spaces throughout Beresford Square and Powis Street.”

The murals were commissioned as part of the Council’s Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) project, which is helping to regenerate the area’s historic centre.

summer of festivals for Croydon’s Borough of Culture year

Croydon has announced its line-up for its Summer Festival series to showcase the best of dance, music, art and culture in the area.

RURAL CROYDON

A new exhibition at Thornton Heath Library, which runs until Monday 31st July, showcases local photographer and write Ameena Rojee’s latest project, ‘Rural Croydon’, an exploration of the conservational grazing taking place at the borough’s edges.

CROYDON CARNIVAL

Sunday 30th July

For the first time, the carnival will parade through Croydon’s centre while a star-studded line up will entertain at its London Road base. Nineties UK garage duo Artful Dodger will headline the main stage, along with soul artist Ivy Chanel and singer, actor and voiceover artist, Kelly Agbowu, plus uplifting performances from The Brit School and local dance groups.

Croydon Stands Tall

Monday 21 August – Tuesday 27 October

roydon Business Improvement District (BID), in collaboration with creative producers Wild in Art, will present Croydon Stands Tall, a 10-week free art trail that will celebrate vibrancy, culture and creativity in Croydon.

Taking place from 21 August to 27 October, the event will see the arrival

of 30 giant giraffe sculptures and 30 baby giraffe sculptures across Croydon town centre, uniquely designed by local artists, schools, and community groups. Croydon Stands Tall will host an auction at its end, raising funds for Crisis Croydon Skylight.

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon said: “This summer we celebrate the rich communities

of the borough with our Summer of Festivals including Croydon PrideFest, Croydon Mela, a starstudied London Road Carnival, Croydon Food and Music Festival and Croydon Stands Tall. This summer is our opportunity to tell the rest of London, and indeed the UK, our big, bold story of the community pride we all have in Croydon."

Men & Mental Health

This is normally inherent from childhood, as they may have had family who did not talk openly about emotions or saw therapy as a sign of weakness or it could even be a cultural thing, where emotions were not seen or heard.

I am proud to say that I currently have more male clients than females and this is so good to see, however there are those who still do not believe that therapy can help them or that they don’t need it. This could

be because of fear, lack of awareness, they may even see it as a sign of weakness. For if they have been told their whole lives that you must “just get on with it`’ or “be a man”, this is enough to keep males from entering the world of therapy. I think on the contrary, that for a man to come to therapy is a sign of courage and it shows such strength to come and open up to somebody and share your inner most thoughts and allow yourself to be vulnerable. With me, you will never be judged and you will hopefully leave the session feeling less burdened that you arrived.

I recently presented a Men & Mental Health presentation to the first team at Eastbourne Borough Football Club and I was blown away by how engaged and attentive the guys were throughout my presentation. I left feeling hopeful that even if they learnt just one thing from my presentation, I have done what I aimed to do and they were more aware of the importance of men and mental health.

One of the main reasons why I always offer a FREE 90 Minute therapy session is to give

those who are more sceptical the opportunity to come and discover about themselves and to understand why they behave the way they do. It also costs nothing, no commitment as there is no contract to sign and no hidden agenda, purely 90 minutes of your time and the possibilities of what you may discover is immeasurable.

I therefore urge those guys who feel that they don’t need therapy to at least dip their toe in the water and as I have just said you lose nothing, but could gain the chance of living your best life!

Reeta Minhas-Judd is a life therapist and has run her wellbeing company, RMJ Wellbeing, for the past three years. Her focus is primarily on the positive health and wellbeing of her clients, with the ultimate goal of helping them to enjoy a happy existence. For more information visit www.rmjwellbeing.com

For some men, even in the current times we live in still have a phobia/hesitation when it comes to therapy.

❛❛If men have been told their whole lives that you must “just get on with it`’ or “be a man”, this is enough to keep males from entering the world of therapy. I think on the contrary, that for a man to come to therapy is a sign of courage and it shows such strength to come and open up to somebody and share your inner most thoughts and allow yourself to be vulnerable. ❜❜

Welcome to our new members

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

Crystalisr

73 Maple Road, Surbiton, Surrey KT2 6HJ

Contact: David Randall

Tel: 020 8399 3690

Email: david@mapleworks.co.uk

ITS Technology Group LTD

Daresbury Business Park

6600 Cinnabar Ct. Warrington WA4 4GE

Contact: Imdadur Rahman

Tel: 03339 963928

Email: imdadur.rahman@itstechnologygroup.com

Management Solutions

26b St Margarets Road, London SE4 1YU

Contact: David Hay

Tel: 07889 491324

Email: dh@mansol.com

Margrave Financial Consulting

11 Windmill Close, London SE13 7PX

Contact: Nichole Monteiro

Tel: 020 3488 3297

Email: nichole@margravefinancialconsulting.com

NewDay Healthcare Ltd

132 Lewisham High Street, London SE13 6EE

Contact: Esther Osemwegie

Tel: 020 8609 6529

Email: info@newdayhealthcareltd.co.uk

Papyrus Media

53 Barrow Green Road, London RH8 0NJ

Contact: Fiona Ingvarsson

Tel: 07961 578100

Email: info@papyrusmedia.co.uk

Redempt Health

37 Chatsworth Road, London CR0 1HE

Contact: Alphine Bayoh

Tel: 07468 055585

Email: enquiries@redempt.info

Southern Marketing Services

28 Crest Road, Croydon CR2 7JQ

Contact: Deva Ponnoosami

Tel: 020 8651 4212

Email: devadass@msn.com

The Chartwell Cancer Trust

The Chartwell Cancer Trust, Room 1, Aileen McHugo Building, Tatsfield TN16 2AG

Contact: Joanne Bennett

Tel: 07930 385967

Email: jo@chartwellcancertrust.co.uk

Willbloom Ltd

Citibase, Tower House, 67-71 Lewisham High Street, London SE13 5JX

Contact: William Bloomfield

Tel: 020 7871 9549

Email: info@willbloom.co.uk

ZHB Design Limited

Consultant Structural Engineers

4th Floor, AMP House, Dingwall Road, Croydon, London CR0 2LX

Contact: Zang Banda

Tel: 020 8663 3677

Email: zang@zhbdesign.com

Members can access a range of services, networking events and support to help their business do better. Importantly, they 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

Membership

The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership* is £22 ex VAT (£26.40 inc VAT). The annual membership fee for Standard Individual Membership* is £28 ex VAT (£33.60 inc VAT).

The annual membership fee for Executive Trade Membership is £56 ex VAT (£67.20 inc VAT). The annual membership fee for Executive Individual Membership is £62 ex VAT (£74.40 inc VAT), which also includes a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner. Executive Individuals earn a 2% Reward on most purchases up to a maximum of £400 per year, and receive this in their annual renewal notice, to use against goods in the warehouse.

And finally...

Sarah Hawes started her career as a local reporter, working across North Kent and Medway for the Kent Messenger Group, before making the move into PR.

Sarah has been a media officer for both Kent and Essex Police forces, a marketing manager for several charities, communications manager for an NHS trust and an account executive within a large Kentish creative agency.

She’s also written features and produced news content for various publications and broadcasters, including BBC Radio Kent.

She founded Izzy PR because of a passion to use words, language and communication to help small and medium-sized businesses launch their branding, raise their profile and move their marketing to the next level.

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

A Working in a supermarket when I was 16. I can’t remember the pay, but I bought a car each for myself and my sister, then helped my parents to pay for my broadcasting degree.

Q What would you do with your last pound?

A Give it away – good fortune will make its way back; people are kinder than we think.

Q What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

A Scaling up – finding the right people who are reliable, trusted to look after the clients I’ve worked hard to gain and keep, then deliver high quality work.

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

A Completely transform the education system, starting with overhauling Ofsted. Let teachers teach and do the amazing things they do without all the ridiculous red tape.

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

A I’d be a foster mum – giving a loving, welcoming home to children who need it would have been an absolute dream. Or a travel journalist –meeting people and telling their stories.

Q What book are you currently reading?

A Death in the Highlands by my author friend Fliss Chester. Many friends and colleagues are writing books, which I sometimes get to proofread. I have a bookshelf full of their books!

Sarah Hawes Marketing & Public Relations Consultant Izzy PR

Managing Partner, Thackray Williams

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

A motivated, skilled, and qualified workforce is the backbone of any thriving business. Investing in staff development has numerous benefits that directly impact your company’s growth and success.

A motivated, skilled, and qualified workforce is the backbone of any thriving business. Investing in staff development has numerous benefits that directly impact your company’s growth and success.

APPRENTICESHIPS

APPRENTICESHIPS

RECRUITMENT

RECRUITMENT

A motivated, skilled, and qualified workforce is the backbone of any thriving business. Investing in staff development has numerous benefits that directly impact your company’s growth and success.

Apprenticeships are the key to unlocking a pool of talented candidates eager to make a difference in your business.

APPRENTICESHIPS

Apprenticeships are the key to unlocking a pool of talented candidates eager to make a difference in your business.

Apprenticeships are the key to unlocking a pool of talented candidates eager to make a difference in your business.

Unlock

Unlock the Potential of Your Workforce!

the Potential of Your Workforce!

Invest in Apprenticeships and Upskilling for a Stronger Workforce!

Invest in Apprenticeships and Upskilling for a Stronger Workforce!

Unlock the Potential of Your Workforce!

Invest in Apprenticeships and Upskilling for a Stronger Workforce!

Embrace the power of growth and potential with our tailored apprenticeship and upskilling programmes.

Embrace the power of growth and potential with our tailored apprenticeship and upskilling programmes. At London South East Colleges, we believe that investing in your workforce is the key to success in today’s competitive world.

Embrace the power of growth and potential with our tailored apprenticeship and upskilling programmes. At London South East Colleges, we believe that investing in your workforce is the key to success in today’s competitive world.

At London South East Colleges, we believe that investing in your workforce is the key to success in today’s competitive world.

We work with local, regional and national employers to identify their training needs.

We work with local, regional and national employers to identify their training needs.

Are you ready to unlock the potential of your workforce?

We work with local, regional and national employers to identify their training needs.

Contact us today at employers@LSEC.ac.uk or on 020 3954 4965 to discuss how we can help you find the right people for your business.

Are you ready to unlock the potential of your workforce?

Are you ready to unlock the potential of your workforce? Contact us today at employers@LSEC.ac.uk or on 020 3954 4965 to discuss how we can help you find the right people for your business.

Invest in Your Future. Empower Your Workforce.

Invest in Your Future. Empower Your Workforce.

Contact us today at employers@LSEC.ac.uk or on 020 3954 4965 to discuss how we can help you find the

We believe in the power of industry collaboration to shape the future workforce. By partnering with us to design course content, you can unlock numerous benefits for your business.

We believe in the power of industry collaboration to shape the future workforce. By partnering with us to design course content, you can unlock numerous benefits for your business.

RECRUITMENT

We believe in the power of industry collaboration to shape the future workforce. By partnering with us to design course content, you can unlock numerous benefits for your business.

LSEC.ac.uk

LSEC.ac.uk