The Masthead

masthead the

ISSUE 29

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR SOUTH EAST LONDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PROFILE Making Living Better: Developer Astir has big plans for Lewisham.

SKILLS Apprenticeships are the future for business.

ECONOMY James Watkins, Head of Policy and Public Impact at LondonChamber of Commerce and Industry. Being forward thinking and inclusive will boost the economy.

Spenser Mills Managing Director, Drakemoor Ltd

shares why he puts people at the centre of all he does

River Thames

River Thames

2 joint venture partners 21km of ultrafast network 1Passing: local authority 2 joint venture partners 1500 businesses 21km of ultrafast network 12,000 council-owned apartments and houses Passing:

1500 businesses 12,000 council-owned

apartments and houses

We’re transforming the digital infrastructure of the We’re transforming the Royal Borough of Greenwich digital infrastructure of the • Underpinning the technologies modern businesses rely on Royal Borough of Greenwich • Enabling organisations to innovate and grow • 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

To check your postcode for ultrafast connectivity visit www.digitalgreenwichconnect.com To check your postcode or scan this QR code for ultrafast connectivity • Working with the community

visit www.digitalgreenwichconnect.com or scan this QR code

Royal Borough of Greenwich

Royal Borough of Greenwich

CONTENTS

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WELCOME

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his is my first Welcome of 2024 and there is a lot to report. At our virtual AGM Christophi Christou who has been on the SELCC Board for a few years and represents Peabody one of London’s oldest housing associations has become Vice President and will take over my role at this year’s AGM. This year is full of elections across the world and the first one for some of us is the election of a new Mayor in Lewisham. Damien Egan has resigned in order to stand at a by-election in Kingswood, Bristol his home town. SELCC will miss Damien as he has been a great supporter of the Chamber. The election date for Lewisham residents is set for Thursday, 7 March. We all know Thursday, 2 May is the date for the Mayor of London and London Assembly election, but we don’t know the date of the General Election. At our recent Executive Lunch, Professor Tony Travers, director of LSE London and visiting professor in LSE Department of Government was our guest speaker.

He feels that late October could be the date, but we all have to be prepared for any time.

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The Royal Borough of Greenwich dec a climate emergency in 2019 and agre to set an ambitious target to reach ne zero by 2030. The business commun crucial to achieving this.

We have a year of in-person events coming up, including our popular Office Drinks. This year, we are restricting attendance to Chamber Members due to their popularity.

Our Link ‘n Drinks will continue to be open to Members and Non. Many more webinars are planned, and we already have the Summer BBQ at The Clarendon Hotel, Golf Day at Royal Blackheath and two quizzes in aid of the London Air Ambulance Charity listed for bookings in this issue.

I am delighted to confirm that Ravensbourne University London has just joined as a Strategic Partner and Lewisham College have rejoined. We look forward to holding a breakfast meeting at the College before the end of this academic year.

Helen McIntosh FCIPR President

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

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4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16-17 18-19

Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published: February 2024 © Benham Publishing

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Economy News Arts & Culture Ask an Expert Focus on Lewisham Focus on Croydon News Focus on Greenwich Your Bromley Focus on Bromley Focus on Bexley Sidcup BID Bexleyheath Awards Greener Greenwich

Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: mark@benhampublishing.com Media No. 2077 Disclaimer The Masthead is published for South East London Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members.

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20-21 22-23 24-25 26-28 30-31 33 34-35 36-37 38-40 41 45 47 48 50

Legal Skills Profile Skills – Apprenticeships The Big Interview News LCCI James Watkins Past Events Forthcoming Events News Sport Health & Wellbeing New Members and Finally

All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at South East London Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in The Masthead are not necessarily those of South East London Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2024 Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

Building on the last event in October Chamber photography by Warren King

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Economy

Economic growth remains fragile

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he risk of recession remains despite stronger retail sales helping the UK’s economy to bounce back in November.

The economy grew by 0.3% in November, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), after it shrank during the previous months.

Black Friday sales boosted retailers in the last quarter of 2023, but the ONS said the economy had shown “little growth” over the past year.

Alex Veitch, Director of Policy and Insight at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Today’s ONS data, showing GDP grew 0.3% in November, but fell 0.2% in the three months to then, indicates how fragile UK economic growth is right now.

“It’s likely the economy will be stuck in the slow lane for the foreseeable future.

Our latest Quarterly Economic Forecast expects growth below 1.0% for the next two years.

“The Chancellor’s decision to make full expensing permanent was welcome, but more needs to be done to help businesses invest and drive economic growth. Despite the headline rate of inflation easing, firms are continuing to battle with high interest rates, recruitment difficulties, and tough international trading conditions.

“Businesses are crying out for a long-term economic plan that prioritises growth. In the upcoming budget, and the election campaign to come, that must be the priority for all politicians.”

The BCC’s latest Quarterly Economic Forecast expects UK GDP growth to flatline for the next three years. In the short term, the BCC is expecting 0.6% growth for the whole of 2023, falling to 0.4% in 2024 and rising slightly to 0.6% in 2025. Prolonged high interest rates, trade barriers, particularly with the EU, and limits on consumer spending are all seen to feed into a low growth climate.

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Business confidence boost fails to revive investment The British Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Economic Survey, the UK’s largest and longest-running independent business survey, shows a small rise in business confidence in the final quarter of 2023.

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he percentage of firms expecting an increase in turnover over the next year (56%) has risen to the highest level since Q1 2022 when Covid restrictions were lifted.

The data also reveals that more firms expect price hikes, ending the downward trend of the last two years.

The survey, conducted in November, of more than 5,000 firms across the UK – 91% of whom are SMEs – also reveals business performance across different sectors varies considerably.

The percentage of respondents reporting increased domestic sales rose slightly to 36%, compared with 35% in Q3. Meanwhile, 22% reported a decrease and 42% said sales had remained constant.

There were significant sectoral differences, for example, 46% of consumer services firms said they had seen a boost in sales, whereas 35% of hospitality companies and 28% of retailers saw a decrease.

The percentage of firms expecting to see their turnover increase over the next 12 months increased to 56%, from 53% in Q3.

Only 15% of respondents are expecting to see their financial situation worsen in the year ahead, with 29% expecting things to remain the same.

Profitability confidence has also improved, with 47% of companies saying they expect profits to increase in the next year (45% in Q3), whereas 21% believe their profits will fall.

Despite inflation continuing to ease, more firms are expecting their prices to rise, compared with the last quarter – 47% of respondents are predicting an increase (41% in Q3), 49% think prices will stay the same, and 4% are anticipating a decrease.

While inflation remains firms’ biggest concern (58%), a recent trend in rising worries over interest rates has eased. 39% of businesses say they are concerned about the cost of borrowing, compared with 41% in Q2 and 45% in Q3. These figures remain high compared with the pre-Covid trend.

Overall, the percentage of respondents reporting an increase to investment in plant/equipment has increased only slightly from 23% in Q3 to 24% in Q4 and 58% of businesses said investment had remained the same, 19% reported a decrease.

There are large sectoral disparities in investment levels: 32% of hospitality sector firms say they have decreased investment, and 19% have increased. Meanwhile, in the transport and logistics sector, 36% of respondents reported a rise in investment – only 18% a decrease.

David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The latest QES results show steadily growing confidence among UK SMEs, particularly compared to this time last year, when the UK was beset by a significant energy price shock and political instability.

However, while it’s likely the UK will avoid a technical recession, these results provide more evidence of a very low growth climate as most SMEs continue to report no improvement to sales, cash flow, or investment.”

News

Deptford Celebrates Small Business Saturday S aturday 2nd December was Small Business Saturday and the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry joined up with its affiliate, SELCC in Deptford. Acting CEO, Karim Fatehi MBE came down by train to meet SELCC’s President, Helen McIntosh, Vicky Foxcroft MP and Raymond Kinsella, Lewisham Council.

Saturday is market day in Deptford and the group toured the High Street with their tote bags given them by the market traders. The majority of

businesses are run by locals with a strong tie to the area.

Bob the fishmonger has worked in Deptford High Street for over 46 years having started at 16 years old in his grandfather’s fish shop.

Urban regeneration has happened in the area with the creation of a new public square, restoration of the Victorian carriage ramp and independent shops within the railway arches. Now called Deptford Market Yard, this was completed in 2016 by Landsec U+I and this development together with the refurbishment of the High Street funded by the GLA and Lewisham Council has helped link the ‘old’ Deptford to the ‘new’ Deptford.

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Arts & Culture

FUNDING BOOST

to transform Croydon Archives Croydon Council has been successful in securing £249,000 in funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to collect, preserve and make accessible the digital archives of Croydon’s year as London Borough of Culture.

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roydon Archives currently contain more than 1,000 collections relating to the London Borough of Croydon, its predecessor bodies and the diverse community it now serves, dating as far back as 1392.

It also holds a wide range of local history material including books, photographs, maps and newspapers.

The project aims to widen engagement from young people and underrepresented communities in the archive and encourage them to take pride in a shared Croydonian heritage by celebrating our year as London Borough of Culture and ensuring its digital legacy.

This project will enable future generations to access digital archives and view the important legacy of Croydon’s year as London Borough of Culture.

Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon, said: “I am delighted that the council have secured funding to digitally transform our archives while also providing training opportunities for our young people.

Croydon residents will be able to see the events that took place in their area in 2023 and beyond, with all the content and context of the Borough of Culture.

“This significant funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund will help Croydon residents, present and future, to easily access council records and archives.

In time, the new digital preservation system will also be used to preserve the council’s digital records selected for permanent retention in the archive, improving the council’s governance and record-keeping capabilities.

“Our year as London Borough of Culture has showcased the best of Croydon and this historical year will be remembered and viewed by future Croydon generations.”

The funding from the Heritage Fund will enable 10 young people to help co-design the engagement strand of the programme.

They will receive training in archiving, digital skills, research, project management, exhibitions and events planning.

The roles are open to young people who have been historically underrepresented in the archive.

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The funding is also enabling the council to recruit two new posts to help deliver the project a project collections access officer and a project assistant archivist (digital).

Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London and South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, added: “It’s fantastic to see that Croydon’s year as the London Borough of Culture will be documented and digitally archived for generations to come.

“People will be able to look back and see the impact it had on heritage in the borough, through the eyes of Croydon’s people.”

❛❛This significant funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund will help Croydon residents, present and future, to easily access council records

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and archives.

Ask an Expert

Ask an Expert Rachael Pratt, Solicitor at Amphlett Lissimore, talks to us about inheritance tax - what it is, how much it is, and why most of us won't have to pay it.

Does it make a difference if I'm not married to my partner?

What is inheritance tax?

Inheritance tax is a tax on your estate when you die. Your 'estate' means everything that belongs to you, including your home, personal belongings, savings, investments, and so on.

If your estate is taxable, the tax must be paid before anyone can inherit.

How much is inheritance tax?

Inheritance tax is payable at a flat rate of 40%. However, only 4% of estates currently pay inheritance tax. The other 96% are tax-free. I will explain why.

Every estate has a tax-free allowance on which no tax is paid. There is no tax on the first £325,000 of assets (the Nil-Rate Band). So, unless your estate is worth more than £325,000 there will be no tax.

If you leave your whole estate to your husband, wife, or civil partner there will be no tax. It is the same if you leave it to charity. Gifts to your spouse or charity are exempt from inheritance tax.

If you leave only part of your estate to your spouse or charity, the remaining part may be taxable, but only if it exceeds the Nil-Rate Band.

I'm afraid it does. No matter how long partners have been together, anything they leave each other won't be exempt from tax, unless they're legally married or registered civil partners. And if one partner dies without leaving a will, the survivor won't automatically inherit anything.

When unmarried couples ask me about inheritance tax, you can guess what advice I give!

Are there other tax-free allowances?

If your spouse dies first, leaving everything to you, your estate gets an extra Nil-Rate Band. Then the first £650,000 that is not exempt will be free of tax.

If only part of your spouse's estate is left to you, then you may still get part of the extra Nil-Rate Band, depending on how much your spouse left to other people.

The Residence Nil-Rate Band (RNRB) is a separate allowance. Subject to conditions, this can apply if you leave property you have lived in to your children or other descendants. This can be up to £175,000 per estate. You and your spouse each have a separate RNRB, and in this way up to £1 million of your combined estates can avoid tax.

Can I save my children inheritance tax by giving them my property now?

Anything you give away in your lifetime may still be taxed as part of your estate if you die within seven years. Even after seven years, a lifetime gift may still be taxed when you die if you still receive a benefit from it. Giving your home to your children may not save inheritance tax if you continue to live there and may have other tax consequences too.

There are other inheritance tax exemptions relating to gifting that you can make during your lifetime that are less restrictive than gifting your home - you could ask your solicitor when making your will.

Is inheritance tax about to be abolished?

We will find out on 6 March 2024!

If you leave your whole ❛❛estate to your husband, wife, or civil partner there will be no tax. It is the same if you leave it to charity. Gifts to your spouse or charity are exempt from inheritance tax.

❜❜

For more information, visit www.allaw.co.uk email contact@allaw.co.uk or contact the team on 020 8771 5254 7

Focus on Lewisham

Independent businesses continue to thrive in Lewisham

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he second instalment of Lewisham’s high streets study – launched by the Council in 2021 – has revealed that independent businesses remain the driving force behind the borough's high streets, constituting two-thirds of all traders, with 65% owned by Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic entrepreneurs.

Research carried out by London South Bank University’s Business School in 2023 across nine of the borough’s bustling high streets showed that despite wider economic challenges and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, Lewisham’s independent business owners are feeling confident about their futures and positive about the borough.

Two-thirds of high street businesses in the borough are independent, according to research carried out by London South Bank University. would continue to trade in Lewisham over the next two years.

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Over 120 new businesses have opened on local high streets since 2021, with businesses adapting to change by pivoting towards goods and services that can’t be replicated online or are enhanced by inperson customer service.

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50% of Black entrepreneurs now view the Council as business-friendly, reflecting the pro-active steps taken by the Council to improve relationships with the borough’s Black business community through targeted support and the launch of the Black Business Forum.

Other key findings from the survey include: •

Seven in ten independent business owners rate Lewisham as an excellent place to do business. Initiatives such as London Borough of Culture 2022 were highlighted as having had a positive impact on businesses by boosting footfall and increasing pride in the local area.

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There is long-term confidence on the borough’s high streets, with almost 90% of business owners surveyed saying they

This is the second instalment of the Council’s ongoing high streets study, following on from a previous survey carried out in 2021. Lewisham was the first local authority to launch this sort of study, in order to better support independent businesses, tackle systemic inequalities faced by ethnic minority business owners and ensure the offering on local high streets reflects the wider community.

Commenting on the results of the survey, Cllr Kim Powell, Cabinet Member for Businesses, Jobs and Skills, said: "I’m buoyed by these results. It's encouraging to know so many of the businesses on our high streets are feeling optimistic about the future and like they can really thrive here in Lewisham. When we launched this survey in 2021, it was about listening to our independent business owners so we could pinpoint the challenges they were facing and tailor the support they needed to overcome them – whether that was upskilling or building stronger professional networks.

In this report, we’re seeing the fruition of the measures we took in response.”

You can find the full report on our website lewisham.gov.uk/highstreetstudy

What do you think of our plans for Lewisham town centre?

After successfully bidding for money from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, Lewisham Council is investing £24m in Lewisham town centre.

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his is an exciting project that makes major improvements and provides a space for everybody to enjoy – increasing footfall, boosting the local economy and creating new jobs.

Specifically, we are using the funding to: · Transform Lewisham Library into a Library, Culture and Business Hub

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· Revamp Lewisham Market with a new layout and iconic canopy design · Revitalise the high street so it’s cleaner, greener and safer to get around Our plans are now ready and we’re very keen to hear what you, our local business community, think. Have your say through the public consultation we are running from Monday 29 January to Friday 8 March 2024.

There are various ways to get involved.

Complete the survey online, fill in a paper survey, or drop-in to see us at Unit 25 in Lewisham Shopping Centre which we are taking over for February. The drop-ins are a great opportunity to see the plans and models in person, as well as to have your questions answered by Council officers.

Visit lewisham.gov.uk/lewishamtc for more information and to have your say

Focus on Croydon

Croydon a vibrant place to live, work and visit H

appy New Year to all Masthead readers. January is a time for reflection on the highlights of the last year and a look ahead to all the opportunities that lie ahead in 2024.

For Croydon, this signals an exciting time in the regeneration of our town centre as we develop our town centre strategy and progress projects to restore pride and make Croydon a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

At the end of 2023, six infrastructure and public realm projects took a big step forward to improve connections throughout Croydon town centre, following a successful bid for £18.5m by the council to the government’s Levelling Up Fund. The planned ‘Reconnecting Croydon’ schemes will enable residents and visitors to enjoy the town centre’s public spaces and travel more easily through safer, greener and more pleasant routes.

Among the changes in the planning stages are, improved routes around the busy Old Town area, which includes Croydon Minster; more roadside greenery with a new pedestrian crossing and closure of the subway in Wellesley Road; new bus priority lanes and investment in the public realm at East Croydon; enhanced routes and public spaces in West Croydon; and Croydon’s busy shopping district, from South End to North End, will have improved walking routes, public realm and wayfinding. These projects will be a huge boost for our town centre and will help to restore pride in our borough.

As part of my priority to steer Croydon town centre's recovery I continue to work closely with businesses and partners through the Mayor’s Advisory Town Centre Board to bring forward the redevelopment of the Whitgift Centre and the wider regeneration of the town centre.

This year will also see the creation of a new Regeneration and Visioning strategy created

by Croydon Council, which will underpin the town centre’s regeneration. As part of this work, we are currently engaging with the borough’s community groups, residents and businesses, who will be key to shaping the vision and strategy. We have appointed a multi-disciplinary team led by consultants ‘We Made That’, drawing together experts in urban strategy, design and infrastructure, to create an exciting and varied programme of

community-led activities, which kicked off at the end of last year and will continue to into Spring.

These include schools and family workshops, connecting younger and older generations through workshops in storytelling, poetry and music, so we can better understand how they experience Croydon town centre, creating easy read guides for the strategy and regeneration and a symposium discussing how to make the town centre more accessible.

It is my priority for Croydon to become a vibrant place for people to live, work and visit and it’s really important to me that while shaping what that might look like for now and the future vision, that all the borough’s voices are heard.

The community engagement for the strategy is being supported by Croydon Urban Room, a project we launched last year to create a space where residents, businesses and partners can come together through conversations, stories, exhibitions and events, to develop clear priorities and help shape proposals for the town centre. Urban Room is part of Croydon’s Growth Zone Programme – a partnership between Croydon Council, the Mayor of London and Transport for London (TfL) – to support sustainable growth in the town centre and projects to deliver regeneration.

Visit the Urban Room website: www.croydonurbanroom.com

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News

Greenwich bids to be next London Borough of Culture The Royal Borough of Greenwich has submitted a bid to become the next London Borough of Culture (LBoC).

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he LBoC award offers the winning borough £1.35 million of GLA funding to run a year-long programme of cultural events.

Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “Our bid to make Royal Greenwich the London Borough of Culture is in.

“With the help of local residents, over 150 local creative organisations and artists and our young people’s advisory group, we’ve developed a bid programme that celebrates the unique stories of the people who make Royal Greenwich such an outstanding borough.

“We thank each and every person who collaborated with us on this exciting bid.

“The benefits of winning are endless. It would boost our local creative economy, create career opportunities, make inspirational experiences accessible to local people and improve health and wellbeing.

“And by celebrating our cultures together, we can promote equality and understanding and strengthen our communities.

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“It’s time to show the world why Royal Greenwich is the London Borough of Culture.”

The council's proposed programme is based on the stories of more than 1,000 residents and the participation of many thousands more.

It will be delivered by organisations, artists, young people, famous faces, volunteers and stakeholders who push the boundaries of arts, culture and technology to deliver new and exciting opportunities.

The programme also focuses on levelling up the disparity between the east and west of Royal Greenwich and celebrates the industrial and working-class heritage of the borough.

The London Borough of Culture initiative is part of the Mayor of London’s plans to support the arts in the capital.

As well as the title award, there are also three Cultural Impact Awards up for grabs.

These will be in the region of £200,000 for individual projects that take place between 2025 and 2027.

The successful boroughs are expected to be announced in March 2024.

Have your say on the future of culture in

Royal Greenwich A new Culture Strategy is being developed for the Royal Borough of Greenwich – and the public’s help is needed.

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he council is asking people who live, work, study and socialise in the borough what cultural opportunities they want to see offered.

“It will enable us to build on the borough’s many strengths and tackle the many challenges faced by the industry, such as reductions in funding and the cost-of-living crisis.

It wants to find out more about local experiences of cultural or creative activities like music or concerts, arts and crafts, theatre or performances, dance, creative writing, local heritage, festivals, community events and activities for wellbeing.

“I would encourage our residents, businesses and community groups to share their views in the consultation and make sure it reflects what you want for your borough.”

Councillor Adel Khaireh, Cabinet Member for Equality, Culture and Communities, said: “Royal Greenwich is home to many exciting and diverse dedicated cultural organisations and venues, which make our borough a very special place to live.

“We want to ensure we have a comprehensive strategy for the future of our cultural sector, to help support the dedicated local organisations and businesses that provide such important and exciting experiences for our residents, support valuable local jobs and help to attract tourists from across the world.

Culture makes a wide variety of positive contributions to people’s lives, from jobs and training opportunities to improving health and wellbeing.

Public feedback will help the council write a strategy and action plan which ensures the benefits that culture brings meets local people’s priorities.

The strategy will ensure local organisations can provide an exciting range of initiatives, events and activities for residents of all ages and abilities and enable the council and its partners to bid for funding for more schemes and projects.

You can give your feedback online at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/culture-strategy-consultation The consultation is open until 5pm on 31st January 2024.

Focus on Greenwich

Focus on Greenwich Building a fairer, more sustainable and inclusive local economy The Royal Borough of Greenwich is undertaking public consultation on its draft inclusive economy strategy.

There is a growing recognition that existing models of economic development which focus solely on economic growth have not worked and have allowed inequality to increase. The council is determined to address this issue, using its tools, levers and powers to ensure that all local communities can benefit from growth and investment in the borough. The draft strategy sets out the approach the Royal Borough of Greenwich will take to meet this vision.

The council is now asking everyone who lives, works, owns a business or studies in Greenwich to share their thoughts on the proposed priorities and actions included in the draft document by completing a short online survey by Monday 5 February 2024. The strategy will be published later in 2024.

The new inclusive economy strategy forms part of a wider movement, focused not just on growth itself, but on how people and places can benefit from that growth.

“We're committed to creating an economy where investment and growth works for all our residents and businesses, and where no one is left behind.

“The strategy will help us to usher in a wealth of social and economic benefits and will help us to redouble our efforts to ensure that all our residents, local businesses, social enterprises, co-operative and community organisations can contribute and benefit from the opportunities that come from a successful economy.

“Residents and local businesses are at the heart of the new strategy, which is why we’re keen to hear everyone’s views on how we can collectively build an inclusive, resilient and thriving economy”.

Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business and Skills

Join us for the first ever Greenwich Apprenticeship Summit On Monday 5 February, come along to a free event dedicated to promoting and celebrating apprenticeships as part of National Apprenticeship Week (running from 5 to 11 February 2024). The event is organised by the Royal Borough of Greenwich in partnership with London South East Colleges and Visit Greenwich.

More than just a fair or a conference, this is a one-stop shop for everyone wanting to find out more about apprenticeships. Hear more about how apprenticeships could solve your recruitment challenges and skills gaps and boost your business at an information session dedicated to employers.

Employer Session Monday 5 February, 2pm to 3.30pm

Read more and complete the survey at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/inclusive-economy-strategy

A round of applause for Greenwich’s award-winning businesses!

The winners of the Best of Royal Greenwich Business Awards 2023 were revealed at a sparkling awards ceremony in November.

The top accolade of Business of the Year 2023 went to family business Helix 3D, specialists in set design and construction for film, TV and commercials, based in Thamesmead.

The highly anticipated business awards will be back for 2024, with the call for nominations opening later this year.

If you’re based in Royal Greenwich, consider applying to get your business the recognition it deserves and to seize new opportunities arising from the programme.

Find out which other businesses won in their categories at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/business-awards-winners-2023

Sign up to receive the business e-bulletin from the Royal Borough of Greenwich at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/business-bulletin

Why attend?

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Gain industry insights and guidance on navigating apprenticeships and accessing funding, including the apprenticeship levy transfer scheme.

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Build connections and network with fellow employers.

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Hear about others’ experience with apprenticeships.

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Find out about training options to upskill & retain current staff, address skills gaps for new recruits

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Learn effective strategies for integrating apprenticeships into your team.

Book your place at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/ apprenticeship-summit-employer You are also welcome to take part in the later session, taking place from 4pm to 6pm, which is open to aspiring apprentices, parents and carers to find out how apprenticeships can unlock your potential, develop your skills and increase your earning power.

Find out more at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/ apprenticeship-summit-resident

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Visit Greenwich

FILLING BROMLEY WITH KINDNESS & MUSIC IN 2024

“We’d like to wish all visitors, employees and residents of Bromley a Happy New Year! It’s already looking set to be a busy year in our town centre. We are busy conducting Mystery Shopper visits for the Your

Annual Business Survey & Your Bromley Business Awards Our 2023 Annual Business Survey results are in with the highest number of responses ever. Our work on Crime Prevention plus Town Look & Feel continue to be the top 2 priorities we will focus on.

The Your Bromley Business Awards are back for 2024

Bromley Business Awards, and getting

with three categories: Excellence in Customer Service,

ready for a community event around

Best Independents and the People’s Choice Business

Random Acts of Kindness Day. This

Award. Winners for the first two categories will be

year will also see Bromley become a

selected through Mystery Shopper visits and for the

Destination Area celebrating our local architecture”

Frances Forrest BID Manager Your Bromley BID

London Festival Of Architecture Bromley will be a Destination Area for the London Festival of Architecture 2024. This year sees the Festival celebrate its 20th anniversary. If you would like your business to be considered as a venue in June, to host events and Festival activity, please fill out this form https://www.londonfestivalofarchitecture.org/proposea-venue/

People’s Choice Business Award, nominations will be sought and decided by a public vote. Winners will be announced soon after at www.yourbromley.com

Pay It Forward on Random Acts Of Kindness Day 17th February is ‘Random Acts of Kindness Day’ and Your Bromley will be giving people the chance to publicly declare the random acts of kindness they pledge to complete on a giant wall on the High Street. So, whether agreeing to cover a colleague’s shift, paying forward for a coffee from one of our cafes, doing a neighbour’s shopping or babysitting to give your friend a break, pledges can be added to our

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

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yourbromley.com

temporary wall on the High Street which will go on to be displayed in a High St shopfront, creating a visual testament to the kindness and goodwill in our town centre.

yourbromley

Focus on Bromley

New support launched to help Bromley businesses grow New business support programmes are being launched to provide a further boost to small businesses across Bromley, with free expert one-to-one business advice now available.

‘Bromley Business Growth’ will see various forms of free advice and assistance made available to support Bromley businesses, including two new local support services through partners Goldsmiths, University of London and Newable.

This work is being funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), following over £1.6m in grant funding being secured by the council to help make improvements to town centres or high streets and to support local businesses.

Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing said: “Bromley has a strong history of small businesses succeeding and this is greatly encouraged by initiatives like these that provide valuable, targeted support through our delivery partners. This is a welcome addition to the existing support that we have been delivering, especially since the pandemic. We are keen to keep expanding this, as I know many local entrepreneurs and SMEs grasp such services to help their businesses to grow and thrive.”

Delivered by Goldsmiths, University of London, the Growth Builder programme offers free expert advice to local SMEs looking to expand.

The programme is designed to build SMEs’ confidence and capacity, helping to establish a clear route to growth and sustainability.

It includes guidance on topics such as digital transformation, innovation, strategic marketing and social media.

To mark the launch of Bromley Business Growth, Bromley Council is hosting a launch and networking event on 30 January to allow businesses to find out more about the free support available.

Local SMEs and entrepreneurs are invited to this drop-in event at Bromley Central Library where they can attend scheduled talks and presentations from Start Up Bromley, SOS Creativity, Grow London Local, London South East Colleges, Newable and Goldsmiths, University of London.

Newable’s Supply Bromley programme aims to help SMEs gain the skills and knowledge needed to access supply chain or procurement opportunities with new buyers, and access new markets within the borough and beyond.

It also helps SMEs understand public sector procurement through bespoke advice from expert business advisers, alongside the opportunity to meet new potential buyers at exclusive 'Meet the Buyer' events.

These new services complement existing services that have been brought under the Bromley Business Growth umbrella. Start Up Bromley is a business support programme operating through Bromley libraries providing a range of free services including workshops, training events and one-to-ones. The Bromley Business Hub, delivered by SOS Creativity, is a one-stop-shop offering SMEs information on a wide range of areas such as accountancy, sales and grant funding. Local businesses are also able to access a number of pan-London support programmes delivered through UKSPF funding.

There will also be time for networking and browsing display stands from delivery partners where businesses will be able to ask questions and learn more about the support on offer.

This includes displays from some of Bromley Council's service teams, such as the Economic Development, Regeneration, and Procurement teams, in addition to giving businesses the opportunity to speak directly to the teams who oversee licensing and business rates.

The event is taking place on 30 January from 10:30 – 14:30 at Bromley Central Library, with free refreshments on offer.

To find out more about the support available through Bromley Business Growth or the launch and networking event on 30 January, visit bromley.gov.uk/BromleyBusinessGrowth.

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Focus on Bexley

Bexley kicks off the ‘Tidal Thames Masterplan’

B

exley was the first London Borough to be included in the new ‘Tidal Thames Masterplan’ published by the Port of London Authority (PLA).

The Council has welcomed the findings within the report.

The key options for Bexley highlighted in the Masterplan are: •

Erith Town Centre, home to the longest pier in Greater London, which has the potential to become the borough’s first River Bus Station.

•

Promotion of existing riverside sporting facilities, such as Erith Yacht Club and Erith Rowing Club.

•

Highlighting the importance of the Tidal Thames and its local tributaries and other water courses, such as the River Cray along with Erith & Crayford Marshes, which all provide valuable habitats for wildlife

Supporting the PLA’s delivery of the overarching Thames Vision 2050, the Tidal Thames Masterplan will detail the potential to boost trade, travel, sport and the environment along the course of the river.

Consultation on proposed planning changes

L

ondon Borough of Bexley is consulting businesses and landowners in its industrial locations across the borough and other interested parties, on the introduction of a ‘non-immediate Article 4 Direction.

In response to growing concerns about an increasing number of offices and other commercial buildings in industrial sites being converted to residential dwellings under permitted development rights, the Council has taken a decision to introduce a non-immediate Article 4 Direction that will bring this type of development into planning control. This does not mean that this type of development is unacceptable; it just means that a planning application will be required so that the Council can consider all relevant implications and impose appropriate conditions as needed.

The Article 4 Direction is proposed to come into force on 1 December 2024, subject to the consideration of consultation comments received, the views of the Secretary of State and subsequent confirmation by the Council.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE said:" We know it is essential to build more homes to meet growing local need

and the conversion of unused commercial buildings can play a part in that. However, these new homes must be of high quality and in the right locations. We also need to make sure that our industrial areas are protected so they can provide good employment opportunities for local people. This Direction will provide us with the additional controls we need to ensure the right balance is struck between these competing needs.”

Consultation on the Article 4 Direction is open to the public for comment for three months between 1 December 2023 and 29 February 2024.

You can email your views to SP&Gteam@bexley.gov.uk with the subject: Article 4 Direction or write to: Strategic Planning, London Borough of Bexley at the address shown below. Any correspondence concerning the Article 4 Direction consultation must be received by 5pm on 29 February 2024.

The consultation is available online.

Alternatively, paper copies of the documents, including the Direction, can be viewed during normal office hours at the Civic Offices, 2 Watling Street, Bexleyheath, DA6 7AT.

New banking hub ‘will make a big difference to so many local people’

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new banking hub opened recently in London Borough of Bexley, based at 97-99 Welling High Steet. The new Hub offers a counter service operated by the Post Office, where customers of all major banks and building societies can carry out regular cash transactions.

The next stage of the plan development will see the PLA launching an eight-week public consultation to inform its further development of the Tidal Thames Masterplan, covering Newham and Tower Hamlets.

The hub came about following a community request from the Leader of the Council, Cllr Baroness O’Neill OBE to LINK, the UK’s cash access and cash machine network, for the return of banks to the high street.

Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE said: “I’m delighted by the opening of the Welling Bank Hub. This will make a big difference to so many local people. I’d asked for this facility because many residents were very disappointed that all the banks had pulled out of the high street. They told me this was hampering their lives - at best an inconvenience, but for some a source of real distress as they lacked the necessary digital know-how or access.”

Community Bankers will work on rotation, Small orbank medium with a different available on each day of the week. enterprise and Cash Access UK is a not-for-profit company It also offers a Community Banker service owned and funded by nine major banks. Their where customers can talk to their own banking want to grow? work is part of a new, collective approach to provider about more complicated issues, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

protecting access to cash.

Are you ‘Talking Business’? Free business Then let’s support and training grants from Bexley Council The Talking Business project has received s your business based in Bexley and in talk business! need of a helping hand to thrive in these £348,287 from the UK Government through the

I

challenging times?

UKcan Shared Prosperity BBE provide you withFund. the following support:

If so, Bexley Council is offering completely FREE expert-led business advice, training and guidance to local SMEs through the Council’s Talking Business programme.

Funded training To find out moregrants and to book a no Free business obligation chatadvice with our Business Support Advisor to discuss the Free recruitment service needs of your business, please Talk to our Business Support Advisor to Match-funding grants of up to £500 are also https://www.bexley.gov.uk/ out more about how we can help available to eligible small businesses, to assist findvisit with the costs of staff training and accreditation. talkingbusiness@bexley.gov.uk talkingbusinessenquiry

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TALKING BUSINESS

Bexley Business & Employment

Scan me

Sidcup Bid

Sidcup Town Centre's Renaissance:

A Cinematic Revival Sidcup, a charming suburban town in the London Borough of Bexley, is experiencing a transformative wave of inward investment, breathing new life into its town centre. Among the notable developments contributing to this resurgence is the arrival of the much-anticipated Storyteller Cinema.

A

s the town - led by its proactive BID, Sidcup Partners - aims to redefine its identity and create a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike, inward investment has become a crucial catalyst.

The London Borough of Bexley has been a key player in this narrative by investing in The Sidcup Storyteller development which comprises a Cinema, Café, and Residential apartments. It is also the home to the new Sidcup Library and represents more than just a cinematic experience. It symbolises a commitment to cultural and community enrichment. Its presence not only enhances the leisure options in Sidcup but has also acted as a magnet for further investment and development.

The recent opening of Soulstreet London, a high-end restaurant & cocktail bar in the old

police station and news that Lounge Group will shortly be opening Serato Lounge, a new informal café bar at the old Iceland unit on the High Street - together with the imminent completion of several, high end mixed-use developments in the locality including an M&S Food store - demonstrates Sidcup’s growing attractiveness to investors both in the High Street and vibrant Station parades.

Bexley Council’s investment, exemplified by the Storyteller Cinema, along with its award winning performing arts colleges, Rose Bruford and Bird Colleges, is transforming the town centre into a dynamic and culturally rich destination. As the community gathers to enjoy the magic of cinema and a burgeoning evening economy, the ripple effects of this investment are reshaping Sidcup's future, ensuring it remains a thriving and attractive place to live, work, and play.

For more information about the Storyteller and to explore possible investment opportunities in Sidcup email Sue Petty at Sidcup Partners: info@sidcuppartners.co.uk 15

Bexleyheath Awards

Celebrating Excellence:

2024 Bexleyheath High Street Awards return for their Third Year 16

Bexleyheath Awards

In a shining testament to the spirit of community and entrepreneurship, the Bexleyheath High Street Awards are set to return for their third consecutive year. Hosted at the iconic Hall Place in Bexley on Tuesday, 16th April from 6pm to midnight, this highly anticipated event promises to honour once again the achievements and innovation of individuals and high street businesses in the heart of Bexleyheath.

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stablished in 2022, the Bexleyheath High Street Awards were born out of a shared vision to recognise and elevate the standards of businesses that are the lifeblood of the local community. Over the years, these awards have evolved into a hallmark event, celebrating excellence, fostering development, and inspiring countless business journeys.

The event is proudly organised by the Bexleyheath Business Improvement District (BID) and supported by a remarkable coalition of local businesses, enterprises, and Bexley Council. The core mission is to not only acknowledge achievements but also to raise the bar across the area, focusing on community engagement, development and the pursuit of business excellence.

Shopping Centre, South East London Chamber of Commerce, Bexley Homes Ltd, JPS Communications, the London Borough of Bexley and Ikon Protection.

These sponsors play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the awards, underscoring the community's collective commitment to business excellence.

the event, expressed their excitement, saying, "We are thrilled to continue our support for the Bexleyheath High Street Awards. These awards align with our commitment to fostering a vibrant and thriving local business community."

The 2024 Bexleyheath High Street Awards feature an array of categories designed to spotlight excellence in various aspects of business: 1. Excellence in Customer Service 2. Best New Business (under 3 years) 3. Best Independent Business 4. Best Corporate Business 5. Best Hospitality Business 6. Best Beauty, Health or Wellness Business

In its continued commitment to enriching the local business landscape, the 2024 Bexleyheath High Street Awards introduce two new categories open for entries from across the Bexley Borough. This expansion opens the door for a broader spectrum of businesses to showcase their dedication and accomplishments.

7. Made in Bexley Bexley Borough Award

The event boasts an impressive lineup of sponsors, including the Broadway

Rai Holdstock, Manager of Broadway Shopping Centre, the main sponsor of

8. Best Employer Bexley Borough Award Businesses eager to participate in these prestigious awards can enter now via the dedicated awards website, enjoybexleyheath.co.uk/awards.

Bexleyheath BID Manager Caron Linyard echoed the sentiment, stating, "We are so excited that the Bexleyheath High Street Awards are back for 2024.

Challenges for businesses on the high street are relentless, but we have a great community feel here and are all working hard to support one another. With new categories and a broader scope, we have a tremendous opportunity to showcase the incredible work of countless businesses on our high street."

For more information on purchasing tickets which go on sale at the end of February, sponsorship opportunities, or media inquiries about the 2024 Bexleyheath High Street Awards, please contact: info@bexleyheathbid.co.uk 17

Net Zero

JUST 1 THING If you could do one thing to ‘save the planet’ or at least drive down your energy bills and reduce waste, what would that be?

Greener Greenwich

So how did it go?

On 21 March 2024, we’ll be asking that question at the Greener Greenwich Summit 2024.

For the first time, countries agreed on the need to "transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems".

We will build on the 78 ideas arising from the last Greener Greenwich Summit in October 2022, aligning with the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s Carbon Neutral Plan and its proposed Inclusive Economy Strategy.

Together, we will Identify up to 5 projects which support the achievement of the borough's net zero and inclusive economy ambitions, to be worked upon over the coming years as part of an ongoing programme of activities and events led by the Chamber.

If you’re a Greenwich business, register your interest today. We look forward to seeing you at the Valley, home of Charlton Athletic FC and one of the latest Chamber Strategic Partners.

The Greener Game Helen McIntosh (Chamber President) and I were kindly invited to the Valley by another Strategic Partner, the University of Greenwich, to see the ‘Greener Game’ on 9 December.

The university is fully committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030, applying sustainable development across its activities, and working closely with students, staff, and the wider community to help radically reduce carbon and enhance social value. Aspirations which are also shared by the football club and its main sponsor and co-hosts for the day, RSK. Alas, the Addicks were pegged back by two late goals to a 2-2 draw but at least the fans were treated to lots of great energy saving tips with the potential of saving them money as well as the planet!

A fair COP? Later that week, a slightly larger climate summit with over 80,000 delegates, COP28, came to an end.

COP28 – which stands for "Conference of the Parties" - was the 28th annual United Nations (UN) climate meeting.

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The text calls for this to be done "in a just, orderly and equitable manner". This is seen as an important recognition that richer countries are expected to move away from coal, oil, and gas more quickly.

However, the deal doesn't compel countries to take action, and no timescale is specified.

According to an estimate by the International Energy Agency (IEA), full delivery of the energyrelated pledges made at COP28 would result in global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2030 being about four metric gigatons (Gt) less than would be expected without them.

However, the IEA also estimates that reductions totalling 22 Gt will be needed to limit warming to 1.5˚C. For context, how big is one gigatonne? This unit of mass is equivalent to one billion metric tons.

Put another way, the weight of all humans on Earth is approximately 0.06 gigatonnes. Add in the mass of the world’s land mammals, it is roughly equivalent to one gigatonne. Sound a lot?

We then need to multiply that by twenty-two!

Greenwich Park is around 1 kilometre long and 0.8 kilometre wide. A gigatonne of ice placed here would extend around 1.2 kilometres high – blocking out that much-loved view of Canary Wharf and possibly the sun!

Although unable to attend COP28, one commonly cited takeaway is that net zero remains an organising principle for private-sector leaders, who almost universally recognise the need to accelerate action. Together, our local business community can also play our part!

Greener Business Action London As mentioned above, a key objective of the Greener Greenwich Summit 2024 is to identify up to five projects which will support Greenwich’s net zero and other related ambitions; projects

and initiatives which can be driven, or at least supported, by the business community.

Putting my pitch in early, my proposed project would be to encourage and support every business in Greenwich to calculate its carbon footprint and to set an associated carbon reduction plan.

How does that sound? Are you up for it? Where do I start, I hear you say?

One source of support to get you started is Green Business Action London. Green Business Action is a programme that delivers free actionable sustainability advice and energy audits to SMEs across London, fully funded by the UK Government. Every year, they empower hundreds of small and medium size organisations (SMEs) to understand their carbon impact and reduce it.

I was fortunate enough to attend their event in November celebrating the securing of UK Shared Prosperity Fund monies. The Chamber is taking advantage of their support – as are businesses in Bexley - including access to a carbon management tool.

For those of you attending the Greener Greenwich Summit, you will get the opportunity to hear more and of course, sign up!

In summary Firstly, apologies to those in our other four boroughs for the rather skewed focus on Greenwich in this edition of my climate column – I look forward to engaging with businesses, councils, and other organisations across all boroughs over the coming months and during the rest of 2024 and beyond.

It has been another super busy quarter and things are only going to get busier as the need for action becomes ever clearer! We’re already planning member webinars on the topic of climate.

Please get in touch if you have ideas for events or want to share your good practice. And don’t forget. It takes ‘just one thing’!

Mark Jenkinson, Crystal Associates and SELCC Board Director

The Royal Borough of Greenwich declared a climate emergency in 2019 and agreed to set an ambitious target to reach net zero by 2030. The business community is crucial to achieving this.

Building on the last event in October 2022, the Greener Greenwich Summit 2024 will be will be an action-oriented, interactive mix of informative presentations, case studies, workshops, and networking.

Together, we will Identify up to 5 projects which support the achievement of the borough’s net zero and inclusion ambitions, to be worked upon over the coming years as part of an ongoing programme of activities and events led by the South East London Chamber of Commerce.

Book Now

Seminar

Preparing your company for sale 13 March 2024 | From 17:00 in person or online

Whether you are planning to sell your business now or in the future, being fully prepared will ensure any risks are mitigated and you get the best result.

Readers of South East London Chamber magazine are cordially invited to our joint event with accountants RPG Crouch Chapman Delve into The often-overlooked legal issues in business sales Structuring or restructuring your business before a sale TUPE regulations coming into play if purchasing the business as a going concern Maximising interest and value in your business Tax pre-sale health checks and more!

Contact us:

Venue

T: 020 7940 4060 w: www.anthonygold.co.uk E: events@anthonygold.co.uk

The Cottons Centre 5th Floor, South-West Hay's Lane, London SE1 2QG

Scan to book your free place

Legal

Patrick relishing his new challenge Patrick Gilmour is the newest member of Anthony Gold Solicitors, joining the team as Head of Corporate and Commercial.

He talks to Sarah Dale about why he became a lawyer and his plans for his new role.

W

hen Patrick Gilmour’s German teacher suggested he become a lawyer when he successfully argued that a question on a test his teacher had set the class was ambiguous and should not have been marked wrong, it was his lightbulb moment.

At 15, he knew what he wanted to do and started researching how to become a lawyer.

Now a successful commercially driven corporate lawyer with more than 30 years’ experience, it is not surprising that Anthony Gold Solicitors snapped him up.

Patrick joined the law firm as the new Head of Corporate and Commercial on October 1st and is excited to be leading the new department, which he plans to grow over the next few years. His expertise is private company acquisition, disposal and corporate restructuring.

“I’m a big fan of [English-born American author and inspirational speaker] Simon Sinek and his theory of people buying into the idea of not what you do but why you do it,” said Patrick, who recently celebrated his 25th wedding anniversary and has four children, two dogs, three cats and 20 chickens.

He was born and raised in Nottingham and was the first in his family to graduate from university. He grew up loving the stories of Robin Hood and King Arthur and, when asked why he became a lawyer, he refers to these tales as a way of explanation.

“Both are about ‘might’ being for ‘right’, rather than ‘might’ deciding who was ‘right’,” he explained.

“In my teens, I saw Charlton Heston in A Man for all Seasons where he makes his famous speech defending the rule of law and that has always stayed with me.”

His primary passion as a lawyer lies in the buying and selling of companies and providing all the legal advice to clients they need for both.

Patrick’s role is helping businesses from start-up to sale with any corporate and commercial issues. These include setting up the company, drafting agreements between partners, investment, terms and conditions, bespoke contracts, any regulatory issues such as data protection, for example, software contracts, shares, and investment.

“Anthony Gold has work that needs doing that fits my skillset,” he added.

❛❛

The thing that attracted

me to Anthony Gold was

one of the senior partners was a trainee at one of my old firms who I remembered warmly, and it turned out that David Marshall, the Managing Partner, when we were talking in the interview, he knew my wife. Everyone

❜❜

here is really lovely.

“The thing that attracted me to Anthony Gold was one of the senior partners was a trainee at one of my old firms who I remembered warmly, and it turned out that David Marshall, the Managing Partner, when we were talking in the interview, he knew my wife. Everyone here is really lovely.”

He is looking forward to meeting Chamber members in his new role at Anthony Gold Solicitors, which is a member of the Southwark Chamber.

“Meeting people face-to-face and building new relationships is what I am doing at the moment in my new role. I am going out with the partners to meet clients and explain the services my department provide. Attending events is another way of meeting new people.

I find that once you help someone with a problem, they are more receptive to you when you have a problem.”

Patrick’s advice to those embarking on a career in law is to learn as much about AI (artificial intelligence) as possible including the potential issues surrounding the evolving technology such as confidentiality and copyright laws.

“AI is going to have a huge impact,” said Patrick, who is a voracious reader of science fiction books.

“I’m a big science fiction fan but AI still has a long way to go.”

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Skills

National Apprenticeship Week 2024 Taking place between 5 and 11 February, National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is an opportunity for the education and skills sector to celebrate the achievements of apprentices and the positive impact they make to communities, businesses, and the wider economy.

Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to earn a wage, achieve a qualification and gain work experience at the same time. They are available at different levels, to people of all ages in many roles and sectors from healthcare and finance through to hair & beauty, construction and motor vehicle – and can lead to a great career.

London South East Colleges will be holding a number of events during National Apprenticeship week, across its campuses in Bromley, Bexley and Greenwich. These include workshops for students and their parents/ carers, employer-led meetings, conferences and networking breakfasts.

Here’s a summary of what’s on during the week: DAY

EVENT

ATTENDEES

LOCATION

Monday 5th February

The Apprenticeship Summit In association with Royal Borough of Greenwich and Partners

Employers and Students

Woolwich Works

Tuesday 6th February

Student& Parents Apprenticeship Information Evening

External Students and LSEC Students

LSEC Bromley

Wednesday 7th February

Apprenticeship Workshops for Schools

External schools

LSEC Orpington

Thursday 8th February

Apprenticeship and T-Level Breakfast Briefing - In association with the South East London Chamber of Commerce

Employers

BR6 Restaurant, Orpington

Find your next Apprentice and Future Talent

Employers & selected LSEC students

FE Skills Exchange - Launch

Employers

Friday 9th February

LSEC Orpington

Rianna – Hair Apprentice “I'm currently doing a Level 2 hair professional qualification.

My goal is to become an experienced stylist in a wellrecognised salon. I feel that I excel in colouring and can greatly enhance any haircut. I am really supported at London South East Colleges and I'm currently learning a wide variety of skills that I look forward to using in the beauty and hair industry!"

Charlie Horner – Carpentry and Joinery Apprentice “I secured myself a carpentry and joinery apprenticeship which specialised in fitting bespoke kitchens and wardrobes. I attended London South East Colleges’ Holly Hill campus one day a week and ended up achieving a distinction in my City & Guilds End Point Assessment test. I’m very proud to say that I am a skilled tradesperson and I’m looking forward to the next stage of my career. I have already gone self-employed and intend to set up a family business at some point in the future.”

Cynthia Oti – Level 5 Operational Manager Apprentice “I’m 41 years old and a matron working at the Lewisham and Greenwich NHS, Lewisham Hospital site. I enrolled on this apprenticeship as a new ward manager. I wanted to gain additional knowledge and skills on how to manage my team more effectively, to help achieve organisational goals and strategies.

This has positively impacted my organisation, enabling us to meet local and national objectives.

I was even awarded a highly commended prize in the Regional Apprenticeship Awards (London).”

For more information about what’s on offer at London South East Colleges, to find out more about apprenticeships or to sign up for an employer event, visit www.lsec.ac.uk/events

GOOD WORK BROMLEY EXCHANGE A brand-new employment and skills centre has been launched at London South East Colleges’ Orpington Campus.

The ‘Good Work Bromley Exchange’ has been created through a unique partnership with the College, the London Borough of Bromley and Local London (the GLA), Bromley Mencap and CASPA. Working with the Department for Work and Pensions, Maximus, Bromley Well, local housing associations and other local charities, the initiative is aimed at supporting people from across the borough who may be struggling to gain employment. This includes those with additional needs such as autism and mental health challenges.

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Experts from the partner organisations and the college will be on hand at the Good Work Bromley Exchange to provide specialist support for anyone who needs it. There will be many opportunities on offer for applicants, including referral onto courses at London South East Colleges and progression into employment via Work Skills Programmes and Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs).

Neil Coates, Deputy Principal Adults, Enterprise and Employability at LSEC spoke to attendees about the project and the benefits it will have.

He said: “This is such an exciting project, which will help people of all ages from across the Borough access training and employment

opportunities. This will enable them to gain the skills and knowledge needed to get into the workplace, achieve their career ambitions and fulfil their potential.

“Working in partnership with the council, the DWP, local charities and employers is a fantastic example of collaboration – together we can have a greater impact and support more local people.”

The Good Work Bromley Exchange is keen to get more employers involved, so please do get in touch if you can help and would be interested in supporting local people into work.

For further information please contact: goodworkbromley@lsec.ac.uk

Skills

Bexley Music Primary Choir shines in the King’s Christmas Message

The Bexley Music Primary Choir has had the experience of a lifetime, having been chosen to sing as part of the King’s Christmas Day message – which aired globally on 25 December in its traditional 3pm slot.

T

he outstanding choir comprised thirty-five 6 –11-year-olds, from four schools across Bexley, together with a vocal soloist and two instrumentalists. Filming took place at Buckingham Palace, with the choir singing While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks as part of the televised ITN production.

15-year-old Binu Tennakoon performed the solo part, with instrumentalists Grace Xu (harp) and Sofia Gkatsou (Flute) providing an outstanding accompaniment.

Part of London South East Academies Trust, and the lead organisation for the Bexley Music Education Hub, funded by Arts Council England, Bexley Music provides a wide range of musical opportunities to people of all ages in the borough.

Head of Bexley Music, Julie Stanning, said: “Performing at this prestigious event was the most incredible experience for our children and young people, and something they will never forget.

“We are absolutely honoured to have been invited to take part and so incredibly proud of our wonderful choir, our soloist and our instrumentalists.

“Our aim at Bexley Music is to ensure that music is inclusive and accessible for all.

This is very much reflected by the diversity and talent of the amazing children who took part in this special recording and we are all extremely grateful for the opportunity.”

Taking part in the filming was an extremely exciting opportunity for the children involved.

When asked ‘what was the best thing about the day?’ here were some of their responses!

"To get the opportunity to see what it's like in Buckingham Palace and to see what it's like to be a pop star. If I'm a pop star in the future, I have good experience."

"Being in such an amazing building and playing in front of professional cameras it was really cool!"

"The opportunity to actually go and be in Buckingham Palace because that's a once in a lifetime opportunity and many other children have dreams about it."

"We knew all of the words, we could sing without even thinking and we were actually in Buckingham Palace which was really exciting!"

"I liked performing and I liked when the cameras were on us, like we were filming a TV programme".

"I was in a place that I never thought I would visit in my life."

"I loved the view, the decor and the paintings."

"Normally when I come here, I'm just a tourist coming to see the outside, I've never been inside Buckingham Palace before."

"I liked the singing and the whole thing!"

The Royal Christmas message is broadcast in 50 Commonwealth countries, to over 20 million people. This year was the first to be given by King Charles, following his coronation in May 2023.

To watch the special message, featuring our incredible Bexley Music students – visit: The King's Christmas message - www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCg-OCaMFuM For more information about Bexley Music and the many musical opportunities it provides, visit: www.bexley-music.co.uk Twitter: @bexley_music For more information about London South East Academies Trust visit: www.lseat.org.uk 23

Profile

Making Living Better: Developer

Astir has big plans for Lewisham

Astir is on a mission to ‘make living better.' Astir is a new entrant into London’s large scale mixed-use development market, with a new take on modern living, creating mixed-use communities for all people in all stages of life.

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stir will proudly be welcoming residents into their new homes within their maiden development, West Hampstead Central (WHC) this year. WHC is a collection of 94 elegant one- and two-bedroom apartments, alongside ground floor retail and Astir’s coworking concept. Here, Travis Crawford, Partner at Astir, discusses plans for their next landmark mixed-use development, Silkwater in Lewisham.

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Can you tell us a little bit about Astir?

Astir has been operational since 2020 with a vision to create exquisite places to live, work and play. Our vision underpins everything we do: “Making Living Better.” We bring a passion, energy and creativity to placemaking through taking a longer-term view. We are unique in developing genuinely mixed-use developments with a range of accommodation options for contemporary lifestyles. Including more traditional housing for sale and rent, as well as modern co-living options, alongside student accommodation and aparthotels. Astir are also bringing forward a new co-working concept to provide modern working options for our residents and the wider community.

Profile

enhanced hotel style customer service, that only long term professional landlords can provide.

It can be something to actively aspire to. This, perhaps more than anything, is what we bring to the sector – an aspirational vision of better living for all.

Astir’s first development in the capital, West Hampstead Central, is due to complete in 2024 and already looks fantastic. Which leads us to the key question – what’s the plan in Lewisham?

We are incredibly excited by the opportunity to bring forward ‘Silkwater’ our first multi living tenure development within the heart of Lewisham, alongside the Ravensbourne River and Lewisham station. Our vision is for a vibrant multi use community, further enhancing Lewisham’s town centre. The development will provide highly sustainable long term housing options, alongside student accommodation and an aparthotel, as well as coworking, and community uses. We are working with Tesco so that they can remain on this site and continue to serve the local community with a new and improved superstore.

We are inspired to return the site to nature, achieving a substantial biodiversity net gain, through the restoration and re-naturalisation of the River Ravensbourne, that will form a new green route through Lewisham as part of substantial landscaping and public realm improvements brought forward with the development.

What makes an Astir home distinctive?

We aim to deliver a new type of accommodation that responds to contemporary ways of life.

Wellbeing, community and sustainability are our primary focus and our developments reflect this. Ideally, a home should enhance its occupier’s wellbeing. They should feel proud to live in an attractive, social and sustainable environment. We put ourselves in our residents’ shoes and always strive to make our places as vibrant and cohesive as possible.

We take a great deal of time to position each development to suit the local area and people and ensure that the housing options and amenity spaces are specifically tailored to their needs.

All our developments have extensive amenity spaces alongside abundant open space to provide a higher quality living experience for all stages of life.

At Astir we believe that by creating such places we can change the perception that renting is a secondary option, born of financial necessity.

We see no reason for this to continue, if we can develop a rental proposition that provides a higher standard in superior locations, with

Our proposals will reopen the site to the local community through new public routes and green spaces reconnecting Eagle House, a local heritage asset, with the river, and reinstating the historic Silk Mills Path providing enhanced access to and from Lewisham station.

Furthermore, we intend to introduce our coworking concept on site to provide flexible working space including affordable membership options for local entrepreneurs, startups and the local community.

Part of that offering is the transformation of Eagle House, a locally listed building, which was the head office of the former Anchor Brewery located on the site since the 1800s, into a multi purpose coworking space, community hub and cafe.

We will also create new public space at the site to provide the social infrastructure so often lacking in residential developments.

Celebrating each site’s unique heritage and creating a place with a clear identity is fundamental to our approach. Silkwater will celebrate the area’s rich heritage whilst providing a range of attractive living options, complemented by extensive commercial space.

Our ideas are at a very early stage and we are looking forward to discussing our proposals with the council and local community through a number of consultation events later this year.

You also mentioned West Hampstead Central – thanks! We’re thrilled with how it’s shaping up. The scheme is spread across two buildings in West Hampstead village, on West End Lane, adjacent to the Underground, Thameslink and Overground stations. The inspiration was pure West Hampstead: think of those elegant mansion blocks, but updated to reflect the needs and desires of the 21st century occupier. We have however made a concerted effort to ensure the development is in keeping with the historic local vernacular. Respecting the character of a place is a big thing for us – you will see this in Lewisham.

Placemaking and Heritage is clearly important to you. What about sustainability?

Absolutely, just as important. We all know how important it is is for all of us to minimise the impact we have on our planet. Astir’s business model is to retain the ownership of our developments, therefore we take a longerterm view. We aim to set a new standard in sustainability, ensuring our developments are not only built as environmentally friendly as possible, but also operate will minimal impact on the environment.

Does access to transport factor into your choice of location?

100%, yes, look at West Hampstead – the primary transport links are right on the doorstep. Silkwater, too, will be so much more than a collection of homes. It will constitute a vibrant new community, and accessibility will be a key part of that.

Our proposals will complete the Lewisham town centre cluster, establishing a nucleus of supporting uses which will balance the activity either side of Lewisham station to make best use of the key transport hub. Residents will benefit from worldclass links to central London, Greater London and the South East.

What does the future hold for Astir?

Lewisham is our number one priority at this moment in time, as we work with Lewisham council to continue to develop the proposals, but Astir are constantly looking at new opportunities around London. Success breeds success and we have every intention of taking the business as far as we possibly can.

We are very keen to talk with any landowners who are looking to sell sites or looking to release further value from their assets. We are also working in partnership with landowners to provide our unique perspective and progressive approach to development in order to unlock other sites to add to our wonderful capital city.

We very much welcome any approaches from landowners or agents looking for a new perspective.

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Skills

Apprenticeships are the future for business: join us to find out about the many benefits for your organisation

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Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business and Skills at the Royal Borough of Greenwich, reflects on the benefits of apprenticeships for businesses and invites employers to the Greenwich Apprenticeship Summit on 5 February.

ational Apprenticeship Week, from 5 to 11 February, is a brilliant chance to learn about apprenticeships, explore opportunities for your business and draw ideas and inspiration from the experiences of fellow employers who have hired an apprentice.

This year, we are excited to be hosting the Greenwich Apprenticeship Summit with our partners London South East Colleges and Visit Greenwich. This is the first event of its kind in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, dedicated to celebrating and promoting apprenticeships and their employers.

We will shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

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National Apprenticeship Week is an important date in the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s calendar. Apprenticeships play a central role in building the economy we want to see – one that’s inclusive, sustainable, thriving and benefits all our communities, with no one left behind.

Apprenticeships can be life-changing for learners and are proven to give businesses a massive boost, with 86%* of employers surveyed by the government saying they helped them develop skills relevant to their business and improve productivity.

That’s why they’re at the heart of our work to ensure that everyone in Greenwich has the opportunity to secure a good job and to reach their potential. We want to make it as easy as possible for employers to create high-quality opportunities for residents, bringing real benefits to organisations.

Apprenticeships have benefited the Council enormously, so we speak from

experience. 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.

Despite all the success stories, many local employers have told us that there is a lack of understanding and clarity around the process and practicalities of hiring an apprentice and accessing funding.

This is why, as part of our event, we will be hosting a session dedicated to employers.

This will offer a welcoming space to network with fellow employers and to receive guidance from expert advisors.

This includes advice about funding available to help support with costs when hiring an apprentice.

Ahead of the event, here are some of the many reasons why hiring an apprentice might be the best thing for your business:

Skills

1. Developing skills to get people work ready for your business As a business owner, you know what skills your team needs to support and grow your business. If you’ve noticed skill gaps or areas of potential growth, you can use an apprenticeship scheme to train up new employees in these areas from day one.

There are currently over 800 apprenticeship standards to choose from for new or existing staff, ranging from Level 2 to Level 7, which is equivalent to a master’s degree, so you’ll be able to find one that fits your business objectives.

2. Saving on costs Hiring an apprentice is a cost-effective way to support the development of new skills and talent in your business, with many employers able to access funding and grants to cover the costs.

In the Royal Borough of Greenwich you can get 100% funding for training apprentices

through the apprenticeship levy. There are other funding opportunities to help you upskill your team on a budget. At the Greenwich Apprenticeship Summit we will be discussing how the apprenticeship levy and other funding works.

3. Diversifying your team Apprenticeships offer individuals the opportunity to study for a professional qualification while they earn, making them attractive to a broader range of people, and allowing you to recruit people from more diverse backgrounds. By widening the

talent pool, not only will you be fostering social mobility, you will also bring new ideas and fresh approaches to your organisation, driving positive change and championing a more inclusive culture.

You will hear about the many benefits of recruiting and training apprentices at the Greenwich Apprenticeship Summit.

If you’re an employer, register for your free ticket to join us at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/ apprenticeship-summit-employer *Results from a survey conducted by apprenticeships.gov.uk

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Apprenticeships can be life-changing for learners and are proven to give businesses a massive boost, with 86%* of employers surveyed by the government saying they helped them develop skills relevant to their business and improve productivity.

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FUTURES, CAREERS & EMPLOYABILITY with Shooters Hill Sixth Form College Jasbinder Mato Futures Manager Shooters Hill Sixth Form College Futures Team are committed to shaping the lives of students for the future world of work. Our Annual Careers Programme demonstrates that we believe in empowering our students to build on their employability skills, inspiring students to make better informed decisions about their future career pathway.

We are a sixth form college located in the heart of Royal Borough of Greenwich and are proud to announce that we have managed to build and sustain robust working relationships, that have developed Business Partnerships, bridging the gap between education and careers.

The College T level offer will be growing and ever evolving, and we will be offering more courses year on year. This is a perfect time for organisations to be involved and achieve their social value commitments.

If you are an employer that is passionate about taking the lead in adding corporate social value to your company, then look no further! There are many ways that you can demonstrate your commitment towards supporting young people in the community by taking part in the following.

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• • • • • •

Exhibit at Shooters Hill Careers Fair during National Careers week, Tuesday 5th March 2024 National Apprenticeship Week! Join us on Thursday 8th February 2024, and give our students and their parents information about apprenticeship opportunities in your organisation, in breakout rooms.

Attend our Business Breakfast meetings to find out more!

You can have the privilege of joining our business mentoring programme.

Get involved in speed networking events.

Giving your organisation the opportunity to head hunt potential future workforce.

Deliver a talk.

Site Visits Mock Interviews

I am excited to share that our new and existing partners have innovative plans with us such as the Health Care Careers Day launch, aimed at future health care specialists, offered to all secondary schools in the Borough, in conjunction with the Royal Borough of Greenwich and NHS on 20th February 2024.

To help support our students’ careers and employability skills, and to further develop their knowledge and give them a real insight, we encourage employers to take part in the above-mentioned events.

For more information about how you could be part of our Careers and Employability Programme contact Jasbinder.mato@shc.ac.uk

Cover Feature

Building Better Environments.

Working with commercial clients, on private residences and on local authority projects, our focus and experience is primarily in refurb, remodelling and fit out.

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The Big Interview

A business is nothing without its people Spenser Mills, Managing Director of Drakemoor Ltd shares why he puts people at the centre of all he does.

Lots of heads of business talk about their core values but Spenser Mills lives and breathes them.

Founded in 2018, Drakemoor are a building and refurbishment contractor specialising in the commercial, education, healthcare and private residential sectors.

Based on the outskirts of Maidstone, Drakemoor‘s HQ is 4,000 square foot of office space in a Grade II listed oast house, which perfectly demonstrates what they do for clients. An upgraded refurbishment with striking juxtaposition of traditional oak beams and vibrant colours, The Oast is a perfectionist’s reality, that Spenser and his team are proud to showcase as what they can deliver.

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As well as quality in their delivery, respect, teamwork and integrity are the values that Spenser has ensured are integral to Drakemoor.

Drakemoor has a close-knit team of eight full-time and part-time employees.

Spenser describes his team as his friends and family – quite literally – with his brother and three nephews on board, as well as a childhood friend and people he’s worked with for 20 years.

You only need to spend five minutes with Spenser to appreciate his passion for creating a healthy working environment for those he’s chosen to work with him.

There is a strict no eating policy in the working space of their offices, encouraging everyone to pause from work and get away from their desks to eat, rest and chat to team members.

“Work is important, but it can’t take over your life – and if it ever does, I will shut the business down,” said Spenser.

“Scoffing a sandwich at your desk is not what we do here. It’s important to walk away from your desk and enjoy your lunch. Nothing is so urgent it can’t wait half an hour or an hour to fix. Welfare and wellbeing is more important.”

The Big Interview

“We put everything we had to it and absolutely smashed it out of the park – and with no noise,” he said, proudly.

Another special project was working on the infants’ school that he went to in the 1970s, which was a real labour of love, but something he simply had to do.

“We appreciate every piece of work we’re given; it doesn’t matter what the cost of the project is to us. We will complete a high-end delivery on it.”

Drakemoor have recently been recognised as the 17th fasted growing business in the South of England.

Though he describes himself as ‘old-fashioned,’ Spenser has a very modern approach to leadership. Despite high turnovers in recent years, he doesn’t set goals, stating he doesn’t like to overstretch the staff when the focus should be on delivering high quality work.

“I must give a big shoutout to the

“I am big on integrity; if I shake your hand and say I will do something, I will.

Our customers know our quality is as good as anyone else’s if not better, and they trust us to deliver.”

local economy. The more we earn

The company carries out work for a range of clients but one of Spenser’s favourite projects delivered to date was a high-dependency baby unit on a live ward for the NHS, which took two days at a cost of approximately £30,000 per room.

Drakemoor also like to reward their staff with events and celebrations, treating them to a day at the races or an evening of fine dining for example.

“The business is not about me; it’s about my staff,” Spenser emphasised.

“It’s nice to share our success, and while we can afford to, we will.”

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce.

I think they’re the most friendly and welcoming organisation. They facilitate Kent-based contractors and the whole local supply chain to collaborate, which I love; ensuring local work goes into the locally, the more we spend locally.”

Future-wise, Drakemoor want to continue working with local authorities and developers but are also looking for some residential sites to buy and build on themselves.

“We want to generate our own work,” Spenser explained. “Development is easy, it’s finding the right plots that’s harder.”

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I am big on integrity; if I shake your hand and say I will do something, I will.

Our customers know our quality is as good as anyone else’s if not better, and they trust us to deliver.

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News

Improvement work under way at £18.5m to Beckenham Place Park East Side transform Work on a raft of improvements has started at Beckenham Place Park East Side, focusing on the Downham side of the railway line.

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fter extensive consultation with the community, Lewisham Council is improving the quality of play, recreation, health and wellbeing opportunities for residents, particularly those living near this part of the park in Downham and Bellingham.

The improvement works will increase biodiversity and rewilding whilst bringing significant flood and climate resilience benefits to the area.

There will be increased community volunteering opportunities for local people with the improvements to the river corridor.

The new works to the park will include: •

Extensive new landscaping, new planting and rewilding of the east side of the park with lowland meadows and wildlife-rich ponds with space to accommodate stormwater to reduce flood risk.

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New playground and multi-use game area.

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An improved main entrance from Old Bromley Road.

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Improvements to the river corridor and increased community volunteering opportunities.

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New/improved footpaths and wayfinding.

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Activity trail and off-road cycling trail and outdoor gym to support health and fitness.

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New park café opportunity with publicly accessible toilets.

The full programme of work will last for around one year, with regular updates published on the Beckenham Place Park web page beckenhamplacepark.com Occasional pathway suspensions and diversions will be required during the works and the playground in this part of the park will be closed for a period of time whilst the new play facilities are being built.

Environmental charity Thames21 is working as part of the project to encourage the involvement of local people to learn more and actively enjoy contributing to their park and local river – the River Ravensbourne.

This river is a tributary of the River Thames and runs through part of the park. Although it is a place of beauty, it can suffer from many challenges, including road and plastic pollution.

T Loughman & Co is the main contractor delivering the park works and has a proven track record of successfully delivering park and river regeneration and restoration schemes.

Landscape architects from BDP have been involved from the initial conceptual design stage and are taking the project through to completion.

Beckenham Place Park is the largest green space in the borough, covering 98 hectares. It contains large areas of ancient woodland and is a beautiful and peaceful location providing vital green space and activities for residents, improving both physical and mental health.

Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham, said: “I'm delighted that the work to improve the Bellingham and Downham side of Beckenham Place Park has begun.

“This is the final part of what's been South London's biggest new park project and it's been an incredible success.

“Since improvements to the park were made on the west side, we have seen numbers increase from 200,000 to around 1.2 million visitors every year! I look forward to seeing the changes.”

New electric charge points heading to Bexley Public charging points for electric cars and vans are being installed across Bexley.

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he move is part of the borough’s commitment to protecting and enhancing the green environment for current and future generations.

The council’s new partner, Ubitricity, will be maintaining these new charge points using a combination of bollards and street lamppost charges built into existing street furniture on residential roads.

The charge points, which take as little as two hours to install, will

be deployed on residential streets across Bexley – with at least two per ward within the borough and will charge at speeds of up to 5kW. Councillor Richard Diment, Cabinet Member for Places, said: “Installing these chargers using existing lampposts means that there is less physical infrastructure to install and disruption will be kept to a minimum, keeping our street green without cluttering them.

“We are excited to work with Ubitricity and look forward to expanding our network of charging points across the borough."

Toby Butler, UK Managing Director of Ubitricity, added: “The future of mobility is electric and the multitude of EVs taking to the roads must have access to convenient charging infrastructure close to home.

“We’re thrilled to add Bexley to our list of council partners across the UK whose trust has helped Ubitricity become the UK’s leading charge point provider and look forward to helping support their residents in the switch to EV.”

Croydon town centre

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project to transform Croydon town centre and restore pride is set to receive £18.5m of Government funding.

It follows a successful bid by Croydon Council to the Levelling Up Fund, under round three.

The council applied to the Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities (DLUHC) for the Reconnecting Croydon scheme, which will see six infrastructure and public realm projects funded to reconnect and revitalise Croydon’s streetscape.

The vision for the project is to ‘Reconnect, Refresh, Revitalise and Regenerate’ the town centre, as part of Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s priority for the wider regeneration of Croydon town centre.

The projects will provide improved connections throughout the town centre, so residents and visitors will be able to travel more easily through safer, greener and more pleasant routes.

The projects will cover the South End restaurant quarter, East Croydon station, West Croydon station and Old Town and Croydon Minster.

Central to the bid is the delivery of a new civic square for the Fairfield cultural complex, connecting Queen’s Gardens and Surrey Street Market.

Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, said: “I’m delighted we have been successful in the Levelling Up Fund, round three.

“Our impressive bid submitted at round two has been assessed as high quality and ready to deliver.

“This will be a huge boost for Croydon town centre and will form part of my determination to restoring pride in our community, reconnect and regenerate Croydon.”

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LCCI

BEING FORWARD-THINKING AND INCLUSIVE will boost the economy James Watkins, Head of Policy and Public Impact at London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, talks to Sarah Dale about the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), and the highlights and issues affecting the London business community.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“He is an expert negotiator and he brought people from different political parties together and worked with the business community. We wish him the very best for the future.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

LCCI’s partnership with Ukraine The LCCI’s work with Ukraine continues and the partnership was celebrated at the City of London Lord Mayor’s Show, an event that has been running for 800 years.

‘London and Kyiv: Two Cities United’ was the theme of this year’s “stunning” float.

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

LCCI

❛❛What we are saying is equality, diversity and inclusion is not just a moral imperative,

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it’s fundamental to business growth.

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

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

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

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

said James, quoting the new regulations introduced for pedicabs.

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

“People have been intimidated and there have been some very ugly incidents. We, along with other organisations, have been calling for them to be regulated. Now there is a specific bill to be heard which will close a loophole of 100 years. It’s a very positive step for the London economy and visitors that are coming to London.”

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

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

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

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

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

The King’s Speech The King’s Speech was eagerly anticipated by everyone and “from a London perspective, it was a very good result”,

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Past Events

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

Bromley Office Drinks at Thackray Williams SELCC were happy to host our Bromley Office Drinks, sponsored

by Thackray Williams, at their offices situated in Bromley. We were joined by our members and other like-minded business professionals and entrepreneurs.

We heard from Mark Jenkinson, Director of Crystal Associates and Board Member of the South East London Chamber of Commerce, who entertained our guests with an interesting quiz about sustainability in Bromley.

We would like to give a special thanks to Thackray Williams LLP for sponsoring and hosting this event, providing delightful drinks & snacks for our guests.

Photos: Warren King Photography

Mastering two KPIs for Sales & Marketing Excellence with Mediatasks

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a fascinating webinar with our member, Mediatasks Ltd, and their Director, James Thomson, who delved into to mastering the most crucial Key Performance Indicators for Marketing to increase your business’s sales.

James Thomson has a distinguished career spanning over two decades, providing invaluable insights for small businesses looking to transform their sales strategies.

If you missed this webinar, you can find it on our website: https://www.selondonchamber.org/ business-support/

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SELCC Charity Quiz Night A combination of entry money and raffle tickets at our SELCC Charity Quiz in November raised over £1000 for London’s Air Ambulance Charity.

This is a fantastic charity that operates a helicopter emergency medical service dedicated to responding to serious trauma emergencies in and around London.

It was great to have so much support and such a fun night!

Congratulations to the winners and those who took away amazing prizes in the raffle, donated by our generous members.

We want to give a huge thank you to The Clarendon Hotel, for hosting this wonderful event and of course for the delicious bangers & mash.

Photos: Warren King Photography

SELCC Christmas Lunch 2023

Past Events

We were treated to some good food and even better company at our annual Christmas Lunch, a much-anticipated occasion and the perfect way to end what was an excellent year for the chamber!

Hosted by our friends at the Bromley Court Hotel, we were delighted to be joined by our Strategic Partners, Members and their guests from across our five boroughs of Royal Greenwich, Lewisham, Bromley, Bexley, and Croydon to celebrate 2023.

Everyone had a wonderful time, seeing old friends, making new connections, and enjoying the festivities.

Photos: Warren King Photography

Executive Lunch with Professor Tony Travers We were very pleased to be joined by our members and Strategic Partners for our first Executive lunch of 2024, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton London Greenwich, where guests were treated to a delicious two-course meal.

Our guest speaker, Professor Tony Travers, is a Visiting Professor in the LSE Department of Government and the Director of LSE, a research centre at the London School of Economics and Political Science. He gave guests an overview of London’s economic growth and regeneration plans of the 2024 London mayoral election and the elections to the London Assembly.

We owe Tony a huge thank you for speaking at this event.

Photos: Warren King Photography

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Forthcoming Events

FORTHCOMING EVENTS GreenwichB2B Link ‘n Drink Tuesday, 6 February 2024, 18.30 onwards Tuesday, 5 March 2024, 18.30 onwards GreenwichB2B Link ‘n Drink in association with the South East London Chamber of Commerce is an informal and free networking event for businesses from Greenwich and bordering boroughs but also businesses from afar.

You can expect informal networking with representatives of small and medium sized businesses, short introductions of attendees and often a short presentation by a regular.

This is a free event, any business can attend.

There is no membership charge.

Please book here: www.greenwichb2b.co.uk/events

Navigating your first business lease with Thackray Williams

Wednesday, 21 February 2024, 10.00 – 11.00 Join us as we partner with Thackray Williams for this FREE webinar covering everything to do with getting your first Business Lease, including the top ten key terms you will need to agree on, and what to do if your Business Lease is coming up for renewal.

Please book here: https://www.selondonchamber.org/events/navigating-business-lease/

Lewisham Link ‘n Drink at Ignition Brewery

Wednesday, 28 February 2024, 18.00 – 20.00 What better way to meet new business contacts, suppliers, and maybe even new clients, than over a relaxed drink and nibbles?

We will be holding our first Lewisham Link ‘N Drink networking event of 2024 at the Ignition

Brewery and Taproom, a vibrant South East London brewery which employs and trains people with learning disabilities to brew and serve great beer – all are welcome!

44A Sydenham Rd, London SE26 5QX

Please go to book here: www.selondonchamber.org/events/lewisham-link-n-drink-1

Bexley Office Drinks at Group 1 Automotive Thursday, 14 March 2024, 17.30 – 19.30 Join us and fellow like-minded businesses for an evening of networking, drinks, and nibbles.

This informal gathering, sponsored and hosted by our Strategic Partner, Group 1 Automotive, in collaboration with McBrides Chartered Accountants and Barclays Wealth Management, provides the perfect setting to connect with like-minded professionals.

There will be a panel to discuss and answer your questions regarding the annual spring budget, set to be announced on 6th March.

Don’t miss out on a chance to get insights and to strengthen your business network.

This exclusive event is for MEMBERS ONLY and their guests!

143-145 Main Rd, Sidcup DA14 6PB

Please book here: https://www.selondonchamber.org/events/bexley-office-drinks/

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Forthcoming Events

How to Manage Your Investment in Marketing Wednesday, 10 April 2024, 10.00 – 11.00 Are you ready to supercharge your marketing efforts and drive business growth? Join us to discover the key strategies to navigate the digital landscape and maximise your Return on Investment (ROI).

Our expert speaker, Clive Reffell, Founder of Comanche Communications & Marketing, has

a lifetime career in marketing, planning multimillion pound campaigns, negotiating deals with top media outlets, and managing social media for local businesses.

This webinar is suitable for all SELCC members & other businesses who are interested in growing online.

Please book here: https://www.selondonchamber.org/events/how-to-manage-your-investment-in-marketing/

Optimise Your Website for Conversions Wednesday, 17 April 2024, 10.00 – 11.00 Are you struggling to turn website visitors into customers? Join us to uncover the secrets to transform your website.

Discover how to evaluate and enhance your website’s ability to drive sales and

conversions. From assessing user experience to optimizing for SEO, our expert speakers from Sixtwo Agency will guide you through the essential elements for online success.

Please book here: www.selondonchamber.org/events/optimising-your-website-for-conversions-with-sixtwo-agency/

Business Breakfast at ASN Begin your day on a high note!

Wednesday, 28th February 2024, 07.30 – 09.30 Join us at Alcatel Submarine Networks’ manufacturing plant on the River in East Greenwich, where they have been sited since 1819.

You’ll hear from their Managing Director, Tajinder Bhambra, who will give an overview of their investments made in Royal Greenwich and their commitment to connecting the world in a responsible and sustainable way.Your presence is eagerly anticipated.

Please book here: https://www.selondonchamber.org/events/business-breakfast-at-alcatel-submarine-networks/

Charity Quiz Night 2024 Thursday, 16th May 2024, 18.30 – 22.00 Whether you’re a member or non-member, you’re warmly welcomed to join us at The Clarendon Hotel overlooking Blackheath on Thursday 16th May 2024.

Ambulance Charity. This organisation strives to deliver an advanced trauma team to London’s most seriously injured patients, making a significant difference in emergency medical care.

Get ready for an engaging night featuring thought-provoking questions, laughter, and delicious bangers & mash with vegetarian options available.

Here’s what you can expect:

Not only will you have the chance to test your knowledge and win exciting prizes, but you’ll also be supporting a vital cause – London’s Air

Teams of 10 Maximum – Grab your spot now! £20(+VAT) per person – All proceeds go to London’s Air Ambulance Charity Cash bar available – Enjoy refreshing drinks before the quiz.

Please book here: https://www.selondonchamber.org/events/selcc-charity-quiz-night-3/

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Forthcoming Events

Friday, 28th June 2024, 07.30 – 14.30 We are excited to announce that we will be returning to the Royal Blackheath Golf Club for our long-anticipated SELCC Golf Day 2024, sponsored by Group 1 Automotive.

£80 for Golf | £16.50+VAT for Lunch

Join us at the majestic Royal Blackheath Golf Club and enjoy a morning of golf, and the superb 18-hole course and grand 17th century club house. Guests can look forward to meeting with new people and re-connecting with others. It promises to be a fun day out, whether playing or watching.

Save the date in your diary and keep a check on our website for further details: https://www.selondonchamber.org/events/selcc-golf-day-2024/

SELCC Summer BBQ 2024

Join us this July for our annual BBQ! We will be firing up the grill once again for our annual South East London Chamber of Commerce Barbecue this summer in the stunning walled garden of the Clarendon Hotel in Blackheath Village.

We would like to extend an invitation to members, partners and colleagues, both old and new to join us in the sun while networking and enjoying an extensive

Thursday, 11 July 2024, 12.30 – 14.30 Montpelier Row, Blackheath, London, SE3 0RW

BBQ selection, food and refreshments.

Member £35 + VAT Non-Member £45 + VAT

Please book here: https://www.selondonchamber.org/events/selcc-summer-bbq/ 40 40

News

Your voice matters for the future of Greenwich There’s still time to share your views and help create a Greenwich that works for everyone.

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s part of Our Greenwich, the corporate plan for the next four years, developed with residents, the council has committed to collaborating more often and working more deeply with local communities.

It is creating a Community Engagement Framework to build on the council’s current good work with communities, drive forward improvements and act as a guide for how it consults and engages in the future.

The council is asking for thoughts, ideas and suggestions from residents on how it is currently liaising with local people and for feedback on the proposed draft framework.

Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, said: “We want to create a borough that works for everyone.

“To do that we need you to raise your voice so that we have a better understanding of what matters to residents, and you have great opportunities to shape important decisions that impact you – to make the services we provide the best that they can be.

•

Recognises and promotes good practice in consultation and resident and community engagement where it exists at the council.

•

An established system to enable quality assurance and standards on all aspects of community engagement.

“You make Greenwich. All of us working together, collaborating, discussing, consulting and designing services will lead to a more effective and representative council.”

•

An outline for monitoring outcomes and performance.

•

Residents, council officers and councillors with a clear understanding of the decision-making process.

People can have their say by completing a survey - that should take no more than 10 minutes to complete. People have until midnight on 21st January 2024 to take part.

The draft framework provides: •

Guidance for the council to be consistent whilst delivering high quality resident and community involvement activity with residents.

Have your say by completing the survey online at: you-make-greenwich.commonplace.is You can also pick up a paper copy of the survey at any leisure centre, library or community centre in the borough.

If you have any questions, or need support to complete the survey, please contact community.engagement@royalgreenwich.gov.uk

Leisure centre improvement plans move forward Plans to improve the leisure centres at The Walnuts and West Wickham are moving forward following executive approval to move to the next stage of design works.

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he emerging plans would see upgrades to the gyms, swimming pools, changing rooms, cafés, studios and seating areas, with a redesign of the buildings and new modern facilities provided.

Further detailed costing and technical designs are now being produced, with this information anticipated to come forward in the spring.

with the decision also being made that one pool would be kept open throughout this period, so each is refurbished in turn.

This decision follows extensive engagement with residents and service users in West Wickham and Orpington, with feedback helping shape plans for the centres.

Subject to further approval and tendering, works could then begin in the latter half of 2024.

A Bromley Council spokesperson said: “We want to see first-class leisure facilities at both these important sites and have been developing these exciting plans, bearing in mind the priorities raised by the residents and communities who will benefit from them.

The improved sites would then be expected to be completed in 2026,

“While we are being mindful of the costs, especially given

the challenging conditions in construction currently, it is great to be moving forward with this major investment in the borough’s leisure provision, underlining Bromley Council's commitment to the health and wellbeing of its residents."

Jason Stanton, CEO at Mytime Active - the borough’s longstanding leisure provider, said: “It is wonderful to see these plans moving forward, showing how important health and leisure is in Bromley.

“The way people look after their wellbeing is changing and, while Mytime Active is constantly adapting to ensure we provide

new opportunities across the borough for residents to stay fit and healthy, the underlying facilities are also key in delivering high quality leisure provision.

“We look forward to continuing our successful partnership with Bromley Council and creating fitfor-purpose wellness destinations across the borough.”

Alliance Leisure, a specialist company for leisure centre redevelopment, will continue to take forward the next stage of the plans, having been appointed on the project in 2023, including on the resident engagement.

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Profile Profile

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Primarily, I’m targeting small and medium sized businesses going through periods of growth or turnaround that are possibly too small to have their own finance director and there are project elements to support.

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Daryl’s background as a CIMA qualified finance director and his passion for problem-solving and helping businesses with their growth strategies led to him founding ACE Finance Directors in September 2021.

Having an outsourced finance director could be your ACE card Daryl Gilley, Director of ACE Finance Directors, talks to Sarah Dale about why he set up his own business and how his 360-degree view of businesses helps them grow.

Two years ago, Daryl Gilley decided to “stop chasing promotions” in his corporate financial career and realise his dream to run his own business.

The catalyst was losing his parents to Covid just under three years ago, a huge shock that made him reassess his work/life balance.

“I had a very corporate career and had chased promotions since 1998, to the detriment of a

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work/life balance with my wife and kids,” said Daryl, who has a thirteen-year-old daughter and an eight-year-old son.

“My parents always said to me that I was missing out on the kids growing up.

“When you have a shock like that you reassess. They died in the January and I started the business in the September. I have wanted to run my own business since I was a teenager.”

“Two years ago, I decided to do contracting and interim work; I thoroughly enjoy it and I’ve had great exposure to very different businesses,” said Daryl, who has been a member of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce for two years.

“They are usually nine-month contracts around acquisitions and growth strategies and turning around businesses that need turning around. You go in and fix a problem and then get them on an even keel and then move on to the next one.

“Now, I’m looking to change the focus of the business and become essentially an outsourced finance director or fractional finance director for businesses.

“Effectively, it focuses on scaling up a business. Clients can use me for a project or for a day a week throughout their growth strategy project.

“I’m a commercial accountant so where an accountant looks at transactions and compliance, I’m a strategising partner and provide guidance. I look at where they are and how they are going to move forward. I look at budgets and forecasting, their resources, where they need additional funding, business structure, equipment upgrades, and their one-year and three-year plans.”

Daryl’s target is to gain five new clients over the next 18 months.

“My role is to take a 360 degree look at a client’s business,” he explained.

“I’m looking at the business from the owner’s perspective but with a financial, problem-solving eye.

“This frees up the owner’s time to focus on delivery and attracting

clients so they can concentrate on what they do best.

“I can independently assess what’s improved and work holistically across the divisions, for example, some companies’ marketing strategy may not be aligned with their sales strategy so it’s taking that holistic approach to look at everything.

“A big part of that is becoming the keeper of data and analysing and critiquing performance going forward, looking at where there are over-spends, for example.”

Daryl loves the “Dragon’s Den aspect” of supporting businesses’ growth.

“I love the hands-on aspect to supporting the growth of a business,” he said.

“I thoroughly enjoy what I do.”

Increasing his attendance at networking events with the Chamber is one of his targets for the new year.

“Like many people in finance, networking isn’t my forte, but I do love meeting new people,” he said.

“Primarily, I’m targeting small and medium sized businesses going through periods of growth or turnaround that are possibly too small to have their own finance director and there are project elements to support.

“I can support them through a period of growth.

“I’m proud of the businesses that I have worked with and turned around, so they moved back into profit.

“By the end of next year I would like to have three of my five clients on board and embedded myself into these businesses and developed their growth strategy.

“I will also be looking at employing my first member of staff by the end of next year. That will free me up to focus on the next two to three clients.”

Advertising Feature

How can an Outsourced Finance Director support your Business?

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, achieving sustainable growth is a top priority for companies of all sizes. One strategic approach that has gained significant traction in recent years is outsourcing key roles, including that of a Finance Director.

The key question is, how can an outsourced Finance Director play a pivotal role in supporting and accelerating business growth?

1. Cost Efficiency

One of the most compelling reasons for outsourcing a Finance Director is cost efficiency. Hiring a full-time, in-house Finance Director can be expensive, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Outsourcing allows businesses to access top-notch financial expertise without the heavy financial burden of a full-time salary, benefits, and overhead costs.

2. Strategic Financial Planning

An outsourced Finance Director brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. They can work closely with the company’s leadership to develop and implement strategic financial plans.

This includes setting clear financial goals, creating budgets, and providing guidance on investment decisions.

By aligning financial strategies with the company’s growth objectives, an outsourced Finance Director can pave the way for sustainable expansion.

3. Risk Management

Financial risks are an inherent part of business operations. An outsourced Finance Director can assess and mitigate these risks effectively. They can develop risk management strategies, monitor financial health, and provide timely insights to avoid potential pitfalls. By minimising financial risks, the business can operate more confidently and allocate resources towards growth initiatives.

4. Improved Financial Reporting

Accurate and timely financial reporting is essential for informed decision-making.

An outsourced Finance Director can ensure that financial reports are not only compliant with regulatory requirements but also offer valuable insights into the company’s financial performance. These reports can help identify areas of strength and weakness, enabling management to make informed decisions to drive growth.

5. Access to Expertise

Outsourced Finance Directors often come with a diverse skill set and industry experience. They can offer fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to financial challenges. This external perspective can be invaluable for businesses looking to break new ground and explore growth opportunities.

6. Scalability

Businesses are dynamic, and their financial needs can change rapidly, especially during periods of growth.

An outsourced Finance Director can adapt to these changes seamlessly.

Whether it’s scaling up financial operations or streamlining processes for efficiency, they can provide the flexibility needed to support the evolving needs of the business.

7. Focus on Core Competencies

By outsourcing financial management, business leaders can free up their time and resources to concentrate on core competencies. This is especially important for startups and SMEs where every resource matters. Delegating financial responsibilities to an expert allows the leadership team to concentrate on innovation, product development, and customer acquisition.

8. Investor Relations

For companies seeking external funding or partnerships to fuel their growth, an outsourced Finance Director can be an asset in managing investor relations.

They can prepare compelling financial presentations, perform due diligence, and communicate effectively with potential investors or partners, increasing the likelihood of successful funding rounds.

9. Cost Transparency

Outsourcing financial management brings transparency to the cost structure. Businesses can better understand and control their financial commitments by choosing services tailored to their specific needs.

This transparency allows for efficient allocation of resources, which is crucial for growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an outsourced Finance Director can be a strategic partner in a company’s journey towards growth.

They bring cost-efficiency, expertise, and scalability to the table, allowing businesses to navigate the complexities of financial management effectively.

By leveraging their skills, companies can make informed decisions, manage risks, and optimise their financial strategies, ultimately accelerating their path to sustainable growth.

In today’s competitive business environment, outsourcing financial leadership can be a game-changer for companies aiming to thrive and expand.

Your business could benefit from an outsourced Finance Director.

Interested in finding out more?

It all starts with a chat. Get in touch.

Commercially savvy accountants Providing businesses finance leadership:

• through periods of substantial growth • periods of interim cover providing continuity and stability • with cashflow controls including fundraising • leading projects including pricing negotiation, cost & operational management • struggling businesses who require a commercial finance expert with business turnaround experience.

Outsourced Finance Directors provide: Financial leadership, Expertise, Flexible service, Cost-effective & Financial Control

Contact acefinancedirector@gmail.com or visit www.acefinancedirector.co.uk/contact

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Advertising Feature

Apprenticeships and graduate jobs announced at UK’s biggest defence company BAE Systems is set for another record-breaking recruitment drive in 2024 with almost 2,700 new apprentice and graduate opportunities available to young people across the UK.

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he company has more than doubled its early careers intake in the past five years, making a significant contribution to the UK economy and offering more young people than ever the prospect of exciting long-term careers supporting the nation’s armed forces and security services.

Crucially, I’ve been given the opportunity to learn from the ground up.

“It’s been easy to integrate into the business, as many of my colleagues started out as apprentices.”

Jason added: “A BAE Systems apprenticeship is intensive, but manageable, as you get a balance of work and spare time. I feel really lucky to be working here and I’m excited for the future.

At BAE Systems’ Electronic Systems site in Rochester the company is recruiting 30 apprentices across a range of levels and also has 29 graduate roles and 34 internships and industrial placements on offer.

Jason is in his second year of a technical apprenticeship at BAE Systems in Rochester.

He said: “As an ex-soldier, I have a strong interest in the defence sector.

When I left the Army I thought I’d go for an apprenticeship at BAE Systems. I’m finding the apprenticeship to be a nice ‘middle ground’ between the forces and a regular civilian job.

Know someone looking for a head start?

Check out our award-winning programmes.

baesystems.com/apprenticeships

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“If you or a family member are looking at your next step, definitely look at an apprenticeship – you gain valuable skills and experience in the real world, with a qualification and doors opening for you at the end of it.”

To find out more about apprenticeships at BAE Systems, visit: www.baesystems.com/apprenticeships

Sport

The new racket sport I’m recommending At first glance, it’s not surprising to see tennis star Andy Murray and his brother Jamie with rackets in hand, but look again, and you’ll see these are not tennis rackets.

In fact, they aren’t really rackets at all, but bats. Padel bats, and that’s because Britain’s most successful tennis playing siblings have put money into the new sport sweeping the country, with courts recently opened in Crystal Palace.

P

adel is the world’s fastest growing sport and is best described as a cross between tennis and squash, played on court one third the size of a tennis court with enclosed walls. It’s fast paced, highly sociable (played in doubles pairs) and those that have adopted it, say it’s extremely addictive.

Murray explained: “I decided to invest in padel because I think it’s a really easy entry point into racket sports. Many people are put off the idea of joining a tennis club because it’s not somewhere they feel they’ll fit in or the expense of it stops them, but padel is much more accessible.

“It’s a much easier sport to pick up and learn, and so people who would battle to have a decent

game of tennis, can actually have pretty good rallies in padel after one or two sessions”.

Game4Padel, the UK market leader, is the company they have backed. With 15 venues open around the country already they are planning on opening around another 20 venues in 2024 in destinations as varied as sports clubs, business parks, hotels, schools, and universities and even shopping centres.

Murray continued: “I first played padel in Spain when I was training there as a teenager. The sport is massive there – it’s the second biggest participation sport after football and there are over 20,000 courts. Part of the reason it’s grown so quickly is that it doesn’t require as much space as a tennis court, so padel does well in towns and cities where space is limited”.

The sport originated in Mexico in the late 1960s when a Spanish squash player modified his squash court to incorporate elements of tennis. It took till 2011 for padel to come to the UK but since then it’s seen something of an explosion and is rapidly gaining pace as a sport for everyone, whetherthey’ve ever picked up a racket before or not.

“Game4padel set up a padel court in Westfield shopping centre last year, and it was a huge hit”, said Murray. “People were really fascinated by what this new sport was, and they didn’t find it intimidating at all”.

Westfield are currently awaiting a planning application for three courts at their Shepherd’s Bush site, as they can see the potential to attract a new audience to the centre and build a community –

a quality that padel also adds.

The social side of the game is easy to see as people chat whilst playing because they are so close to each other at the net and have a drink or a coffee afterwards.

The new courts in Crystal Palace are already doing well, attracting a mix of fitness fanatics and trend setters, as well as families, older people, work colleagues and teenagers.

Whether the sport will take over from tennis, Murray isn’t so sure: “I think there’s a place for both.

There are still plenty of people that play tennis and love tennis.

The tennis Tour and the Grand Slams are such huge events that attract massive audiences, that I can’t see that changing. But can padel sit alongside that? I think so.

There’s definitely room for both”.

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UNIQUE CYCLING EXPERIENCE AT BRITAIN’S BEST-LOVED MOTOR RACING CIRCUIT BRANDS HATCH, BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY, 27TH MAY Local cancer charity, The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust, is gearing up to host its biggest ever cycling event at Brands Hatch, Britian’s best loved motor racing circuit, inviting cyclists of all ages and abilities to participate in its greatest fundraising challenge. Set against the backdrop of the iconic track, the event promises to be an unforgettable and unique opportunity to pedal for a purpose.

Event Details:

Mark your calendars for the 27th of May Day Bank Holiday where thousands of cyclists and spectators, will unite for one day and for a common cause – to raise funds that will significantly impact cancer care for young patients across London and the South-East.

Discover the magic of the AV1:

The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust is on a mission to enhance the lives of these brave young people by providing AV1 No Isolation Robots, groundbreaking technology that facilitates education and connection during and after treatment. Simple but ingenious, the AV1 Robot empowers young cancer and leukaemia patients to attend school virtually, enabling them to socialise with classmates and stay connected to normal life. The charity aims to deploy as many AV1 Robots as needed to ensure no young person suffers disadvantage or exclusion due to their illness across London, the South-East and the surrounding Kent and Surrey borders.

Day of Activities:

There will be a full menu of cycling challenges on offer for die-hard cyclists, including time and distance trials, as well as sponsored family rides plus much more! Off the track, enjoy a family-friendly festival atmosphere with stalls, pony rides, bouncy castles, a fun fair, and other engaging activities.

Join us:

The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust welcomes participants, supporters, charity partners and sponsors to be a part of this monumental cycling event. Your involvement will contribute to making a lasting impact on the lives of cancer patients.

Get involved:

For more information on how to participate, support, or become a charity partner or sponsor contact 01959 570322 or email: info@chartwellcancertrust.co.uk.

Unleash your cycling spirit, ride for a cause, and be a part of history at Brands Hatch.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of young cancer warriors.

The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust | Registered Charity No: 1162907 | T: 01959 570322

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E: info@chartwellcancertrust.co.uk | chartwellcancertrust.co.uk

Health & Wellbeing

Kick-start 2024 for a healthier mind and body The combination of cold weather, leftover Christmas chocolates and a lack of motivation can make winter a difficult time to embed good habits for your health and wellbeing.

I

f the new year’s resolutions have fallen by the wayside, any time is a good time to kick-start a healthier lifestyle.

Not only will it make you feel better, but it will make you more productive at work, happier and strengthen relationships.

Try introducing some simple routine tweaks that can help make lasting changes for the whole of 2024.

Set some fitness goals Making health and fitness a priority is hugely beneficial to mental and physical wellbeing.

But remember to be realistic when it comes to goal setting. Set the bar too high, especially during the cold and dark winter months when it can be hard to keep motivated, and you’re likely to give up quickly.

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

And even if it feels difficult at the start, keep going. It’ll soon feel easier and become a vital part of your weekly routine.

Develop a new self-care habit

Get better rest

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

Are you getting enough sleep?

Make 2024 the year you start practising selfcare and make it a habit that becomes a yearlong activity.

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

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

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

Reduce alcohol intake Many of us would like to cut back on our drinking - and after the excesses of Christmas and New Year celebrations, now can be the perfect time.

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

So be more mindful of your evening routine.

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

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

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

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

If you missed Dry January, any time can be a good time to reduce your alcohol intake as taking a break from your favourite tipple can lead to clearer skin, better sleep and could even save you money.

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

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

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

Find out more at alcoholchange.org.uk/dryjanuary

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

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

Find out more at veganuary.com

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New Members

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.

Babur Restaurant 119 Brockley Rise London SE23 1JP Contact: Emdad Rahman Tel: 020 829 12400 Email: mail@babur.info Brighter Futures t/a Camouflage Café Equitable House 2nd Floor, 7 General Gordon Square London SE18 6FH Contact: Kemi Madumere Tel: 020 8191 9622 Email: info@camouflagecafe.co.uk EventWell Ltd 8 Lambourne Place London SE3 7BH Contact: Helen Moon Tel: 0800 470 0958 Email: helen@eventwell.org Fox and Firkin 316 Lewisham High Street London SE13 6JZ Contact: Maria Fox Firkin Tel: 020 8690 0969 Email: mariafoxfirkin@gmail.com Harley J Associates Ltd 94 Lichfield Road London E6 3LG Contact: Janet Shockness Tel: 07752 012065 Email: info@harleyjassociates.co.uk Headlinerz Barbershop Ltd 143 Trafalgar Road London SE10 9TX Contact: Jesse Ashiegbu Tel: 020 8269 1851 Email: info@headlinerzbarbershop.co.uk

H Hirst & Sons Ltd 350 Lewisham High Street Lewisham London SE13 6LE Contact: Lauren Evans Tel: 020 8690 2297 Email: info@hirstbakery.co.uk

Sixtwo Agency The Leather Market Blackwater, London SE1 3ER Contact: Samantha Keenan Tel: 07961 451529 Email: samantha@sixtwo.agency

Integra-Estates 142 Glenfarg Road Catford London SE6 1XJ Contact: Thomas Bailey Tel: 020 3870 0000 Email: tom@integra-estates.com

The Broadway Drinks Company LTD t/a Bottle Bar and Shop 2 Catford Broadway Catford London SE1 4SP Contact: Xhulio Sina Tel: 07854 761237 Email: drink@bottlebarandshop.com

Jay Bodys Network Bridge Solutions Ltd Office 213, 20 Bugsby's Way London SE7 7SJ Contact: Szymon Szczepanski Tel: 020 3696 0535 Email: jbodys@networkbridge.co.uk

The Brockley Jack Theatre Ltd 410 Brockley Road London SE4 1AR Contact: Karl Swinyard-Alston Tel: 07984 415572 Email: admin@brockleyjack.co.uk

MATTER Studio 08, Bureau, C3 Design District 13 Soames Walk, North Greenwich London SE10 0AX Contact: Christina Hsieh Tel: 020 3725 2607 Email: Christina@wearematter.uk Millwall Community Trust The Den, Bolina Road London SE16 3LN Contact: Sean Daly Tel: 07973 324987 Email: sdaly@millwallcommunity.org.uk

Helix 3D Ltd 138–140 Nathan Way London SE28 0AU Contact: Brian Dowling Tel: 020 8311 4477 Email: brian@helix3d.co.uk

National Youth Jazz Orchestra Woolwich Works The Fireworks Factory 11 No. 1 Street London SE18 6HD Contact: Liam Gesoff Tel: 0330 500 2000 Email: liamg@nyjo.org.uk

Humanity Centred Designs 10 Greenwich Market London SE10 9HZ Contact: Vishal Tolambia Tel: 07424 877759 Email: vishaltolambiya26@gmail.com

Russell King Associates Ltd Bladindon Drive London DA5 3BS Contact: Kaan Azmi Tel: 020 8859 0511 Email: kaan.azmi@russellkingassociates.com

The Coaching Direction Penndennis House London SE8 5RZ Contact: Siddiq Fazaluddin Tel: 07920 194383 Email: info@thecoachingdirection.com The Freight Strategy Limited 7 Wernbrook Street London SE18 7RU Contact: Nick Rainey Tel: 07704 208239 Email: nick@thefreightstrategy.com The Sausage Greenwich Market London Greenwich SE10 9HZ Contact: Szymon Szczepanski Tel: 07450 241189 Email: thesausage.london@gmail.com Winkworth Estate Agent 5 Blackheath Village London SE3 9LA Contact: Mark Epps Tel: 07778 652219 Email: mepps@winkworth.co.uk Woolwich Service Users Project 107 Brookhill Road London SE18 6BJ Contact: Jas Sahota Tel: 07730 282637 Email: Jas.S@wsupwoolwich.org

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 48

You’re invited to

Join Costco Everything you want. All in one place!

OPTICAL

TYRES

ELECTRICAL

BAKERY

SPORTING GOODS

FUEL*

DELI

BEERS, WINES & SPIRITS

JEWELLERY

SEASONAL

HOUSEWARES

MEAT

Costco Wholesale is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members quality goods and services at the lowest possible prices. We provide a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of speciality departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. We are confident in the quality and value of our products, and we stand behind them with our guarantee of satisfaction.

MEMBERSHIP

For more information and to preview our warehouses visit www.costco.co.uk/join or scan the QR code.

To join and start saving please provide one piece of business evidence for Trade membership, or for Individual membership your employee ID card or current pay slip to prove your employment, PLUS one piece of photographic identification for both memberships.

YOUR MEMBERSHIP IS VALID IN ALL 29 UK WAREHOUSES, WORLDWIDE AND ONLINE!

Become an Executive Member and earn an annual 2% Reward on most of your Costco purchases*. The annual membership fee for Executive Trade Membership is £56 ex VAT (£67.20 inc VAT) and as an Executive Individual Membership is £62 ex VAT (£74.40 inc VAT).

The annual membership fee for Standard Trade Membership is £22 ex VAT (£26.40 inc VAT) and Standard Individual Membership is £28 ex VAT (£33.60 inc VAT), all memberships include a complimentary card for your spouse or domestic partner.

ALL NEW MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE A £10 ONLINE VOUCHER WHEN YOU SIGN UP FOR MEMBERSHIP†

Costco Croydon, Imperial Way, Croydon, London, CR0 4RR

T: 0208 253 4124 E: marketing121@costco.co.uk www.costco.co.uk

† Sign up for membership with this advert at our Croydon warehouse and receive a £10 voucher to spend online at www.costco.co.uk. New members only. *Membership Criteria applies. Membership must be obtained before purchases can be made. ∆Qualifying ID required to preview in the form of business evidence or company payslip ID. Accepting Mastercard, American Express and Visa credit cards as well as cash, debit card or cheque. No cash or cheque at fuel station. Fuel stations not available at all locations. JN36185

£10

Expires: 31st December 2024

ONLINE VOUCHER

And finally...

And finally...

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

A

I worked as a Junior Secretary for The CBI in their Employee Relations Department, my salary was around £6,400.

Q What would you do with your last pound?

A

I would buy myself a bag of coffee beans.

Q What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

A

Maintaining donation levels, to sustain our existing cancer services and to meet ever growing demand.

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

A

Natalie Reilly

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

A

Director The Chartwell Charities

With two children currently at University, I would look at removing student loans. It is difficult enough for Graduates to seek and find employment, and the added pressure of a student loan hanging over them for many years to come, is something they could do without.

I am very keen on health and fitness, and would liked to have been a personal trainer taking classes, and one-to-one-sessions. Also creating enjoyable and realistic exercise plans, and demonstrating work outs that are readily accessible for all ages and abilities.

Q What book are you currently reading?

A

My son recommended Agent 44 by Tom Child, which I really enjoyed, so much so, that I have just finished The Secret Speech and I am now on to Agent 6, the third book in this trilogy.

Cycling at Brands Hatch Bank Holiday 27th May 2024

Picnic Area

Club Cycling Events

Bouncy Castles

Overnight camping for Join the Chartwell team and the Stars for our sponsored cycle ride around Brands Hatch’s famous racing circuit, away from the traffic caravan/motorhome in the Garden of England. availability

Fun Fair Pony Rides Classic Car Exhibition

Funding Robots for children fighting cancer

Showers and toilets

Call us now and reserve your place.

Contact: 01959 570322 E: info@chartwellcancertrust.co.uk The Chartwell Children’s Cancer Trust | Registered Charity No: 1162907 | T: 01959 570322 E: info@chartwellcancertrust.co.uk | chartwellcancertrust.co.uk

50

Making Living Better • Astir is on a mission to ‘make living better.’, with a new take on modern living, creating mixed-use communities for all people in all stages of life.

• We aim to deliver genuinely mixed use communities, with multiple

housing options centred around extensive residents facilities to enable residents to enjoy an enhanced lifestyle.

• Incredibly excited by the opportunity to bring forward ‘Silkwater’

our first multi-living tenure development within the heart of Lewisham, alongside the Ravensbourne River and beside Lewisham station.

• Our vision is for a vibrant multi use community, further enhancing

Lewisham’s town centre. That will include our co-working concept providing flexible working space for local entrepreneurs and startups and the local community.

Web: www.astir.co.uk

Email: enquiries@astir.co.uk

STAFF DEVELOPMENT APPRENTICESHIPS APPRENTICESHIPS STAFF DEVELOPMENT

RECRUITMENT RECRUITMENT

We in theofpower of Apprenticeships aretothe key to We believe STAFF DEVELOPMENT RECRUITMENT APPRENTICESHIPS inbelieve the power Apprenticeships are the key A motivated, skilled, and qualified A motivated, skilled, and qualified

industry collaboration to unlocking pool of talented industry collaboration workforce is the backbone unlocking a pool of atalented We believe to in the power of Apprenticeships are the key to is the backbone any of any Aworkforce motivated, skilled, andof qualified shape the future workforce.

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By eager to make atalented collaboration to unlocking a pool of thriving business.

Investing in workforcestaff is the backbonehas of numerous any differencedifference partnering us to design in your business. development partnering with us towith design in youreager business. shape the future staff development has numerous candidates to make a course content, you workforce. can unlock By thriving business.

Investing in benefits thatimpact directly impact your course content, you can unlock benefits that directly your partnering with us to design difference in your business. numerous benefits staff development has numerous growth and success. numerous benefits for your for your company’scompany’s growth and success. course content, you can unlock benefits that directly impact your business.business. numerous benefits for your company’s growth and success. business.

Unlock the Potential of Workforce!

Your Workforce!

Unlock the Potential of Your Invest in Apprenticeships and Upskilling for

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Invest in Apprenticeships and Upskilling for Embrace the of power of growth and potential the power growth and potential with ourwith our aEmbrace Stronger Workforce!

tailored apprenticeship and upskilling programmes. tailored apprenticeship and upskilling programmes.

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

At London South East Colleges, We work with local, regionalwe andbelieve nationalthat employers We work with local, regional and national employers investing in your workforce is the key to success in to identify their training needs. to identify their training needs. today’sAre competitive world. 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 We work local, regional and national employers Contact uswith today at employers@LSEC.ac.uk or on 020 their 3954 training 4965 to discuss how we can help you find the to identify needs.

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LSEC.ac.uk rightyou people for to your business.

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Contact today at employers@LSEC.ac.uk or on Invest inus Your Future.

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