Thinking Business October 25

THINKING BUSIN E S S

LATER LIFE PLANNING

The need for later life planning is not only crucial for your financial health, but your physical and mental health too. Page 22

n The Big Interview with Syntech Biofuel’s Mike O’lone. Page 18

n Rebuilding Kent’s hospitality sector. Page 26

n International Trade. Page 36

n Chamber Events. Page 40

n New Members. Page 48

Tudor Price Chief Executive

Welcome

A very warm welcome to our new Chamber Patron, Baxall Construction Ltd. CEO Malcolm Clarke and his team have been longstanding members of the Chamber, so we are thrilled to welcome them to our valuable team of Patrons. It was great to see so many members at the Construction Expo, which was a resounding success.

Supporting the local economy

Having the opportunity to share knowledge and expertise is vital to strengthening our region’s economy and success.

In our Big Interview, read all about Mike O’lone’s story of how he swapped the brewery business for biofuels and is helping lead the charge on sustainable fuel with Syntech Biofuel by producing advanced smart biofuel (ASB) from waste vegetable oils sourced from UK pubs, restaurants, chip shops and fast-food outlets.

It is never too early for later life planning. It is not only crucial for your financial health, but your physical and mental health too, as well as ensuring your loved ones are supported. Find out more about it inside.

Kent Invicta Chamber now offers a comprehensive ATA Carnet Service to make your international trade smoother and more efficient. Acting as a ‘passport for goods’, it allows for duty-free and tax-free entry into participating countries for a variety of purposes, primarily for commercial samples, professional equipment, and exhibitions and trade fairs.

As Kent & Medway continues to evolve as a dynamic economic region, the LSIP – led by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and funded by the UK Government – is committed to employer-led collaboration in the region. The 2025 LSIP Update highlighted progress in five priority sectors: Manufacturing & Engineering, Construction, Fresh Food & Food Production, and Health & Social Care.

All eyes are on the upcoming Budget [due to be announced on Wednesday, 26th November prior to print date], which is expected to focus on growth and investment, but likely faces significant fiscal challenges. Ahead of the Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves said that the “economy is not working well enough for working people”. Potential changes include a mansion tax or capital gains tax on high-value homes, possible National Insurance changes for landlords, and considerations for inheritance tax, as well as the possibility of a new tax on gambling. It will be interesting to see if the Budget includes a reform on business rates and pensions and what that will look like.

Ahead of the Budget, we will host our annual Kent Invicta Chamber Business Awards on Thursday 20th November, which is the highlight of the Chamber calendar. The Awards are a special celebration of our fantastic businesses in Kent and a wonderful event which gets everyone in the mood for the festivities. And Kent’s hospitality businesses, which are a vital part of our local economy, are gearing up for a festive season full of joy. Find out what our hospitality members have in store for the festivities in this edition.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment to our business community. We are all looking forward to the Chamber Awards where we can celebrate and shine the spotlight on you – our very special members.

Tudor

Price Chief Executive, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

to the latest edition of Thinking Business.

Kent Businesses Unite to Bring Back International Rail

On 26 September 2025, Kent County Council and its partners (including KICC and KMEP) hosted a landmark event titled “Grow in Kent: Why International Rail Should Reconnect with the Garden of England”, drawing national and local media attention and galvanising business leaders across the region.

Held at Ashford and Ebbsfleet International Railway Stations, the event spotlighted Kent’s strategic importance as a gateway to Europe and made a compelling case for reinstating international rail services suspended since the pandemic.

The event featured speeches from Linden Kemkaran (Leader of Kent County Council) Lord Hendy (the Rail Minister), and Vincent Caure (Deputy of the French National Assembly) alongside testimonies from local businesses, tourism operators, Members of Parliament, and local civic leaders. Delegates travelled via highspeed rail between the two stations, experiencing first-hand the dormant infrastructure that once connected Kent to continental Europe.

All the train operating companies that are bidding for access to the international rail depot at Temple Mills (Leyton) and to compete with Eurostar were present to learn first-hand about the profits that could be generated by unlocking the customer demand across the region (from Sussex, Kent, Medway, Outer London, Essex and beyond).

They heard about Kent’s unique selling points, which London can’t rival. We are the Garden of England. We have award-winning vineyards. beautiful beaches, Norman cathedrals and castles, stately homes, historic dockyards, beautiful landscapes and a fantastic food and drink offer. By stopping in Kent and London, train operating companies can provide customers with a scenic uplifting enriching rural and cosmopolitan urban offer.

For businesses, the message was clear: restoring international rail is not just a transport issue—it’s an economic imperative. With over £100 million of taxpayer investment lying idle, the call to unlock

competition and allow new operators to serve Kent was echoed by chambers of commerce, hospitality leaders, and exporters alike.

Representatives of the Good Growth Foundation were present to make it clear that reinstating international rail services could bring up to 493,000 new visitors to Kent, generating £315 million in annual visitor spending. When factoring in supply chain effects and broader economic activity, they project a total of £2.67 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy over five years.

Friday’s event culminated in the signing of a partnership agreement and presentation of a petition supporting the campaign, which now has 80,000 signatures.

For any businesses wishing to support the campaign to bring back international rail services from Ashford and Ebbsfleet, we have two requests.

• Firstly, we would encourage all supporters to sign the petition: https://www.change.org/p/bring-backeurostar-train-services-to-kent

• Secondly, it is a critical moment in decision making. The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) is due to make a decision in the next month about which companies should have access to the Temple Mills Depot. The ORR will pay special attention to representations from certain interested parties – which include your local MP. We would urge businesses to ask their MPs to write to John Larkinson, CEO of the ORR, asking John to ensure that competition is allowed on the line. We know for Kent’s economy to flourish, international rail must return. Businesses are ready. The infrastructure is in place. Now, the region awaits a decision from the Office of Rail and Road.

The Chamber of Commerce urges all stakeholders to support this vital campaign.

Vincent Caure

Lord Hendy

Linden Kemkaran

Considering Adding a Codicil to your Will?

There are few documents a person can make that are more important than their Will. Without a Will, a person’s assets (known as their estate) will be divided up according to the rules of intestacy, which may mean that their estate ends up passing to people who they hadn’t intended.

While writing a Will is important, it is also good to remember that, as your circumstances change, your Will should change with them – and this is where a codicil comes in.

What is a codicil?

A codicil is an additional legal document that acts as a supplement to change, add or remove parts of your Will. It needs to be signed and witnessed in the same way a Will does.

What kind of changes are codicils most used for?

• Changing the executor of your will.

• Adding or removing beneficiaries.

• Amending the amounts (or other items) beneficiaries will receive.

• Changing your selected guardians for children under 18.

• If you’ve changed your mind regarding your funeral arrangements.

Does it make more sense to create a codicil, or simply write a new Will?

We would only recommend using codicils for small changes, because their addition to a Will can make the process of carrying out your wishes more complicated when you die.

However, whether you take the path of using a codicil or rewriting your Will is up to you. There are no rules regarding the amendments you make in a codicil, and they can be cheaper to create.

You may find it helpful when making your decision to bear in mind that codicils were created in an era where creating a new Will meant laboriously rewriting it by hand, making codicils a helpful legal tool to create amendments in a less labour-intensive fashion. In the modern age, this is less of an issue, so writing a new Will might be the better option depending on your circumstances.

Katie Liber Associate Solicitor Wills, Tax & Estate Administration

Email: katieliber@girlings.com

Tel: 01227 768 374

Do you need a solicitor to create a codicil, or can you do it yourself?

You can, if you choose, write your own codicil rather than defer the task to a solicitor or other legal professional, but it is important in this scenario to take care that it has been properly executed and that the codicil is sufficiently clear.

Using a legal professional can provide peace of mind because they can ensure the proper rules are followed and the document will not be declared invalid and prevent your wishes from being carried out.

You should also be aware that a codicil has to be signed and witnessed in the same way as your original Will, but you don’t need to use the same witnesses. These witnesses (or their spouses) should not be beneficiaries of the codicil, as this will invalidate the document.

Funding the cost of care

In this feature, financial planning experts FAS talk about funding Long Term Care and various options to consider.

As we move into later life, our financial priorities often shift, and how to fund the cost of long term care is a concern that is shared by many. This is not surprising, given the rapid increase in the cost of care over recent years, and the financial impact on those affected. According to recent figures from Age UK, the average weekly cost for a place in a nursing home is £1,078, although there are substantial regional differences, and we have come across situations where weekly costs are significantly higher than the average.

Funding options

Local authorities have a duty to arrange and pay for appropriate levels of care, following an assessment of an individual’s needs. If there are significant needs, NHS continuing healthcare may be available, which could cover some or all of the care costs; however, if the individual is not eligible for continuing healthcare, and they hold assets greater than £23,250 (including property) they will be expected to make a contribution towards care costs.

Self-funding care costs can be a daunting proposition, where decisions need to be reached at a time of stress and concern when an individual is moving into care. Our experience shows that seeking independent financial planning advice can be beneficial, in helping families, or Attorneys appointed under a Lasting Power of Attorney, consider the options and agree an appropriate strategy to meet the ongoing care costs.

Financial assessment

When we first meet clients who potentially have care needs, we undertake a full assessment of their capital assets, together with their income sources (e.g. pensions, attendance allowance, investment or property

income) to work out the shortfall between the cost of care and other essential costs (such as personal care items and spending money) and their income.

Depending on the level of shortfall, it might be the case that the care costs could be met through income alone, although this is typically reserved for those with significant personal pension or rental income. In most instances, there will be a shortfall between the cost of care and income, which will lead to erosion of capital over time.

Immediate Needs Annuities

One option that can bridge the gap between income and care costs is to purchase an immediate needs annuity plan. This is where capital is paid to a provider, who in turn will pay a monthly level of income that can be used to meet the shortfall between income and care fees. This income is usually tax-free and paid direct to the care provider.

Each plan is individually underwritten, with the single premium payable dependent on the age, health, life expectancy and care needs of the individual. In our experience, the premiums payable on such policies can be very expensive; however, despite this, some may value the certainty that a care fees annuity can bring.

A further factor to consider is that there is no return of capital to loved ones in the event of death of the individual in care, unless a capital protection element is purchased, at an additional cost.

Finally, the reality of how long an individual stays in care needs to be taken into account. The purchase of a care fees annuity could, therefore, potentially only pay out for a limited period of time, leading to returns that offer poor value from the large capital outlay used to purchase the annuity.

Investment options

In many cases, building a bespoke investment plan from capital assets, which aims to limit the erosion of capital due to the shortfall between income and expenditure,

can be a prudent approach. Naturally, there are many factors that need to be considered before deciding on an investment strategy, such as existing investments held, the tolerance to investment risk accepted and income requirements. Tax-efficiency and ease of access to funds will also be important considerations.

Cash will inevitably have a part to play in any sensible investment arrangement where care fees are payable. It is, however, important that cash funds remain productive, and held in a tax-efficient manner.

For sums not immediately required, there are other investment options, such as Company Shares, Corporate and Government Bonds and alternative assets, that aim to generate superior returns to those available on cash. This can help stem the rate of erosion of capital, so that funds held can continue to pay for care provision for an extended period, or leave capital to loved ones on death. Keeping an investment strategy under review is also vital, as it is often the case that care needs change over time, and care home fees tend to rise each year.

We recommend that those who are faced with making decisions about how to fund care costs speak to an independent financial adviser, who can discuss the options in more detail.

© Financial Advice and Services Ltd 2025

Scores of businesses come together to make powerful connections

Churchill Square Business Centre was delighted to host the Kent Invicta Chamber Connections event for the second year running, welcoming more than 100 small businesses to its Kings Hill site.

Sponsored by on-site customer Mivvy Creative Ltd, the event brought together SMEs from all over Kent, providing them with an opportunity to foster new connections with like-minded individuals.

The centre’s meeting rooms and reception were packed with business owners as they tucked into delicious array of foods.

Mivvy Creative boss Paul Woodger said: “We were proud to have sponsored such a fantastic event at Churchill Square – over 100 businesses coming together to connect, share and support one another. The energy in the room was a real reflection of the strength of our local business community.”

Speaking on behalf of the Chamber, Marketing and Events Executive Henry Mileham said: “We had the pleasure of bringing another one of our busy Chamber Connections Networking events to Churchill Square Business Centre.

“We were delighted to see this event sell out in record time thanks to all of the supportive marketing from the teams at Churchill Square and Mivvy Creative. We can’t thank the team at Churchill Square enough as they once again went above and beyond to ensure the event was a tremendous success.”

Centre manager Toni Wilkinson was delighted with the feedback from the Chamber and the attendees on the day, saying: “We were thrilled to be given the opportunity to host a Chamber Connections networking event for the second year running, which has become the highlight of our summer calendar. It was great to see so many new and familiar faces, as well as providing an invaluable networking opportunity for our own community of businesses.”

70 years of history on display as free ‘Folkestone Posters’ exhibition opens at harbour

‘Folkestone Posters’, a new temporary exhibition of original travel posters from the 19th and 20th Century, has opened in a newly created space in the old station at Folkestone Harbour.

The exhibition is completely free to enter and open daily from 11am to 5pm until October 19. It is made up of more than 20 original travel posters featuring examples from World War I and World War II, as well as from France and the railways, which all connect back to Folkestone.

Co-owner of 20th century art and design shop and vintage gallery Rennies Seaside Modern in the Old High Street in Folkestone’s Creative Quarter, Paul Rennie has worked with the Folkestone Harbour team to curate the exhibition.

He said: “We’re thrilled to bring this exhibition to Folkestone Harbour. These posters are cultural artefacts that reflect the rich history of Folkestone as a thriving seaside destination and port during the 20th century. These original artworks span 70 years of history, and seeing a collection as extensive and varied as this in one place is incredibly rare and special.

“We’re especially grateful to Sir Roger De Haan, who has lent many of the posters from his collection that he came across while restoring the Harbour Arm, so that we can curate this

wonderful exhibition and tell the story of Folkestone’s coastal destination heritage.”

The exhibition is housed in a completely new, dedicated space at the entrance to Platform 2 at Folkestone Harbour’s award-winning, renovated station. The original recesses of the entrance ways and windows along the historic platform, have been reinstated with sash windows and large wooden doors, returning a number of period features to what was once a busy port station.

The containers housing the exhibition have been earmarked for use for the expansion of the popular harbourside restaurant Sailbox later this year.

Paulo-Kingston Correia, General Manager at Folkestone Harbour & Seafront Development Company, said: “Folkestone Posters is a fantastic addition to our line-up of free summer events and activities on the harbour. It also coincides with the Triennial, the UK’s largest exhibition of newly commissioned art, which is currently taking place in Folkestone and attracts art lovers from far and wide.

“Visitors to Folkestone taking in the exhibition and the Triennial art can really make a day of it by enjoying the exciting street food offers in the Goods Yard or taking a pit stop on the terraces of our restaurants both harbourside and beachside.”

Could your business help shape nature’s next chapter?

Transforming Sevenoaks for nature and community

Work is well under way on the £2.1m refurbishment of Kent Wildlife Trust’s flagship Sevenoaks Visitor Centre, due for completion this autumn.

This ambitious project will deliver a modern, accessible hub that better connects people with nature while creating new opportunities for businesses and the local community.

The redevelopment includes the installation of full-height glazed doors and a lakeside deck, offering uninterrupted views across the oftenoverlooked West Lake. The enhanced café will provide an upgraded food offering and a versatile space for corporate hires, meetings, and community events. Accessibility improvements, interactive interpretation, and a bespoke play park

will make Sevenoaks a vibrant gateway to nature for visitors of all ages.

Now Kent Wildlife Trust is inviting businesses to join them on this journey. Sponsorship packages include unique naming opportunities and tailored partnerships that deliver visibility, engagement, and a meaningful way to contribute to a landmark development. Supporting this project is a chance to demonstrate environmental leadership, strengthen community connections, and partner with Kent’s leading conservation charity. The Trust says: “Together, we can create a space that inspires, educates, and supports both wildlife and people for generations to come.”

For further information visit www.kentwildlife.org.uk

A chance to showcase offerings as dealership heads to event

Northern Commercials, a business with five dealerships including in Tonbridge, was privileged to attend the recent Parkwood Depot Health, Safety and Wellbeing Day held by Maidstone Borough Council.

The day consisted of engaging talks from special guests including South East Fire Rescue, Met Police Commercial Vehicle Units, and many more.

Northern Commercial also provided an IVECO vehicle familiarisation talk while showcasing their impressive IVECO eDaily demonstrator.

The demonstrator IVECO eDaily features two traction batteries, a driver suspended comfort seat and 10-inch infotainment navigation with voice assistant. The IVECO eDaily offers the same cargo volume, gross vehicle weight, agility and transformability as the diesel versions whilst producing zero emissions and reducing noise pollution.

The event was a huge success and a great day out for everyone, said the firm.

For information on Northern Commercials, see www.nor-com.co.uk

Landmark renovation as ‘tired’

commercial unit transformed into stylish home

Tunbridge Wells has seen many changes over the years, but one property on Little Mount Sion has undergone a particularly striking transformation. What was once a tired commercial unit has now been carefully converted into a stylish two-bedroom home, right in the heart of the town centre.

The full renovation, carried out by Presence & Co., included everything from design and planning to the final finish. The result is a contemporary home that blends modern touches with the charm of its historic surroundings. The property is now on the market with Presence & Co.’s estate agency, offering buyers a unique opportunity to live just moments away from Tunbridge Wells’ shops, cafés, and transport links.

This is just one example of the kind of projects currently reshaping the local property landscape. Presence & Co., headquartered in Tunbridge

‘Potentially life-saving’ health and wellbeing service rolled out to employers

A raft of employees are benefitting from better health thanks to a pilot scheme rolled out across the Medway Council area.

Medway Council’s Healthy Workplace team recently took part in a new Department of Health and Social Care pilot service under which workplaces were visited and staff given blood pressure checks, height and weight checks and lifestyle screening.

The programme was funded to deliver 326 checks in total over an eight-month period, up until May 2025. The Medway team beat the target, delivering 558 checks altogether. The checks were designed to pick up any early signs of heart disease and signpost people to medical care if needed, or provide healthy lifestyle advice. Of those checked, 91 people were found to have high blood pressure and 42 individuals were found to have irregular pulse issues, increasing their risk of stroke and other cardiovascular issues. All were referred for medical treatment.

Wells but working nationwide, has increasingly been recognised for its role in converting and repurposing buildings across both residential and commercial sectors.

The company’s model of keeping services inhouse, whether it’s electricians improving EPC ratings, carpenters on renovation projects, or its estate agency marketing the finished homes, has allowed it to deliver projects with speed and consistency. Their work extends far beyond Kent, with teams operating across the UK on developments, facilities management contracts, and large-scale commercial refurbishments.

Little Mount Sion is a milestone project for the business, highlighting the growing demand for high-quality housing in central Tunbridge Wells and showing how underused spaces can be reimagined to meet modern living needs.

www.presence.co.uk

One employee said: “From my point of view, the health check could quite literally have saved my life! It prompted me to pursue appointments that I honestly would not have bothered with having suffered from unmedicated unstable blood pressure for years. I am now on medication which has stabilised my BP into a normal range, and I cannot thank my employer and the health team enough.”

The service has proved so popular that from July, the Medway Healthy Workplaces Programme made the offer of on-site health MOTs widely available to workplaces who sign up to the Medway Healthy Workplaces Programme.

Find out more about the Medway Healthy Workplaces Programme at www.medway.gov.uk/healthyworkplace

Duo of pioneering biotech start-ups join cluster at Discovery Park

Kent science and technology hub Discovery Park has welcomed two biotech companies to its innovation campus. iLoF (Intelligent Lab on Fiber), a digital health company, and MilaK, a precision fermentation protein business, have now moved into their new laboratory space in Sandwich.

iLoF is on a mission to accelerate personalised drug development by combining AI with cutting-edge optical technology. iLoF has an expert team of 30 spread across the UK and Europe, with plans to hire five new team members in Sandwich by the end of 2025.

MilaK uses precision fermentation to develop animal-free whey proteins. Recently founded and already backed by Innovate UK, MilaK is in their R&D (research and development) phase, with the expert team close to delivering their nutrition supplement prototype.

Rapidly scaling up to a team of seven in a matter of months, the team have recently hired two scientists based at Discovery Park. Both companies have taken up residence in Discovery Park’s CoLab, a collaborative co-working

lab space run in partnership with Canterbury Christ Church University. The CoLab space is designed with growing start-ups in mind, offering access to specialist lab equipment and a wider innovation ecosystem.

Chris Broom, Head Of Business Development at Discovery Park, said: “MilaK’s sustainable approach to protein production and iLoF’s AI-driven personalised medicine platform both address critical global challenges in health and sustainability. Their presence here strengthens Kent’s position as a leading destination for biotech companies developing technologies to shape our future.”

These two additions bring Discovery Park’s tenant community to over 180 companies. The park provides state-of-the-art laboratory and office facilities, along with amenities focused on work/life balance, including gyms, restaurants and a tenant-led community garden.

To find out more on either of the companies or Discovery Park’s CoLab, see https://ilof.tech/, https://milak.uk/ or https://discovery-park.co.uk/shared-lab-space/

There may be comfort in sticking to what you know, but to get ahead of the competition it often requires a smarter approach.

We’re offering complimentary advice worth £200 to Chamber of Commerce members, including a review of your brand’s strength across all marketing channels and a single page summary of ideas to action immediately, so you can put your best foot forward. There are no shoestrings attached and certainly no cobblers –just honest expert advice to help you stride ahead.

A strong foundation for partnership

We are proud to officially become a Patron of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. This milestone was marked by a recent visit from Tudor Price, CEO of the Chamber, who presented our Managing Director, Malcolm Clarke, with a certificate to recognise our new patronage status. Having been longstanding members of the Chamber, this progression to Patron stems from an increasingly close working relationship with Tudor and his team over recent months. As our conversations deepened, it became clear that our shared values - collaboration, innovation, and community - offered a strong foundation for

partnership. Tudor saw first-hand how we’re pushing boundaries in the built environment through our forward-thinking approach and commitment to quality, sustainability and meaningful local engagement.

Becoming a Patron is more than a title, it’s a commitment. A commitment to shaping the future of construction in Kent. A commitment to supporting the next generation through education and training. And a commitment to working together with local businesses to inspire, innovate and lead the way forward.

We’re excited to continue building on this momentum and to be part of a network that

Becoming a Patron is more than a title, it’s a commitment. A commitment to shaping the future of construction in Kent. A commitment to supporting the next generation through education and training. And a commitment to working together with local businesses to inspire, innovate and lead the way forward. ❜❜

champions growth, resilience and community across the region. Kent is our home, and we are proud to contribute to its future, not only through the projects we deliver, but through the people, partnerships and purpose that drive us.

Together, we’re building more than just buildings - we’re building a better future.

Celebrating 60 years of the University of Kent

Born during the 1960s wave of new universities, the University of Kent was created to offer something distinct: an inclusive, forward-thinking academic environment set within a vibrant campus that plays a vital role in the region’s life and identity. Now, as the University marks 60 years, it’s celebrating the people who have shaped its future by sharing their stories and bringing the community together throughout the year. Alongside the Kent and Medway Business Summit which is set to return in 2026, Kent will be hosting a range of special events and initiatives throughout its 60th anniversary year.

The autumn term’s highlight will be Voices for Sanctuary, an evening of gospel music in the awe-inspiring setting of Canterbury Cathedral, on Friday 31st October.

will mark Kent’s newly-awarded University of Sanctuary status, with proceeds from the event going to the University’s Sanctuary Programme which supports refugee and asylumseeking students to rebuild their lives through education.

The 60th celebrations make it a great time for businesses to connect with the University, tap into the community’s skills, networks and expertise, and find out how to support ambitions for industry-linked teaching and research that tackles local and global challenges.

For more information about our plans and how you can get involved, visit www.kent.ac.uk/Kentat60.

Hosted by Kent Chancellor, broadcaster and musician YolanDa Brown OBE DL and produced by acclaimed gospel musical director Goziam Okogwu (The Rite Collective), the event

Warning to Kent businesses over umbrella company tax changes

International business and advisory group Azets is urging Kent businesses to prepare for changes in their legal responsibilities around employment tax following the Government’s increased regulation of umbrella companies.

From 6 April 2026, the responsibility for accounting for National Insurance contributions (NIC) and pay as you earn (PAYE) will be moved from the umbrella company to the recruitment agency, or to the end client if a recruitment agency is not involved.

As a result, recruitment agencies and end clients will be contacted by HMRC if an umbrella company fails to pay NIC and/or PAYE to HMRC.

“For some firms, umbrella companies are an established means of managing payroll for contractors, but they can also be used as a method of tax avoidance,” said Jez Howson, Tax Director at Azets.

“The Government’s new approach will reduce the risk of this happening, but it will also put businesses on the hook for these payments if the company they use doesn’t pay HMRC what its owed – even if this is a legitimate mistake.”

To minimise the risk of being caught out by the changes, Azets – which has Kent offices in Maidstone, Ashford, Canterbury, Sandwich and Orpington – advises businesses to:

• Review their policies and procedures for ‘off-payroll’ workers to ensure that, in addition to addressing tax status and IR35, due diligence is undertaken on your supply chain.

• Obtain documentation from the supply chain to show there is tax compliance as part of this due diligence process.

• Ensure due diligence is carried out on any new umbrella providers.

• Regularly audit your supply chain to identify when any new issues arise.

Jez added: “April 2026 may feel like a long time away, but I’d urge businesses to start preparing for these changes now and minimise the risk of being investigated by HMRC.

To contact Azets, see azets.com

‘Highly effective’ EMDR therapy introduced into substance misuse recovery programme

Kenward Trust, Kent’s leading residential rehabilitation provider for addiction, has introduced Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy across its treatment programmes.

EMDR is a globally recognised, evidencebased psychotherapy shown to be highly effective in treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety and depression. Unlike traditional talk therapies, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (e.g. guided eye movements) to help people process distressing memories without needing to relive them in detail. EMDR is endorsed as a first-line treatment for trauma by international and national health bodies, including the World Health Organization and the UK Department of Health and Social Care.

The decision to offer EMDR reflects the growing prevalence and impact of trauma among people with substance use disorders. Research indicates that:

• Over 70 per cent of people with substance misuse issues have experienced trauma.

• 46 per cent of individuals with substance use disorders also live with PTSD.

• Trauma exposure can increase relapse risk by around 30 per cent in addiction treatment.

“Unresolved trauma is a major barrier to recovery,” said Mark Holmes, CQC-registered Manager at Kenward Trust. “By offering EMDR, we aim to help individuals truly heal,

rebuild their lives, and form the scaffolding that supports sustained recovery.”

This initiative aligns with recent recommendations from Professor Dame Carol Black, the UK Government’s Independent Adviser on Drugs, who has emphasised the urgent need to address underlying trauma within addiction services. As Dame Carol noted in her 2024 review, failing to treat trauma “sets individuals up to fail and remain in the revolving door of substance misuse.”

Dr Annie McCloud, Consultant Addictions Psychiatrist at Kenward Trust, added:

“I believe this treatment is crucial to a more robust intervention and supports long-term success in overcoming addiction.”

Celebrating more than 58 years of service, Kenward Trust continues to lead in addiction recovery across Kent and beyond, offering residential programmes, family support, youth outreach, and community resettlement.

To learn more or get involved, visit: https://kenwardtrust.org.uk/

A summer celebration to remember at Amazon in Dartford

Employees from Amazon in Dartford recently attended the site’s annual summer celebration with their friends and families.

The festivities mark the end of a busy period for Amazon colleagues delivering smiles for people across the UK.

Attendees marked the occasion at Dartford Rugby Club with giant inflatables, a band and a mini petting zoo, arranged as a thank you to the team for going above and beyond in their work for customers throughout the year.

Raluca Elena Rosoiu, a team member at Amazon in Dartford who attended the summer party, said of the event: “Today was one of the best summer

Growing Kent: The Wine Garden of England

The UK wine industry is flourishing, and Kent sits proudly at its heart.

Oak Creative’s recent work in this sector reinforces a key branding principle: strong brands are built upon strong foundations. For any business, branding is more than a logo or label design. It begins with defining your purpose, values, and identity, laying the groundwork for everything from packaging to customer experience.

With wine tourism now a vital revenue stream for many vineyards, a cohesive and trustworthy brand has never been more important. Visitors want more than great wine - they also expect an experience that feels personal and authentic at every touchpoint.

We’ve seen the impact first-hand. For Wildshark Vineyard, we delivered a strategic digital upgrade, redesigning their website to drive online sales, vineyard tours, and subscriptions. The result is a platform that communicates their personality while supporting growth.

celebrations yet. We had a blast with the games, and I’m very thankful to my colleagues who organised everything. It’s always nice to know our work together is appreciated, and a chance to celebrate all we’ve achieved in the first half of the year is welcomed.”

John McEwen, General Manager at Amazon in Dartford, added: “Our summer party is a highlight in the calendar for us, and an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to inclusion and fun in our workplace. Our team thoroughly enjoyed bringing their friends and families along, which definitely added to the excitement. Here’s to a brilliant day that will set us up for a fantastic second half of the year.”

www.amazon.co.uk

Even more recently with the relaunch of the WineGB website, we went beyond just aesthetics. We aligned the site with their refreshed brand, improved user journeys, and strengthened the tools and resources available for members. It now reflects their role as the definitive voice of the UK wine sector.

If you’re interested in the viticulture sector, the country’s leading trade show is happening at the Kent County Showground on 19th November. Visit Oak Creative on stand M52 - we’d love to talk about your brand.

Oak Creative is Kent’s leading full service branding agency. We are a creative partner for ambitious brands and organisations in Kent and beyond. It is our goal to boost our clients’ brand awareness and help to drive their business growth.

www.oakcreative.co.uk

College group marks a decade of success

East Kent Colleges Group (EKC Group) is celebrating 10 years of growth after publishing its latest impact report, which showcases its successes over the past decade.

From being recognised as an Outstanding provider of education by Ofsted in 2023, to scooping several prestigious awards, EKC Group – which is the largest provider of further education and technical skills in the region – stands as a beacon of education excellence and economic empowerment. In 2014/15, the group supported approximately 1,000 learners aged 16-19. It now educates and trains around 7,000 young people, more than 5,000 adult learners, and more than 1,300 apprentices each year, marking significant growth.

Supporting not just its learners, but also the communities it serves over the past decade, the group has made a £350 million contribution to East Kent’s gross value added through £80 million of direct capital investment in East Kent. It has also built valuable partnerships with organisations such as The Marlowe Theatre, Kent Refugee Action Network, and more.

Additionally, it has championed inclusion over the past decade and subsequently been recognised with a Beacon Award for its EKC Training provision in Eastchurch, which provides courses for prisoners under release on temporary licence. Also contributing to its growth are the 50,000 learners and 1,319 staff members who have taken part in community action projects and delivered more than 358,000 hours of social action over the past decade.

EKC Group’s CEO Lucy McLeod said:

“Looking back over the past decade, I feel an immense sense of pride in everything we’ve achieved at EKC Group.

“We’ve supported thousands of students in reaching their potential through outstanding education, and none of that would have been possible without the dedication and passion of our exceptional colleagues.

“The transformative impact, both socially and economically, that we have been able to deliver through working in partnership with the communities we serve is tremendous, and I am truly proud to lead such a committed team. I’m now excited about the opportunities the next 10 years will bring for our East Kent community, as our group continues to grow and innovate.”

www.ekcgroup.ac.uk

On your bike! Cycle Ashford campaign launched to encourage more riders

A new initiative to encourage more cycling to work in the borough has been launched by Ashford Borough Council.

Cycle Ashford is a campaign to promote cycling as a key mode of active travel and leisure activity in Ashford. It aims to increase participation from all sections of the community by making it easier for everyone to utilise the cycling infrastructure that is available.

Central to Cycle Ashford is a new website that provides information about cycling in Ashford and also a bespoke route planner. The planner can be used by anyone to find the best cycling routes between any two places, with options to avoid busy roads and steep inclines. It also shows all of the available cycle parking in the area. The route can be downloaded and integrated into digital maps and followed in real time on the journey.

Cllr Steve Campkin, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Sustainability at Ashford Borough Council, said: “Ashford offers safe, scenic and accessible cycling routes for all ages and abilities. Our hope with this campaign is that it will encourage more people to consider using their bikes to get to and from work, support their own physical and mental well-being and take some cars off the road.

“The warmer summer weather is the perfect time to get back into cycling and with our new route planner everyone can find the best way to get from A to B by bike.”

The Cycle Ashford website features case studies of local people who cycle regularly for either business or pleasure and details their favourite rides and experiences to provide first-hand local insight.

The campaign is being supported by Henry Urand, para-triathlon World Champion and Paralympian, and Ashford resident.

Henry said: “Riding my bike has taken me around the world to compete in major competitions, but some of my favourite routes are in and around the Ashford area. Growing up in the borough, there was nothing I loved more than exploring on my bike, and I still do most of my training following routes around the area.

“I hope that the Cycle Ashford campaign will encourage more people with the option to commute to work to get on their bikes and explore the fantastic local cycling routes we are blessed with, while also improving their fitness.”

Cycle Ashford will be providing information on routes, promoting cycling events, signposting to local cycling services, as well as sharing hints and tips from local cycling enthusiasts.

The campaign can be followed on social media, or see the website at www.cycleashford.org.uk.

Clients will be the winners as payroll business deal reached

Advo One Limited has completed a deal to buy the Surrey based payroll bureau, Pay-Nex Limited.

Advo, established in 1997, focusses on HR and payroll allowing SMEs the same access to essential employer services as their PLC counterparts.

Pay-Nex process a diverse range of payrolls, attractive to Advo with its focus on SMEs. It also works with accountancy firms, a speciality of Advo, and sectors including hospitality and care where Advo has considerable expertise. Staff will be retained with Pay-Nex’s Managing Director initially remaining to ensure smooth integration. All Advo’s clients have access to bespoke HMRC and BACS-approved software, providing unrivalled levels of flexibility with managing

their payroll while using other market software where suitable.

Advo’s HR service delivers all the protections and advantages of having an in-house human resources team.

Pay-Nex becomes part of Advo’s payroll division, with clients benefitting from wider services including technology platforms and HR support.

Commenting on the acquisition, Larry Bulmer, Advo’s CEO said: “This is an exciting opportunity for Advo and Pay-Nex clients too. They will have the same client care with access to wider Advo services including HR advice and our technology platforms. Pay-Nex’s expertise and wide range of clients will be a strong addition to Advo.”

For more information visit www.advo.co.uk

D A L D E E P J A S W A L

Partner

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A commercial lease is often one of the most significant and complex contracts that a landlord or tenant will enter into. Whether leasing a small retail space or a vast industrial unit, the terms and conditions embedded in a commercial lease have lasting implications for both parties Engaging a lawyer to advise on these terms is not simply prudent

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Kenward Trust appoints new Trustee with lived experience

Kenward Trust is delighted to welcome Toby Winson as the newest member of our Board of Trustees.

Toby’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. At just 25 years old, he faced alcoholic liver disease and believed he had lost all hope for the future. After two life-changing stays at Kenward Trust, he embraced recovery and has now been alcohol-free for nine years.

Since then, Toby has gone on to build a successful career as News Editor at ITV News Meridian, while also becoming a respected recovery blogger, public speaker, and awardwinning journalist. His accolades include Breaking into News 2019 and ITV News’ Newcomer of the Year 2022. He has also presented documentaries for ITV’s current affairs programme Tonight, tackling issues such as the rise in harmful drinking during the Covid pandemic.

Toby has also volunteered to play a vital role in delivering our Think Differently programme in schools alongside Andy Watson and Kim Webster, sharing his lived experience to encourage young people to pause, reflect, and make safer choices.

Reflecting on his journey, Toby shared: “Kenward Trust saved my life. I battled alcoholism from a very young age and developed alcoholic liver disease by 25. I was lucky enough to get funding to go to

Kenward twice. There, I learnt many of the skills I use today to stay sober. I’ve been alcohol free for nine years and have a wonderful life – a life that would have ended in my twenties if it wasn’t for my time at Kenward. The opportunity to try and give back to those who helped save my life was a no brainer for me.”

Kenward Trust, CEO, Penny Williams added: “We are thrilled to welcome Toby to the team. His lived experience, combined with his professional achievements, makes him a powerful advocate for recovery and a role model for the young people we support. We know his story will resonate deeply and inspire positive change.”

For more information about Kenward Trust and our work supporting individuals affected by addiction and homelessness, please visit: https://kenwardtrust.org.uk

Talk to your customers before asking them to buy this Christmas

How many emails do you get from companies you haven’t heard from all year, letting you know what you can buy from them for Christmas?

Are you one of those companies who sends them? If you sell all year round, it’s best to contact your customers all year round.

It keeps them interested, builds a relationship and creates loyalty, turning them from a one-off shopper into a regular buyer, a brand ambassador telling others, or someone who comes back for more.

Customers aren’t just for Christmas!

Start the warm-up to Christmas now – especially if you haven’t spoken to your customers all year.

Do not go straight in with a ‘buy this!’ vibe. Remind them who you are, what you do, how you started up and what you’ve been up to, especially if you’ve been out there doing good in the community or with charities. Then make sure you say the right thing to the right people.

Don’t send product information to someone who’s already bought it - it’s irrelevant and shows you don’t know them or value their purchase. Filter the customer data to avoid this!

Who uses your products / services and why?

What problem do you solve or make better? Each target audience will need different messaging – don’t go general, go targeted. Finally, make the sale easy – once they’re over the line, they want an easy sale. Are your sales channels clunky? Un-clunk them to keep all of your conversions and protect your ROI.

Sarah Hawes

izzy PR izzypr.co.uk

ellenor named Bluewater’s Charity of the Year

ellenor is pleased to have been named Bluewater’s Charity of the Year – a partnership that will run until December 2026.

The Charity of the Year initiative gives local causes the opportunity to receive extra support and donations throughout the year they’re chosen.

Bluewater launched the partnership with a £5,000 donation and more money will be raised through guest experience initiatives such as the Christmas gift-wrapping events. ellenor will also have use of the community space during the peak month of December, with opportunities for the Bluewater team members to volunteer to help raise money for us.

Why marketing communications need to be relevant

Promotional messages reach us in many ways – but how do you make yours cut through this cluttered pile to the right customer who then takes action?

The answer is one word – relevancy. Relevant product, relevant tone, relevant time. But that requires a change in thinking for most of us.

It’s now about thinking across the full range of products and adapting a proactive approach.

• Actively targeting customers with the next appropriate product from your full portfolio.

• What’s relevant for that type of client at this point in their life cycle with you?

• What’s relevant right now in their relationship with you?

It’ll need you to maximise the value in your customer data to create this relevant, effective marketing, because what you need to know is waiting to be found.

What makes your customer tick?

Do you know or do you guess a bit?

The data will tell you – and sometimes, it tells us information that a client wasn’t expecting – or is the opposite to what they actually thought.

James Waugh, Centre Director at Bluewater, commented: “ellenor is a charity that holds a special place in our hearts, having provided invaluable support to members of the Bluewater team and their families over the years. We’re proud to be giving back by naming them our Charity of the Year.”

Jemma Kemp, Corporate Partnerships Manager at ellenor added: “We are thrilled to be named Bluewater’s Charity of the Year. This partnership is a unique opportunity to collaborate for the benefit of our community by raising vital awareness and funds to support local families living with life-limiting illnesses. We are incredibly grateful to the Bluewater team for choosing to support us and look forward to working together.”

www.ellenor.org

Angela Hall, Director at Insight House, says: Many businesses are collecting up customer data but not doing much with it. But there’s so much information that can guide and inform your marketing and sales strategies.

“It can feel overwhelming if you’ve not done it before but once you get into the data, it can show you a huge amount about your customers that can ensure your marketing is relevant. It’s exciting when you start to see the ROI in both transactions and loyalty.”

We map the customer lifecycle, build customer profiles and segment the data to draw out who to speak to and what they need to know.

www.insighthouse.co.uk

Turning our waste fat into fuel to power the green revolution

Syntech

Biofuel’s Mike O’lone tells

Karen McLauchlan how he swapped the brewery business for biofuels and is helping lead the charge on sustainable green fuel.

From fryers to fuel tanks – that’s Syntech Biofuel in a nutshell.

The Kent-based renewable fuel company produces its sustainable product, Syntech ASB (advanced smart biofuel), from waste vegetable oils sourced from UK pubs, restaurants, chip shops and fast-food outlets.

And by giving waste new life, it is reducing emissions, replacing carbon fossil fuels to help halt the climate change crisis and powering some of the UK’s biggest infrastructure projects.

“Every litre we produce is fully traceable, International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) certified, and 100% made in Britain,” said Mike. “That makes it the most practical, immediate solution for organisations who can’t afford to wait for net zero.”

Mike O’lone is Director of Environment, Sustainability and Social Impact and says the company currently makes “the most sustainable fuel available in the UK”. And as we talk about the business and its success to date, his passion

for this green fuel, the team that makes it happen and the community in which it works is tangible.

“We believe in doing things differently,” he said. “We’ve not taken the easiest route and what we do is niche. But I love what we do and we’ve created an environment where people are excited to get into work in the morning.”

“Unlike imported fuels, our solution is homegrown - built for the transition, powered by UK waste, and proven to deliver.”

Mike hasn’t always been involved in the eco-fuel business. A former technical manager in the brewing industry, he was more used to looking after large-scale installations at major social and sporting outlets. When a knee operation meant taking time off, he didn’t rest up completely but took on a new mental challenge – learning the Knowledge of London, the famous and rigorous examination for prospective London cab drivers. Looking for a change of work/life balance he then took to the road as one of the capital’s cabbies.

But around 10 years ago a call from long-time friend Robert Hart – who founded Syntech along with Tom Bingham – led his career path to shift course into the world of biorefineries. Originally established as an energy-from-waste company, a change in legislation saw Syntech pivot to the world of biofuels.

The company currently has two operational facilities at Kingsnorth Industrial Estate in Grain, with a third now 80 per cent of the way to completion. A fourth site at Kingsnorth is in the advanced planning stages with ambitions to operate a further base near Grangemouth in Scotland, to feed demand in the north of the UK.

The team is also looking to ramp up output. Currently producing around a million litres per month, this is set to double by early 2026.

“Expansion and investment will see this rise to 100 million litres annually from Q4 2026,” said Mike. “We’re also looking to expand our team of around 30 staff to 200 on the back of projected growth.”

Syntech Biofuel predominately supplies to Tier 1 construction companies to power large on-site vehicles, excavators and earth movers as well as generators.

“We wanted to prove there’s no need to rely on unsustainable imports when you can build a transparent, UK sourced alternative that industry can trust.”

“But in 2022 we were recognised by National Highways to be involved with the groundbreaking Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) project, which is one that won’t use diesel, the first of its kind in the UK.”

The LTC is a new road that will connect Kent and Essex through a tunnel beneath the River Thames. In June this year the Government announced £590 million for the £9bn project describing it as the “most significant road building project in a generation” and a “national priority”.

LTC has also set targets to reduce its construction carbon emissions by 70 per cent; an ambition made possible thanks to the delivery partners’ and suppliers’ commitment to making the crossing the greenest road ever built in the UK.

Feedstock for the fuel process is sourced from across the UK. When new oil is delivered to food outlets, their used cooking oil (UCO) is also collected and taken to a hub where it is checked to ensure it meets the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard. It is then delivered to Syntech’s site, travelling the fewest miles possible compared to supplies from overseas which rack up thousands of international miles and a huge carbon impact.

After filtration, this feedstock is processed creating biofuel and by-product glycerol, which is sent to be used for animal feed or for anaerobic digestion processes. A science team based at the site conduct tests for quality control, before it is delivered to construction sites.

With a clean circular manufacturing process and generating its own energy on site, it means the plant is low in carbon intensity, which Mike says is “very unusual” for a facility of its size.

“In fact, our biofuel cuts lifecycle emissions by up to 93% compared to fossil diesel - a carbon saving you can count today.”

“In our baseline year of carbon reporting we registered 255 tonnes of CO2 for offset, which is unheard of in industrial processes,” he said. “Even in smaller industrial sites the figure would normally be in the hundreds of thousands of tonnes a year.”

And crucially, Syntech ASB is helping decarbonise energy and transport systems and transition away from fossil fuel use, helping the UK work towards the net zero 2050 target.

“We turned our backs on foreign imports of palm and soy oil – we weren’t comfortable with it; it didn’t sit right with us. The way we went cost more and Covid almost bankrupted us when the UK hospitality sector closed.

Syntech Biofuel has been working with Balfour Beatty, the contractor delivering the roads north of the Thames for the project. Last October it was signed to Balfour Beatty’s procurement framework to provide fuel for the LTC project – which will be the catalyst for expanding Syntech’s production increase. Syntech Biofuel is also involved with other major construction projects.

But Mike says social impact is equally important with Syntech creating a range of initiatives to inspire the next generation of green energy pioneers and tackle the skills crisis.

Lesson plans for local primary schools, talks at colleges and universities plus working with the University of Kent to offer placements to biochemistry students are all ways it’s working with the sector’s future leaders.

“It’s so important to be working with children and young people,” said Mike, “getting the sustainability messages across and tackling environmental anxiety very early on. It’s about incremental, consistent steps in being more aware and taking care of the planet. Everyone can play their part –many voices make a loud noise.”

And membership of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce is also a key element of its work in the community.

“We go to lots of events and are a very active member of the Chamber’s Kent and Medway Manufacturing Focus Group (KMFG), it’s a great way to network,” explained Mike.

“Social impact is just as important as the sustainability piece for us. For the firm to thrive long after I’m no longer here, we need good relationships that shore up the next part of Syntech.

“That’s employment, skills development, relationship building. And there’s nothing more important to us than being sustainable locally in Medway and Kent and being completely engaged on our home turf.”

As for the future – Syntech Biofuel has growth on the horizon.

“The last 10 years haven’t been easy, the challenges at times have been many,” said Mike, “now we’re set to supply fuel to power some of the country’s biggest and most significant infrastructure projects.”

“Our message is simple: Syntech is ready nowa proven British solution trusted by industry to cut carbon today.”

www.syntechbiofuel.com

Unlocking Kent & Medway’s Potential: A Call to Business for Skills Collaboration

As Kent & Medway continues to evolve as a dynamic economic region, the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) stands as a cornerstone of its strategy to close critical skills gaps and future-proof its workforce. Led by the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and funded by the UK Government, the LSIP is a bold, employerdriven initiative that places businesses at the heart of the skills conversation.

Aims and Objectives: Business-Led Skills Transformation

The LSIP’s primary goal is to create a responsive, collaborative framework that aligns workforce development with the real-world needs of Kent & Medway’s employers. It seeks to:

• Identify and address sector-specific and cross-cutting skills shortages

• Empower education providers to deliver training that meets evolving industry demands

• Foster inclusive career pathways and tackle recruitment barriers

• Embed sustainability and digital capabilities across all training provision

• Support SMEs and leverage infrastructure projects like the Lower Thames Crossing

• Address tutor shortages through innovative models such as dual-professional pathways

Timeline and Key Achievements in Kent & Medway

The LSIP journey began with the 2022 Trailblazer Plan, followed by the formal publication of the Kent & Medway LSIP in August 2023.

Since then, the region has seen:

• The 2024 Progress Report, marking the first full year of implementation

• The 2025 LSIP Update, which reaffirmed the region’s commitment to employer-led collaboration and highlighted progress across five priority sectors: Manufacturing & Engineering, Construction, Fresh Food & Food Production, Education, and Health & Social Care

• Sector-specific activities, capital investments, and skills provision initiatives that have begun to reshape the local training landscape

Why Employer Engagement Is Non-Negotiable

At the heart of the LSIP is a simple but powerful principle: employers must lead the way. Their insights, challenges, and ambitions shape the

skills agenda and ensure that training provision is relevant, future-focused, and impactful.

As we enter a new phase of the LSIP, the need for employer collaboration is more urgent than ever. The next iteration of the plan, due for publication in June 2026, will be built on fresh intelligence gathered through:

• Sector skills surveys (Autumn 2025)

• Employer forums and roundtables

• Direct consultations with businesses across Kent & Medway

This is not just a policy exercise, it’s a call to action. Businesses are invited to:

• Share insights on recruitment challenges and future workforce priorities

• Help shape sector-specific studies and provision mapping

• Participate in pilot programmes and showcase best practice

A Living Blueprint for Regional Growth

The LSIP is not a static document, it’s a living blueprint that evolves with the region’s needs. It champions innovation, celebrates collaboration, and reinforces Kent & Medway’s position as a leader in employer-driven skills reform.

As Tudor Price, CEO of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, aptly puts it: “The successful impact of the LSIP has been self-evident… and it is that collaborative partnership that is responsible for delivering so many positive outcomes.”

Get Involved

To shape the future of skills in Kent & Medway, contact the team, lsip@kentinvictachamber.co.uk, and explore how your business can contribute to the next phase of the LSIP.

Unique amongst private healthcare providers, we are a Private Limited Company and a fully owned subsidiary of East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, with sites in:

• Ashford (William Harvey Hospital)

• Canterbury (Kent & Canterbury Hospital)

• Margate (Queen Elizabeth Queen Mother Hospital)

Robotic Prostatectomy and Prostate Health

It’s a simple fact of life that the prostate wasn’t designed to age well. Most men will develop benign enlargement once they’re past 40, with at least 1 in 4 men developing problems requiring treatment into older age.

More worryingly, prostate cancer is now the commonest cancer diagnosed in the UK, and one of the most common causes of cancer related death. Around 50,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer per year, and sadly around 12,000 men die per annum.

Due to increasing public awareness of the condition, fuelled by high profile cases and publicity campaigns, diagnoses are increasing. Not all men need treatment, and indeed a large number will never come to harm without intervention

With an easy and effective screening blood test having been in use for over 30 years, the PSA test, there has been a slow fall in prostate cancer mortality. However, there is much more to do, and further advances in MRI scans and biopsy techniques now mean we can be much more accurate in determining who needs to be fully assessed or treated, and who can be reassured.

Consultant Urological Surgeon, Mr Edward Streeter

When it comes to treatment of prostate problems, these vary depending on whether there is significant cancer or just benign enlargement. Mr Edward Streeter is a senior Consultant Urological Surgeon who has worked in East Kent since 2008 and specialises in prostate issues.

He was instrumental in introducing the Da Vinci Robotic Surgical System to Kent and Canterbury Hospital in 2011 and has since introduced both Urolift and Rezum steam therapy there.

More recently, Edward has explored the use of focal therapy in the Trust, where if

appropriate, it is possible to treat just part of the prostate instead of the whole gland. He has involved the Urology department in the National PART study of focal versus whole prostate treatments, which is aiming to determine the role of these new treatments in the range of available options.

Mr Streeter was trained in Cambridge and Oxford, and has an extensive experience of cancer surgery, having conducted well over 1600 major cases in his Consultant career.

The Da Vinci Robotic System

The Da Vinci Robotic System allows surgery to be conducted with just small telescopic incisions, meaning less pain, a shorter stay in hospital (typically just over 24 hours for a prostate removal), and better results compared to other surgical techniques.

The surgeon controls the robot through a 3D vision console. High magnification and tiny instruments mean more accuracy and a faster recovery compared to open surgery. Robotic surgery is one of several options available for the treatment of prostate cancer, and Edward can give an individualised appraisal of all of these to help tailor your treatment as required.

As a specialist in prostate disorders, both benign and cancer, he will be very happy to discuss in detail any concerns you have.

Spencer Private Hospitals is proudly part of your local NHS trust, so your private care also supports public healthcare.

Book with confidence and visit our website today www.spencerprivatehospitals.com or call our dedicated team on 01227 235743.

Making a will –taking the thrill out of life

By Melanie Christodoulou, Senior Partner, Private Client Team

Thinking about making a Will is not the most thrilling task for most people. However, taking the time to discuss with an estate planner how you want your assets to pass on your death is something that you should consider. It is even more important these days with complex family structures, potential claims against an estate, lifetime gifting and the burden of inheritance tax.

Everyone’s objectives and circumstances are different. Luckily in the UK, we have testamentary freedom to gift our assets to those we wish; but

the wording of such a Will has to be clear and any potential issues that may arise need to be appropriately advised on.

For the majority of us, our home is our main asset. You protect this through insurance so why wouldn’t you also protect this on your death for the individuals you wish to benefit?

Protecting your assets now has become even more essential with the recent changes in tax legislation and reduced reliefs in an estate. This is where an estate adviser can assist you with lifetime planning.

Examples include:

• making lifetime gifts to those you wish to benefit most;

• setting up a lifetime trust to hold assets outside your estate;

• using life insurance policies written in trust, which pay out directly to beneficiaries; or

• restructuring property ownership to avoid unintended consequences

There is not a “one size fits all” and so advance planning helps navigate your aims and ensure the assets you have worked hard for are protected.

Ride into later life with confidence

The need for later life planning is not only crucial for your financial health, but your physical and mental health too. Sarah Dale finds out why.

It is never too early to start planning for later life. Whether it is ensuring you have a good company and/or private pension or growing your pot of savings to enjoy life in your autumn years, planning for later life is essential to ensure that you can continue to live a healthy, comfortable life.

One important part of later life planning is having a lasting power of attorney (LPA). Not sure if you need one? Derrick Howard AffSWW, of Assured Wills, has the following advice to help you make an informed decision:

Lasting power of attorney –who needs one?

Everyone (almost)!

A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a crucial legal document that allows a person to appoint a trusted individual, known as an attorney, to make decisions on their behalf if they are no longer able to do so. For business owners, it’s essential to understand the distinction between a personal LPA and a business LPA to ensure all aspects of their life are protected.

A personal LPA for property and financial affairs is designed to manage your private assets. It grants your chosen attorney the authority to handle your personal bank accounts, pay household bills, and manage your private investments.

For business owners, whose personal and professional finances are often intertwined, this document is vital. Without it, a sudden loss of capacity could freeze your personal funds, creating stress and financial hardship for your family.

A business LPA, on the other hand, is a specific type of financial LPA focused on your commercial interests. It’s tailored to the structure of your business, whether you are a sole trader, a director, or a partner. This document empowers an attorney to make critical business decisions, such as paying staff and suppliers, signing contracts, and managing company bank accounts.

Without a business LPA, your company could face operational paralysis and financial chaos. The lengthy and expensive process of applying to the Court of Protection

Cover Feature | Later Life Planning

for a deputyship could severely damage or even destroy the business you worked so hard to build.

By having both a personal and a business LPA, you can appoint different people to manage each area, ensuring that those with the right expertise and experience are making decisions that align with your wishes. This strategic approach provides peace of mind, safeguarding both your private wealth and the future of your company.

Statistics say that you are six times more likely to use an LPA before a Will.

“One of the most important pieces of advice for anyone with a relative who may at some point need care is to encourage your relative to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney.”

Care To Be Different

What does Martin Lewis say about lasting power of attorney?

Crucially, Martin emphasised that LPAs are not just for older people. He believes that Powers of Attorney are arguably more important than Wills. This is because they make considerations for what happens during your lifetime.

www.assured-wills.co.uk

Transport in later life

Later life planning is often spoken about in terms of pensions, savings, or passing on a business, but transport is just as important to independence and wellbeing. For people in Kent and across the South East, the simple act of boarding a bus can be the difference between staying connected and becoming isolated.

Research carried out earlier this year across the South East found that more than three quarters of older people still visit their local high street at least once a week. These trips are about more than shopping. They are a chance to meet friends, to feel part of the community and to keep up with everyday routines. The same research showed that six in 10 say their local bus service is vital in helping them stay socially connected. Yet despite this, more than a quarter of those eligible for free bus travel are not using their pass.

That free pass is not a minor perk. Under the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme, anyone who has reached the State Pension age of 66 is entitled to free off-peak local bus travel anywhere in England. Off-peak travel is defined as from 9.30am until 11pm on weekdays, and all day at weekends and on public holidays. Applying is straightforward through local councils, including Kent County Council, or directly via the GOV.UK website.

The difference the pass can make to household budgets is significant. The annual cost of running a car, once you add together insurance, MOT, tax, servicing and fuel, often runs into thousands of pounds. For those on fixed retirement incomes, that is a heavy burden. By contrast, with a concessionary bus pass, everyday journeys to the shops, to see family, to attend healthcare appointments or to enjoy a day by the coast with Stagecoach South East can be made at no cost.

Stagecoach South East operates more than 400 buses across Kent and East Sussex, connecting towns such as Canterbury, Ashford, Hastings and Dover, as well as the coastal routes that link Eastbourne to Dover. These services are not simply about getting from one place to another. They are the threads that tie communities together and make sure that people remain active and independent as they age.

For those thinking about retirement and succession planning, the bus pass is an often overlooked but powerful tool. It helps older people continue to play a full role in family and community life, stretching their pension savings and reducing the pressure of car costs. Families benefit too, knowing that parents and grandparents have reliable, safe and affordable transport options, and that the high streets they visit remain vibrant.

With an ageing population and the challenge of isolation growing, the message is clear. The concessionary bus pass is more than a ticket to travel. It is a lifeline that keeps older people mobile, socially connected and financially resilient, while supporting the businesses and services that make Kent’s towns and villages thrive. www.stagecoachbus.com

How to apply for your free bus pass

• Available from State Pension age (currently 66)

• Where to apply: gov.uk/apply-for-elderly-person-bus-pass or via your local council (Kent County Council)

• When you can travel: 9.30am to 11pm on weekdays, all day at weekends and on public holidays

• Annual cost of bus travel with concessionary pass: £0 for all eligible off-peak journeys

• 28 per cent of those eligible still do not use their free pass – meaning many are missing out on both savings and social benefits

Planning for Peace of Mind

Why expert guidance on wills and probate matters

When it comes to later life planning, few conversations are as important or as easy to put off as those about wills, inheritance and future care. Yet taking the time now to put robust plans in place is one of the most valuable gifts you can give to yourself and your loved ones.

At Martin Tolhurst Solicitors, we believe that later life planning isn’t just about legal documents, it’s about peace of mind, security and ensuring that your wishes are respected. Our dedicated Wills & Probate team has been supporting families across Kent for decades, helping clients plan confidently for the future and navigate sensitive legal processes with compassion and expertise.

MAKING A WILL

A professionally prepared will is the cornerstone of any estate plan. Without one, your estate will be distributed according to strict legal rules, which may not reflect your wishes or your family’s needs. Our specialist solicitors work closely with you to create a will that’s clear, comprehensive and tailored to your circumstances.

We advise on everything from straightforward wills to more complex arrangements, including life interest trusts and discretionary

trusts, which can provide for vulnerable family members or protect family wealth across generations. If you already have a will, we can review and update it to reflect changes in your family, finances, or wishes, ensuring your plans remain up to date.

PROBATE AND ESTATE ADMINISTRATION

Losing a loved one is never easy. Dealing with their estate at the same time can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to guide you through every step, from obtaining grants of probate or letters of administration to managing the entire estate on your behalf.

We handle complex matters such as trust registration, tax reporting and distribution of assets with sensitivity and professionalism, giving you time to focus on what matters most. Whether you’re an executor seeking expert guidance or a family member navigating unfamiliar legal territory, we’re here to ensure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

LASTING POWERS OF ATTORNEY

It’s not just about planning for what happens after you’re gone, it’s about safeguarding your interests during your lifetime too.

WHY CHOOSE MARTIN TOLHURST SOLICITORS?

With offices across Kent, including Gillingham, Ashford, Longfield and Sittingbourne, we combine local knowledge with specialist expertise. Our approach is straightforward and client-focused. We explain your options clearly, avoid unnecessary jargon and ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

We’re proud of our reputation for compassionate service.

Whether you’re writing

Creating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions about your health, welfare and finances if you’re ever unable to do so yourself.

We prepare and advise on all types of powers of attorney and we also support attorneys in understanding their responsibilities providing peace of mind for you and those closest to you.

INHERITANCE TAX PLANNING AND COURT OF PROTECTION

Effective planning today can make a significant difference tomorrow. Our inheritance tax specialists help you make the most of available allowances, explore the benefits of trusts and advise on strategies for multigenerational living or joint property ownership all tailored to your financial and family situation.

We also offer specialist advice on Court of Protection matters, including deputyship applications, appointing trustees where capacity is lacking, and making applications for statutory wills. These are often complex and sensitive areas of law, but with Martin Tolhurst Solicitors by your side, you’re never navigating them alone.

“I recently used Martin Tolhurst for the application of Grant of Probate following the passing of a close friend. From my first call with Paul Rothwell to my meeting with Paul and Charlotte Hatcher, they made the whole process as easy as possible. Charlotte, who handled the administration, was professional, courteous and respectful throughout, keeping me updated and answering every question. I have no hesitation in recommending them both.” Harj, Probate client, 2025

Rebuilding Kent’s hospitality sector with skills, innovation and festive flair

As Kent’s hospitality businesses gear up for a festive season filled with immersive experiences and seasonal sparkle, the sector is also quietly undergoing a transformation – one rooted in skills development, innovation and resilience.

From the historic charm of Westenhanger Castle to the glowing trails of Leeds Castle, Kent’s festive calendar is a testament to the creativity and commitment of its hospitality professionals.

But behind the scenes, businesses are navigating workforce shortages, evolving customer expectations, and the need to future-proof their operations.

A sector in transition

Hospitality has long been a cornerstone of Kent’s economy, contributing significantly to employment, tourism and local vibrancy. Yet, like many regions, Kent has felt the impact of post-pandemic shifts and Brexit-related recruitment challenges.

Roles such as chefs, cleaners and front-of-house staff remain difficult to fill, with many businesses reporting increased pressure on existing teams.

This has prompted a renewed focus on workforce development. Employers are recognising that investing in people is no longer optional, it’s essential.

Skills development: A strategic priority

One of the most promising responses to the skills gap is the Hospitality SectorBased Work Academy Programme (SWAP), delivered by East Kent College Group in partnership with UK Hospitality and Jobcentre Plus. The programme offers a blend of classroom training and realworld experience, connecting jobseekers with employers who have entry-level or apprenticeship vacancies.

This initiative is helping to rebuild the talent pipeline, offering a practical route into the industry for those seeking new opportunities. It also reflects a broader shift towards collaboration between education providers and businesses, which is a key theme in the Kent and Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan.

For Chamber members, this presents a valuable opportunity to engage with emerging talent, shape training provision and contribute to a more sustainable hospitality workforce.

Innovation and wellbeing in the workplace

Beyond recruitment, Kent’s hospitality businesses are embracing innovation to enhance both customer experience and staff wellbeing. Digital tools – such as mobile ordering, automated booking systems and self-service kiosks – are helping to streamline operations and reduce pressure on teams.

Equally important is the growing emphasis on workplace culture. Employers are being encouraged to offer flexible working arrangements, invest in mental health support, and foster environments where staff feel valued and supported. These efforts are not only improving retention but also enhancing service quality, which is a win for businesses and customers alike.

Christmas at Chapel House Estate

Shared Christmas Party Night or host your own private party in a truly

Festive Members offers:

Hospitality at its best

Kent’s festive hospitality offerings are a showcase of the sector’s creativity and community spirit. Highlights include:

• Leeds Castle’s Christmas Lights Trail: Featuring glowing tunnels, illuminated sculptures and immersive installations, alongside festive parties and casino nights in Fairfax Hall.

• Historic Dockyard Chatham’s Elf Mission: An interactive adventure for children, culminating in a visit with Father Christmas.

• Chapel House: Step into the festive spirit with a cosy countryside lunch at number nine restaurant at Chapel House Estate. Gather friends, family, or colleagues and indulge in a specially curated three-course menu, crafted with seasonal flavours and a touch of Chapel House Estate magic.

To elevate your evening beyond the exquisite dining experience, they have curated a programme of live entertainment. Imagine the gentle sounds of the sea complemented by the soulful vocals of our live singers on Wednesdays and Sundays, or the vibrant atmosphere created by our resident DJs as they provide the

soundtrack to your festive celebration on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. Each element is designed to foster a spirit of joy and camaraderie.

Furthermore, in the run up to the festive period they are offering a generous 20% reduction on your entire food and beverage bill for bookings between the 1st of October and the 23rd of November on Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays!

Chamber members leading the way

• Ashford International Hotel: Whatever you’re wishing for this Christmas, a fantastic party with friends and colleagues, a stress-free Christmas dinner, or an indulgent festive stay with all the trimmings, Ashford International Hotel has everything you need for a fabulous festive season.

• Finest clay shooting facilities in “The Garden of England.”

The clubhouse provides a friendly, welcoming space, while our corporate and conference packages blend professionalism with a personal touch— making us a leading choice for business events across the region.

Clay shooting is one of the few sports where guests can enjoy immediate success. Unlike activities such as golf or go-karting, clay shooting allows participants to network and engage with each other throughout the entire event. With a clear safety briefing and expert guidance from our coaches, participants quickly experience the thrill of breaking clays. This instant sense of achievement creates a rewarding and memorable event, setting us apart from other corporate experiences.

With continuous investment in our grounds and equipment, we remain committed to providing the finest clay shooting facilities in “The Garden of England.”

Chamber members such as Hampton by Hilton Canterbury, Hempstead House & Spa, and Eastwell Manor –Champneys Hotel & Spa are not only delivering exceptional guest experiences but also actively shaping the future of Kent’s hospitality sector through their involvement in Chamber events.

For something different West Kent Shooting School. Set within 20 acres of landscaped parkland and woodland, offers one of Kent’s most complete clay pigeon shooting experiences.

Our English Sporting layout covers 18 distinct areas with over 100 target combinations, featuring highlights such as a 100ft High Tower and a dedicated Skeet range. We are open Monday to Friday.

Whether you’re a first-time shooter or a seasoned shot, our qualified instructors deliver tailored tuition in an environment that combines natural beauty with exceptional facilities.

From wine tastings at Balfour Winery to networking walks at Winters Barns, the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce offers a vibrant platform for hospitality professionals to connect, collaborate and celebrate their successes. The Chamber Business Awards, being held this year at Westenhanger Castle, will once again spotlight excellence across the sector and provide a high-profile opportunity to showcase innovation and leadership.

Looking ahead

Kent’s hospitality sector is more than just a collection of venues; it’s a vital part of the region’s identity and economy. This Christmas, as guests gather under twinkling lights and enjoy seasonal menus, they’ll be experiencing the result of months of planning, training and innovation. And for the businesses behind the scenes, it’s a moment to reflect, recharge and look ahead to a brighter, more resilient future.

CHAPEL HOUSE ESTATE

MINSTER, KENT

Weddings

Celebrations

Stays

Corporate Events

Private Dining

Christmas at Chapel House Estate

✨ Celebrate the season your way, join our Shared Christmas Party Night or host your own private party in a truly magical setting.

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Celebrate the season

CHERISH THE FESTIVE CHEER WITH AN EVENT TO REMEMBER

Whether you're hosting a small team gathering or a grand celebration, our tailored private dining and party packages are designed to impress. Set against the backdrop of our enchanting manor, your event will be elevated with exceptional service, exquisite cuisine, and an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Embrace the magic of Christmas with an event like no other at Eastwell Manor.

Cyclopark Charity

– Where Your Movement Matters

We’re a health and wellbeing charity - www.cyclopark.com - in Gravesend, Kent, on a mission to get people moving more on two feet and two wheels.

Our purpose is to address health inequalities, particularly in the local area, and discover hidden talent including through the operation of one of the most impactful cycling centres in the country.

Locally with 42% of Year 6 children overweight, 1 in 3 adults inactive, life expectancy differing by up to 14 years between wards and two nearby wards falling within the top 10% most deprived in England, we offer a wide range of Ride (Cycling), Fitness and Play activities to provide a community hub driving positive change.

Known for our welcoming and supportive approach, all ages and abilities benefit from a range of cycling and non-cycling activities that see individuals and families able to move more for less,including 5,000+ places for free, at whatever level works for them.

Less than 10% of our income is from stakeholder funding with the charity generating the balance annually. Our Champions programme is a key way of supporting the required income generation and therefore our purpose.

Whilst any involvement has an obvious charitable focus, we believe in mutual benefit with any company who becomes a Champion benefiting from our strong engagement locally, regionally and nationally.

5 Factors to Consider when looking for a Conference Venue

Whether you’re a seasoned event planner or preparing for your first conference, choosing the correct venue is crucial!

With conference season fast approaching, have you considered these 5 factors which can make or break any conference?

1. Accessibility

Ensuring your chosen venue is accessible is key to boosting numbers and making all delegates feel welcome. Consider disabled parking, wheelchair-friendly layouts and dietary accommodations.

2. Parking

Choosing a venue with ample parking can help to avoid delays in getting attendees into the venue and increase attendance.

3. Breakout Space

Including breakout spaces in your conference booking creates flexibility to host workshops, meetings and more!

4.

Layout

Planning the layout of your conference hall isn’t just about aesthetics. Ensuring you can comfortably seat your delegates, providing a clear line of view and staggering speakers to make sure everyone can hear helps to provide attendees with a positive experience.

5. Audio/Visual Technology

The success of your conference will rely on A/V facilities in your venue. Consider the availability of speakers, screens and lighting to ensure your conference runs smoothly on the day.

Regardless of the size or topic of your upcoming conference, selecting the right venue is the key to creating a successful event, so be sure to keep these six factors in mind when searching for your perfect event venue!

Learn more about our range of flexible conference halls and breakout rooms at www.kenteventcentre.co.uk

University of Kent

The University of Kent offers over 150 event spaces on their Canterbury Campus, set within 300 acres of beautiful parkland.

Among these is the Darwin Conference Suite, which is a flexible, year-round venue ideal for events hosting between 40 and 300 guests.

The largest venue, the Kent Indoor Tennis and Events Arena, is a versatile, open-plan space that can accommodate up to 4,000 delegates for conferences and large-scale events. Sibson, home to Kent Business School, is another exceptional venue, featuring multiple lecture theatres and seminar rooms, making it perfectly suited for larger conferences.

With extensive on-site facilities, accommodation, and catering services, the University of Kent provides everything needed to host a successful event.

www.kent.ac.uk/conferences

Christmas at The Waterfront

Enjoy an unforgettable Christmas celebration this year at The Waterfront restaurant in Hythe, where the magic of the festive season meets the breathtaking panorama of the English Channel.

Create lasting memories inside the beautifully decorated restaurant against a backdrop of coastal elegance. From the 24th of November through to the 31st of December, their culinary team has

meticulously crafted a selection of festive set menus, designed to delight every palate with seasonal flavours and the finest local produce.

The festive menus along with luxurious Christmas Crackers are perfectly suited for intimate gatherings of up to twenty guests, ensuring a personalised and attentive service in a sophisticated, yet relaxed, setting.

Multi-Currency Business Account with 8 currencies.

Multi-Currency Business Account with 8 currencies.

Assign and Manage multiple cards under one business profile Virtual Card Support Linked to your commercial accounts Spend & Holdmultiplecurrencies

*Multi-Currency Business Debit Card is only available to UK-registered entities.

REIMAGINE BANKING A NEW WAY TO BANK

Steve Chu, Head of Commercial Banking at iFAST Global Bank , talks to Sarah Dale about the benefits for SMEs to banking with a global digital bank and the value of face-to-face networking in the local community.

Reimagine Banking– that is the strapline of iFAST Global Bank. The global digital bank has been designed to make banking easier for SMEs by creating one account for transactions and savings with multiple currencies. It is part of iFAST Corporation, a global digital banking and wealth management platform, which has its headquarters in Singapore.

Established in 2000, the Group offers a comprehensive range of investment products and services to financial advisory firms, financial institutions, banks, multinational companies, as well as retail and high-networth investors across Asia.

In 2022, iFAST Corporation acquired a UK bank and rebranded it as iFAST Global Bank. It provides multi-currency deposits, domestic and international payments, and foreign exchange services. Regulated by both the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), iGB operates across three divisions:

Face-to-face contact is important to us. We believe that even though we are a digital bank, the human connection is a key and valuable point to establishing a positive relationship with customers.❜❜

Digital Personal Banking – enabling individuals, including those abroad, to open a UK multi-currency current account.

Business Banking – Two dedicated sub-divisions were established to serve distinct client segments: Commercial Banking, serving SMEs and corporates with domestic and cross-border payment needs, and Transactional Banking, supporting regulated financial institutions including banks and NBFIs.

• EzRemit – delivering fast and convenient global remittance services.

Steve Chu, Head of Commercial Banking at iFAST Global Bank, said: “There are many ways our vision of iFAST is changing the landscape of banking. Our customers can have a multi-currency business account, which is very beneficial to companies which operate worldwide. Customers can also benefit from having their current account and savings account as one account which is particularly beneficial for SMEs and start-ups so they don’t have to juggle funds around accounts while earning interest. “We want to simplify banking and make it easier for SMEs. What customers are looking for is a

Steve worked in banking in Hong Kong in wealth management and investments before moving to the UK in 2021 to work for HSBC UK. He joined iFAST Global Bank in 2023 and built the personal banking team and, along with CEO Inayat Kashif, established the commercial banking team.

iFAST Global Bank is based in the UK at Canary Wharf and has a team of 70-80 employees. In November, they are moving to a larger office, which is double the size of their current space, within the same building to support their growth and are also recruiting to grow the team.

As well as the UK team, iGB has a team in Asia, including an IT team in Malaysia and an additional customer services team in Malaysia.

“Having customer service teams based in both the UK and Malaysia mean that our customers can reach us whatever time of dayit is and from wherever they are based,” adds Steve.

The company, which won the Best Newcomer Award at the British Bank Awards 2025, is on a growth trajectory, however, Steve says the challenge they face is raising awareness of how digital banking can benefit customers.

“Business banking can be quite traditional,” explains Steve. “Business owners are sticking with the separate current and savings accounts as they don’t realise there is an option like ours, which makes banking simpler. It is quite a new concept.

“We are new to the industry, but at the same time, we are actively listening to our customers. We are growing our business and growing our customers’ businesses.”

They joined West London Chambers of Commerce two years ago.

“We became Chamber members as we are quite new to the area,” adds Steve.

“Face-to-face contact is important to us. We believe that even though we are a digital bank, the human connection is a key and valuable point to establishing a positive relationship with customers.”

Part of the ethos of iFAST is to give back to the community which they do in several ways, including supporting cultural events such as sponsoring the London Lunar New Year Fair, supporting the Miyabi Matsuri Japanese Summer Festival and this year, they will be sponsoring an Indian community event.

For the past two years, they have sponsored the Bessingby Park Rangers U9/U10 teams, and this year they will continue their support to encourage more children to enjoy and participate in football. They also provide sponsorships for international student associations, helping students feel welcomed and supported in the UK.

https://www.ifastgb.com/en/commercialbanking

Diversifying international trade –new frontiers for UK businesses

There have been turbulent times in the world of international trade recently. In the second quarter of 2025 there was a 13 per cent reduction in UK goods exports to the US, compared with a year ago.

The average effective US tariff rate has been pushed to its highest level since 1934. And the ending of the $800 de minimis threshold for goods entering the US, caused postal services to pause deliveries. But through it all, UK companies have continued to be agile, resilient, and on the front foot.

At the British Chamber of Commerce’s recent Global Annual Conference break-out session on Global Trade, chaired by Chris Heyes from the UK-India Business Council, that was also the message from the panel of participants.

They included: Robert Begbie – CEO NatWest Commercial and Institutional, Gregor Poynton – Labour MP for Livingston and member of the House of Commons Business and Trade Select Committee, Jun Du – Professor of Economics at Aston University, and William Bain – BCC Head of Trade Policy.

The UK’s economic success story is its trade in services – rising from £330 billion to over

£500 billion in exports per annum since 2019. This is well over half of all UK exports; with AI, business and professional services, travel and transport services surging alongside traditional strengths in financial services.

The US is the largest export market for UK services. Our UK-US investment links remain strong with over £1.2 trillion in bilateral investment stock held by companies on either side of the Atlantic. Meanwhile, the EU remains the UK’s largest export market for goods with nearly 48 per cent of UK goods being sent there.

The Indo-Pacific region is also fast expanding as a destination for UK traders. With the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) coming into effect around a year from now, UK exporters will benefit from an immediate £400 million reduction in import duties.This will add £4.8 billion to the UK economy in time.

This is not only good news for whisky and car exports, but also many other goods as over 90 per cent of India’s import duties will be lowered. This will create benefits across many economic sectors.

Our new relationship with countries in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) will let UK businesses build upon the £31 billion in annual goods exports to the bloc. It will also boost investment and deepen co-operation in the region, while Chambers trade missions continue to show the importance of China as a market.

So, while it has been a year of rollercoaster twists and turns in trade with more yet to come, there are still many options for savvy companies to expand.

By adopting a strategy of market diversification, a world full of opportunity for UK exporters remains.

Girlings Solicitors Celebrates Success in Legal 500 Rankings for 2026

Girlings Solicitors is proud to announce its success in the Legal 500 2026 rankings with all five submitting practice areas retaining their positions in this year’s ratings. This is a superb achievement and objective industry recognition of the strength in depth and consistency present across the Firm.

Additionally, the Firm has achieved a significant increase in the number of its solicitors who have been individually recognised as Recommended Lawyers – a prestigious accolade highlighting outstanding expertise in their field.

Department information:

Private Client

2026 marks the seventh consecutive year in the rankings for the Wills, Tax, and Estate Administration team.

Head of Department Charlotte Nock and Managing Partner Lesley Rushton, are both recognised as recommended lawyers along with Senior Associate Solicitor, Joshua Parton

TEP who received Recommended Lawyer status for the first time.

Family Law

The Family Law team celebrates its fifth consecutive annual ranking. Head of Department Gemma Purt is joined as a Recommended Lawyer by her colleagues Joanna Lawrence, Curtis Wray, Anisha Teelwah and Megan Mahesan, which means that every member of the Family team is now individually recognised.

Commercial Property

Commercial Property received its fourth listing in a row with partners David Redgate (Canterbury), Sophie Robins (Ashford) and Simon Stempien (Herne Bay) retaining Recommended Lawyer status. Senior Associate Solicitor Usman Miah joins them for the first time as a Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer.

Corporate and Commercial

The Corporate and Commercial team achieved ranking status for the sixth consecutive year, with Recommended

Lawyer status conferred on Consultant Solicitor and Charities expert Caroline Armitage, Head of Department Chris Brightling and Partner Jonathan Masucci.

Employment Law

The Employment team has been ranked for the fourth successive year and has three Recommended Lawyers, Head of Department Carl Vincent and his fellow Partners David Morgan and Paul McAleavey.

The Firm’s Chairman Carl Vincent welcomed the news of the Firm’s 2026 rankings commenting: “The Legal 500 rankings provide specialist industry validation of the high standards we uphold for clients across our practice areas. The recognition which comes from these rankings is satisfying but of more importance is the message it conveys about our deep expertise, the standards we set and the good work we do for our clients. Congratulations to every department and individual recognised and to all who have made a contribution to the Firm throughout the year. This is a collective success we can all be proud of.”

Furley Page celebrates 300th Anniversary at ‘Furley Fest’

Hundreds of people made their way to Macknade in Faversham to help Kent based law firm Furley Page celebrate their 300th anniversary at ‘Furley Fest’.

The event was held as the summer highlight of a year of celebrating the law firm’s historic anniversary, as clients, staff, associates and their families attended for an evening of networking, local food and drink, live music and fireworks.

Susan Jennings, Partner and Head of Corporate, said: “It is important to Furley Page that we included our clients, staff and their families in our celebration of such a significant milestone, and to celebrate within the community that the firm has served for so long.

“It was a fantastic evening, and fortunately we seemed to have caught the last good day of summer’s weather. Feedback from local groups stated that the fireworks display was one of the best they had seen in ages, and it was a fitting way to help us celebrate our 300th year.”

The event forms part of the firm’s ambitious calendar of celebration and community-based projects to mark their anniversary year. It is a significant milestone for the firm and Furley Fest presented a wonderful opportunity to fortify links with local businesses and clients with a truly unique event.

The venue for the Furley Fest was Macknade, a brand that has itself been in existence since 1847, and like Furley Page has strong links to the Kent community.

Susan continued: “Macknade’s Food Village and Hop Shed was the perfect venue for our celebrations, enabling us to support local food and drink producers within an authentic Kentish backdrop. We were also delighted to raise funds during the evening for the Furley Page Foundation, who are supporting the Pilgrims Hospices this year.”

For more information about Furley Page please visit www.furleypage.co.uk

Office Assistants: Award-Winning Bookkeeping with a Personal Touch

Office Assistants, a family-run bookkeeping firm based in Essex not far from the Kent border, has plenty to celebrate as it marks a series of national recognitions for its commitment to client service. The business, founded by Lynn Watson in 2003, is proud to be one of the smallest UK companies to achieve the world-recognised Investors in People accreditation, consistently re-accredited since 2006. This achievement highlights the team’s focus on people management excellence, not just within their own company, but in how they support clients.

In the past year alone, Office Assistants has been named winner of the AVN Changing Lives Award 2024, shortlisted as a finalist for Team of the Year at the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers LUCA Awards 2024, and announced as a finalist for Bookkeeper of the Year at the 2025 Accounting Excellence Awards. Most recently, the firm has also been shortlisted in the Bookkeeping Partner of the Year category at the Xero Awards UK 2025.

Director Lynn Watson said: “We don’t do what we do for awards — our focus has always been on supporting our clients, building great relationships, and helping ambitious business owners gain clarity and confidence with their numbers. But to be recognised alongside other outstanding bookkeeping firms from across the UK is truly an honour.”

As the company joins the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, the team is looking forward to building new connections across the region and continuing to help ambitious business owners achieve clarity, control and peace of mind. For more information, visit www.officeassistants.org

Thank you to all of our clients who have worked with us over the last decade. So many people have supported us along the way – and we are so grateful to everyone.

Thank you to Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce for giving us the opportunity to meet many fantastic businesses.

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking events, and training sessions with some of the top local business professionals from an array of different industries. Each event is designed to offer invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants and needs, as well as networking opportunities to help you grow your business.

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking events, and training sessions with some of the top local business professionals from an array of different industries. Each event is designed to offer invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants and needs, as well as networking opportunities to help you grow your business.

With a mix of events held online and face-to-face across Kent, you’re sure to find the right one for you.

With a mix of events held online and face-to-face across Kent, you’re sure to find the right one for you.

Cyber Security Conference

Cyber Security Conference

Tuesday 7th October 2025

Tuesday 7th October 2025

Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford | 8:30am - 12:00pm

Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford | 8:30am - 12:00pm

Members: Free to Attend |

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £10.00 + VAT

£10.00 + VAT

The Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, with Nova IT Solutions and Towergate, is hosting a Cyber Security Conference bringing together experts, law enforcement, and business leaders to tackle today’s cyber challenges.

The Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, with Nova IT Solutions and Towergate, is hosting a Cyber Security Conference bringing together experts, law enforcement, and business leaders to tackle today’s cyber challenges.

Speakers from the Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre, Kent Police, Pillory Barn, Nova IT Solutions, and Everywhen will cover how cyber-attacks happen, protecting businesses, building resilience, crisis communication, and cyber insurance.

Speakers from the Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre, Kent Police, Pillory Barn, Nova IT Solutions, and Everywhen will cover how cyber-attacks happen, protecting businesses, building resilience, crisis communication, and cyber insurance.

Supported by CityFibre, the event offers practical insights and real-world expertise to help organisations strengthen their cyber defences.

Supported by CityFibre, the event offers practical insights and real-world expertise to help organisations strengthen their cyber defences.

Growth of Ashford

Growth of Ashford

Friday 17th October 2025

Friday 17th October 2025

Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford | 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford | 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £10.00 + VAT

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £10.00 + VAT

The Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Azets, will host the Growth of Ashford Economic Development Seminar 2025, offering insights into Ashford Borough Council’s ambitious plans for the town’s future.

The Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Azets, will host the Growth of Ashford Economic Development Seminar 2025, offering insights into Ashford Borough Council’s ambitious plans for the town’s future.

The event will provide updates on key local developments and new ventures, exploring their impact on commercial life and outlining opportunities for jobs, housing, retail, business, and cultural facilities.

The event will provide updates on key local developments and new ventures, exploring their impact on commercial life and outlining opportunities for jobs, housing, retail, business, and cultural facilities.

Speakers from Ashford Borough Council and EKC Group will share how the council intends to unlock growth, drive regeneration, and deliver on its vision for Ashford.

Speakers from Ashford Borough Council and EKC Group will share how the council intends to unlock growth, drive regeneration, and deliver on its vision for Ashford.

Employment Law Update

Employment Law Update

Wednesday 8th October 2025, Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford

8:30am - 12:00pm

Members: £40.00 + VAT | Non-Members: £50.00 + VAT

Wednesday 8th October 2025, Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford 8:30am - 12:00pm

Members: £40.00 + VAT | Non-Members: £50.00 + VAT

Join Furley Page Solicitors for an interactive seminar designed to help employers navigate the forthcoming changes under the Employment Rights Bill.

Join Furley Page Solicitors for an interactive seminar designed to help employers navigate the forthcoming changes under the Employment Rights Bill.

With a clear roadmap and timetable now in place, the session will explore key reforms including unfair dismissal law, zero hours contracts, flexible working, day-one rights, fire and rehire, and the Equality (Race and Disability) Bill 2024.

With a clear roadmap and timetable now in place, the session will explore key reforms including unfair dismissal law, zero hours contracts, flexible working, day-one rights, fire and rehire, and the Equality (Race and Disability) Bill 2024.

Described as the biggest upgrade to workplace rights in a generation, this practical event will guide employers through the next steps and support them in preparing for a rapidly evolving employment landscape.

Described as the biggest upgrade to workplace rights in a generation, this practical event will guide employers through the next steps and support them in preparing for a rapidly evolving employment landscape.

Chamber Connections

Chamber Connections

Thursday 9th October 2025, Brandshatch Place Hotel, Longfield (Sponsors Akita)

Thursday 9th October 2025, Brandshatch Place Hotel, Longfield (Sponsors Akita)

Thursday 23rd October 2025, Hampton By Hilton, Ashford*

Thursday 23rd October 2025, Hampton By Hilton, Ashford*

Thursday 6th November 2025, Chafford Park, Tunbridge Wells (Sponsors Knights)

Thursday 6th November 2025, Chafford Park, Tunbridge Wells (Sponsors Knights)

Wednesday 12th November 2025, Chapel House Estate, Ramsgate (Sponsors Thanet District Council)

10:30am - 12:00pm | 2:00pm - 3:30pm* | Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Wednesday 12th November 2025, Chapel House Estate, Ramsgate (Sponsors Thanet District Council) 10:30am - 12:00pm | 2:00pm - 3:30pm* | Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Join others for our very popular Chamber Connections networking event and receive a warm welcome from your Chamber representative on arrival, who will be on hand to help you meet new members of the business community.

Join others for our very popular Chamber Connections networking event and receive a warm welcome from your Chamber representative on arrival, who will be on hand to help you meet new members of the business community.

This informal event will give you an opportunity to promote your business and make invaluable connections with local businesses in Kent.

This informal event will give you an opportunity to promote your business and make invaluable connections with local businesses in Kent.

Kent Construction Focus Group

Kent Construction Focus Group

Tuesday 4th November 2025, Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel

Tuesday 4th November 2025, Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel

Tuesday 2nd December 2025, The Village Hotel, Maidstone (Christmas Special)

Tuesday 2nd December 2025, The Village Hotel, Maidstone (Christmas Special)

7:30am - 9:30am | KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

7:30am - 9:30am | KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

Cyber Security Conference

Tuesday 7th October 2025 | 8:30am - 12:00pm

Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford, TN24 0LH

Employment Law Update

Wednesday 8th October 2025 | 8:30am - 12:00pm

Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford, TN24 0LH

Chamber Connections

Thursday 9th October 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Brandshatch Place Hotel, Longfield, DA3 8NQ

Growth of Ashford:

Economic Development Seminar 2025

Friday 17th October 2025 | 1:30pm - 4:00pm

Kent Invicta Chamber, Ashford, TN24 0LH

Business Talks: Distillery Tour and Tasting at the Maidstone Distillery

Tuesday 21st October 2025 | 2:00pm - 4:00pm

Maidstone Distillery, Maidstone, ME14 1HP

Chamber Connections – Afternoon Special

Thursday 23rd October 2025 | 2:00pm - 3:30pm

Hampton By Hilton, Ashford, TN23 7HJ

Virtual Business Networking

Tuesday 28th October 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Online via Zoom

Kent And Medway Manufacturing Focus Group RBLI (Site Visit)

Wednesday 29th October 2025 | 10:00am - 12:00pm

Royal British Legion Industries, Aylesford, ME20 7NL

Business Bites: Is Your Website Ready For AI Bots?

Every month we bring you a mix of information sessions, networking some of the top local business professionals from an array of invaluable up-to-date information tailored to our attendee’s wants help you grow your business.

Thursday 30th October 2025 | 1:00pm - 1:30pm Online via Zoom

Kent Construction Focus Group (KCFG)

Tuesday 4th November 2025 | 7:30am - 9:30am Mercure Tunbridge Wells Hotel, Tunbridge Wells

With a mix of events held online and face to face across Kent,

The KCFG group is made up of companies in the Kent area within the construction sector, including architects, contractors, suppliers, land agents, and more. KCFG provides a one-stop shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector.

The KCFG group is made up of companies in the Kent area within the construction sector, including architects, contractors, suppliers, land agents, and more. KCFG provides a one-stop shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector.

During the morning, you will enjoy a full English breakfast.

During the morning, you will enjoy a full English breakfast.

Virtual Business Networking

Virtual Business Networking

Tuesday 28th October 2025 | Tuesday 25th November 2025

Tuesday 28th October 2025 | Tuesday 25th November 2025

Online via Zoom | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Online via Zoom | 10:30am - 12:00pm

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Members: Free to Attend | Non-Members: £30.00 + VAT

Kent Construction Focus Group

Chamber Connections

Thursday 6th November 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Chafford Park, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9UR

Tuesday 6th August 2024 | Tuesday 3rd September 2024

The Village Hotel, Maidstone | 7:30am - 9:30am

Chamber Connections

KCFG Members: £22.50 + VAT | Non-Members: £32.50 + VAT

Wednesday 12th November 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Chapel House Estate, Ramsgate, CT12 5DS

Effective Credit Control:

Hosted by members of the KCFG committee, Cheryl Causebrook and Ella Brocklebank, we bring you KCFG

Legal Strategies To Futureproof Your Business Thursday 13th November 2025 | 1:00pm - 1:30pm Online via Zoom

The KCFG group consists of companies in the Kent area involved in construction, such as architects, surveyors, contractors, construction suppliers, and land agents etc.

Kent Invicta Chamber Business Awards 2025 Thursday 20th November 2025 | 5:00pm - 11:00pm Westenhanger Castle, Hythe, CT21 4HX

Virtual Business Networking

Each event will be an eclectic mix of conversation topics as we interview our guest business and encourage questions from the attendees, making sure we bring you the networking event you want to be involved in.

Each event will be an eclectic mix of conversation topics as we interview our guest business and encourage questions from the attendees, making sure we bring you the networking event you want to be involved in.

KCFG provides a one-stop-shop for access to local knowledge, expertise, and contacts within the land development and construction sector.

Tuesday 25th November 2025 | 10:30am - 12:00pm Online via Zoom

Christmas Special:

Conversations with our guest speaker will be followed by three breakout room sessions where attendees can delve deeper into this discussion or discuss their own topic in more depth.

Conversations with our guest speaker will be followed by three breakout room sessions where attendees can delve deeper into this discussion or discuss their own topic in more depth.

Kent Construction Focus Group (KCFG)

During the morning, you will enjoy a full English breakfast, followed by a presentation from our guest speakers.

Tuesday 2nd December 2025 | 7:30am - 9:30am The Village Hotel, Maidstone, ME14 3AQ

First Gear Motor Group: The FirstTime

Driver Specialists

Getting on the road for the first time is one of life’s biggest milestones. But for young drivers and their families, it’s also one of the most challenging, with rising main dealer car prices, sky-high insurance premiums, but can you trust what you buy privately?

That’s where First Gear Motor Group comes in. Based in Kent, we are the UK’s first dealership dedicated exclusively to first-time drivers. Our mission is simple: to make the journey onto the road easier, safer, and more affordable.

We carefully select and prepare cars that are ideally suited to first-time drivers, backed by trusted warranty and aftercare options for peace of mind. Through our growing network of warranty and insurance partners, we’re tackling the biggest barriers young drivers face; helping them secure the right package with confidence.

What makes us different is our focus on community and collaboration. We work closely with local driving schools, parents, and industry partners to create a one-stop solution that supports drivers from their first lesson through to their first car.

As proud members of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, we’re looking forward to connecting with businesses across the county who share our vision. Whether you’re in finance, insurance, education, or motoring, we believe there are exciting opportunities to work together and strengthen support for young drivers in the UK.

Find out more at www.firstgearmotorgroup.co.uk

Digital Transformation, One Step at a Time

For many business leaders, the term “digital transformation” can sound daunting, as if it demands sweeping change, large investments, or specialist knowledge. The reality is often far simpler. Transformation rarely happens overnight; it is usually the result of small, practical steps that steadily improve how teams work.

Every business in Kent, from family-run firms to larger organisations, faces the same challenge: time. Too many hours are lost to duplicate data entry, chasing information across emails, or relying on spreadsheets that only one person truly understands. Technology can help, but not by replacing people. The best results come when digital tools are introduced to support teams in the areas that slow them down most. That might mean automating follow-up emails, connecting systems so data does not have to be retyped, or replacing a paper form with a digital version. Each improvement may feel small on its own, but together these changes build momentum.

At Flowbird, we see this every day with local businesses. The companies that thrive are those that take measured, people-first steps rather than attempting wholesale change all at

once. When staff feel confident and supported, adoption follows naturally, and technology becomes less of a burden and more of a partner in growth.

The message for Kent businesses is clear: start small, focus on what matters to your people, and let transformation take root one step at a time.

Wain House Care Home Opens New Marketing Showroom in Westgate-on-Sea

Avante Care & Support is delighted to announce the official opening of the marketing showroom at Wain House Care Home, Westgate-on-Sea. The showroom is now open to welcome prospective residents, families, and members of the local community, offering a glimpse of what life at Wain House will be like ahead of the home’s official opening in January.

The marketing showroom, completed by Lawrence Baker Builders, has been designed to reflect the warm, welcoming, and high-quality environment that Wain House will provide. It features four beautifully designed en-suite bedrooms and a family room, creating a comfortable setting for discussions with families and potential residents.

Korron Spence, Home Manager, said: “Choosing a care home is a big decision for families, and we want to make the process as supportive and comfortable as possible. The showroom allows people to get a feel for the home and the care, comfort, and community we will be providing here at Wain House.”

The showroom highlights Avante’s commitment to delivering outstanding nursing, residential, and dementia care and support. By showcasing the home’s facilities and personalised approach, it helps families gain a clear understanding of daily life at Wain House and why it will be a trusted choice for those looking for a care home in Westgate-on-Sea.

The official handover of Wain House is set for 22nd October, with the home fully opening its doors in January 2026.

For the latest updates, news, and events from Wain House, visit: www.avantecare.org.uk

CONTRACT PACKING

We expertly pack your products into your packaging. On time, on spec, and ready for retail. AA BRCGS Accredited and Award winning Site

GIFT ASSEMBLY

From branded gift sets to seasonal hampers, we hand-assemble beautifully presented products that impress.

LABELLING

We apply labels with speed and precision. Whether it’s barcodes, ingredients, or promotional stickers.

SUBSCRIPTION BOXES

We pack and ship subscription boxes that arrive just right, every time. No matter the scale.

And more...

Due to the emotions involved in a separation, it is unsurprising that so many divorces result in conflict. At ThomasHaywood we recognise the negative impact that conflict has on the health of the parties and their children. The ThomasHaywood One Couple - One Solicitor process allows us to see couples together and to advise you jointly, providing legal advice to help you to resolve financial matters or arrangements for your children. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact:

Sarah Haywood on 01892 765013, sarah@thomashaywoodsolicitors.com or Juliet Franklin on 01892 765017, juliet@thomashaywoodsolicitors.com

Rochester Site Services Ltd

The No.1 Leading scaffolding & recruitment specialist throughout Medway, London, Kent and the Southeast.

Over 30 years’ experience in the scaffolding industry providing a seven day a week 24 hours a day call out facility.

• Tailor made scaffolding for industrial, commercial and domestic clients and labour only suppliers

• We cover all aspects of scaffolding work, no job too small

• We cover all aspects of site recruitment

• Based in Rochester and Bristol

• Reliable and competitive service

• Strict health and safety policy

• Environmental policy

• Equal opportunities

• Training and quality policies

• Fully TG20 - compliant

Large enough to cope and small enough to care

Contact us on 01634 735300

MidKent College celebrates apprentices’ success

Five outstanding apprentices studying in a wide variety of skilled professions and trades have been recognised by Chamber patrons MidKent College and nominated ‘Apprentice of the Month’. They are:

• Alicia Hall, Level 4 Building Design Engineering Technician

• Ayra Ambujaksha Kurup Rema Devi, Level 2 Engineering Operative (maintenance)

• Millie Harrison, Level 3 – Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance technician

• Zac Micallef, Bricklaying

• Michael Bee, HNC in Civil Engineering

Alicia Hall is employed as an engineering technician by Landsec at Bluewater, Kent. Matt Foster, Operations Director, Engineering, Building Consultancy, Landsec, said: “Alicia is an absolute role model to our team. Her dedication to her HNC (Higher National Certificate) while juggling family, full time employment, and NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) is admirable, and has inspired many of us to go back to studies and training.”

Alicia said: “Starting this HNC and returning to education after a fair few years out was a little daunting at first, particularly combining this with full time employment and other training requirements. However, I am fortunate to have an amazingly supportive team who I can rely on and who have been on hand to take the pressure off when needed.”

Ayra is employed as an electrical engineering apprentice at 2gether Support Solutions, Willesborough, Kent. Congratulating her Niel Sayer, 2gether Support Solutions, maintenance engineer supervisor, said: “Ayra demonstrates a strong understanding of the work we do and consistently asks the right questions at the right time. Her ability to grasp the requirements of our jobs quickly shows that she has a solid understanding of what we are trying to achieve.”

Ayra said: “When I first started my engineering apprenticeship, I was a bit worried about being the only female on the team. However, from day one, I received incredible support from both my employer and college, all the tutors, especially my assessor, which helped me to build confidence.”

Millie Harrison works for Express Cabs & Couriers, Maidstone. Congratulating her, Express Cabs & Couriers’ Operations Manager, Jason Brown said: “Millie has become an invaluable member of our team, bringing dedication, enthusiasm, and a true team spirit to everything she does. Alongside the apprenticeship team, Millie has played a key role in driving progress.”

David Franklin, lecturer, MidKent College, said: “Millie has consistently demonstrated outstanding commitment, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. She has completed all assigned work to an exceptionally high standard, showing great attention to detail and a clear understanding of expectations.

Millie said: “Moving from a full-time course to being an apprentice with MidKent College has been a huge step. This course has solidified my love for the trade, and I would not have been able to do it if it was not for my tutors from both this year and my previous year.”

Child bereavement charity looking for Fundraising Friends and Networking Ambassadors

Zac Micallef works for Calben Construction, Cuxton, Rochester where his onsite mentor Darren Micallef, said: “Zac really is a hardworking young man, and I believe that he will go far in this industry. Calben Construction Invests in their apprentices, not just with funding but with giving them experience and time to learn their chosen trade, which is part of why Zac’s brickwork is already at a great standard even at this early stage of his career.”

Zac said: “I have really worked hard on progressing in Bricklaying both at college and when I am working on site. I think the combination of both my employer and College Tutor works really well with my development because even though this is still only my first year as an apprentice, Calben have me laying bricks and blocks every day, building up my skill and confidence on the trowel..”

Michael Bee works for Colas, an infrastructure contractor which has its headquarters in Birmingham. COLAS Project Manager, Alan Bray, said: “Michael is progressing very well on-site which has seen him be promoted to Senior Engineer recently. He is a valued member of the team and provides good experience and support to the graduate engineer he mentors.”

Charlotte Brown, Progress Coach, MidKent College, said: “Michael has always had a meticulous eye for detail and his work rate at college is exceptional, all his submissions are handed in before the deadline even though he has a demanding job role and a new baby.”

Michael said: “Attending college to pursue a HNC in Civil Engineering has been an enriching and transformative experience. The programme provided a solid foundation in key engineering principles, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications. From learning about Health, Safety and Law to understanding construction methods, each module contributed to a comprehensive understanding of the field.”

Congratulations to all five apprentices.

If you would like to find out more about apprenticeships click here https://www.midkent.ac.uk/apprenticeships

Holding On Letting Go is looking for people to support them with fundraising events and represent them at business networking.

It could be individuals who have time, or businesses who would like to allow their staff to volunteer in work time under their CSR pledge.

The charity is based in Rochester but supports children and their families before or after a bereavement, focusing on the child’s needs.

There are new volunteer roles:

Fundraising Friend – to organise events or help at HOLG-organised ones or other community or business events where help is needed.

HOLG Ambassador at Kent Chamber of Commerce events – they’re looking for someone or a few people, to attend Chamber events for them, to raise the profile and help to attract corporate support.

HOLG Ambassador at a fortnightly Medway networking breakfast – they’re looking for someone to represent them at a Chatham networking event twice a month, who can speak a little about the charity and build relationships with the members.

You don’t need prior experience - just enthusiasm and a desire to help.

They’re looking for:

• Friendly, approachable people

• Good communication and a willingness to promote what they do

• People who can work independently or as part of a team

• A passion for helping children and young people

If you’re interested, get in touch. www.holg.org.uk

Welcome to our new members

24-7 Steller Packing Ltd

Tonbridge 01892 837847

stellerpacking.co.uk

Expert contract packing solutions

ABM Training UK Ltd

Sittingbourne 01634 799950

abmtraining.co.uk

The South East’s specialist

Apprenticeships and L&D provider

Aspire Land & Developments

East Farleigh 07795 272766

aspire.co.uk/land-and-development

Development consultancy services

Bailey Partnership

Maidstone 01732 885835

baileypartnership.co.uk

Construction consultancy providing design, survey and management services

Bitesize Conversations Ltd

Canterbury 07969 701258

bitesizeconversations.com

Translate behavioural and cultural insights into practical strategies that enable lasting change

Bliss-B Ltd

Sittingbourne 07398 837533

blissbconsult.com

Enhancing health and social care delivery

Broadstairs Scaffolding Ltd

Sandwich 01843 593339

broadstairsscaffolding.com

Providing scaffolding, building and roofing services

Channel MEP Ltd

Ashford 01303 842357

channelmep.co.uk

Mechanical & electrical design and installation

Croweaters Ltd

Ashford 07745 058798

croweaters.com

Helping people and organisations change by uncovering hidden influences

CRS Resource Ltd

Ashford 01233 625464

crs-resource.co.uk

Supplying personnel solutions to the railway infrastructure and construction industries

DH Wellbeing and Hypnotherapy

Maidstone 01622 320240

Hypnotherapist and well being trainer

Erith Contractors Ltd

Erith 01322 344765

erith.com

A broad portfolio of specialist services in the construction and environmental sectors

Everyone Health

Hinckley

0333 005 0095

everyonehealth.co.uk

Offering a behaviour change approach to improving the health of local communities

First Gear Motor Group

Ashford

07802 384336

firstgearmotorgroup.co.uk

Specialising in small-engine, lowinsurance vehicles that are ideal for new and learner drivers

Flexicon (Europe) Ltd

Whitstable 01227 374710

flexicon.com

Design and manufacture of bulk handling equipment and custom-engineered and integrated plant-wide systems

Future Skills CiC

Dover 01303 248259

futureskills.org.uk

Providing skills and opportunities helping young people to a better future

G & J (CNC) Services Ltd

Tonbridge 01892 833330

gandjcnc.co.uk

Offering a range of CNC machines and tooling to create high quality, small metallic components

GRIT Financials Ltd

Dartford 07878 464240

gritfinancials.co.uk

Chartered certified accountant

Hamlet Hotels Ltd

London 07843 582156

hamlethotels.com

UK based hotel group

Hospice in the Weald

Pembury 01892 820500

hospiceintheweald.org.uk

Hospice for adults & children in Kent & East Sussex

HR Consulting Kent Ltd

Maidstone 01622 246313

hrconsultingkent.co.uk

Specialising in supporting small to medium-sized business to realise its full potential. Offering accessible, comprehensive support, tailored to your budget and unique requirements

Infinity Canterbury 07561 136181

infinitya1.com

High performance coaching and consultancy

ITonlinelearning

Sittingbourne 01795 436969

itonlinelearning.com

An Accredited Training Organisation (ATO) for the UK’s most esteemed learning providers

Enhance Protect Connect

JG Acoustics Ltd

Maidstone 01622 278721

jgacoustics.co.uk

Specialising in noise assessments, sound insulation testing, noise monitoring, and acoustic design advice

J Summers Consulting Ltd

Chatham 07952 838692

jsummersconsultingltd.co.uk

Consultancy services including marketing and growth, business services, project and event management

MCC Partners

Gravesend 01474 619990

mccpartners.co.uk

Supporting small to medium size businesses with all their accounting needs

Office Assistants

Rainham 01708 524800

officeassistants.org

Bookkeeping and office Support for businesses.Tailored services for small and medium sized businesses

Paramount Independent Property Services

Rochester 01634 733123

paramountindependentps.co.uk

Delivering a diverse range of housing to different client groups on behalf of local authorities

Peter Stanley Training Ltd

Chatham 01634 816161

peterstanleytraining.com

Professional training and coaching

Princekay Consulting Ltd

New Romney 07494 375990

Management consultancy, particularly focussed on transformation and change programmes

PSB Recruitment

Dartford 07917 330023

psb-rec.com

Recruitment and delivery support

Q2W Ltd

Ashford 01303 764287

q2w.co.uk

Construction NVQ training

Quote Me Today

Hersden 01227 285457

quotemetoday.co.uk

Providing tailored insurance solutions for a wide range of customers and businesses

Royal Engineers Museum

Gillingham 01634 822229

re-museum.co.uk

The Royal Engineers Museum (REM) Collection has been developed by the Corps of Royal Engineers over the last two hundred years and now forms one of the most important military collections in the UK

Sonrise International London 07539 762550

sonriseintl.consulting

Management Consulting

Sound Credit TV Ltd

Dartford 020 8050 3103

soundcredit.tv

Providing crew and tech to companies around the world. Offering a full production package: set, lighting, cameras, sound and post-production

South East Consortium

Sittingbourne 020 4570 6637

southeastconsortium.org.uk

Your partner in housing projects — from procurement to delivery

T&S Consulting

Tunbridge Wells 07312 101630

ts-consulting.co.uk

Empowering organisations to navigate the human side of technology transformation. Bringing a people-centric viewpoint, understanding that successful change requires more than just technical expertise

Thames Street Works Ltd

t/a THB Fire Protection

Meopham 020 8305 1003

www.thbuk.co.uk

One of UK’s leading multi-disciplinary highways and civil engineering contractors

The Quarter Masters

Folkestone 01303 487737

qm.clothing

Comfy, expressive vegan tees and luxurious eco-friendly casuals. Original, locally foraged artwork. Ethically sourced garments

Tres Tria Ltd

Rochester 01634 757400

trestria.co.uk

Navigating companies toward digital transformation

Turner Contemporary Enterprises Ltd

Margate 01843 233000

turnercontemporary.org

Arts Organisation/Gallery

UK Customs Brokers Ltd

Ashford 07706 547066

Customs clearing agents for Europe and worldwide

West Kent Mind

Sevenoaks 01732 744950

westkentmind.org.uk

Mental health charity

West Malling Golf Club (Kent) Ltd

West Malling 01732 844785

westmallinggolf.com

Golf Club

Natasha Etherton Chartered Financial Planner – Director Evelyn Partners

Back in 1987, following an entry level I have been in financial services for 25 years and am both Chartered and SOLLA accredited.

I have the privilege of helping families navigate difficult journeys to make good decisions and achieve better outcomes, through later life planning, inheritance tax planning and advising vulnerable clients that have suffered life changing circumstances.

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

I did every job you can imagine as I temped my way through university, from making plumbing components in a factory to care work – the latter of which lends good perspective when I’m advising clients on paying care fees.

What do you always carry with you to work?

An open mind and a calculator, I will never get used to the calculator app on my phone

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

Every comment or tweet from certain political leaders can have repercussions on our client’s planning and portfolio values, which are a real challenge but at least our clients can be reassured we are on top of changes and looking for opportunities.

If you were Prime Minister, what one thing would you change to help business?

I wouldn’t want to be PM for all the money in the world.

What can you see from your office window?

My garden – my garden office was a Covid present to myself, and it’s still where I get the most work done despite having lovely offices in Maidstone.

If you could do another job what would it be? Tree surgeon.

As a businessperson, what are your three main qualities?

Being a good listener and aware of any bias; ambition and honesty.

What was your biggest mistake in business?

Believing that being a working Mum would hold me back and allowing this to hold me back for a few years.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Have a clear vision of what you are trying to achieve and make sure that everything you do serves you – having the right team around you also helps so you can concentrate on your vision.

Who do you most admire in business?

There haven’t been enough women in financial services but I’m full of admiration for the Head of our national Financial Planning business Emma Sterland, and the initiatives and drives that are good for both my female colleagues and female clients.

Kreston Reeves announces Richard Spofforth as new Managing Partner

Accountancy, business and financial advisory firm Kreston Reeves has announced the election of a new Managing Partner.

Richard Spofforth has been elected into the role. He succeeds Nigel Fright, who had served as Managing Partner for 12 years and who will now take on the role of Chief Strategy Officer. At the same time, Andrew Griggs has been re-elected as Senior Partner.

Under Nigel and Andrew’s leadership, Kreston Reeves has grown its turnover from £19.7m to £53m, and employee and partner numbers from 261 to more than 550, with offices across London, Kent and Sussex. Richard joined the firm as a Partner in 2016, having led Spofforths as its Managing Partner in its merger with Kreston Reeves.

He brings strong leadership experience, being an integral member of the Kreston Reeves management board for more than nine years, championing innovation. His tenure has seen him guide the firm through structural change, and the leadership and transformation of the accounts and outsourcing service line.

Speaking after his election as Managing Partner, Richard said: “I’m honoured to have been appointed to this role to further build on the firm’s purpose, vision and values to deliver a successful future for all our people. People, culture and performance are very important to me. I’m looking forward to leading and supporting our exceptional teams across the firm, further building on what makes Kreston Reeves great for our clients and our people.

“I would like to thank Nigel for the growth and strong leadership of our firm – the entire firm is extremely grateful for his commitment and direction. He and Andrew successfully led the firm through times of significant change, challenge and milestones, including the pandemic period and becoming one of the first accountancy firms to secure B Corp accreditation”.

Nigel said: “Richard has been a remarkable and hard-working leader of the accounts and outsourcing service line. His previous experience of Managing Partner of Spofforths and commitment to growth, innovation and being future-ready provides him with the skills required for the next chapter as Managing Partner.

“I am delighted to congratulate him on his election and look forward to working alongside Richard, our partners and colleagues across the firm as we continue to go from strength to strength.”

Andrew Griggs said: “I’m incredibly proud of what our people have achieved for our clients, colleagues and communities. Richard is taking up the Managing Partner role at an exciting time and I’m looking forward to working with him on the next phase of the firm’s growth journey”.

Birketts bolsters plans for further South East growth

Birketts, a UK Top 50 law firm, has further strengthened its South East team with the appointment of Nicola Gooch, a nationally recognised planning and environmental legal expert, as Partner.

Based at its Sevenoaks office, Nicola brings a wealth of planning expertise in mixed-use regeneration and enabling development projects, providing strategic legal advice across a broad spectrum of private sector clients. Her portfolio includes national housebuilders, land promoters and development companies, as well as retail developers, investment funds, care home providers, sports clubs and leisure facilities.

Her move to Birketts follows the firm’s recent success in climbing from eighth to third place among the UK’s top 20 in this year’s Planning Law Survey.

Renowned for her practical approach and in-depth understanding of complex planning frameworks, Nicola also regularly advises on the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), guiding clients through its intricacies with clarity and precision. She is recognised as a leading individual by both Chambers and The Legal 500 and is currently ranked joint fourth in this year’s Planning Law Survey. Nicola is a columnist for The Planner, the official magazine of the RTPI, and a prolific blogger and legal writer.

Birketts’ Sevenoaks office has expanded rapidly since its opening in April 2023, with its workforce growing from 24 to 74 people.

Tom Newcombe, Partner and Head of Planning and Environmental at Birketts, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Nicola to our team. She is very well known in the industry as being a fantastic lawyer, very knowledgeable on a wide range of technical planning law matters, and has a wealth of experience in acting in the South East on some of the most high-profile schemes.

“The team is looking forward to working with Nicola and introducing her to our fantastic clients and growing further our planning and environmental law offering in the South East and beyond.”

Nicola’s appointment brings the number of Partners in the Sevenoaks office to seven and the total number of Partners at Birketts to 138.

Commenting on her appointment, Nicola said: “I am delighted to be joining Birketts at such an exciting time – both for planning and environmental law, and for the firm. The existing team is highly talented and known for being innovative, client focused and technically excellent. I am really looking forward to working with them as we grow the practice.”

For further information on the legal services offered by the firm visit www.birketts.co.uk

Nigel Fright left and Richard Spofforth right. Picture credit Ceri Fletcher photography