Well Connected October 2021

Well

Connected Autumn 2021

Official Magazine for Liverpool Chamber

Race to Net Zero Sean Keyes, Managing Director of Sutcliffe tells us how they plan to push the green agenda in the construction industry.

INSIDE...

• • •

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram shares his plans to create the UK’s renewable energy coast.

Everton steps up their environmental commitment with new stadium on the horizon Liverpool Chamber gear up for the biggest corporate gathering in 2022 at Aintree Racecourse

Liverpool Chamber

Connect Support Thrive.

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CONTENTS

Find Inside 4-5

Economy

7

Message for CEO

8-9

Chamber Membership

13

Patron News

15-17 International 19

Health & Wellbeing

20-21 Sustainability

7

15

22

Skills & Employment

24

Ask the Expert

25

Green Infrastructure

26-27 Feature Interview 28-30 Cover Feature 32

Patron News

35 Transport

26

36

Members News

38

Liverpool City Region

41 Digital

35

42

Tax Insight

44

Responsible Business

45-47 Chamber Events 48 Charity

20

49

Staff Directory

50

5 Minutes with …

50

42 Enquiries Liverpool Chamber Suite G08 – G10, Cotton Exchange Building, Bixteth Street, Liverpool, L3 9LQ t: 0151 227 1234 e: membership@liverpoolchamber.org.uk w: www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk Publisher Benham Publishing Limited, Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ t: 0151 236 4141 e: admin@benhampublishing.com w: www.benhampublishing.com

Liverpool Chamber

Published October 2021 © Benham Publishing Media No. 1816 Editorial Content Manager Emily Hardy Emily.Hardy@liverpoolchamber.org.uk Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 e: karen@benhampublishing.com Advertising Sales Catherine McCarthy e: catherine@benhampublishing.com Studio Peter Wilkinson e: peter@benhampublishing.com

@LpoolChamber

@LiverpoolChamber

Disclaimer Well Connected is mailed without charge to all Chamber members and distributed at all Chamber events. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editorat Liverpool Chamber.

Views expressed in publication are not necessarily those of Liverpool Chamber. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission of the Editor. © 2021. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

Liverpool Chamber

3

BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

LOOKING AHEAD

The survey of over 6,400 firms, employing more than 800,000 people, points to continued stagnation amid rising business costs and a slowing global economy. The balance of firms reporting improved cash flow – a key indicator of the health of businesses – remains very weak across both manufacturing and service sectors. Indicators for improvements across investment and business confidence also show continuing downward trends.

Firms facing pressures to raise prices due to the following factors:

0%

0% +25%

-25%

Manufacturing Sector

+25%

-25%

Service Sector

72% -50%

+50%

+35%

Prices

-75%

+75%

-50%

+50%

+29%

-75%

59% 46%

+75%

33%

28% 29%

28% 19%

+100%

-100%

...of manufacturers expect their prices to increase, unchanged from Q3 2019

+100%

-100%

...of service firms expect their prices to increase, up from +28% in Q3 2019

+25%

Raw materials Financial costs

Other overheads

Balance of firms increasing investment in training

0%

0% -25%

Pay settlements

40% +25%

-25%

Investment

30% -50%

+50%

+11%

-75%

+75%

-50%

+50%

10%

+11%

-75%

20%

+75%

0% -10%

+100%

-100%

...of manufacturers increased investment in training in Q4 2019, up from +8% in Q3 2019

+100%

-100%

...of service firms increased investment in training in Q4 2019, down from +13% in Q3 2019

+25%

QES % 2015 2017 2019 Service Sector QES

Balance of firms reporting improved cash flow

0%

0% -25%

-20%

-30% Balance 2007 2009 2011 2013 Manufacturing Sector QES

30% +25%

-25%

20%

Cash Flow

-50%

+50%

+1%

-75%

+75%

-50%

+50%

+75%

-10% -20%

+100%

-100%

...of manufacturers reported improved cash flow in Q4 2019, up from -7% in Q3 2019

+100%

-100%

...of service firms reported improved cash flow in Q4 2019, down from +5% in Q3 2019

+25%

-50%

QES % -40% Balance 2007 2009 2011 2013 Manufacturing Sector QES

+50%

+75%

-50%

-75%

80%

+25%

-25%

+27%

-75%

-30%

0%

0% -25%

Confidence

0%

+2%

-75%

10%

+50%

+32%

+75%

2015 2017 2019 Service Sector QES

UK GDP growth and QES balance of firms confident 2.0% their turnover will increase

60%

1.5%

40%

1.0%

20%

0.5%

0%

0.0%

-20%

-0.5% -1.0%

-40% -100%

+100%

...of manufacturers are confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, up from +25% in Q3 2019

-100%

+100%

...of service firms are confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, up from +30% in Q3 2019

-60% QES % Balance -80% 2007 2009 GDP Growth

GDP % Growth (ONS) 2011

2013

2015

Service Sector QES

2017

2019

-1.5% -2.0%

Manufacturing QES

4 www.britishchambers.org.uk | @britishchambers

ECONOMY

BRITISH CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

LOOKING AHEAD

The survey of over 6,400 firms, employing more than 800,000 people, points to continued stagnation amid rising business costs and a slowing global economy. The balance of firms reporting improved cash flow – a key indicator of the health of businesses – remains very weak across both manufacturing and service sectors. Indicators for improvements across investment and business confidence also show continuing downward trends.

+25%

-25%

Firms facing pressures to raise prices due to the following factors:

0%

0%

Manufacturing Sector

+25%

-25%

Service Sector

72% -50%

+50%

+35%

Prices

-75%

+75%

-50%

+50%

+29%

-75%

59% 46%

+75%

33%

28% 29%

28% 19%

+100%

-100%

...of manufacturers expect their prices to increase, unchanged from Q3 2019

+100%

-100%

...of service firms expect their prices to increase, up from +28% in Q3 2019

+25%

Raw materials Financial costs

Other overheads

Balance of firms increasing investment in training

0%

0% -25%

Pay settlements

40% +25%

-25%

Investment

30% -50%

+50%

+11%

-75%

+75%

-50%

+50%

10%

+11%

-75%

20%

+75%

0% -10%

+100%

-100%

...of manufacturers increased investment in training in Q4 2019, up from +8% in Q3 2019

+100%

-100%

...of service firms increased investment in training in Q4 2019, down from +13% in Q3 2019

+25%

QES % 2015 2017 2019 Service Sector QES

Balance of firms reporting improved cash flow

0%

0% -25%

-20%

-30% Balance 2007 2009 2011 2013 Manufacturing Sector QES

30% +25%

-25%

20%

Cash Flow

-50%

+50%

+1%

-75%

+75%

-50%

+50%

+75%

-10% -20%

+100%

-100%

...of manufacturers reported improved cash flow in Q4 2019, up from -7% in Q3 2019

+100%

-100%

...of service firms reported improved cash flow in Q4 2019, down from +5% in Q3 2019

+25%

-50%

QES % -40% Balance 2007 2009 2011 2013 Manufacturing Sector QES

+50%

+75%

-50%

-75%

80%

+25%

-25%

+27%

-75%

-30%

0%

0% -25%

Confidence

0%

+2%

-75%

10%

+50%

+32%

+75%

2015 2017 2019 Service Sector QES

UK GDP growth and QES balance of firms confident 2.0% their turnover will increase

60%

1.5%

40%

1.0%

20%

0.5%

0%

0.0%

-20%

-0.5%

-40% -100%

+100%

...of manufacturers are confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, up from +25% in Q3 2019

-100%

+100%

...of service firms are confident turnover will increase in the next 12 months, up from +30% in Q3 2019

-1.0%

-60% QES % Balance -80% 2007 2009 GDP Growth

GDP % Growth (ONS) 2011

2013

2015

Service Sector QES

2017

2019

-1.5% -2.0%

Manufacturing QES

5 www.britishchambers.org.uk | @britishchambers

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A message from our Chief Executive, Paul Cherpeau Welcome to the Autumn edition of Well Connected, the magazine of Liverpool Chamber of Commerce.

This edition is the first since the removal of COVID-19 restrictions and the Chamber’s relocation after 86 years at No 1 Old Hall Street. We look forward to welcoming guests to our new offices at the Cotton Exchange in the weeks and months ahead.

advocacy and campaigning work through our Specialist Networks and I would encourage you to get involved as we move into 2022 – never has it been more important for business to make sure it’s voice is heard.

It’s almost surreal to consider that we’re nearing the end of 2021. Like many businesses, the Chamber has been challenged throughout the past eighteen months to unprecedented levels. We are indebted to our members and customers for their ongoing support to enable us to look forward to 2022 with hope and optimism despite our collective challenges to rebuild a post-COVID economy.

There is currently a lot of “white noise” around net zero which can alienate businesses struggling to deal with the day to day challenges. In this edition of Well Connected therefore, we are featuring some positive and practical examples of our how members are making changes to their business models and the way in which they engage clients and staff as they respond to both the challenges and the opportunities offered by a low carbon economy. We understand that many of our businesses are at different stages of the journey and over the next six months we will be focussing on various aspects of net zero and how it impacts on your business whatever your size and sector. We all need to be prepared for changes in legislation, the demands of customers, the impact on costs and changes to the way in which services are procured.

The rebuilding process has and will not be easy. The legacy of both Covid-19 and Brexit have had a disproportionate impact on some sectors, with ongoing challenges around recruitment, wage inflation and the rising costs of doing business. As part of the British Chamber network we have pressed the government on all of these issues and we hope evidence that the government has listened will be translated into practical support through the 2021 Spending Review and Winter Budget.

You can contribute to the Chamber’s

Liverpool Chamber

This month saw the welcome return of our QES Economic Breakfast Briefing, where

in addition to returning to the theme of net zero and regeneration, we discussed the results of British Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey. Whilst the results painted a more positive picture than last quarter they also highlighted challenges, including rising inflation. You can find the full results of the Quarterly Economic Survey on pages 4 and 5 The return to live events is a welcome one for all of us and we are really looking forward to our Chamber Innovation in Business Awards in November where we have some incredible nominees whose achievements we will be celebrating. Our events programme for 2022 also includes Liverpool Day at the Grand National and we look forward to welcoming many of you back to what is one of the most popular days in the events calendar, particularly after two years away.

We’re delighted to welcome our new and returning members to the Chamber and we look forward to working with you, through events, marketing and our policy and campaigning work. By working collaboratively, collaboratively we can genuinely look forward to 2022!

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP

Welcome

to our new Strategic Partners from Tom Woolley, Business Growth and Membership Manager We are delighted to welcome four new Strategic Partners to Liverpool Chamber this quarter.

• Crossword Recruitment

Working closely with these members allows us to ensure that the companies have representation at our most prominent events, engage with us on policy activity and are featured in all of our communications channels. They also help to shape the Chamber’s voice with industry specialism and thought leadership, and so we are thrilled to announce such high profile organisations as The University of Liverpool, United Utilities, LCR Connect and Riqueza Group as new Strategic Partners of Liverpool Chamber.

• Wordscape Ltd

We will be working closely with all four organisations over the coming weeks and months, so watch out for a range of joint initiatives to be announced imminently.

• Be Ethical Training • Crookes Walker Consulting Ltd

• North West Aquariums • E & P Services • INCEPTIAL TECHNOLOGIES UK LTD • Drone Site Surveys Ltd • PINS Social Club • DWNTWN Liverpool • Abbey Road Bar & Kitchen • Gino D’Acampo Old Hall Street

Activity in Sefton

I would also like to extend a very warm welcome to the new members of Liverpool Chamber this quarter:

• FW Capital • Wilson’s Advocacy Consulting Agency • E-Sign

• Design Integrity • Great Annual Savings

8

The workplace has changed dramatically since March 2020 with increased remote working, virtual meetings, agile working and altered working hours, and this workshop saw Charles Millett, Partner and Head of Employment Law at Morecrofts, deliver a fascinating interactive session on the myriad of legal changes which businesses need to be aware of.

We have a range of events being planned throughout Sefton which will be promoted via our newsletters and social media channels in due course.

• Cradle Charity

• Snack & Bargain Ltd

We were therefore delighted to team up with InvestSefton to produce their first face to face event in a long time, offering an invaluable session considering the challenges businesses are facing in the ‘new normal’ in association with our Strategic Partner Morecrofts Solicitors.

The workshop covered factors including the challenges of remote working, employment law and HR, the impact of compulsory Covid-19 vaccinations and whether employers insist upon them, ways to support staff as well as yourself alongside other HR related topics and an interactive Q & A session.

If you would like to discuss how Strategic Partnership or Patronage to Liverpool Chamber can support your business, please contact Tom Woolley via tom.woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk.

• International Translations Limited

Throughout lockdown, our virtual events programme was delivered from Sefton’s incredible MSP Studios, and 2022 will see us return to Aintree for our largest event of the year.

As Liverpool and Sefton Chamber, we are always keen to support businesses in both boroughs, offering informative events and support services to our wide range of members.

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP

Business Growth Programme Liverpool Chamber’s #GrowMySME programme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, and draws on the expertise of our extensive membership base.

It provides free expert advice and bitesize training sessions to help you grow your business.

We’re working across the business community to deliver the Business Growth Programme via a series of workshops. They cover a range of topics tailored to meet the needs of your business, as well as advice, support and matched mentoring activity.

How it works Join us for an initial discussion to understand your needs. From marketing to HR support, support with accounts or tips on selling your products at home or abroad, our industry expert can help. Once we understand what you need, you’ll be matched with an industry expert whose experience matches your required support.

We provide a bespoke programme of events, covering everything needed to grow your business. For example: • Compliance (HR, insurance, legal issues) • Promoting your business (PR, social media, networking) • Business planning and growth (ac counting, budgeting, tax) • Access to finance (funding and investment, business finance and administration) • International trade (requirements, considerations and international contacts)

Liverpool Chamber

• Responsible business (ESG requirements, social and community impact, environmental considerations) Eligibility To qualify for the support, SMEs must be: • Headquartered in Liverpool City Region • Have fewer than 250 employees • Have not received assistance from the ERDF BGP project via other providers, or no more than £170,980 public funding in the last three years.

• Lynsey Barnes, Business Finance Specialist at LCR Finance Hub • George Wright, Investment Manager at LCR Finance Hub • Sue Chamber, Investment Manager at Merseyside Special Investment Fund How to be a Responsible Business Masterclass

Ready to start your growth journey?

Once you’ve completed the programme, you’ll receive ongoing advice and support across our network, to help further growth through events and networking opportunities.

If you’re interested in the programme and would like to find out more, get in touch.

This quarter has seen two fantastic events held to benefit those businesses enrolled on our Business Growth Programme: Access to Finance and Investment Readiness Masterclass Liverpool Chamber were proud to host a Masterclass on Access to Finance and Investment Readiness, delivered in association with LCR Finance Hub and Merseyside Special Investment Fund. The event, held on Thursday 29th July allowed delegates to discover how to access finance, and ascertain whether they were investment ready.

An introduction to the LCR Finance Hub and Merseyside Special Investment Fund was followed by discussion on areas such as business planning, setting objectives, risk management, management & people and due diligence. Guests also heard case studies on how other businesses have benefited from investment, and partners who are currently offering support locally, before a Q&A session with the panel.

Liverpool Chamber would like to extend our thanks to the speakers at this session:

It has never been more important for businesses to demonstrate that they are operating responsibly, and this event, held at the fantastic Clockwise Offices at Edward Pavillion, was led by Caroline Swailes and Heather de Groot from Be Ethical Training.

Topics covered included: • How to navigate the expectations of being a responsible business • Understanding what responsibility is for your business • Creating your own framework to structure your responsibilities • An overview of how to map, measure, and report your activities To discuss how our Business Growth Programme can benefit your business, please contact Jordan Rhoda via Jordan.rhoda@liverpoolchamber.org.uk.

9

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Patron News

From recycling to a reduced carbon footprint, Rutherford Health is going green and urges other business to do more than talk

In the midst of the pandemic, Rutherford Health opened its fourth cancer centre Rutherford Cancer Centre North West located in the Knowledge Quarter Liverpool, last year. This was the latest step in its quest to make quality healthcare as accessible as possible to the highest number of people. Rutherford’s integrated network of cancer centres are deliberately situated in highly populated areas of the UK to reduce travel time and emissions. Its ultimate aim is to have a centre within 90 minutes of 75% of the UK population.

Although Rutherford Health provides cancer treatments including Proton Beam Therapy, which by its very nature is a high-energy use technology, it is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by implementing offset strategies and other initiatives. Since the pandemic proved how well remote working and meetings can work, it has harnessed IT to reduce the need for travel permanently.

Its bespoke specialist oncology training programme, in collaboration with IBA and Penn Medicine to train UK oncologists in administering high energy proton beam therapy in cancer patients, no longer takes place in the US but has moved entirely online, reducing air travel and emissions. As the only independent UK provider of Proton Beam Therapy, Rutherford also reduces the reliance on air travel for patients who otherwise would be sent abroad for PBT treatment.

Being in a sustainable environment with green space is positive for overall wellbeing and as a cancer treatment provider, it is

Liverpool Chamber

particularly important for Rutherford. It can have a very positive impact on patient anxiety and recovery, as well as staff stress management. All Rutherford centres have planted areas, rainwater collection for toilet flushing, electric car charging points and provide refillable water bottles for staff and patients. Aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, Rutherford has committed to reducing the environmental impact of its built environment, reusing and recycling more waste, reducing its carbon footprint, and creating more green spaces around its buildings. At Rutherford Cancer Centre North West, our waste management company is carbon neutral certified, sends zero waste to landfill and uses an Eco-friendly fleet of vehicles.

Using and producing renewable energy is an increasing focus, with solar panels currently being trialed at Rutherford’s Thames Valley Centre with a view to being rolled out across the group.

The Liverpool Centre offers numerous facilities on site for staff to encourage sustainable travel, including changing rooms, shower facilities, staff lounge with kitchen facilities and cycle parking.

Rutherford has supplied three Sheffield style cycle stands for staff as per Liverpool City Council’s cycle standards. The immediate surroundings of the Centre are being developed as part of the Paddington Central Regeneration scheme and includes commercial premises which offer opportunities for shared travel initiatives.

Seemingly small changes can make a big difference - the feedback from both staff and patients on these initiatives has been overwhelmingly positive. It is essential for modern businesses to demonstrate their commitment to such important issues beyond just talk, and be a part of the change for good.

13

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If you are aged 16+ and are registered with a Liverpool GP visit our website talkliverpool.nhs.uk or call us on 0151 228 2300

Video and photography by Ant Clausen

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Liverpool Chamber launches Brexit Resource Hub to help Liverpool businesses navigate new trade rules A new campaign has been launched by Liverpool Chamber and Liverpool City Council to help the city’s businesses trade effectively with the EU The Brexit Resource Hub includes a digital toolkit detailing the implications of the UK’s new relationship with the EU, how businesses can operate within the latest rules and how they might capitalise on opportunities in new markets.

Businesses will receive support and advice around Brexit transition and the future changes to trade markets.

This includes videos, case studies and guidance from fellow local businesses that have already made adaptations or sought to change their processes, procedures or markets.

The campaign will be underpinned by an ongoing series of surveys and outreach exercises led by Liverpool Chamber’s International Trade team, asking local businesses to record their own experiences of post-Brexit trade and identifying new trends or challenges around import and export activity.

This content and the supporting materials will all be accessible via a new microsite within the Liverpool Chamber website, which will also provide a platform for Brexit-related queries. A new Brexit business consortium of up to 50 members

Liverpool Chamber

will also be created to offer a regular virtual meeting space and forum as any new issues develop.

Paul Cherpeau, chief executive of Liverpool Chamber, said: “Our International Trade team already supports thousands of local businesses to help them explore new global markets and it has seen a marked increase in enquiries and engagement relating to Brexit and its impact on trade.

“The Brexit Resource Hub will offer real-world advice and insight to help business get things done effectively and will be an extension of our International Trade Club, creating conversations and enabling networking between companies trading with Europe to share challenges and aspirations.”

Councillor Sarah Doyle, cabinet member for development and economy, said: “Liverpool is a truly global city and there are so many businesses founded in the city who aspire to send their products and services around the world, while many more rely on imports as a crucial part of their supply chain.

“This new initiative, part of our Liverpool Global City campaign, aims to amplify the voices of those businesses about

their initial experiences of EU trade in the post-Brexit era and create a meaningful resource to help them navigate and share their challenges alongside their peers.”

For further information about the Brexit Resource Hub, visit https:/ /www. liverpoolchamber.org.uk/what-we-do/ international-trade/brexit-resource-hub/

Thanks to the Liverpool businesses involved in this campaign: ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

The Crowne Plaza Speke Panoramic34 The Art School ChargePoint Technology Ltd Wild Thang Yuken Europe Ltd Gencoa Ltd Algeos Ltd Brabners Wynne Aviation Services DLA Piper Brainboxes Ltd Brunswick International Ltd

15

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Upskilling your staff on International Trade Businesses have been adapting to new trading terms with the EU since 1 January, The Chamber of Commerce network have continued to share their practical experience and knowledge on how to best facilitate trade and market access for members. Our expertise allows us to offer advice, training, and brokerage and documentation services with both the EU and rest of the World.

We offer a full range of accredited training courses, covering all aspects of international trade, these include: Logistics, Exports, Export Sales, Imports, Supply Chain, Trade Finance, Trade Compliance and Customs documents.

With global trade ever-changing regulations, processes, and cultures, businesses need to ensure that the employees running their international trade functions are up to date on new requirements – this mitigates disruption by avoiding costly and unwanted delays.

Liverpool Chamber can help you to achieve competence through a number of accredited training courses or bespoke in-house sessions tailored to your specific needs. Book our upcoming training courses on the website or contact export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk for a chat about your training needs.

16

Understanding Commodity Codes and INCOTERMS20

Letters of Credit and Methods of Payment

£230 (Members), £280 (Non-members)

£230 (Members)

3rd Nov 2021 / All Day

This course is designed for anyone in the organisation who might be called upon to contribute to a correct description of goods traded internationally for both export and import declarations. This can range from complete beginners to experienced operators who feel the need to refresh their knowledge.

Customs Procedures and Rules of Origin

17th Nov 2021 / All Day £230 (Members), £280 (Non-members) This 1 day course covers the basic aspects of Customs Compliance and Rules of Origin. It gives delegates two credits towards the BCC Foundation in International Trade and delegates can, if they wish, complete two assessments.

2nd Dec 2021 / All Day £280 (Non-members) This course is a must for anyone in the export team who processes letters of credit.

The course explains the process in great detail by showing examples and providing the delegates the opportunity of putting into practice what they have learnt by completing practical. The content will cover other methods of payment used in international transactions.

Export & Import Procedures, get it right

8th Dec 2021 / All Day £280 (Members) £350 (Non-members)

This 1 day course covers the basic aspects of Exporting & Importing worldwide. It gives you two credits towards the BCC Foundation in International Trade. It is designed for people who may be new to exporting plus experienced business people who may need to update themselves on export documentation and procedures.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Sell overseas Support services from with confidence exporting and importing specialists The Export Academy from the Department for International Trade is available to help businesses to understand how to sell internationally and with confidence. It covers the basics of exporting, benefits and barriers, essential paperwork and pricing strategies, how to start an export action plan amongst other interesting topics.

As we adapt to our new relationship with the EU, we recognise the need for additional international trade support services. We offer an extensive range of services to support business and international trade to flourish. From direct advice, commercial services and funding, we’re on hand to help your business trade with confidence.

When dealing with changing and complex export requirements, sometimes all you need is some extra reassurance before submitting documentation, or beginning the process of exporting/importing goods.

That’s why we feel it’s important to offer our members an extra helping hand.

Liverpool Chamber members can access our trade help desk for support, assistance, and extra reassurance when dealing with international trade. It’s designed to answer enquiries that can be dealt with in under ten minutes, including shipping requirements, CPC codes, INCOTERMS, duty and tax payment calculation and more.

We also can help with the Management of a Letter of Credit from start to finish, to include document preparation, documentation presentation to the bank and liaising with the carriers. All of these services are completely free to Liverpool Chamber members, and aim to help businesses in Liverpool trade efficiently and successfully.

Contact export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk to find out how you can access these services.

Under the revised timetable: •

The requirements for pre-notification of Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) goods, which were due to be introduced on 1 October 2021, will now be introduced on 1 January 2022.

•

The new requirements for Export Health Certificates, which were due to be introduced on 1 October 2021, will now be introduced on 1 July 2022.

•

Phytosanitary Certificates and physical checks on SPS goods at Border Control Posts, due to be introduced on 1 January 2022, will now be introduced on 1 July 2022.

•

Safety and Security declarations on imports will be required as of 1 July 2022 as opposed to 1 January 2022.

Full customs declarations and controls will be introduced on 1 January 2022 as previously announced.

It is ideal for anyone: • New to exporting • Exporting already but needing to

upskill staff • Exporting already but wanting to

refresh knowledge, or fill gaps The current series is moving to in-person, full day workshops.

The next events will take place in Manchester on Wednesday 20th October 2021 and in Preston on Friday 19th November. Additional workshops in Merseyside are to be announced soon.

If you need information on any of the above please contact export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Trade Update Government sets out pragmatic new timetable for introducing border controls The government has set out a pragmatic new timetable for introducing full import controls for goods being imported from the EU to the UK. Businesses have faced a range of challenges over recent months as they recover from the global pandemic which has impacted supply chains across Europe.

This is being felt particularly by the agrifood sector, where new requirements on importing products of animal origin were due to be introduced from next month.

Rather than introduce these controls at this time, the government has listened to those who have called for a new approach to give businesses more time to adjust.

Full customs declarations and controls will be introduced on 1 January 2022 as

Liverpool Chamber

previously announced, although safety and security declarations will now not be required until 1 July 2022.

Minister of State at the Cabinet Office, Lord Frost, said: We want businesses to focus on their recovery from the pandemic rather than have to deal with new requirements at the border, which is why we’ve set out a pragmatic new timetable for introducing full border controls.

Businesses will now have more time to prepare for these controls which will be phased in throughout 2022.

The government remains on track to deliver the new systems, infrastructure and resourcing required.

The government will work closely with the Devolved Administrations on the implementation of this new timetable, given their devolved responsibilities for agri-food controls.

We remain on track to deliver new systems, infrastructure and resourcing needed for these controls.

For further information visit https:/ /questionsstatements.parliament.uk/writtenstatements/detail/2021-09-14/hcws285

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Woodlands Woodlands Hospice Hospice Are you looking for a Are you looking for a new Charity of the Year new Charity of the Year Partner Partner for for 2022?

2022?

Support Woodlands Hospice and the Support Woodlands Hospice and the amazing work we do! amazing work we do!

Becoming a charity of the year Becoming a charity of the year partner is a great way to engage staff partner is a great way to engage staff with their local community and get all with their local community and get all staff staffworking workingtowards towards one one objective. objective.

We Wewill willwork worktogether together to to develop develop ideas ideas for ways your company can for ways your company can support support us! us!

From Fromskydives skydivesto tobake bake sales sales and and everything everythingininbetween. between. We We can can develop develop a a plan that suits you and your corporate plan that suits you and your corporate social socialresponsibility responsibility goals. goals.

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2021 Appeal?

Appeal?

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Woodlands Hospice Light up a Life Appeal encourages supporters to celebrate a Woodlands Hospice Light up aa light Life Appeal encourages supporters celebrate loved one by dedicating on a hospice Christmas tree intoreturn for aa loved one by dedicating a light on a hospice Christmas tree in return for a donation. Supporters can choose to dedicate a physical light on the tree or to donation. Supporters can choose to dedicate a physical light on the tree or to dedicate a light virtually online. dedicate a light virtually online.

Howcan canyou yousupport supportour ourappeal? appeal?

How Our virtual virtualLight Lightup upaaLife LifeChristmas Christmas Our tree creates an exciting opportunity tree creates an exciting opportunity for businesses businessesto tosupport supportour our for appeal, as you can create and brand appeal, as you can create and brand your very own tree. your very own tree.

This tree treecan canincorporate incorporateyour your This company logo logoand andwill willhave haveit’s it’sown own company unique link that you can share unique link that you can share amongst your youremployees, employees,business business amongst partnersand/or and/orcustomers customersoror partners serviceusers usersto toallow allowthem themtoto service dedicateaalight lightdirectly directlytotoyour your dedicate company companytree. tree.

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Sponsorship AllAll donations received through ourour Sponsorshipopportunities opportunitiesare arealso alsoavailable. available. donations received through appeal speciallist palliative care appeal help helpus usto tocontinue continuetotosupport supportpatients patientsreceiving receiving speciallist palliative care and andtheir theirloved lovedones. ones.

Mostimportantly, importantly,we we can can share share with with Most you the difference your support is you the difference your support is making to the lives of our patients making to the lives of our patients andtheir theirloved loved ones. ones. and

Please Pleasevisit visitour ourwebsite: website:

www.woodlandshospice.org/light-up-a-life www.woodlandshospice.org/light-up-a-life for further details or contact our Individual Giving Manager, Carole Riley, for further details or contact our Individual Giving Manager, Carole Riley, on 0151 529 4143 / carole.riley@liverpoolft.nhs.uk - Thank you! on 0151 529 4143 / carole.riley@liverpoolft.nhs.uk - Thank you!

Todiscuss discuss becoming becoming aa Charity Charity of To of the the Year Year Partner, Partner,please pleasecontact contactJonathan JonathanBurgess, Burgess, Head of Income Generation, on 0151 529 5243 / email jonathan.burgess@liverpoolft.nhs.uk Head of Income Generation, on 0151 529 5243 / email jonathan.burgess@liverpoolft.nhs.uk /woodlandshospice /woodlandshospice

@wearewoodlands @wearewoodlands

wearewoodlands wearewoodlands

HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Recognising Wellbeing Excellence with Health@Work As national restrictions start to ease, businesses across the UK are preparing for a new wave of changes to the way we see, use, and engage with our places of work. According to government research, 85% of us are hoping to follow a ‘hybrid’ approach to work – splitting our time between home and office working.

At the same time, surveys by the CIPD show that employee wellbeing has risen in priority for businesses, with 75% of senior leaders now noting that employee wellbeing is on their agenda, up from 61% in 2020.

To health and wellbeing training providers Health@Work, this increased focus on employee wellbeing comes as no surprise.

“For many companies, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought a new perspective on health and wellbeing,” says Business Development Executive John Anderson.

“With so many people working from home, businesses have had to quickly adapt to new, flexible ways of working, as well as an increased awareness of employee mental and physical health.”

Health@Work, part of the Liverpoolbased health insurer Medicash, are specialist providers of both expert training to equip organisations with the knowledge to improve their health and wellbeing policies and procedures; and the Workplace Wellbeing Charter, a tangible accreditation designed to recognise and reward those companies that go above and beyond with their employee wellbeing.

“By giving organisations not only the means to build up their wellbeing schemes through training and awareness, but also the recognition of being one of the UK’s top employers with a Charter accreditation, it’s our aim to help businesses across the country improve the overall health and happiness of their employees,” says Anderson.

Liverpool Chamber

Among the most recent Workplace Wellbeing Charter success stories is Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, who were reaccredited with their Charter in September 2021. Having first received their Charter accreditation back in 2017, the Trust has since been reaccredited in 2019 and again in 2021 – this time achieving the highest mark of ‘Excellence’ across five of the eight standards; in Mental Health, Leadership, Absence Management, Health & Safety, and Smoking.

“With NHS staff working under immense pressure throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, it was great to see how Lancashire Teaching Hospitals had utilised their Charter framework from previous years to make improving and supporting mental health among their staff a key priority,” says Workplace Wellbeing Consultant Declan Doyle. “The Charter is designed to both promote adaptability and improvement within wellbeing initiatives by providing resources and training, but it’s also about recognising the work organisations are already doing to improve the lives of their employees.”

Reaccreditation for the Trust involved comprehensive analysis of procedures, interviews with hospital leadership, and employee surveys to gain a full understanding of the Trust’s unique culture, employees, and priorities in how they address employee health and wellbeing.

“We use a simple step-by-step process to support organisations through their Charter accreditation or reaccreditation,” continues

Doyle. “From initial self-assessment to the final accreditation, we have a range of experts on hand to assist and guide accredited organisations with their wellbeing schemes, from mental health practitioners to exercise scientists to wellbeing strategists.”

But how does the Charter help organisations like Lancashire Teaching Hospitals grow and develop their employee wellbeing? “The Trust have been using the Workplace Wellbeing Charter as a framework for four years now, and it’s a pleasure to see how they’ve implemented our earlier advice,” says Doyle.

“A large part of the Trust’s Excellence award was due to their outstanding approach to employee mental health, where we were delighted to see continuous improvement.

With a strong emphasis on destigmatising mental health discussions, and variety of approaches from training up mental health first aiders to recording a ‘share your story’ podcast, employees report increased morale at work as well as a genuine appreciation for hospital leadership’s efforts to support them.”

Wondering how a Workplace Wellbeing Charter could support your organisation’s wellbeing goals? You can find out more about Health@Work, the self-assessment process, and their bespoke training opportunities at www.healthatworkcentre.org.uk.

Alternatively, you can contact the team direct at 0151 236 6608, or email at info@healthatworkcentre.org.uk.

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SUSTAINABILITY

Everton for change – how premier league club is stepping up its environmental commitment with new stadium on the horizon

In October 2019, Everton Football Club launched a campaign that renewed its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and introduced a raft of new initiatives.

‘Everton For Change’ came on the back of Liverpool City Council and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority declaring a climate emergency, with the Council setting the aim of becoming a zerocarbon local authority by 2030.

Two years on – and with a new 52,888-capacity stadium now under construction - we take a look at the progress made by Everton and its awardwinning official charity, Everton in the Community…

Progress despite challenges Despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, Everton has kept a firm focus on efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and explored new ways to

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make a positive and a more sustainable impact on the planet. From introducing new reusable pint cups on matchdays and adapting everyday behaviours and attitudes to waste and energy, to working with partners to adopt innovative new technology to produce its kits and incorporating sustainability into the heart of the design for its proposed new stadium, sustainability has been at the forefront of the club’s behaviours even during a difficult and disparate time.

Reusable cups on matchdays Prior to the pandemic forcing games to be played behind closed doors, Goodison Park was sold-out for every matchday and welcomed just under 40,000 supporters into the stadium. With refreshments available

before the game in the stadium’s fan zone and on the concourses, as well as at half-time, the club launched their Everton for Change campaign by introducing reusable cups in place of single-use plastic ones. Over the course of a season, Everton estimates that it will prevent approximately 75,000 single-use plastic pint cups from polluting the environment thanks to this initiative. With fans having returned for the 2021/22 campaign, the reusable cups are once again in use.

Innovative new technology used in kit production In July 2020, Everton announced that all of its kits from new technical partner hummel would adopt the company’s ZEROH2O technology. This ground-breaking advancement ensures there is zero water consumption and zero wastewater during the dying process, and a 50 per cent reduction in energy consumption overall. This was built upon in May 2021, when Everton and hummel announced their three kits for the 2021/22 season would benefit from

SUSTAINABILITY ECO8 technology – a process that sees each kit manufactured from polyester produced from up to eight recycled plastic bottles. Each kit also features an ECO8 logo, raising awareness of the environmentally friendly production method.

During this time, Everton has continued to work with retail partner Fanatics to ensure 100 per cent recyclable and reusable carrier bags are used in all the club’s shops and that old kits and uniforms are collected and recycled or, where possible, gifted to local and international charities.

• Wider promotion of the Club’s Bike 2 Work scheme for staff and how cycling can minimise the use of fossil fuels and provide a pollution-free mode of transport • Swapping plastic cutlery for wooden cutlery and plastic straws for paper straws, eliminating individual plastic packet condiments and reducing packaging for catering produce on matchdays • Introducing battery recycling points at all sites and a recycling scheme for printer ink cartridges

Measures that featured in the sustainability statement submitted as part of the planning application included generating electricity from solar panels, harvesting rainwater for use in toilets and the provision of charging facilities for electric and hybrid vehicles.

Prior to the construction commencing in July, Everton carried out extensive ecological surveys, while marine life has safely been removed and relocated from the dock on which the stadium will be built. New habitats for birds such as cormorants were also installed in a neighbouring dock before the first build phase began.

A commitment to monitor noise pollution and air quality during and after construction is further evidence of Everton’s environmental promise, while materials from the demolition of derelict warehouse buildings on the site will be reused elsewhere towards the development or removed and recycled in other ways.

Embedding environmental awareness Everton for Change has also allowed Everton to introduce and expand on a number of initiatives across all its sites, with the aim of embedding environmental awareness into the club’s day-to-day operations. These have included: • Reducing energy consumption with the use of LED lighting, installation of lighting motion sensors and centrally controlled heating • Introducing waste recycling points across club sites for plastic, cardboard, wood, glass and paper, with food waste collection recycled for green energy using a process called anaerobic digestion • Organic waste such as grass clippings and other plant material being recycled into natural compost • Use of organic fertilisers on all pitches • Encouraging staff to use digital communications channels to reduce travel

Liverpool Chamber

The Everton for Change branding – and the tagline ‘protecting our planet’ – has also been visible at Goodison Park on LED perimeter boards, the big screens and across other parts of the stadium at all matchdays to raise wider awareness of the campaign.

Making Everton’s new stadium sustainable Earlier this summer, Everton and its construction partners Laing O’Rourke began work on the club’s new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. Sustainability is a major part of the design for the 52,888-capacity venue, which will sit on the banks of the River Mersey.

Throughout the public consultation held prior to the submission of a planning application in 2019, the club highlighted its intention to harness the unique features of the waterside location to create an environmentally friendly and sustainable stadium, efficient in design, construction and operation. The aim now is to make it the most sustainable stadium in the entire Premier League.

Alix Craig, Everton’s Stadium Development and Project Manager and project lead for Everton For Change, said: “In what has been a challenging time, we are glad that we have been able to keep the momentum going with regards to further reducing our carbon footprint, not least in the work that has already taken place on our new stadium. Such is our commitment to environmental issues, our aim is to target becoming the most sustainable stadium in the Premier League, if not the UK. By doing this, we hope to set a positive example in sport and stadium design.

“As a Club, we are always looking for new ways in which we can make a positive impact on our planet. Our Everton For Change group features staff from across the Club, all of whom are passionate about what we are doing, and who offer insights and expertise from across all our departments.

We have also worked closely with our Fans’ Forum and will soon be establishing a working group with them focused on our environmental goals and what we can do as a football club and fanbase to further reduce our carbon footprint.”

For more updates on Everton’s new stadium or the latest news regarding Everton For Change, visit evertonfc.com.

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SKILLS & EMPLOYMENT

As the Government’s Kickstart Scheme reaches its one-year anniversary, social impact mission, I Am Moore has reached its goal of creating 500 UK-wide jobs in just under eight months, and placing 127 (and counting) 16-to-24-year-olds into roles that previously wouldn’t have been available.

I Am Moore was launched in February 2021

by Jayne Moore Media Ltd, in response to the Kickstart scheme, which offers sixmonth, paid work placements for young people claiming Universal Credit.

Vacancies available through I Am Moore range from baristas to assistant laboratory scientists for those with and without experience, ready and waiting for their next working opportunity. And the I Am Moore team is already hearing that Kickstarters who have impressed their employers are being offered full-time roles once their sixmonth placements are completed.

Yvan Amuntung is working as an assistant management accountant at Sedulo in Manchester, which also has offices in Liverpool, and has recently been offered a permanent role following his Kickstart placement. Yvan said: “The last year

Innovation and entrepreneurship - unlocking the future jobs market.

Student Futures Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)- Careers, Employability & Enterprise Service.

We have some great news! The newly formed Student Futures team at LJMU is up and running. A value-adding partner,

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has obviously been difficult, but getting the opportunity to be a Kickstart candidate has been a godsend.

I didn’t know about Kickstart until my Universal Credit coach told me about it and introduced me to I Am Moore, who connected me to Sedulo.

“From day one I’ve felt like Sedulo has been a perfect career match for me. I’m now ACCA part-qualified and the undoubted highlight has been becoming a permanent member of the Sedulo team.”

Ethan Davies was previously a Kickstart trainee site technician at Liverpool engineering firm, Sutcliffe, and has now secured a role on a full-time basis. Ethan

said: “After joining Sutcliffe initially on work experience, I was over the moon to then join the Kickstart scheme.

“My role has involved everything from site investigation to sampling soil and monitoring ground gas levels, and after grabbing my opportunity with both hands during the last six months, I’m delighted that I will be joining Sutcliffe as a graduate geo-environmental engineer.”

For more information about I Am Moore, visit: www.iammoore.org, @iamkickstart on social media or contact the team directly on 0151 236 2879 / kickstart@ jaynemooremedia.com.

the team provides a diverse range of services, experiences, and resources directly to students and graduates, designed to transform their capabilities and future success. We value community engagement, having a positive impact on employment in the city’s region and delivering projects that ultimately strengthen the graduate jobs market.

Discovery Internships

Welcome to our projects:

The ability to create your own venture, build a sustainable growth business, create jobs for yourself and others, and generate social impact, will become the key superpowers of the digital age.

Growing a thriving co-founder ecosystem across the LCR Founders is supported by the European Regional Development Fund and will co-develop a sustainable co-founder ecosystem. Together we will match up Liverpool John Moores University and University of Liverpool student and graduate talent to form new business startups across the Liverpool City Region.

LJMU Graduate Futures - Connecting SMEs to Graduate Talent Graduate Futures is supported by the European Social Fund and will to develop a sustainable interface between Liverpool John Moores University, our student and graduate talent, and Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) across the Liverpool City Region.

• For owners and leaders within our City Region’s SMEs; the project will provide specialist support and subsidy to develop student and graduate roles within their business.

• For our students and graduates, the project will expand the volume and range of professional-level employment opportunities open to them within our SME base.

These are fully funded LJMU Internships with the aim of connecting a student to a project with an employer for 140 hours, enabling the student to discover their unique skills and talents whilst employers discover the value of engaging an intern in their company.

LCR Founders

We are here, we are ready, what can we do to support your business needs?

Get in touch by emailing us at employerengagement@ljmu.ac.uk

Enabling Hybrid Working Strategies through Video Collaboration Making modern work easier.

▪ 73% of employees want flexible work options to stay.

▪ 63% of employees want more in person work or collaboration post-pandemic.

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Liverpool Chamber

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23

ASK THE EXPERT

Ask the Expert?

David Banister, Co-director, ArchiPhonic

Green buildings vs green construction ArchiPhonic Co-director David Banister looks at what ‘green’ means in the development and construction sector.

‘Green’ buildings and ‘green’ and sustainable construction are frequently talked about, but often misunderstood.

Contrary to some assumptions, these two things are not the same and sometimes may not even be connected.

Green Buildings Green buildings are those which through their design, construction or operation - reduce or eliminate negative environmental impacts, and can even create positive impact on the climate, natural environment and the health and wellbeing of its inhabitants and users.

Green buildings are those which preserve natural resources, have efficient electric and water systems, feature air purification systems and are constructed from nontoxic, sustainable and ethical materials. Their design takes into consideration the changing environment and may - like The Spine in The Knowledge Quarter - have an ‘excellent’ BREEAM rating or, as it grows in popularity in the UK, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

Green and Sustainable Construction However, a building can be considered ‘green’ even if the construction process did not have environmental concerns in mind.

LEED certification, for example, does not assess the construction process, simply the infrastructure, technologies, appliances, and design of the building.

Furthermore, while often used interchangeably ‘green’ and ‘sustainable’ construction. While more closely interlinked,

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they are two different things. Green construction involves designing a building or scheme in a manner that uses fewer resources and reduces waste and negative environmental impacts, while sustainable construction is more focused on the resources themselves and how they are used.

Green construction can include large and small changes to standard processes, from using more environmentally-friendly building materials to reducing waste through new processes like modular construction.

Sustainable construction would involve a site that burned less fuel and used more renewable and sustainable materials.

Green Construction - Is it worth it?

As a practice we advocate wherever we can for green construction and guide and advise our clients on the options available.

However, it is impossible to ignore the barriers to it. We see there is an aspiration to build green and sustainable, but often it’s not feasible within the constraints of development scopes and budgets.

Margins are squeezed everywhere and meeting green standards can add 40% to build cost. A high BREEAM rating or other sustainability benchmark simply doesn’t offset this increased spend.

When combined with the current 30-40% increase on some standard build material costs, such as insulation and timber, that are unlikely to drop back to normal when the supply chain improves, restricted budgets and other factors such as changes to Capital Gains Tax reducing the value of developers’ tax relief, you can see

how the incentive may not yet be strong enough for many. If we are to ‘build, build, build’ this needs addressing too.

That said, there are cost benefits to green construction. One of the biggest costs in construction is burning fuel. It is also one of the most pressing environmental concerns.

Fuel costs are increasing and fuel accounts for 30% of the cost of running and maintaining machines. Being more fuel efficient and burning less will save money and result in greener construction.

Working towards green construction is vital, making the changes that are possible and implementing green and sustainable processes as standard will minimise the sector’s environmental impact and - in time - break down current barriers and drive down cost.

Visit us at www.archiphonic.co.uk

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

Connecting a greener city

Embracing a green infrastructure can transform cities and help them to tackle the challenge of the climate crisis. As Liverpool looks to the future, there is potential for the city to become a place where it is much easier to live and work sustainably.

At Cop26, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, in Glasgow this November, much of the focus will be on how countries and their inhabitants can do their part to reduce their green footprint. At urban level, ingredients like population growth, pollution, the reduction of resources and climate change could radically transform both the lives of city dwellers and the quality of the environment of the city.

There are many ways that cities can tackle this crisis at every level. At Liverpool BID Company, through our work with businesses and the city, we look for ways in which we can inform, support change and elevate voices and projects looking to make the city more sustainable now and in the future.

Our work championing 15-minute cities is beneficial not just for the city centre but for all high streets across Liverpool City Region, as a way of promoting sustainable cities. A Team Liverpool approach making our places greener can set Liverpool as a beacon for sustainability, especially giving our courageous and forward thinking community.

Projects like the Green Wall at St Johns are not merely decoration. As well as improving air quality in the centre of the city, it is also a vital part of green infrastructure, raising

Liverpool Chamber

the importance and awareness of how cities can be built differently.

a catalyst to strengthen local communities and kickstart new businesses.

Connectivity is also crucial. How we travel around a city drastically impacts the air quality and the ability of the city to change how it uses depleting resources. Encouraging greener forms of travel, from electric cars to cycling and walking are not merely statements, they need both investment and endeavour. In Liverpool, increasing walkways to make the city more pleasant and accessible for pedestrians and cyclists is vital.

The work being done to champion greener public transport is something we support and it has to help to keep the city moving.

A simple thing Liverpool can do is to embrace greener planning policies, encouraging green roofs and walls, for example, which might be small scale but help support water sensitive design in tightly packed urban spaces.

Yet Liverpool could do more, much more.

Green infrastructure and a green design approach examines urban environments and makes the natural world a key focus. It helps to make the city more resilient, focusing on how there can be more improved measures to tackle the impacts of climate change, like flooding, heat, food supply and drought.

Investing in open spaces, natural areas, encouraging the development of urban woodland, sustainable drainage systems, rivers and waterways are a vital way in which we can upgrade our city and its streets. Not only that, revitalising existing green spaces and civic squares can act as

Protecting our open spaces, particularly our green spaces in the city centre is incredibly important. Planning applications should be considered for how far they encourage both green and open space.

There should not be a battle between making city dwellers happier and healthier with development. Green infrastructure helps to make cities stronger for the future.

There is evidence that it can reduce the pressure on health services and build community links.

Most importantly, a whole city approach is vital. At Liverpool BID our geographical focus might be from the waterfront to St George’s Hall in the Culture & Commerce BID and within the retail heartland of the city, but we can champion business and their green agenda, spreading their influence to other parts of the city and become a centre that builds and develops for the future.

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FEATURE INTERVIEW

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram discusses his plans to create the UK’s renewable energy coast.

You have great aspirations for the sustainability of the city region. Where do you think we will be in ten years’ time?

I’m extremely confident about where we will be – this area will be known as the UK’s renewable energy coast.

Nowhere else has the green energy platform we offer across tidal, wind, solar and hydrogen. Most of this is either already in place or we have a plan to develop and maximise its potential in the near future.

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We are in a climate emergency and that’s why we’ve pledged to reach net zero by 2040, ten years ahead of the government’s national target, and there are reasons to believe we could actually achieve that even earlier.

What is HyNet and what impact could that make?

HyNet has the potential to transform lives, the local environment and the jobs market by unlocking a low carbon future for the

entire North West and North Wales, with us very much at the heart of that.

Essentially, it involves the production of clean ‘green’ hydrogen to fuel homes, industry and transport, while also capturing CO₂ emissions created by energy-intensive industries.

Our city region is a test-bed for innovation and research in this area. For example, have already ordered a fleet of publicly-

FEATURE INTERVIEW

“We must begin to build infrastructure today that is equipped for the demands of tomorrows, for example the advent of electric cars or the eventual phasing out of boilers.” owned hydrogen buses for the city region and this is where we see the future of our transport infrastructure.

from central decision-makers and external investors before we can unlock our full potential.

We are working with Cadent to trial hydrogen in gas supplies and plan to improve the mix as we move forward to slowly make more devices, such as boilers and fires, compatible with this new type of fuel.

There are four significant schemes across the UK and the government has indicated it will fast-track and fund two of those. We believe ours [HyNet] is the most comprehensive and deliverable and we have made a strong business case, for which we hope to achieve cross-party support.

We are also running a HyNet trial at Pilkington’s in St Helens, with the aim of producing float, or sheet, glass from hydrogen, rather than the traditional method of using natural gas.

Hydrogen is a huge part of our future and many large organisations such as Ineos have begun to believe in its potential too.

Why is COP26 important to the UK and the city region in particular?

COP26 is a huge chance to recognise the climate emergency we are facing and I truly hope the UK government maximises the opportunities it presents.

We are leading the North West’s representation at COP26, showcasing what we’re doing right here and the assets we have on our doorstep, such as solar farms at Halton and Fazakerley and the wind farm at Burbo Bank, where we plan to triple energy output.

Plans for a Mersey Tidal Barrier remain high on our agenda too. It requires two consecutive years of environmental study to avoid any harm to the local ecology.

This was interrupted by Covid-19, but the research is back underway and we’re working closely with the National Oceanographic Centre, based in Liverpool.

How can the city region maximise its sustainability potential?

Our sustainability assets are second-tonone, but we need to secure recognition

Liverpool Chamber

We must also continue to work with professionals across a range of sectors, not only innovators or ecologists, but also economists, as funding is structured differently for sustainability projects.

It’s not only air quality we want to improve – we’re also working with Unilever on a project to find alternatives to plastic packaging.

What message would you give to Liverpool Chamber members and other local businesses about a more sustainable future?

I would urge the business community to understand what’s around the corner and grasp the nettle now, rather than wait for the future to arrive.

We must begin to build infrastructure today that is equipped for the demands of tomorrows, for example the advent of electric cars or the eventual phasing out of boilers.

Businesses should begin upskilling now to maximise the opportunities around renewables and a more sustainable future.

When a major retrofit project is announced, businesses should consider whether they have the correct certifications and skills base within their teams.

Colleges and other educational organisations also need to teach now for

the future, which is why we’ve created a £56m adult education budget to help deliver new skills. Our role is to fight for pots of funding from central government to invest in the local economy.

Can plans for a more a sustainable economy help to attract new inward investment?

We want to work with all organisations, public or private, large or small. Our two priorities are how to sustain the businesses we currently have and how to find ways to diversify the future economy and find the next big opportunity.

Any companies looking to relocate should see the city region as a highly attractive option. Our superfast wi-fi connectivity is already excellent, but this will be further improved by the digital highway development which is happening now to connect Nova Scotia with Southport and the Hartree high-performance computing centre at Daresbury.

In addition, they have a ready source of green energy to make their own business more sustainable and access to global trade through Liverpool Freeport.

The Liverpool City Region also has an international brand as the UK region, after London, with the most to offer on a global scale. Our internationalisation strategy aims to find ways to help UK PLC’s trade overseas, promoting the Port of Liverpool in UK trade deals and leading delegations to places such as Ireland, with Andy Burnham, or to Indonesia with Tranmere Rovers.

We also hope MIPIM will take place this year as it’s another opportunity to demonstrate to the world our confidence in what’s happening in the city region, both now and in the future.

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Sean Keyes – Managing director at Sutcliffe discusses the green agenda in the lead up to 2040 28

Reaching a net zero standard is something that’ll take years, rather than months. However, with the government making on-going commitments to achieve its goals by 2040, there is every hope that the construction sector and the nation will be in a very good position in just under a decade’s time.

The race to reach net zero by 2040 is one that is set to go down to the wire, but there is every hope that not only will emissions be cut drastically, but in the process, new jobs, fresh opportunities and increased growth in the economy can come off the back of a greener world.

to directors and SMEs to conglomerates

Corporate action is already driving the change to net zero, yet with many multimillion-pound businesses failing to do their part, it is the un-sung SME heroes that in many cases, are leading the charge to net zero.

working in the construction industry for

One of these SME’s is civil and structural engineering firm Sutcliffe, who having completed over 30,000 projects throughout the last 35 years, building over £1 billion pounds worth of construction value of homes on Merseyside alone in the process, has made great strides towards cutting their own carbon footprint, both in the office and on site.

Huge advocates of training, in particular up-skilling for the next generation, Sean Keyes and Sutcliffe have placed a large impetus on its work with the younger members of its team. However, with the green agenda set to dominate the headlines for many years to come, Keyes believes that everyone from apprentices

needs to be singing from the same hymn sheet in order to achieve net zero.

“We all need training in order to achieve net zero and that goes from the youngsters coming through in the sector, right through to those who have been decades.

“On the ACE board, we are regularly beating the drum to reduced carbon emissions, as well as teaching businesses and their employees how they can meet net zero. It is of course easier for bigger companies to reach their green credentials and if they stand up and take the lead when it comes to building large scale net zero buildings and projects, then others will follow suit.”

With no UK commercial buildings currently considered as net zero both in construction and operation, there are hopes that smaller scale buildings such as houses will become net zero before new and old office buildings are converted into greener beings.

The government’s announcement that all new build homes will be highly energy efficient, with low carbon heating by 2025

was well received in the industry, and with new builds in 2021 already producing 31% less carbon emissions than those built previously, engineering firms such as Sutcliffe are playing a crucial role in implementing and teaching techniques that can make buildings greener.

Giving his opinions on how residential buildings can reach net zero standards in the upcoming years, Sean Keyes continued by discussing the ways that his company in particular are pushing the green agenda in construction.

“There are approximately 23 million homes in England and 27 million in the UK, but unfortunately at the moment, there are very few of these that are truly green. There are millions of homes that need to be upgraded to be made more energy efficient and it is important that the newest technology is implemented in order to do so.

“New energy saving lights, renewable energy heating systems, highly efficient boilers and Grade A+++ domestic appliances in homes are crucial in order to reach net zero, but for me, the most important thing is insulation and especially in old terraced homes, it is imperative that retrofitting and other forms of insulation are used to heat homes.”

“The Covid pandemic has made us all more aware of the climate and the damage that can be done to the world if we don’t make changes quickly. I believe over the next 10 years there will be plenty of new jobs and opportunities created and speaking personally as a business owner, we will be doing all we can to ride the crest of the wave and push the green agenda.”

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COVER FEATURE

In order to make a residential building net zero, it is predicted that cost expenditure on projects will rise by approximately 5%, with the cost uplift in an office building set to be somewhere between 8% and 17%.

However, with the long-term benefits both financially and environmentally far outweighing any negatives brought from net zero buildings, Sean Keyes reiterated the point that bigger companies must

take the lead when it comes to pushing the green agenda, with Keyes increasingly confident that if this is done, the targets for 2040 will be met.

“The client on every project needs to be confident that every scheme started will be built in a net zero manner and although that may come with a larger upfront cost, this will balance out for decades to come, and will lead to a more sustainable world.

“The Covid pandemic has made us all more aware of the climate and the damage that can be done to the world if we don’t make changes quickly. I believe over the next 10 years there will be plenty of new jobs and opportunities created and speaking personally as a business owner, we will be doing all we can to ride the crest of the wave and push the green agenda.”

“New energy saving lights, renewable energy heating systems, highly efficient boilers and Grade A+++ domestic appliances in homes are crucial in order to reach net zero” 30

Scan

PATRON NEWS

Being a Net Zero Hero Starts from Home Climate change is the defining global issue of our times. Yet changes needs to start local. Liverpool City Council have a set the challenge of becoming net zero by 2040, and to achieve this, businesses and individuals must contribute.

For the modern, forward-thinking business, preparing for the future means conveying climate change in our objectives.

Evidence suggests transport emissions alone account for 21% of the UK’s carbon footprint, and every day, employees spend 4.6 million hours commuting. Overall, businesses of all sizes contribute to 14% of the UK’s total carbon emissions, with 6% of this from SME’s.

This 14% largely involves energy consumption in offices, driving company vehicles and waste sent to landfill In May, BT announced that emissions had reduced by 14% year on year. So, what can

Property market buoyancy opens big opportunity for Face for Business.

The property market has seen a massive boost over the last 18 months and, is it any wonder with the following statistics?

• 16 buyers chasing every available property • Houses prices increasing at nearly 7% annually • 20%+ increase in year-on-year sales Face for Business already handles calls and live chats for estate and lettings agents and has seen increased opportunities for the last 18 months with many new

SME’s do to make their contribution? At BT Local Business, we have taken some simple steps; introducing electric cars into our fleet, paper free office policy, energy saving lights, and utilisation of the products within our portfolio to increase remote working, as well as more efficient, virtual customer and team meetings, reducing the need for travel. A recent study suggested that working from home two days a week could help the UK avoid 143 million tonnes of CO2 per annum.

Telecoms may not seem like an obvious factor in reducing emissions, but utilising products, such as BT Cloud Telephony, allows you to unify all communication services on one single platform and communicate seamlessly wherever you are. Less travelling equals less emissions and less waste. With a wide range of market-leading telecoms products in our portfolio, here at BT Local Business we are ready to support SME’s in the region to contribute to national emissions targets.

If you would like a free demonstration, either online or in your office, on how we could help your business with remote working please call us on 01704 898210.

We know the problems, but are we considering less obvious solutions? Remote working and better use of telecoms can tick multiple environmental boxes, and following the pandemic, less time spent at the office has the added benefit of supporting both the region and national environmental targets by reducing journeys, office space requirements and electricity consumption.

new properties, marketing the properties, manning an office, arranging viewings, concluding the paperwork and transactions, liaising with other professionals in the process and most importantly maintaining communications with their clients. This is one busy sector, that has been working at pace since the pandemic started!

customers using their service and existing clients increasing the use of their service.

It’s increased so much, that Face for Business have employed an expert Sales Executive dedicated to servicing the property sector. Mike Bilboe joined Face for Business with over nine years B2B sales experience. Mike explained a few things that attracted him to the role and why he thinks Face for Business is in a great position to help companies in the property sector.

“I was delighted to get the role, as, not only could I see the opportunity that the property market currently has, but also how well our service helps that sector. Estate and letting agents are busy people, taking on

We offer so much for this busy industry - increased opening hours, capturing opportunities, keeping customers informed; these are just a few ways our call handling and manned live chat service helps. Our service exceeds expectations because we are one of the most transparent in the market. Who else in our market offers you the opportunity to listen back instantly, to your PA answer and handle your calls, at the touch of a button? Having now met many existing and new customers, I realise how important the ability to judge the service we provide, is, especially as when outsourcing any part of your business, you need to judge the quality.”

If you would like to consider outsourcing your call handling, why not contact Mike who can offer you free advice on what to consider before outsourcing your call handling? www.ffb.co.uk

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TRANSPORT

TransPennine Express has already reduced CO2 emissions by almost 20 per cent in recent years and now vows to do even more TransPennine Express (TPE) has made a public commitment to significantly step up its plans to help address climate change and reduce its carbon footprint to net-zero.

The train company, which runs services across the North and into Scotland, has joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), and will now put together a clear set of targets to map out how it will drive down emissions and help care for the planet.

Science Based Targets (SBTs) provide companies with a clearly defined path to reduce emissions in line with the Paris

Agreement goal to limit global temperature rises to 1.5 degrees. They show companies how much and how quickly they need to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to prevent the worst effects of climate change.

TPE has already taken steps towards addressing climate change and is on track to reduce carbon emissions by 30 per cent per vehicle kilometre by April 2023. The company has already cut carbon emissions by 18 per cent since 2019 and its Nova train fleet, which includes bi-mode and electric trains, helps reduce passengers’ CO2 by 77 per cent compared to travelling by car*.

Matthew Golton, Managing Director for TransPennine Express said; “Train travel is already one of the most sustainable forms of transport, however it is crucial that we do all we can to combat climate change and protect our environment for future generations.

“Signing up to the Science Based Targets Initiative represents an important milestone for us as we publicly commit to setting clear goals towards further reducing carbon emissions ahead of the international climate change summit (COP26) taking place in Glasgow this November.

“More and more people are now taking the train again following the pandemic, and I would encourage others to leave the car at home and reduce their own carbon footprint by travelling in style on one of our fantastic, modern trains instead.”

TPE is part of FirstGroup, which has become the first bus and rail operator in the UK to formally commit to setting an ambitious science-based target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 at the latest.

For more information visit www.tpexpress.co.uk/about-us/our-plan/sustainability

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MEMBERS NEWS

Research Group Maps Green Markets Across UK The Greening Markets Research Group (GMRG), at Liverpool Hope Business School, was formed to investigate green (environmentally conscious) markets across Great Britain. With the rapid rise of environmentalism as a societal issue, presently hampered by crises, and an uncertain future; businesses need all the help they can get in understanding changes to their markets. That is why, to assist UK businesses, the group has mapped the greenness of British markets.

GMRG’s previous research has investigated the impact of green politics and activist groups on markets. They have explored the role of business in the formation of mutual aid groups during the coronavirus pandemic. They have examined economic valuations of civil society environmental engagement. They have even taken their examination of green markets and applied it to examining the ‘market congruence’ between the sustainable behaviour of each English Premier League Club and the ‘greenness’ of its local market in a major report completed for Everton FC. The group’s latest research has produced an interactive map which reveals the

greenness of markets across England and Wales. The group hopes the map will be of value to Liverpool Chamber members and to business leaders across the country. Whilst it shows those areas – at postcode district level – that are currently the greenest, another major contribution is in identifying those that aren’t. The least green areas of Britain need policy assistance and business leadership the most. GMRG is keen to work with local businesses to make their research increasingly practical and relevant to the strategies that Liverpool businesses are adopting for a greener future. This is no mere academic exercise. Business can and must make the pivotal contribution and Liverpool can help to lead the way.

The interactive map of green markets, as well as the group’s other research, can be found on their website greeningmarkets. org. The map is accompanied by a full report that explains the findings. If you would like to learn more about the Greening Markets Research Group’s work, or to discuss how you can partner with them in their work, you can send them a message through their website.

Sustainability is more than a buzz word, it’s a word which requires action. With this in mind, early in 2021 Morecrofts Solicitors launched a staff-led sustainability team to dedicate time to help us change.

Leader of the Green Team Rebecca Dobbs tells us what it’s all about….

My passion for helping the planet has been engrained in me for a long time, so when I was given the opportunity to lead this team at Morecrofts, I jumped at it.

Myself and six colleagues from all levels in the business make up the Green Team. We work closely with the strategic decision board of the firm to make change.

Our goals are; • To reduce the firm’s carbon footprint through a series of practical measures and changes • To educate all colleagues on the importance of sustainability, both in the workplace and outside of the workplace.

• To find smart ways to invest budget in becoming more sustainable We’ve made some great steps so far, and have some big plans for the end of 2021 and early 2022.

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Practical changes we’ve made so far include committing to paperlite working – which is by no means easy for many of our teams. As a profession, law traditionally runs on large amounts of paper.

We’ve worked with individual teams to train them in e-document handling, e-bundling, digital signing, enhanced online client communications and so much more.

Following a £250K IT upgrade, we’ve been in a great position to put relevant technologies in place quickly and make a swift positive impact in reducing the firm’s carbon footprint.

As with all business changes, communication is key. We communicate through internal newsletters regularly, updating members of the firm on current global issues as well as what we are putting in place internally.

We are changing mindsets throughout the firm with training on how to be more sustainable, both at home as well as in the office – things as simple as shutting down computers and reducing personal plastics are making a big impact.

In a recent survey, the vast majority of our colleagues said they have benefitted from making changes, and want to adopt more new habits.

One of the small steps we will shortly be taking will be stationery amnesty, encouraging all staff to box up their unused items such as pens, labels, paperclips etc. and redistributing them across the firm, to reduce waste and ensure everything ordered is actually used.

In November 2021, we will publish our new sustainability policy. This will be a public document on our website, demonstrating our commitment to staying focussed on becoming more carbon neutral in the coming months and years.

You can’t be what you can’t see, and the investment to becoming more sustainable, both in money and time from the Partners at Morecrofts has been welcomed by us.

There are big plans in the pipeline and the Morecrofts Green Team are looking forward to sharing our triumphs – both big and small. Together we are working smarter, faster and more sustainably.

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LIVERPOOL CITY REGION

LCR Connect launched – delivering ultrafast digital infrastructure to the Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram has officially launched LCR Connect – a 212km full-fibre, ultrafast, gigabitcapable network spanning the Liverpool City Region.

LCR Connect will help make Liverpool City Region the most digitally connected area in the UK and ultimately lead to a £1 billion boost to the local economy, by delivering speeds of 1,000mbps and beyond, and positioning the city region at the head of the next digital revolution.

When complete, it will put city region businesses in prime position to lead the way in a host of growing sectors, from health and life sciences to artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing.

LCR Connect is a £30m joint venture, part-owned by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram, in partnership with North West-based ITS Technology Group, who will lead the project, working alongside construction partner NGE, who are managing the build and roll out of the network.

“When I was first elected, I made it a priority to make our region the most digitally connected anywhere in the country. Today

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we take a major step towards that, with the official launch of LCR Connect.

“Our region was at the heart of the first industrial revolution, and this project can put us at the forefront of the fourth industrial revolution, creating thousands of jobs and ultimately generating £1bn for the local economy. It will make us leaders in the industries of tomorrow and will help us attract talent and investment from around the world as others look to take advantage of our skills, infrastructure and expertise.

“Local people and businesses will feel the benefits too – in the form of significantly faster speeds as well as the jobs and training opportunities, although the Government still needs to tackle the problem of digital exclusion.

“And, best of all, it will all be 50% owned by us so we can continue to reap the benefits for years to come.

“As we have done so many times before, this is our region seizing the initiative, leading the way and crafting what I hope will be a lucrative and successful new future that everybody in our region can benefit from.”

“Over the next two years, digital infrastructure is being installed underneath carriageways, footpaths and cycle ways across the city region, using innovative deployment techniques to minimise the impact on road and public transport users wherever possible.” Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region “Delivering gigabit-capable connectivity will help businesses thrive, as we build back from the pandemic, creating

good quality jobs. It also creates huge potential for improving public services and educational opportunities. As we build this crucial network we will also continue to work with partners to drive digital inclusion and ensure no-one is left behind.” Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Deputy Portfolio Holder for Digital Connectivity and Inclusion “LCR Connect is a true collaboration, demonstrating what can be achieved when public and private sectors are focused on the same outcomes, helping to deliver economic, environmental and social benefits.“ This programme will be transformational and we are excited to be playing a central role in its delivery, supporting growth in the digital economy of the region, as well as supporting national targets for full fibre access by 2025.” Daren Baythorpe, CEO of ITS Technology Group “NGE is proud to be part of the joint venture appointed to support the transformation of Liverpool City Region.

“Using labour and resources from within the Liverpool City Region, this project is also a fantastic opportunity to deploy our infrastructure development and finance expertise in cities across the UK such as Liverpool.” Antoine Metzger, Chairman of NGE To find out more visit www.LCRConnect.com or email hello@LCRConnect.com with any enquiries.

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DIGITAL

4 tech changes to make your business greener

By Gavin Sherratt, MD, Mashbo Everything we do at work has a carbon footprint. Data centres packed with servers full of web pages, apps and databases, which we use daily without thinking, create emissions, as does using the internet, which releases around 300 million tonnes of CO2 a year - as much as half of the fossil fuels burned in the UK. Even ‘spam’ or unnecessary messages - like those single line ‘thank yous’ we all send - generate 0.3g of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) per email, and research shows that 64 million unnecessary emails are sent every day. It all adds up.

Should this be a concern for SMEs? Can we make a difference? Our answer is yes.

Understanding the impacts of work on the environment isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for business too. Clients and customers are increasingly conscious about environmental impact and will check environmental credentials before buying from or choosing your company, so it makes sense to consider some simple changes.

1 Implement Remote Working The pandemic taught us that we don’t need to ask our team to commute into

Liverpool Chamber

a central office every day. Our remote working systems and processes means we are no longer creating emissions from travelling into work or running a city centre office. SMEs should consider if they can go fully remote or reduce the amount of time staff needs to be in the office, and engage tech specialists to help set up efficient and effective remote working systems.

2 Upgrade Existing Systems Running systems off older technology has negative implications for the environment.

Making small changes in this area can create a BIG impact, even though the changes will be barely noticeable on a day-to-day basis. Take PHP, one of the most popular programming languages in the world. Many web pages and apps still run on PHP 5. Yet upgrading just 50% of servers from PHP 5 to PHP 7 would save $2billion in energy costs per year, as well as avoiding billions of kilograms of CO2 emissions. Put simply, keeping systems upto-date will save energy, save on costs and reduce emissions.

offset that carbon impact. When Mashbo creates a software product or web app, we run it on one server, alongside several others, rather than our clients running it off an individual server - see it as digital carpooling of sorts. There’s still an impact, but it’s greatly reduced. Quite often as well, automating processes can have other positive outcomes as well, such as greater productivity, efficiency and profitability.

4 Carbon Neutral Your UX When looking at your app or website’s UX (user experience), you should consider and apply Sustainable Interaction Design - the premise that sustainability must be at the heart of all digital interaction design. This means that a few easy design changes (like removing that huge video from your homepage) and greater consideration about content in apps and on websites, could easily slash your carbon footprint.

For more information and advice, visit Mashbo’s report: https:/ /mashbo.com/ downloads/SaveTheWorld.pdf

3 Use Process Automation At first this may seem a bit counter-intuitive.

The development work that goes into creating platforms that automate day-today processes involves the use of servers and communication via email. However, the long-term outcomes can more than

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TAX INSIGHT

A complete tax overhaul is needed to meet the UK’s net zero obligations

Sheena McGuinness, Head of Renewables and Cleantech, corporate tax partner, RSM In 2019 the UK became the first major world economy to pledge to end its contribution to global warming by 2050.

This net zero target indicates huge changes to the tax system are needed to meet net zero aspirations.

It’s clear we need to be braver to tackle the climate emergency. Tweaking the current taxation system around the edges and bolting on quick fixes won’t deliver a carbon neutral future. The current tax system, of taxing income, was introduced

by William Pitt the Younger in1799, so it’s no surprise this fiscal regime no longer fits today’s societal drivers.

We’ve seen how failing to take a holistic approach leads to illogical results. For example, surely solar panels on the roofs of hospitals and schools is a good thing? It reduces greenhouse gasses and cuts bills for businesses. However, these businesses are stung by increased business rates, as installation of energy efficient fabric adds value to the property. An easy fix would be to exclude such enhancements from the business rates regime. However, this would be a quick fix, and possibly open to abuse.

Responding to climate change will require more government stimulus, and the UK is currently running at net deficit,

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exacerbated by the covid pandemic.

With pressure mounting around numerous economic uncertainties, not least a clear route map regarding the simplified tax system, there’s a negative impact on the UK markets. Investors don’t like uncertainty and with recent tax hikes and more anticipated, as demonstrated by the recent Health and Social Care Levy and increase in the rate of corporation tax to 25%, there is a lot of ambiguity and possible alteration.

To meet the changing fiscal and societal objectives, the income-based tax system introduced over 200 years ago will have to be replaced with one that matches the changing motivators of societal behaviour, which brings me on to data as a possible basis of taxation.

Data represents the world’s first limitless asset and is a valuable commodity to businesses. The value of our personal data is primarily locked up in the revenues of large corporations, therefore it should be possible to tax this commodity. Currently data has no generally accepted valuation method from an accounting perspective, which begs the question – how could data be tracked and taxed?

We have all contributed to create this commonwealth of information, and the whole is worth more than the sum of its parts. The users of digital platforms should demand not only better protection of data but also a system that ensures everyone shares in the profits the amalgamation of our data facilitates. The first part of this equation – how to create government regulation for effective data protection,

is beginning, with companies having to safeguard data or face hefty fines. But the second part of this arrangement – how to ensure that society benefits from the wealth their data creates – is embryonic.

Tax inherently creates a disincentive to use or create whatever is being taxed.

Therefore, the majority want to tax negative things like cigarettes and alcohol.

It’s hard to make a case that there is anything wrong with data per se, in fact, the opposite could be true. More data could improve the health and safety of the population and support new products and services, creating more prosperity.

Wouldn’t it be better to tax something that is ‘bad’, like carbon, rather than data itself?

It is entirely conceivable that, if the tax system were to be overhauled, carbonbased taxes will have a greater role to play.

Environmental taxes are difficult to define, since all taxes affect economic activity, and almost all economic activity has some environmental impact. What is more, the revenue raised from environmental taxes is a rather limited indicator of the environmental impact of tax. The more successful the tax is in changing behaviour, the less revenue it raises. The Office for National Statistics attempted a classification and quantification of environmental taxes and, on that basis, £51.6bn was attributed to this tax in 2019.

About 55% of this was fuel duty, and the other sizeable chunk was vehicle excise duty, representing about 5% of the UK tax take, an amount that the Treasury simply cannot afford to lose. Nonetheless

TAX INSIGHT

fuel duty is likely to be the first tax that disappears with the move away from petrol and diesel vehicles and the heir apparent (electric vehicles) currently attracting no duty. Albeit this will no doubt change to “plug” the gap, for example by way of a carbon-based tax on road use.

Casting the net wider, where is the spotlight likely to fall next? It is entirely conceivable that individuals and businesses could be taxed on their carbon usage….every time an item is subjected to a process which results in carbon usage

a carbon added tax could be applied (similar in concept to the current value added tax) and not dissimilar in concept to the carbon tax currently applied to cement and other high carbon producing industries in the UK. Or rewarding positive behaviour, the Government could incentivise (eg in the form of tax credits) those that are carbon neutral, or the utopia of carbon negative.

There was evidence (if you looked closely at the small print!) of this in the March 2021 Budget with Green Home Grants.

Despite the net zero target, the changing mindset of the population and ESG becoming a mainstream investment criteria in the markets, I predict the changes to the taxation system will be slow and piecemeal. It may feel like death by a thousand cuts before we get to anything resembling a coherent and holistic tax system that is fit for purpose in the modern world. Nonetheless it is clear that the Government needs to operate the tax lever to influence behavioural change in order to try to reach its carbon zero aspirations.

www.freepik.com/photos/flower’>Flower photo created by jcomp

Liverpool Chamber

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RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Collaboration for Net Zero - creating pathways for innovations to scale fast “We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” - Albert Einstein.

At CGI, we recognise that tackling climate change and accelerating progress towards net zero requires different thinking and pathways to deliver the necessary innovative solutions.

Our experience tells us that collaboration creates better solutions to the most complex challenges. And finding positive solutions to the climate crisis is the most complex challenge of our generation.

With this in mind, we recently undertook a search for tech partners with innovative digital solutions that will have meaningful, positive impacts on climate change.

The complexity of the climate challenge can seem overwhelming for some, whilst others simply aren’t engaged. Digital technologies have a vital role in abstracting that complexity, and digital automation means that those not

fully engaged can still participate in solving climate change. Simplifying access to the benefits of doing the right thing for our planet and future generations, we believe, underpins a climate transition that is ‘just’.

According to the Royal Society’s ‘Digital technology and the planet’ report, investigating the role of digital technologies in making progress towards net zero, nearly a third of the 50% carbon emissions reductions the UK needs to make by 2030 can be achieved through existing digital technology. Its application to improving yields and reducing waste undoubtedly helps to cut embedded carbon emissions.

The immediate threat of Covid-19 prompted unprecedented behavioural change on a global scale, with national and international travel restrictions forcing businesses to find new ways of working that has reduced carbon emissions.

With in-person meetings put on hold, alternative communication methods had to be found. This is where MSP came to the fore, adapting its approach to develop virtual and hybrid events to ensure businesses could still meet without having to travel.

MSP director Lisa Richards said: “We have seen a massive shift in the way companies are now doing business as a direct result of 18 months in and out of lockdowns.

“Virtual and hybrid events have been a fantastic solution to help businesses continue to trade while delivering key

Following the selection process that took place at the recent Leeds Digital Festival, https:/ /leedsdigitalfestival.org we have invited the successful applicants to join a digital technologies showcase in Glasgow during the first week of COP26 https:/ /ukcop26.org.

This article is based on a blog by Rich Hampshire, CGI UK’s VP for Digital Utilities.

To find out more visit cgi.com/uk

Our search for tech partners in this area builds on our established approach to working with SMEs - CGI’s SME Accelerate Programme, which identifies SMEs with digital solutions that complement our own products and services.

Collaborations with our partners creates pathways for them to access new markets,

MSP helping businesses towards Net Zero From the gloom of the coronavirus pandemic came a glimmer of hope for the environment.

enabling our clients to benefit from new thinking and solutions that will help them deliver on their net zero commitments.

messages and events. As a result, there has been a reduction in international air travel and supplier and delegate transportation, all of which have had a positive impact on our carbon footprint.”

In 2019 UK Parliament set in law a commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 with small businesses being urged to half emissions by 2030.

With MSP’s help, Lisa says companies are reaching more people than ever before through online events while reducing costs and also doing their bit for the fight against climate change.

“Many companies have remodelled the way in which they do business as we look for smarter ways of working,” said Lisa.

“MSP expanded our services through the pandemic to include a broadcast studio at our HQ enabling companies to prerecord and live stream events safely. As a result, companies have saved on costs and reached a much larger audience with minimal travel that has had direct environmental benefits. This continues to be an ideal choice for many companies we are currently working with.”

MSP is a finalist in the ‘Business of the Year (under 30 employees) Award’ category at the forthcoming Liverpool Chamber Innovation in Business Awards for adapting its services over the past 18 months providing innovative spaces for events whilst following Covid safety guidelines.

CHAMBER EVENTS

Join Liverpool Chamber at Randox Official 2022 for the biggest corporate gathering of the year We are delighted to announce that The Silver Birch Garden Party will return on Randox Grand National Thursday (7 April 2022): the biggest business gathering over the three days of racing.

Our Exclusive Package Includes: • Premier Course Admission • Three Course Lunch

Spectators will be welcomed back to Aintree racecourse in 2022 with open arms, and what better way to kick-start the festival than to join us for the biggest business gathering in the calendar?

• Complimentary Bar (Beers, wines, spirits, soft drinks)

We’re taking over the Silver Birch Garden Party for an afternoon of racing, networking, and premium hospitality. With incredible views of the start line and home straight, you can celebrate the sporting event of the year in style from our private balcony.

• Complimentary Racecard

Find out more

• Private Tables of up to 10 or 12

• Traditional Afternoon Tea • Private Tote Betting • Complimentary car parking • 1 car pass per booking of 4

Events@liverpoolchamber.org.uk https:/ /www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk/events/liverpool-chamber-day-onrandox-grand-national-thursday/

Liverpool Chamber 2021 Innovation in Business Awards: Thursday 18 November 2021

Colleagues, partners, and friends can reconnect and celebrate at our official afterparty hosted by sponsors, ALIBI!

the innovation that has driven the recovery of so many businesses. We can’t wait to see you all on the night!

We have been delighted by the incredible response we have received to this event by our members. Over 11,500 votes were cast for our finalists, making this the best response we’ve had from any of our previous awards ceremonies. It’s no surprise that the traditional ceremony at INNSiDE by Melia officially sold out in record time too.

Tickets are available from £20 + VAT, which includes your entry to DWNTWN and afterparty at ALIBI, as well a welcome drink at both venues. Book your place, or find out more here https:/ /www. liverpoolchamber.org.uk/events/ innovation-in-business-awards-2021/

Looking ahead to 2022, I am thrilled to be back at Aintree Racecourse, planning one of my favourite events in the Chamber calendar. Nearly half of our tickets have sold already, which is no surprise after the long break-away from the in-person festival. If you’d like to guarantee your place, please book via the website or email events@liverpoolchamberorg.uk

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s to adapt and innovate. That’s why we’re hosting a live streaming of the ceremony at DWNTWN Liverpool, to allow our finalists to share the experience live with their wider teams, friends and clients.

The “Green Room” opportunity, allows all members of a business’ team to socialise with colleagues, network and support their organisation. The two venues will be digitally ‘united’ by our Strategic Partners, MSP Global, who will be streaming the event live.

Liverpool Chamber

Your update from Events Manager, Laura Edwards.

The pandemic unfortunately forced the cancellation of many of our large-scale events, and the industry as a whole has had to adapt in previously unimaginable ways. Therefore it has been incredibly exciting to plan a large scale live awards event again, which not only brings the Liverpool business community together, but also celebrates

We have a limited number of exciting sponsorship packages available for this year’s awards ceremony, and for also for our 2022 Grand National event. Please contact Tom.Woolley@liverpoolchamber. org.uk for more information.

I’ll look forward to seeing you at a live event very soon!

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Health Equality and Business in the Liverpool City Region Liverpool City Region suffers disproportionately from health inequalities and poor health outcomes and this is one of the reasons we have such a prominence of high-level health institutions and knowledge centres.

As part of our monthly strategy events, a panel of experts gathered at The Spine, Europe’s healthiest building, to discuss how business and innovation can lead the way in reversing this unwelcome pattern and lead the city region’s efforts to level-up.

Our chief executive Paul Cherpeau began the event by saying: “Health inequality is one of the most pressing issues facing us today. Not only does it directly impact those people suffering inequalities, but it also has a wider effect on the staff that businesses employ and attract and also their ability to provide continuity of service.

“Getting it right and reducing inequalities can actually be a key driver in our post-Covid economic recovery and growth.”

Paul handed over to Colin Sinclair, chief executive of Sciontec, to host the discussion and introduce the panellists, namely: • Professor Cheng Hock-Toh, professor and consultant in haemotology, Royal College of Physicians • Emma Lord, health director, Capacity • Claire Liddy, managing director of innovation, Alder Hey • Janine Melia-Moran, centre manager, Rutherford Cancer Centre Colin began: “It’s important to be optimistic at the moment, but also honest about where we are. Liverpool has some of the worst health inequalities in the UK and it’s those people who suffer most in an economic or health crisis.

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“The newly-announced Pandemic Institute is an example of innovation coming to the fore, but what else can we do? This will be our focus for today’s discussion.”

Professor Hock-Toh said: “The role of the RCP in the 21st Century is to consider the new challenges we face and explore ways to help. Health inequality is a major issue here - nine out of the ten UK areas with the

CHAMBER EVENTS

lowest life expectancy are in the North, six of those in the North West. From departure at London Euston to arrival at Liverpool, the local life expectancy is reduced by ten years.

“It is crucial that we work where we are based, so we partner with Liverpool City Council on the Health Inequality Council.

Our key strategic focus is working with communities and innovators across the North. The Levelling Up White Paper should play a positive role, but we await further details on that.”

Emma Lord said: “At Capacity, we support public service organisations to ‘unpick’ difficult problems, helping brilliant organisations to do brilliant things. Strategy can help but what really makes a difference is local action and understanding communities. Data can only tell us so much, but if you ask people suffering health inequalities, they are likely to know what isn’t working for them.

“It is not within the power of one single agency to solve this – lots of different organisations need to come together with a shared purpose. It’s not easy because some challenges are deeply entrenched, but let’s remain optimistic and get to the heart of the matter.”

Janine Melia-Moran said: “It is clear the current capacity doesn’t begin to scratch the surface. Our ultimate goal at Rutherford is to have a cancer centre that welcomes people without the ability to self-fund and that is something we are hoping to work towards, but there are many challenges.

“It is important to find ways of working together and innovating to find shared solutions to tackle health inequalities.”

Claire Liddy said: “Alder Hey is one of the world’s best specialist children’s hospitals.

Unfortunately, the reason we have this incredible resource here in Liverpool is that poverty creates disease and ill-health, which in turn attracts the best medical staff, all due to health inequalities.

“We regularly ask ourselves how we can bring technology into health to tackle inequality. Between North and South Liverpool alone, there is a 20-year difference in life expectancy, while we’ve seen a 50% increase in referrals for children with mental health problems. We need to innovate ways

Liverpool Chamber

to combat this and I can offer two examples of how we’ve done this recently.

“Firstly, during the pandemic we didn’t close our innovation service to repurpose staff, we accelerated it instead. We developed a digital therapy platform for children in Liverpool and Sefton, providing a digital front door to self-refer and hopefully avoid the need for admission to hospital.

“Secondly, we used artificial intelligence to look at patient demography and find those most unlikely to be brought to their appointments for various reasons, such as their parent is worried about taking time off work or has problems with substance abuse. Half of those who don’t attend appointments are living with health inequality, so we were able to pre-empt this and reach out to them early.”

PC: “Let’s push that forward and recognise that health does not live in a silo. There is an obvious coalescence between poverty, criminality, health inequality, so in policy terms how do we bring that together?

Policy shouldn’t live at 30,000 ft, but on the ground, where it counts.

“From a business perspective, we want a healthy, productive labour force. From neo-natal onwards, there should be an opportunity to build a happy life and successful career. We should recognise the ability of local businesses to impact on health outcomes for their own staff, creating an inbuilt private sector health focus.”

CHT: “The power of convening is often underestimated. The RCP must work hard to make it happen and we are very much open to new ideas.”

EL: “How can we incentivise health as employers? Poverty is at the root of health inequality, so how can we support a positive change through more diverse recruitment practices?”

JMM: “We are launching a new academy to bring more local people into healthcare roles. We have already recruited some great characters with a real desire to learn and develop their skills and we hope to expand this in future.”

CL: “We should focus on our strengths in computer science, data, universities, business, Daresbury and the Hartree Centre. We can leverage all of these things

to solve problems and the greatest need of all is health inequality. Data is key and we’ve had important investment into civic data.”

PC: “It’s important for the private sector to understand what’s happening on the ground and we can be the conduit. We can instigate change by focussing in the areas hardest hit by inequality and adopting a triage approach.”

EL: “Absolutely. Let’s go out and have conversations with the people experiencing these problems. Community groups can help to build connections, so let’s not overcomplicate it.”

PC: “Businesses can certainly play a greater part in tackling health inequality and in turn improve their ability to attract and retain talent, secure investment and achieve economic growth.”

As we approach 2022, the Chamber will continue its focus upon health and wellbeing and particularly the role of business in achieving the objectives of the City Plan, of which improving health outcomes is such a critical part.

Further events, resources and best practice seminars will be incorporated into the Chamber’s programme of delivery throughout the coming year.

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CHARITY

Liverpool Chamber launches major new scheme to help charities engage with business community is the private sector partner, with the aims of tackling health inequalities and responding to what matters most to people in terms of improving their health and wellbeing across all stages of life – Starting Well, Living Well and Ageing Well.

Lesley Beattie, director of development at Everton in the Community, said: “We pride ourselves on building long term strategic partnerships with companies, individuals and foundations alike. We are very grateful to the Chamber for its support which will enable us to continue our life changing and life-saving work whilst helping to meet their own long-term objectives.

Clatterbridge Cancer Centre and Everton in the Community also named as new charity partners Liverpool Chamber has launched an ambitious new project aimed at helping charities and community organisations to develop new relationships with its members.

The scheme will create pathways for third sector organisations to engage with businesses across a range of sectors, showcasing their missions and seeking support for awareness and fundraising campaigns. It will also involve a new multiplatform campaign encouraging Chamber members to partner with a charity and educating them on ways to enhance their social impact and return on investment.

Charities will receive access to all events covered by a standard Liverpool Chamber membership, including monthly strategy events and Well Connected, which will each feature a dedicated charity speaking slot.

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Two Charity Sector Showcase events will be held each year, bringing together charity representatives and corporate partners interested in the third sector, as well as presentations by local and national funders and potential corporate partners on their aims and objectives in recruiting charity partners.

Organisations will also be able to enrol on the Chamber’s Business Growth Programme, gaining a diagnostic assessment of their needs, with access to six seminars covering a range of growth advice, expert mentoring and ongoing support. The programme contains a Responsible Business module, giving a quarterly platforming opportunity to one charity partner. A variety of marketing opportunities will also be made available to charities, including features in the Chamber’s Well Connected magazine, member newsletters, social media and selected media channels.

The scheme is launched as the Chamber announces its own new charity partners Clatterbridge Cancer Charity and Everton in the Community - with the aim of raising significant funds for a joint project. The project will align with the Team Liverpool City Plan, of which Liverpool Chamber

“Collaborating with our charity offers a host of tangible outcomes to benefit businesses and set them apart from their competitors. By aligning with one of our 40 programmes they can truly help to give back to their local community.”

Danielle Carney, corporate partnerships manager at Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, said; “We are so excited to be working with Liverpool Chamber and its members and we can’t thank them enough for choosing Clatterbridge as one of their partner charities for this year.

“After such a challenging 18 months, it’s lovely to still have the support of local organisations such as Liverpool Chamber and we hope many more will join us on our mission to provide the very best in cancer care and treatment right here in our region.

“Every penny raised through our partnership with the Chamber will go directly to our patients, helping to make a huge difference to the lives of those living with cancer across Merseyside and Cheshire.”

The Chamber is committed to raising significant funds at its Annual Awards on 18 November and the Silver Birch Garden Party event at the 2022 Randox Grand National, with around 400 attendees, as well as various other events throughout the year.

STAFF DIRECTORY

Staff Directory

Chamber staff are here to provide dedicated support for business members of the Chamber. The directory below provides a list of contacts for members should they need to contact us.

Connect Support Thrive.

Paul Cherpeau Chief Executive

Jon Cranston Director of Finance & Operations

Tom Woolley Business Growth & Membership Manager

Elena Enciso International Trade Manager

Julie Sankey International Trade Executive

Ian Bulmer Programmes & Policy Manager

Sarah Woolley Export Documentation Specialist

Helen Gibbons Accounts Manager

Michelle Cameron Senior Policy & Communications Advisor

Melissa Healy Office Manager

Laura Edwards Events Manager

Nathan Taylor Administration Assistant

paul.cherpeau@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

julie.sankey@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Heather Whitaker Export Documentation Specialist

heather.whitaker@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Jordan Rhoda Membership Executive

jordan.rhoda@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Emily Hardy Marketing and Communications Officer emily.hardy@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Liverpool Chamber

jon.cranston@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

ian.bulmer@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Lisa Noon Export Documentation Specialist lisa.noon@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Conor Williams Executive Officer

conor.williams@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Jess Miller Marketing and Events Assistant

tom.woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

sarah.woolley@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

michelle.cameron@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

laura.edwards @liverpoolchamber.org.uk

elena.enciso@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

helen.gibbons@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

melissa.healy@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

nathan.taylor@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

Tel: 0151 227 1234 Email: membership@liverpoolchamber.org.uk export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk | @LpoolChamber

jessica.miller@liverpoolchamber.org.uk

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that time. That really stood out to me and I like to think I have carried that same valueled approach throughout my own career.

If you weren’t doing your current job what would be your ideal role?

Art was a key part of my life when I was younger and it would have been very possible for my career to diverge along that path. The reason it didn’t was probably my parents, who felt I wouldn’t be able to make a professional career from it, but art remains a passion to this day and I spent a lot of time painting during lockdown. It’s wonderful for supporting mindfulness and channelling my creativity.

Who is your role model (business or personal) in business?

I took a lot from working with the late, great David Guest, who was my boss at Bruntwood in the early years of my career.

He was a man of great integrity and his values really shone through, with a sharp focus on doing the right things for the long-term.

What advice would you give your SME customers in working to achieve net zero targets?

There is rightly a lot of focus on finding sustainable, renewable energy sources.

I would also advise SMEs to look at their own energy consumption and take a similar approach to home, such as switching off lights, devices and heating when they’re not required. Small changes can make a big difference.

What does a typical working day look like, and has this changed since the onset of Covid?

I get the train or cycle into the city centre most days from Crosby as I really enjoy the energy of working alongside peers and colleagues, though I do also try to work from home at least one day per week.

I split my time between our two key areas of the city; the Commercial District, where Bruntwood Works has a number of highprofile commercial properties, and the Knowledge Quarter, where Bruntwood SciTech is involved in the Sciontec innovation development business.

What is on the top of your to-do list?

My two main goals are to see the first

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major Sciontec development delivered and the successful transformation of The Plaza on Old Hall Street.

What is the best advice you have been given in your career?

From an early age, I would spend a lot of time around the architecture studio in Waterloo where my Mum worked and I had a passion for buildings and design from that point. As I approached graduation in my degree course, I met lots of graduate recruiters but only one business stood out for their approach, and that was Bruntwood.

They talked about their values, rather than what they did, and this was rooted in family values and long-term investment in the local area, led by Mike and Chris Oglesby at

Why choose Liverpool City Region?

Aside from all the obvious advantages of location, connectivity and opportunity here, what really stands out for me is the growing diversity in our city region.

Whenever I travel into Liverpool Central, I notice the eclectic mix of young people not afraid to be different, coming into the city from various locations to educate themselves and learn valuable new skills.

We need a more diverse workforce, not just in terms of race or gender, but in how our brains work and our different perspectives on life. There is a real energy around the universities and Baltic Triangle in particular which gives me great optimism for the future of the city region.

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