Yorkshire BusinessWoman February 2021 Edition

SUPPORTING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS ACROSS THE REGION

Yorkshire Nยบ2 Bi-Monthly

A TopicUK Publication

February 2021

A true Yorkshire inspiration

Dame Linda Pollard DBE DL Hon LLD

The formula for success

Ros Jones, helps entrepreneurs and business owners

The problem with IT in the workplace

taking things back to basics

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Save the date.

12th February at 7-10pm

Show some self-love and make a date with yourself for our Virtual Wellness Event in support of Smart Works Leeds.

We will host an evening of yoga, meditation, inspiring panel discussions, at-home facial and a soothing sound bath to leave you feeling relaxed and recharged.

Wellness Goodie Bags available with select tickets* Dress code: comfy

Tickets on sale from January 4th 2021.

Find the Eventbrite link at @timetobloom.uk on Instagram or our website timetobloom.uk

*With select tickets to be bought by end of Jan 2021 for guaranteed delivery

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

AND

IN SUPPORT OF

This issue

Yorkshire Businesswoman are delighted that professional photographers Lincoln Roth and Perrin Read who specialise in portrait photography are our partners for this exciting new magazine.

Roth Read Photography work closely with both private and commercial clients because client’s stories inspire them to capture images which are creative, authentic, and invoke emotion. It is the attention to detail which adds value to a personal legacy or business brand.

Their aim is to provide you, our readers, with the best images and experience.

Group Editor Gill Laidler Design Rob Blackwell Business Executive Mandy Taylor Official Photographers Roth Read Photography

Cover : taking things back to basic Image : Roth Read Photography

To Partner Yorkshirebusinesswoman - Tel: 07711 539047  hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk

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10 21 42 86 112

Debbie reaches for the stars

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A true Yorkshire inspiration

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Making a mark on the cultural sector

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What’s in my handbag?

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Haircare with Andrew Barton

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by group editor Gill Laidler

Contents & Comments

Editors notes

As we entered 2021, we entered into another lockdown, our third, one I think none of us thought we would see a year ago when this pandemic started.

My heart goes out to the thousands of families who have been bereaved and pray that we see the end of this soon, hopefully with the vaccine.

On a brighter note, we are delighted to be bringing you issue 2 of Yorkshire Businesswoman and thank everyone who has contributed and supported.

The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers and therefore, no responsibility can be held by the publisher for misinterpretation.

Reproduction of this magazine without the express permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Whilst every care is taken in the production of this magazine, the publisher/editor and staff cannot accept any responsibility for errors in articles, advertisements or programme schedules.

To subscribe to this magazine contact 07711 539047 or email hello@ yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk Published by Ghost Publishing Limited.

Once the pandemic lifts, we have lots of plans for this new publication, putting it into print is top of the list, as well as including as many features and articles to benefit the fabulous women in our business community as we can. We will also be holding some events in conjunction with our partners Dakota Hotel Leeds and hope you will all be able to join us. We intend to launch a member’s club very soon, so do get in touch if you are interested in finding out more. editor@ yorkshirebusinesswoman. co.uk This edition we feature Dame Linda Pollard who is chair of

the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. Linda received the honour of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in the Queen’s Birthday honours for her outstanding service to healthcare.

We also feature a couple of TopicUK and Yorkshire Businesswoman partners, Debbie Dobson from Dakota Leeds, Victoria Clapham from BeVic PR services and Helen Featherstone from Yorkshire Sculpture Park. We also have a couple of new features this time, ‘What’s in my Handbag’ where we asked author Milly Johnson to share the contents of her bag and TV presenter and actress Natalie Anderson shares what is in her make-up bag. For all those of you who are desperate to keep fit during lockdown, personal trainer Adam Batchelor shares with us some of the things we can do from home. Until next time, stay safe Gill You can email us at hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk or call us on 07711 539047

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Fashion show returns to the runway

As the New Year rolls around again, the events industry looks towards the future with bright prospects, as the excitement of returning to ‘normality’ approaches. With packed 2021 calendars already beginning to emerge, the light at the end of tunnel is seemingly right around the corner.

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Leeds fashion show, Fashion Fiesta is no exception to this. With the show gearing up for their 7th annual show, preparations are underway for the show to return to their second home of the Crowne Plaza on November 26th.

Fashion Fiesta was founded in 2015 by Rachel Hatfield, director of Shoo Social Media. Central to the shows ethos is to ultimately give back to the communities of Leeds and surrounding areas. Allowing creatives, a platform of expression and a chance to showcase their work, be it fashion collections or their makeup artistry for the show’s models.

Since Fashion Fiesta came into fruition, the show has collectively raised over £12,250 for partnering charities including: One in a Million, PEER Support Yorkshire, Simon on the Streets, Teenage Cancer Trust, Lee Fancourt Mental Health Trust and more.

LEFT : Designer Faye Hindle- Capricorn Photogrpahy Fashion Fiesta

The success of the show and its huge charitable contribution over the years has been made possible by Fashion Fiestas sponsors and partners including: Blacks Solicitors, Beacon, H&N Magazine, Yorkshire Post, Black Horse Property, The Agenci, Alan Capricorn Photography, Charles Waller Photography, Floral Dance, World Textile Information Network, Floral Image.

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on year, the atmosphere is unmatched as far as Leeds Charity fashion shows go. The opportunity to showcase local talent has even attracted designers and creatives further afield, with participants even travelling North of London to participate in an exclusive night of Leeds fashion.

Not only is the show an excellent opportunity for creatives to showcase their work, but the night also attracts local business leaders providing a unique networking opportunity at the VIP reception before the show. A handpicked group of industry leaders make up the judging panel on the evening including YBW editor Gill Laidler, with the winners in each category receiving incredible prizes designed to encourage individual growth including business coaching, workshops, photoshoot and social media strategy training.

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“The opportunity to showcase local talent has even attracted designers and creatives further afield, with participants even travelling North of London to participate in an exclusive night of Leeds fashion...�

TOP: Fashion Fiesta Team 2019.

TOP LEFT: Models_Capricorn Photography Fashion Fiesta LEFT : Cooli by Corinne 2019 Best Designer_ Model Laura Moore_ charles Waller Photography

Over the years, Fashion Fiesta has worked with 63 designers,130 models, 35 MUAS. The show welcomes creatives of ranging abilities from all over the country, with past participants including graduates, aspiring designe rs and established designers. Designers that have participated in the show have gone on to showcase their work on global stages including New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week.

After the success of the 2020 Fashion Fiesta back in November, despite being under all too familiar circumstances of virtual gatherings and Zoom meetings the week was a triumph with the round table discussion on the penultimate night reaching 1.2 thousand views on Facebook.

As preparations for Fashion Fiesta 2021 are already underway (COVID permitting) applications for creatives will be opening within the next few months and tickets for early Christmas tables to follow. The industry remains optimistic that events will resume to our schedules again and Fashion Fiesta will provide fashion lovers and creatives with a night of entertainment, artistry and charitable fun!

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Debbie continues to reach for the stars Photographers: Roth Read Photography

From early aspirations of becoming a policewoman to working today as director of sales at one of Leeds’s top hotels, Yorkshire Businesswoman finds out more about Dakota’s Debbie Dobson.

Even before leaving school Debbie was working. “I was a papergirl aged just 13,” she told us, “and at the same time, I was running my own market stall selling vintage denim clothing at weekends, that was the start of my sales career!”

I was a

Attending University hasn’t papergirl aged always bee n the norm, just 13,” she so it was never a plan for told us, “and at Debbie when she left school. the same time, “I actually wanted to be a I was running policewoman,” she said, “but my own market I was quite small in stature stall... so when the visiting police sergeant on school careers day said I would have to grow to meet the height requirements and

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as that didn’t happen, my dream of joining the force came to an end, as did my second career dream of becoming cabin crew with a major airline, all because I was 2 inches too short!” she laughed.

Instead Debbie headed to Thomas Danby College and trained in hair and beauty.

“After leaving college I started my own hairdressing business which I ran until my daughter Tahlia was born. It was difficult as a full-time working mum with no childcare, so I decided on a complete career change, joining the opening team at First Direct bank, who were modern and

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one of only two businesses in Leeds offering creche facilities,” she explained.

“My plan was to stay short term, just until Tahlia started school, but then along came my second daughter Paisley, around the same time that my role changed. I became events manager, a fantastic j o b w h e re I o r g a n i s e d parties and events, usually at the Majestic in Leeds, the only place large enough to accommodate our 3000 staff, so my short-term plan turned into 15 years!”

It was whilst continuing to work at First Direct that D ebbie returned to the beauty industry, opening her own tanning and beauty salon, which she still owns 20 years on. “We offer lots of different treatments in the salon, always reviewing and introducing new treatments and products and I am thrilled that my eldest daughter Tahlia followed me into the industry, taking over the running the salon as well launching a second s a l o n o f h e r o w n . My younger daughter Paisley has followed in my footsteps too, enjoying a successful career in hospitality as a front of house manager in Amsterdam Hotel.

“Around that time, I was a member of the gym at Oulton Hall Hotel and one day, I was approached and asked

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if I was interested in a role as corporate leisure sales manager, a job I was delighted to accept, I later become spa and leisure manager going on to open the 5* Spa in 2008, that went on to win numerous awards. “After eight years, I had the privilege of business developing the award-winning Dream Spa as spa director, before heading

south to Hampshire and Cork in Ireland as a group spa director for a selection of luxury 5* hotels,” she continued. “As an industry leader, I was delighted to be asked to join the judging panel at the ‘Professional Beauty’ awards and was also honoured to be named a finalist at the Hotel Cateys in Westminster.”

Following her spa career, Debbie was eager to move into hotel sales and when she heard Dakota was opening in Leeds, she was on a mission to achieve that. “Fortunately, I was successful in securing my post and started with the company pre-opening team in 2017 as sales manager, soon promoted to director of sales, the role I hold today,”

she added. “Hospitality poses many opportunities for hardworking women to succeed in and would encourage anyone to consider the industry.”

Wo r k i n g i n t h e h o te l industry Debbie has met lots of high-profile guests including Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger and

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Fact File

Robbie Williams to name a few, but it’s not for the feint hearted, it is incredibly hard work as Debbie confirms. “It is hard but rewarding. Every day is different, and it is certainly not a nine to five job. It’s always exciting meeting guests, and as a premier hotel we do welcome lots of high-profile guests, celebrities and premier footballers that I have been lucky enough become personal friends with.

Anothe r part of my role is attending networking events, entertaining and hosting corporate events, looking after VIPs etc and I wouldn’t have it any other way, I love it. I have plans to expand

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my network outside of Leeds promoting the Dakota brand to the beautiful surrounding areas of Yorkshire and with the company’s plans to expand from the current five hotels, who knows what the future will bring.

“I continue to reach for the stars and my advice to anyone in their career is to follow their dreams and never stop dreaming. If I was to start my career all over again the only thing, I would change would be to seek work in the hospitality industry earlier with set goals and travel more to experience different brands and cities. Failing that I would be a female racing driver,” she laughed.

What car do you drive?

Porsche 718 Boxster.

What do you do in your leisure time?

Work! I also have close connections with Leeds United so can often be seen on match days in the Chairman’s Lounge entertaining VIP and corporate guests.

Where is your favourite restaurant?

The Dakota Grill’ of course, we serve such fabulous food! Also, Tattu, for the food, cocktails, and the beautiful blossom. Plus, its literally a few steps away from the hotel.

What is your favourite food and drink?

I love seafood & champagne and also anything Italian with a nice glass of red.

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

Anywhere with sunshine, white sands and a turquoise ocean Where is your place in Yorkshire?

As a city girl by day, it has to be York, the quaint cobbled streets with beautiful little shop fronts and coffee shops along with the riverside bars to enjoy bubbles in the lovely sunshine and by night there is no better place to party than Leeds!

What is your favourite gadget?

I’m not really a gadget person so I’d have to say my phone.

What couldn’t you live without?

My hot tub. It’s my happy place and also where I do all my business thinking – some great ideas have come from there. And I certainly couldn’t live without my lip gloss!

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Wellbeing entrepreneur says support from mentor is invaluable A contemporary dancer and entrepreneur who runs a successful wellbeing business has embarked on a mentoring programme to enhance her business acumen.

Ella Mesma launched Business Yoga in January 2020. The Leeds-based business aims to support companies to put wellbeing at the centre of their ethos through a variety of workshops and programmes. This includes online yoga classes, and recommendations, and coaching sessions.

Ella is the director of the Ella Mesma Dance Company, which tours internationally. She also began practicing yoga in 2004, and has taught it for the past 10 years. But after launching her new enterprise, she knew she wanted some additional support to achieve her business goals.

The entrepreneur said: “As I came from a dance and yoga background, I knew I had a lot to learn. I am a believer in coaching and it’s a big part of my business, so it was natural for me to get a mentor of my own. Sometimes when you are inside something you can’t see the obvious but it so good to have someone from outside give perspective. It’s helpful to have the insight from someone Having the who knows the business inside out.”

right support is vital to any business’ success...

Last autumn, NatWest and Be the Business launched a free mentoring programme for female entrepreneurs to provide greater access to sponsors and mentors, in response to findings that show female business owners are at a disadvantage due to a lack of relatable role models and mentors. This programme seeks to

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address this challenge and help female business owners access high quality mentoring to help build their businesses.

Ella learned about the programme via NatWest and said: “I have an amazing mentor. My mentor has a finance background and it’s great to work with someone with that expertise. She has helped with mapping out my customer journey. We have weekly sessions and each week we hone on a specific area, and that is really helping me to make the right decisions for the business.”

Thrilled

The 12-week pilot programme was launched in the Leeds City Region last year, and plans are in place to roll the programme out further this year.

Heather Waters, enterprise manager at NatWest, said: “Having the right support is vital to any business’ success and as we saw through the Rose Review, female entrepreneurs value mentorship.

We are thrilled that Ella is having such a positive experience through our pilot programme with Be the Business and that she feels it is enabling her success. We look forward to supporting more women through the programme in the months ahead.”

Rebecca Clifton, mentoring lead at Be the Business, said: “This funded programme will give female entrepreneurs the chance to work with an experienced mentor at no cost as they navigate the challenges of the current business environment, and build their plan for growth.”

The Leeds LEP has recently launched its new Women Empowered through Coaching and

Networking or WECAN project which has been specifically designed to support women working in small businesses to become leaders in the future.

LEP Board member Mandy Ridyard, financial director of Produmax, said: “Leeds City Region is an exciting place for entrepreneurs to start

and scale their business. If women start and scale businesses at the same rate as men, it would add £250bn to the UK economy. This is a fantastic opportunity for female business owners in our region to gain access to free, hands-on support to help grow their businesses, grow a future-ready team and in turn contribute to an inclusive economic recovery.�

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Setting the standards high

Rachel McElroy was keen to start her career and earning her own money, so when she left school, she attended university only briefly, mainly to please her mum, but dropped out after three months, not wanting to remain in education.

“University was never going to be for me,” Rachel told us, “from the age of 13 I had the work bug, first washing up then waitressing in a riverside pub near my home. It was hard work washing pans that were nearly as big as me, surrounded It’s a career by chefs that were crazy path that I and bad tempered. But it hope becomes was quite an interesting more of a environment for a teenager, natural option and it taught me a lot about for girls when life, whilst instilling a love they are of food and hard work.

growing up...

“Things are different now for teenagers with parttime jobs, but when I was 15, I used to open up on Sunday’s and cook and serve the residents breakfast and take their payments on my own. Can’t imagine that happening now,” she laughed. “There was a lot

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of money and I think my work ethic and drive now stems from this time. I am a perfectionist and have high expectations and standards which throughout my life have sometimes been hard to meet.”

Rachel’s original plan however was to become an estate agent or a journalist. “When I dropped out of University, I secured a job as a trainee estate agent and aged just 18, with a brand-new company car and a proper job wearing suits, I thought I had made it,” she laughed. “I spent 15 years in the property industry as a regional sales manager and before that, a property valuer in estate agency. I like to think those years spent talking to homeowners, housebuilders, solicitors and

estate agents gave me a fantastic grounding to be able to talk with people on all levels, be emphatic and look at ways to solve problems, because home buying is always stressful. I came out of that industry in the last recession and the economy was in carnage, I remember those times and know we have to dig in post

pandemic to work our way to better times.�

But an estate agent she wasn’t destined to be, as in November 2016 Rachel was introduced to the CEO of Solutionize Global through a mutual business associate and the rest they say is history.

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“I kind of created my role as marketing manager contributors and working with the digital and was able to put my own stamp on it, how agency and the marketing team to bring the the business brand could be built and what our project to life.” voice was. In the beginning, and to an extent now, I have always done work outside of a “There are many other campaigns and traditional marketing role, including customer initiatives too across brand and PR to support focused activities and building our growth strategy and sales. relationships,” she explained, “I Solutionize Global is a very fasthave put my all into it, because if moving business which has not I can’t do something well, I don’t been as impacted as others due want to do it at all. My role now to the pandemic, but we have About is chief marketing officer. had to adapt like everyone else Rachel McElroy and we constantly review what Husband / partner name: Married to Steve “The tech sector traditionally has we are doing to support our Children: Lewis Niamh, had massive under representation team, customers and suppliers Mia and Aimee from women who have never in a landscape that continually What car do you seen it as a career path. I certainly changes,” she added. “The drive?

A BMW would never have envisaged marketing department drives What do you do in working in the sector when I comms and the internal and your leisure time? was young, but I am actually external voice of the business, I like to go on holiday, fascinated by technology and its so through this time we have eat nice food and impact on everything we do. It’s a been the busiest we have ever spend time with my career path that I hope becomes been and that shows no sign of family. more of a natural option for girls slowing.

I must admit, I thrive Where is your when they are growing up,” she on being busy, but have missed favourite restaurant? continued. “I have daughters and I a proper holiday this year.”

That’s a tough one as I try hard to show and discuss with have many favourites.

We did the chefs table them the real side of technology, So, what’s next for Rachel? “I in Petrus a few years the health tech, the IoT, the will continue to push myself ago and got to plate amazing applications and how further. I think if you don’t feel up our food in the kitchen which was they make a difference in our a little scared and spend time very memorable lives, not the school curriculum outside your comfort zone you What is your favourite computer science stuff which is can stagnate. As a business, food and drink? not particularly engaging at their we have grown exponentially Roast chicken dinner age and lacks alignment into their and I am constantly learning, and tea (all sorts of own worlds.” meeting new people and having different tea and experiences that push me. My infusions) – although not together!

So, what is a typical day like for advice to anyone starting out is Rachel? “No two days are the don’t doubt yourself, but also Where is your favourite place in same. We are currently working don’t be really hard on yourself Yorkshire? on a Northern Powerhouse white either as you are amazing. Be Brimham Rocks paper featuring leaders from the the best you can and set your What couldn’t you live North, sharing their insight on standards high. Everything I have without? how their leadership has helped done has shaped me into who I Assuming this doesn’t them steer the ship through these am today, you have to experience include people – my most challenging times. A lot of lows to appreciate the highs,” she teapot! my time is taken up interviewing concluded.

Fact File

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Like many of women of her generation, when Dame Linda Pollard DBE DL Hon LLD left school, going to university wasn’t an option, especially for a girl, so Linda had to do her formal learning later in life.

Not that this held her back in any way, nor did it stop her years later, going on to Chair the University of Leeds for seven years.

A true Yorkshire

inspiration Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

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“When I left school I got a job as a trainee in a lawyer’s office in Bradford, but I soon came to realise that I didn’t enjoy office work and after a few years, an opportunity came up to work for a marketing company in London, I jumped at the chance and this opened up a whole new world.”

Diversity

Welcome to Yorkshire (WTY) was originally funded by Yorkshire Forward, so it made sense for Linda became one of the first original board members. “We did some amazing work that really put Yorkshire on not just a national, but an international platform. It started small and grew, but every business has its challenges and managing change to new circumstances takes huge amounts of effort and time, no more so than now when the national economy is challenged and will be for some time to come. The great thing for WTY is the brand of Yorkshire, which does give it a future.”

With experience under her belt, Linda returned to Yorkshire and set up her own business in Bradford. “As my family business was based in Yorkshire, I had a large network of business contacts as well as contacts across the public sector due to my chairing the Strategic Health At 34-years-old, not content with running a business Authority in Leeds and several Government and working with Yorkshire Forward and WTY, bodies, I think that is why I was asked to join Linda was asked to become a Magistrate as they Yorkshire Forward as a business non exec with were looking for diversity for their membership. a remit for Bradford and Leeds and as my “At the time, the bench was very hierarchical interest grew, I became deputy chair,” she told and formal, but the training and learning was us. “Regional economics and the ability that fantastic,” she explained, “and within a couple Yorkshire Forward had to grow the economy of of years I was chairing the bench and playing an Yorkshire was fantastic and very successful and active part in the national Magistrates Association. this introduced me to the wider political issues I visited the Soweto Courts at the height of the that influenced decision making.

South Africa troubles as a visiting Magistrate

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which was a fantastic experience.” Linda was also recommended to the national Coutts Bank chair and CEO and became the first woman regional chair. “As the first national ambassador I had access to many influential people, and I did learn a lot. Sadly, the structure of Coutts has changed, and the role no longer exists.”

Today, Linda’s main role is with the Leeds Teaching Hospital Trust (LTHT) and health structures within Yorkshire and the Humber, but she also sits on several national working groups as well as being on the board (unpaid) of NHS Providers.

So, what does a typical day look like for Linda? “Every day is full as LTHT is a large and complicated trust with 19,000 staff across six sites and a £1.4bn turnover,” Linda explained “and I also sit on several other bodies. I have always been used to managing and being busy both in business and in my private life, bringing up a family whilst striving for success and connecting Gender balance with people, showing on Boards is leadership especially acknowledged during tough times, this is and well paramount. I have a great evidenced, as it team around me, support leads to better and communication are decision essential to organise my making... week and much of it is spent sitting in front of a screen for hours now that Covid-19 has prevented face to face meetings taking place, the days are long!”

As well as her busy role, Linda is also a DL after being recommended by her mentor, The Baroness Lockwood of Dewsbury. “It has been a privilege to serve West Yorkshire,” she added “and I have hosted many royal visits to the hospital, remembrance services and citizenship events.”

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Fact File What car do you drive?

A BMW convertible as I love to put the top down at all times of the year and feel and smell the fresh Yorkshire air.

Where do you go on holiday? We had a house in Spain for 10 years and used it as a base to explore the Spanish hinterland and Spanish history which is amazing. I love Majorca and when I am feeling extravagant, Mauritius for the heavenly beaches.

Where is your favourite Yorkshire destination?

I love the Yorkshire Dales. Driving through Wharfedale (top down on the car of course) towards Burnsall, Grassington and beyond is just heaven.

What is your favourite food and drink?

I’m a real foodie, I enjoy cooking and experimenting, and a good red wine is a must!

Where is your favourite restaurant? Anywhere where the quality of the food and presentation is better than home and where I can relax and feel welcomed What is your favourite gadget?It has to be my phone as I’m open 24/7 for my team and family.

Linda and her husband David, who is an exInternational rally driver and was a works driver for Sunbeam and Ford, have 3 children and 4 grandchildren.

One of Linda’s main focusses is the hospital new builds. Four years in the planning and what will be a huge legacy for Leeds is both the new Children’s and Adult hospitals. This includes releasing five hectares of land which will form the core of the Innovation District for Leeds, working with partners at the Leeds Universities and Leeds Local Authority. “This will attract inward investment in med tech and bio tech companies, which will align to R&I in both the hospitals and the University of Leeds,” she added. “We are on schedule for the Leeds General Infirmary site and are on target for the procurement of the design and build. Costing £600m, this build will totally transform how we deliver services to our patients, not just from Leeds but the region and beyond.”

Mentoring Our sister publication TopicUK (https:// topicuk.co.uk) covers the full story of both new hospital builds and will continue to keep readers updated through to completion.

Adding to Linda’s workload is of course the Covid-19 pandemic. “This has placed a huge strain on all the NHS and in particular our staff,” Linda told us. “Coping with the first wave in March was hard but the nation was on lockdown and all elective postponed, so staff retrained to address Covid related service need. The second wave had the added burden of trying to recover the elective list of patients who had gone onto the waiting list, whilst having all the Covid restrictions in place, distance and testing, leaving us short of beds, as well as staff tired and at full stretch.”

Linda has always believed that mentoring talented women to fulfil their potential is imperative. “Very often it’s just confidence that holds women back, perhaps following a career break,” she said. “Gender balance on Boards is acknowledged and well evidenced, as it leads to better decision making. “I’ve worked at national level within the NHS and helped produce the 50:50 by 2020 initiative Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

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and within Leeds we started the Female Leaders programme between LTHT and the University of Leeds that has 700 members,” she continued.

“I have regularly spoken at conferences on this issue. I believe that every successful woman has a duty to bring other women along with them.

“I’ve had an amazing career and it has taken me to places I never dreamt of, but I love variety and using the skills and experience I have, who knows what’s next. I do have a job to finish at LTHT as the new build will take us a few more years yet, but I do love a challenge.”

We couldn’t leave Linda without asking about her re c e n t Q u e e n s

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Award, becoming a Dame. “This was a total surprise as I had already been recognised twice before, receiving both an OBE and then a CBE. This year, because the Birthday Honours was postponed due to Covid, they changed the system, so the news came in a phone call from The Cabinet Office and I actually thought it was a joke,” she laughed. “Before the notification About Linda of an honour Linda describes Yorkshire as everything. arrived in a lovely “No matter who I meet and no matter what envelope! It is a situation I find myself in, I’m a Yorkshire great honour of lass through and through. As an only child course, but it’s not born in Saltaire just after the second world just for me, it’s war, to parents who both worked in the mills, also recognition gave me an independence to want to do more, for all the amazing to achieve more than was really allowed team I work with. for girls. I was encouraged by my paternal grandfather, who was general secretary for “No date has been a textile union and as a small child had what set yet for a trip I thought was a splendid office in Bradford, to the Palace, but I realised I wanted more than my parents there will be a had been allowed to have,” she concluded. celebration with family and friends during 2021.”

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Is skincare really self-care?

By: Lubna Khan-Salim

the opportunity for new habits and new rituals. Rituals are small gestures repeated at regular intervals. It’s the small and significant actions that prove you are worth your own care. Studies have shown rituals decrease stress levels and help with our mental wellbeing.

The Japanese have a beautiful ancient philosophy Wabi Sabi meaning a state of the heart, it is a deep in-breath and a slow exhale. It is felt in a moment of real appreciation- a perfect moment in an imperfect world. This is my thought behind a skincare ritual; it’s that moment in the day when you can focus on you, the scent of a product evoking a sense of calm, cleansing of skin to refresh and renew, and in a time of isolation and social distancing the sense of touch on our skin, our most human of needs.

Lubna is the founder and Clinical Director of Time to Bloom, a beauty and wellness clinic in North Yorkshire.

As a former NHS surgeon with extensive plastic surgical training in London and the north, Lubna believes that due to the everincreasing pressure to look perfect from social media, we’re becoming unforgiving of our looks.

The care of self can come from many forms and from a healthy balance of eating well, physical movement, emotional and spiritual wellness and the care of our skin and body.

The arrival of a new season brings with it

“Every minute spent doing what is best for you is a tiny revolution, every time you choose yourself you are claiming yourself, self care is power in action” Jamie Varon So, don’t shy away from that opportunity to spend time on yourself, put on that masque, massage that oil, book that facial, and nourish your skin from inside and out. Come join the selfcare revolution!

For self-care and skincare advice simply DM me @timetobloom.uk o r v i a t h e w e b s i t e w w w. timetobloom.uk Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

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Building a successful career After leaving school, director of Yorkshire Asian Business Association (YABA) Sharon Jandu, attended Leeds Trinity University to study for a BA Hons in Business Management and Public Media.

“I really loved it,” she told us, “the great thing was that the University créche had just opened so my son Jagjeet was one of the first to be enrolled, he was just two years old and he used tell every one that he was going to Uni too,” she laughed.

Life is a journey and I live in the moment, so I am always looking for opportunities...

it down when I moved to Santander in 2010.”

Sharon joined the Institute of Financial Accountants as their PR Officer in 2001 moving up to become director of marketing & communications in 2008. “I left that role in 2010 to join Santander then moved to Microsoft in 2014.

“I love what I do, there is no such thing a typical day, the great thing is that I am involved in so many different things I have a structured approach with built in down time to spend with the family.

Whilst attending University, Sharon contracted for a while, so I thought it was an ideal but her first real job was with job for me. I was fortunate to Kirklees Careers Service. do some contracting with the “My role was ‘Asian Girls BBC, but the job at Kirklees Careers Guidance Outreach Careers Service came along “Life is a journey and I live in Officer’, it was a lovely role and I became a full careers the moment, so I am always that I really enjoyed. Whilst officer and then secured a post looking for opportunities. I am there, I launched a magazine with the institute of Careers always learning and reflecting, when you are younger there is called Reflections which was Guidance in Stourbridge. a tendency to want things to produced by Asian women “Even though throughout my happen quickly and get through and girls in Kirklees. career I have been employed, life and I guess you miss the “When I was growing up, I I have always maintained my detail. I think if I was younger, I a l w a y s w a n t e d t o b e a own boutique niche PR & would tell myself to slow down, journalist, I love meeting Marketing business. I set but I know myself and probably people, I am really inquisitive, this up in 2005 only closing wouldn’t listen,” she concluded.

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Can you sponsor a £20 backpack?

Full Circle Funerals are supporting an initiative

by Women Centre to create emergency back packs for women arriving at refuges in Calderdale and Kirklees Pressure on services supporting victims of domestic violence has never been greater and those first few hours and days away from home can be daunting. We are coordinating a local campaign to create backpacks filled with care products and essentials to see them through the first few days.

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Each backpack of essentials has a cost price of £20. We’re looking for local businesses to sponsor a backpack. Your support will be acknowledged in a press release and on social media – but most importantly of all they will help the people who receive them!

To sponsor a backpack all you need to do is click on this link and make your donation. Please let us know when you have done so, because we would really like to be able to acknowledge your sponsorship!

We are also looking for any generous corporate sponsors who might like to match the donations made! https://localgiving.org/fundraising/ womenscentre-backpacks/

HERITAGE TRADE CULTURE Discover Britain’s only surviving cloth hall carefully reimagined as a home for events, shopping, dining & heritage altogether inside one spectacular building.

The Piece Hall, Halifax, HX1 1RE thepiecehall.co.uk 01422 525217 The Piece Hall is a registered charity number 1156948

Supported by

Clockface Towers Author: Leanne Pollard from Hattie Lloyd Home

Whilst some of us are still adjusting to working at home, some businesspeople wouldn’t have it any other way.

Sarah Thomas is the founder of the 100% natural, organic, cruelty-free and vegan skincare brand ‘Clockface Beauty’. Before 2018 Sarah was officebased working as an accountant. When she was pregnant with her second child, her skin changed dramatically.

Lucky enough for Sarah, her Although my mother, is Karen Horsley, home is 20 a lady who has worked as metres away, a specialist scientist for working in the 30 years. Karen had also annexe gives come upon her own skin me a sense of issues. With her wealth of separation, a experience, she created sense of going what now is Clockface to work...

Beauty’s Signature face serum, which cared, supported, and healed both her own and her daughter’s skin.

Clockface Beauty had a ferociously successful launch in October 2018 receiving excellent PR from the likes

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of Tatler Magazine. Then the momentum built quickly in 2019 with the brand winning 12 awards and opening a large pop-up shop in Leeds Trinity Centre during a busy Christmas season.

I was expecting Sarah to tell me that after such an exciting 2019, the slow pace of lockdown had hit her hard, especially working from home. But Sarah surprised me with her answer, she and Karen had achieved all their success whilst already working from home in a small annexe in Sarah’s garden just a few miles west of York.

As interiors are ‘my thing’ I asked Sarah to share more about her incredibly special place of work.

Sarah explained that this annexe had a very grand name ‘The Clocktower’.

This cute one storey building did deserve a characterful name. The

outside of the ‘Clocktower’ looks like a beautifully preserved old building, but it is only 15 years old and built from reclaimed stone. I already envied this place as it was so cosy and welcoming but still compact. Downstairs is a cloakroom and a staircase leading up to the main open-plan office which is light and bright thanks to the skylight

windows. Sarah told me how she used the space.’

We use this space in lots of different ways, one day part of it will be cleared and used as minilaboratory to develop new products, another area will be used to pack orders and because of lockdown my husband also uses this space’.

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The interior is white and bright and feels clean linking to the laboratory element of its use, but it also has a ‘natural’ theme with the exposed wooden beams and woodwork. One thing the office does is show the journey of Clockface Beauty.

Sarah showed me the imagery from their first brand shoot mounted in frames on the wall, which reminds her of that exciting time when the business began.

Also, on display is Clockface’s awards and a massive pile of magazines that their skincare has featured in. ‘’Everything in this room has a memory linked to Clockface Beauty even the plants whose first home was our pop up in Leeds, Trinity store’’ Sarah explained.

Sarah showed me the ‘brand launch’ gift Clockface had received from the design team that created their logo. The framed

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could see that many people have had to set up a workspace in their front living rooms. Sarah agreed and said that this made her appreciate her situation even more, especially when I revealed that every crevice of storage I have in my own home is full of wallpaper stock.

I asked Sarah what was essential for her to make the most of working from her home office.

Here are her top 3 tips.

1.

Light is vital, especially through winter, so work in front of a window or skylight.

1.

Storage is critical, any place can be taken over by items that do not have an organised place to be no matter the size.

Plan what you need to store first before investing in office furniture etc.

star constellation map message reads ‘The Moment Time Stood Still’ at the exact time the business went live. Sarah told me how proud and motivated she feels every day walking past this and a display of the products, both she and her mother created together.

2.

If you have to share a workspace like a garden annexe, or even the kitchen at home try to carve out your own workspace agreeing your work boundaries so you can stay focussed and not be disrupted.

I asked Sarah what made this workspace work for her. ‘’Although my home is 20 metres away, working in the annexe gives me a sense of separation, a sense of going to work.

I lock up and go home and leave work in the Clocktower. Instead of eating a sandwich at my desk, I can go home and prepare a healthy lunch for myself and spend my break with the family’’.

I mentioned to Sarah how when I walked my dogs through the streets, I

Sarah had obviously mastered working from home, but one of her lockdown victories was introducing the ‘Ask Sarah’ function on Clockface’s website so people at home can now receive instant help with their skincare issues and questions.

For more information and skin care tips from Sarah visit www. clockfacebeauty.com

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The Formula for Success Leading, Scarborough-based, business coach, Ros Jones, helps entrepreneurs and business owners like you achieve their dreams.

Ros doesn’t just talk the talk. She deals in measurable results with a track record to prove it.

How do we get to be successful? Here are my 5 formulae for success.

Once we have extreme clarity on your goals, we must take inspired action.

1) D x G x P x L x A = Success

Along the way we’ll encounter obstacles and challenges. It’s how we respond to that that makes all the difference.

Success comes about after we are clear about our dreams, have written down our goals, have created our plans, done the necessary learning and taken the required action. You can measure your success by the extent to which you’ve completed each of those steps. Score yourself out of 10 for each element in that formula and multiply them together. Your total is your score out of a possible 100,000.

2) Clarity x Action = Success First, we need extreme clarity on our dreams and goals. Often, we don’t dare dream. Or we just want to survive. That’s not a bad goal right now of course but many of us have been doing that for 20 years!

3) Reasons or results?

We all have a choice in how we respond to stuff.

We can choose to blame someone or something, we can make excuses or we can be in denial. When we choose to respond this way, we come up with reasons why things aren’t going well. We allow ourselves to be a victim.

Everyone faces difficult times.

A more useful way to respond is to take ownership, be accountable for our actions, and take responsibility, to ask how and not why.

4)Be X Do = Have What we have right now is

a result of what we’ve done multiplied by who we are.

If we want to change what we have, first we need to get clarity on what it is we really want. Then we work backwards to decide what action do we need to take and who do we need to be?

Do we need to change our beliefs or learn new skills?

5) Success as a journey, not a destination The way we choose to feel about our lives makes all the difference. Many of us decide that we’ll be happy only when we’re successful. But research has found that individuals who choose to feel happy in their daily lives are those who achieve success much more rapidly.

Ros Jones The Business Success Coach Contact Ros at rosjones@ actioncoach.com

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My selfemployed journey life and lessons By: Victoria Clapham - founder and managing director of BeVic Marketing

I’ll be honest, working for yourself is not for the faint hearted: you’re the MD of the business often alongside being the Head of IT and HR, Chief Finance Officer, web designer, marketer and Sales Director all rolled into one. And that’s before you’ve started on the actual day job.

It’s lonely, all consuming, overwhelming and frustrating.

But. And it’s a big but. It is also incredibly rewarding, varied, exciting and offers a sense of autonomy and flexibility no employer could compare.

The sense of optimism and potential is infectious, and you develop skills around resilience and adaptability you may never have known you possessed.

These last six months are case in point for many in the self-employment boat.

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As someone who never had a burning desire to run my own business, for a long time I felt a fraud calling myself an entrepreneur/founder/MD. I was in a world I felt I didn’t deserve to be in or belong. My road to self-employment was one of circumstance and not an entrepreneurial aspiration. Having had my second child and waking up to the reality of having two children under 5,

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I knew in those pre-Covid times I would be hard pressed to find a senior marketing role with an employer with a genuine positive attitude to flexible working. But I still longed to pursue a career I loved. It was part of who I was and what made me, me.

When a former colleague offered me the opportunity to work on a freelance project during my maternity leave, I took it as a sign.

Running my own marketing consultancy seemed to be the best option that would allow me the ‘luxury’ of being both a mother and career woman. And so Bevic was born - pronounced Be.Vic and a combination of my moniker and the initials of my two children - my raison d’etre.

Falling into self-employment as I did, and two years down the line running a successful, award winning business, there are a few things from my own experience and learnings, that both professionally and personally, have influenced my journey.

1) Establish your brand identity and values You can spend a long time thinking about the name of your business and the logo to the point of distraction, but your brand is so much more than that. Your values and proposition – what you believe in, your offer to customers and how you present and operate your business plays an even more important part to ensure your viability in the marketplace.

•

Identify your 3-4 core values for you and the business and stay true to them.

•

Refine your proposition, that acknowledges your client’s needs/pain points and how you serve them best.

•

Get help from a branding/graphic design specialist if you are not an expert in design

•

2) Focus your marketing efforts •

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Think about tone of language and your target market. Do your research and talk to customers.

Once you have established your name, look and brand offer, start to look at routes to market for your product or service.

•

Establish a presence on social media platforms but don’t think you need to be on them all. Select the ones that will reach your target market most effectively.

Have a content plan and use a scheduler if needed. You need to be active, engaged, targeted and it should authentically reflect your brand’s look and feel.

•

Don’t dismiss traditional channels like PR, outdoor, print advertising, networking until you have looked at your target market, your objectives and strategy.

3) Establish a support network

•

Let all your networks know about your business. Word of mouth, recommendations and connections have played a big part in my own marketing plan from the beginning.

•

If you need a website, creating one yourself is do-able and can save costs. Wordpress and Squarespace have lots of adaptable themes available to keep it looking professional but do factor in SEO from the get-go.

•

Self-care is so important. From taking time out, to setting boundaries and addressing issues that are causing you additional stress or anxiety. I identified loneliness as a big issue but I found to address it by:

•

Joining a networking group. You won’t like them all so do try out a few to see where you feel comfortable and going to be of value.

•

Having a mentor and/or coach. After my first year, I reached out to a former boss to be my mentor and undertook some professional coaching for accountability and support.

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Bringing in the experts. Once finance allowed, to take the pressure off I employed an accountant and IT support.

•

Going to co-working space. To get out of the home office and have a conversation with someone other than the cat, I tried out a few coworking spaces and found a great local one in Assembly Bradford.

•

Regularly talking to family and friends and extending my circle to include fellow freelancers and self-employed. A problem shared, really can be halved.

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Making a mark in the cultural sector 42

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The Yorkshire Sculpture Park comprises 500 acres of fields, hills, woodland, lakes and formal gardens that combine to create a beautiful landscape and stunning setting. This landscape has changed much over the last few hundred years since it was listed as ‘waste’ in the Doomsday Book.

Many of the country’s top architects have been involved in creating mansions, lodges, glass houses and follies having had a lot of influence on what the park offers today. Sir

William Wentworth built the Palladian mansion, Bretton Hall that sits in the centre of the grounds, a building that has seen many uses since it was built as a home, including a college renowned for outstanding courses in the arts and education, where students could draw inspiration from the historic building and the majestic surrounding landscape.

In 1977 siting a sculpture was proposed, opening the landscape to the public for the first time, The Yorkshire Sculpture Park was born.

Today, YSP is committed to keeping the educational ethos of Bretton alive via its support of emerging artists and the learning programme that see’s thousands of people involved in workshops and events every year.

The college closed in 2007 and the building will be transformed into a luxury hotel.

A dedicated team of staff manage Yorkshire Sculpture Park and Yorkshire Businesswoman caught up with Deputy Director Helen Featherstone, to learn a little bit about the lady who helps look after this important place for us all to enjoy.

When Helen left school, she did a BA Hons in History of Art, Design and Film and a MA in Cultural Policy and Management at Sheffield Hallam University.

“When I was growing up, I didn’t really have a clear idea of what I wanted to do, in fact I remember wanting to be a pilot at one point,” she laughed, “although that could have been because of watching Top Gun!” Helen’s first paid role was when she was 14 or 15-years-old working in a sports shop. “I actually worked there for six or seven years and ended up becoming shop manager. I also had a spell as a florist delivery driver after I passed my driving test.”

However, it was Helen’s love of art that was to become an important part of her life. “My parents always encouraged me to do what made me happy.

Whilst at University I had the opportunity to apply for an internship with an organisation trying to fundraise to develop an arts venue in Sheffield, so at 19 I was assisting in writing funding applications.”

It was whilst Helen was undertaking her Master’s degree that her eyes really opened to the possibility of arts management. “Whilst studying, I secured my There are a first paid job in the arts lot of women sector, working with working in Dead Earnest Theatre the arts and in Sheffield as a projects cultural sector, coordinator. I always worked and studied but many of the top jobs are a n d t h i n k a t o n e point I had about four still held by different jobs, some white middleart related and some aged men... not,” she continued.

“It wasn’t great for my University grades, but I gained very valuable experience, which definitely set me in good stead.”

Now with 20-years’ experience in the arts, Helen has seen many changes. “There are a lot of women working in the arts and cultural sector, but many of the top jobs are still held by white middle-aged men, although I think this has begun to shift a little. It would be amazing to see a lot more women taking the top jobs.”

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a typical day like for Helen? “Busy! No day is exactly the same and I often have a different one from the one I expected to have, which keeps me on my toes,” she added. “As for many arts and cultural organisations, this year has been tough financially as a result of having to close Yorkshire Sculpture Park for four months during our peak trading season because of the pandemic, and so my main focus has been on the survival of YSP and securing jobs.”

Yorkshire Sculpture Park is the largest sculpture park in Europe and unique globally in running an ambitious series of major temporary sculpture exhibitions, attracting half a million visitors annually.

“We steward 500 acres of a landscape that embodies cultural heritage and biodiversity.

Each year, we engage over 40,000 learners of all ages, providing wide-ranging creative

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My main focus has been on the survival of YSP and securing jobs...

TOP LEFT: Sean Henry Seated figure 2016 Courtesy the artist and Yorkshire Sculpture Park TOP RIGHT: Hardeep Sahota Bhangra lexicon photo © Tim-Smith LEFT : Kalliopi Lemos Bag of Aspirations 2018 courtesy the artist and Gazelli Art House London Photo © Jonty Wilde courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park

safe as possible. We are working hard to reopen parts of YSP such as The Weston that have had to remain closed as a result of Covid and the lockdown.”

educational opportunities in line Helen has been lucky and has with our founding mission,” Helen made the right life choices for her. continued.

“If I was offering advice to a young person starting out, I would say “We pride ourselves on having always seize opportunities that very high visitor satisfaction rates present themselves, be flexible, and last year we were proud to adaptable, helpful, open and kind. win The White Rose Award for Largest Visitor Attraction. The “If I was starting out again, I think plan is to maintain the unique, I would find the time to continue excellent and engaging experience painting. I always loved to draw for diverse audiences to enjoy, as and paint and somehow work took well as looking at how we generate over and these days I don’t seem income for future sustainability. to have the time. Now the thought of picking up a paint brush again “At the moment it is about is quite terrifying and I’m always maintaining our offer, whilst disappointed with the outcome. keeping our visitors and staff as Hopefully one day!”

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Interiors:

The funeral industry is generally considered to be a male dominated industry ...

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Sarah Jones took her first job whilst studying medicine at The University of Edinburgh. A part time telebanking role for a savings bank on Saturday’s and confidently tells us she can still reel off the entire script almost twenty years later!

“When I was growing up, I wanted to be a brain surgeon,” Sarah told us. “I had met an amazing female neurosurgeon when I was just eight years old and decided that I wanted to be like her when I grew up.”

create a service that was more therapeutic and based on health and social care principles. Having heard about so many people’s poor experiences and the impact this can have on long-term wellbeing, I wanted Full Circle to be a place where people Day-to-day our could feel empowered primary focus to make the choices is to look after that are right for them,” the people in Sarah explained. our care and

After graduating from University, Sarah began her career with the NHS as a surgeon, before branching out to work with adults with learning difficulties and challenging behaviour. “I had always been interested in how we deal with death and dying, particularly in the UK. My Mum is from the Netherlands where people talk support their much more openly about the end of life. With The funeral industry is families... this knowledge and the end of life experience generally considered I’d had in my career, this led me to explore how to be a male dominated to help people have a more funeral experience.” industry and it is much more common for a funeral director to be a man.

This interest and her medical experience led However, in the past, death and funeral care were to Sarah starting her own business, Full Circle carried out by women within a community and Funerals opened their first branch in 2016. “I funeral care was very much seen as a caring and wanted to take everything I had learned and female responsibility. “Many people tell us that Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

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able to fall back on my previous professional experience.”

Support

Funerals are important and with the right support, a funeral can be a helpful experience and support better mental and physical wellbeing.

they would rather be supported by a woman, and although we are a female-led organisation, we do also have some incredible men in our team,” added Sarah.

“The funeral industry is unregulated with no National Minimum Standards or statutory Code of Practice. Without a clear definition of what good funeral care looks like, robust training and education are also not as accessible as they may be in other professions. I think that this poses challenges to those who wish to become funeral directors and I feel fortunate that I was

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“Day-to-day our primary focus is to look after the people in our care and support their families,” explained Sarah. “Our team works hard to tailor the style and tone of our support to the specific needs of a family, everything we do will be slightly different to suit the situation. Some people would like us to give them very clear direction, whereas others want to be given the information that they need to be able to make the choices that they feel are right for them,” she continued. “We meet families, arrange everything based on their choices, liaise with others involved in the funeral and make sure that the people in our care are looked after in a gentle safe and thoughtful way.

“It is always the same member of our team who support a family throughout the arrangement process and then on the funeral day itself. We also provide as much post-funeral bereavement support as an individual or family would find helpful.

Reassurance

Funeral” she explained. “The proceeds of the funeral consumer guide are being donated to Swan Song, a Yorkshire charity that supports people to write a song after they have been bereaved,” Sarah continued. “We will also be collaborating with a number of garden centres to encourage people to buy small plants after they have been bereaved, as there is growing evidence that plants and nature, reduce stress and lower cortisol levels.

“Everyone in the team is involved in raising awareness about the funeral choices available and in increasing transparency around funeral care and funeral directors as part of their role. We write blogs About which we hope are informative and Sarah Jones empowering, host webinars, lead funeral care research to continue Husband / partner raising standards of care for the name: Rhys people who have been bereaved and do what we can to support other Children: local businesses and organisations Finlay (11) and Bea (8) locally. The part we play within What car do you our local communities is hugely drive?

A Volvo important to us.”

Fact File

So, what are Sarah’s plans for the future? “I want to be able to finish every working day feeling like I have done something that either helps and individual or family. This might be by making a suggestion that really resonates with them, being able to provide reassurance about something that might be worrying them or managing to exceed the expectations of the people we are supporting.”

Early in 2021, Sarah’s team is to be joined by two new members of staff who are involved in some very interesting funeral research. “We are launching our funeral podcast and I will be preparing the second edition of my funeral self-help guide, Funerals Your Way – A Person Centred Approach to Planning a

What do you do in your leisure time?

Walk, cycle, bake and eat!

What is your favourite food and drink?

Roast chicken dinner and tea (all sorts of different tea and infusions) – although not together!

Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? Brimham Rocks What couldn’t you live without?

Assuming this doesn’t include people – my teapot!

“Our physical environment has a big impact on how we feel and incorporating nature into our homes and workplaces can have a meaningful impact on how open, resilient and optimistic we feel.

Given the challenges that we are all facing at the moment, we want to raise more awareness of how powerful some small changes to our homes can be.

“Finally, our previous research with the University of York highlighted that fulfilling funeral wishes was very helpful for family and friends and that being able to carry out one small funeral wish was like giving a meaningful gift to the person who has died,” she added. “We would like to raise awareness about how helpful it can be to leave a simple funeral wish because the evidence suggest that this can have a very powerful impact on funeral satisfaction and the wellbeing of those arranging and attending the funeral.”

So, if she was able to, what would Sarah say to her younger self? “I would tell myself to follow my guts – they generally know what you need to do. If I were to start all over again, I wouldn’t do anything different, I have made lots of mistakes, but they have all been helpful in the long run.”

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How to get more website enquiries By: Dally Purewal - managing director Ideas That Work

Here are some simple steps which can help: • • • • • •

Make your offering super clear Write web friendly copy Make it easy for people to find your contact details Be mobile friendly Build credibility Keep it up to date

1) Make your offering super clear

People are busy and easily distracted – so how do we encourage people to stay on our website longer? Most importantly how do we convert those visits into leads and enquiries?

When someone lands on your website you don’t have much time to capture their attention. If they can’t find what they’re looking for within a few seconds – they’ll bounce (not a good thing)!

So, for the most user-friendly experience, make it clear what you are offering and what action you are expecting them to take. Put thought into your headlines – they should powerfully summarise what you’re all about and don’t forget about those crucial key terms.

When writing headlines you need to think about what potential users may be searching for.

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about file size – to ensure your website is not being slowed down and when using video think about hosting through a third party such as YouTube or Vimeo. This means precious memory is not being used on your site, so it will load quicker and you won’t have compatibility issues.

2) Write web friendly copy What’s the point of a fancy website if it isn’t being found by anyone? This is where your content comes in. Users only read about a third of a web page, usually headings and sections at the top. So it is a good idea to get important information as high up on the page as possible as attention decreases as people move down the page.

In general, it’s best to use simple language.

Avoid jargon, it irritates people and makes things complicated. People prefer to read information in “plain English” as it allows them to understand things quickly.

Make text easy to read by using shorter sentences, sub headings, bullet points and highlight keywords through use of colour or font weight.

People often make the mistake of their content driving their keywords. However, it should be the other way round. Your keywords should always drive your content. Before writing think about the search terms visitors use to find your content and ensure they are used within your copy.

SEO is a complex world and although there is no magic formula, we do know that “content is king” when looking to improve your search engine rankings.

3) Make it easy for people to find your contact details Typically, the contact page of a website is the second most visited page after the home page.

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A lot of people that are directly searching for your business online are looking for ways to get in touch.

So, don’t make it hard for them to do this.

The telephone number and email address should appear in the header of the website as well as the footer. This way it can’t be missed.

If you have a physical location, use a map and give people directions too.

Make sure you have a CTA (call to action) on every page. The goal is to guide visitors on what you want them to do next. You should also capture their data using a simple contact form.

If you’re going to use a chat box service make sure you have the resources to manage this.

There is nothing worse than seeing a website with a “chat now” box only to be left with a message to say no one is online. You may not be able to have someone online 24 hours a day, in that case you should communicate your online hours within the chat feature.

is key. You can achieve this through showcasing your work or sharing testimonials. A company promo video is also a great way to showcase credibility.

There are a few ways you can increase credibility and trust: •

Get a SSL certificate – This means the data passed between your site and the visitor is secure.

•

Look the part - Professional design and well written copy is important. Good design will help with the perception of your brand.

People assume that if your website is high quality – then your product and service must be too.

•

Use testimonials and accreditations - Show industry accreditations, testimonials and case studies to back up what you’re saying about yourself.

•

Show off your team - A brand looks and feels more real when visitors can see the people behind it. They tend to be popular pages – remember people do business with people.

•

Blog! Blog sections are great for SEO, as we identified earlier, content is king, but also it helps position your company as an expert, keeps you relevant and fresh.

4) Be mobile friendly This is a given really. It could be argued that mobile should be considered first. With the majority of people now using their mobiles for online activity more than ever – your site really needs to be optimised to give the best experience.

People want to do things quickly. Your website needs to support this. Things such as quickly purchase something, quickly get in touch, quickly get a price – you get the idea!

Things that can turn people off your website on mobile are: text too small to read, buttons too small, forms hard to navigate and image file size too big causing slow loading times.

5) Build credibility Trust and credibility is important for all businesses online – especially those who sell. You need to make people feel safe about handing over their data and make feel confident that if they are making a purchase, it is going to arrive on time.

For businesses that don’t sell online, credibility

6) Keep it up to date Google (and other search engines) likes fresh content. Regular content will help with your rankings but also keep visitors coming back for more. Make your content relevant, interesting and educational.

Keep on top of software updates to maintain credibility – if a feature has stopped working it can put people off. A well-maintained site is essential for security and keeping those pesky hackers away!

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The Changing Face of Beauty By: Janet Milner-Walker - founder of Bespoke Advantage

There is no denying that 2020 was a year of global disruption – from our personal lives to our businesses and livelihoods – no stone was left unturned. The start of 2021 looks remarkably similar, rather than panic we need to learn to adapt to this new world.

Traditionally the beauty industry is a resilient one. This is the industry that coined the phrase the ‘lipstick index’ as a measure of its resilience, first used by Leonard Lauder the Chairman of Estée Lauder Companies in the early 2000s recession. Lauder depicted that the sales of lipsticks, and cosmetics was a good economic indicator, in times of economic uncertainty women turned from buying clothing and more expensive purchases to lipsticks and cosmetics as an affordable treat.

website, as this became their sole source of income, it necessitated a complete overhaul.

The importance of community

The pandemic has been different - from traditional retail, to professional spas, salons, and hairdressers – with lockdowns and reopening’s, social distancing, and painstaking focus on cleanliness and hygiene - brands and businesses have pivoted to sell their products and services. Certain categories like cosmetics are challenged – with store closures and testers permanently removed, YouTube videos and virtual try on have become the new norm.

With hairdressers, nail bars, spas and salons closed, consumers have placed their trust in online education and videos, and brands like L’oréal have led the way. Selfcare regimes from the comfort of our homes, such as at home facials and spa treatme nts brought a sense of normality a n d ro u t i n e to o u r d ay - to - d ay lives. Brands that provided practical solutions to the everchanging circumstances built stronger bonds with their customers.

Sales and marketing strategies have been reinvented from the ground up. Whilst most businesses have an online offering and a

Some of the most searched terms in the beauty industry in 2020 were related to our hair – from how to cut men’s hair at

With its highs and lows, 2020 has prepared us for a digital future...

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home, to how to plop hair, how to colour hair at home and how to trim hair – we were consumed by how to care for our hair.

We were also focused on the condition of our skin – Cult Beauty gathered the most Google searched beauty ingredients for 2020 - with ingredients like niacinamide, a form of vitamin B, and bakuchiol, a form of natural retinol, being some of the most searched single ingredients and “What does Vitamin C do for your skin?” being one of the most searched questions regarding vitamins during the pandemic.

Many businesses plugged their entire marketing budget into digital marketing to create great content, build Facebook communities, create regular Facebook, and Instagram Lives, dip their toes into TikTok, introduce podcasts, improve their Chat Bot,

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develop quizzes to educate their customers on their product range, introduce trusted consumer review platforms and to improve their warehousing and distribution centres.

We have learned to embrace the virtual

world – in many ways 2020 has been the year of Zoom, Teams, YouTube and elevating our voices online. With its highs and lows, 2020 has prepared us for a digital future.

Now that we are better equipped, what can we expect to see on our radar for 2021?

Innovation for the future The virtual world is here to stay, continuing to strengthen our sales and marketing in these areas is a given if we wish to stay in business.

When it comes to product innovation, there are several emerging trends.

2020 saw a decline in the sales of cosmetics – and heightened interest in skincare, hardly surprising when masks have become our latest fashion accessory. Less is more in 2021, with an emphasis on our eyes – from eyeshadows, to brow products, mascaras, and concealers - rather than opting for a full made-up look.

As a result of working from home, and with greater interest on the efficacy of products, we have become adept at researching ingredients, why we need them and whether the brands we purchase are delivering what they promise. 2021 will see this trend continuing, and it will be vital for brands to substantiate the claims they are making through clinical research and consumer trials. We want to know the science behind a product, we no longer just accept what a brand tells us.

With hair being one of our greatest concerns during 2020, hair loss and scalp health are a focal point for 2021. We acknowledge that our scalp is an extension of our skin, and that we need to care for this in the same way. There are a numerous product launches in 2021 that provide solutions for scalp health – as well as injectables that have been used in Europe Fact File for some time.

About Janet Milner-Walker

Self-care rituals from home have become part of our regime, with a greater range of products available for at-home spas and facials, along with an increase in the number of beauty tech tools.

Janet is the founder of Bespoke Advantage, a brand management company that builds beauty, spa, and wellness businesses, she is also a consultant, and a speaker. Over the past twenty years she has developed and launched brands for M&S, Harvey Nichols, Boots, Body Shop and Crabtree & Evelyn and worked with many start-ups.

Conscious consumerism is now part of our vocabulary. Brands will continue to launch more products based on vegan and natural and organic ingredients, waterless formulations, upcycling through using ingredients that are traditionally discarded as waste and using sustainable packaging.

Their award-winning portfolio of clients includes haircare specialists and makeup artists, skincare entrepreneurs, wellbeing and CBD brands, investors and beauty, spa and wellness companies based in the UK and internationally – www.thebespokeadvantage.com

Rest assured 2021 is going to an eventful year in the beauty industry. With health, wellbeing, and beauty merging, and with more consumers investing in their diet, fitness, and mental health, and becoming increasingly more aware of their gut health, the future looks bright.

If you want to build a business in the beauty and wellbeing space, or you have an existing business and are looking for support to grow your business, get in touch, we would love to hear from you.

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Competing with the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger

Author: Suzanne Ferreira

I’m Suz, importantly I’m Mamma to my incredible daughter...

As a qualified nutritionist I have a huge passion for nutrition, fitness and health. I also compete in figure competitions. A bodybuilder… you…really?! I know, it’s an unusual hobby but I love the lifestyle, challenge and dedication it takes. After a successful year competing in 2019, I’ve been invited to compete in The Arnolds a prestigious competition held in Seville hosed by the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger.

An accountant by trade, after losing my 9-5 job during the first lockdown in 2020, I started an oat-based health food brand The Proper Oats Company. In late August we launched all natural, ready to enjoy Overnight Oat pots made with award winning Skyr, jumbo wholegrain oats and real fruit purée. They’re made on a farm in the beautiful Yorkshire

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Dales close to where I grew up. I’m so proud of our roots.

Naturally high in protein with gut friendly Icelandic cultures our delicious, nutritious Overnight Oats make a beautiful breakfast, are perfect post workout and serve as superbly satisfying snack. All for under 200 calories per pot.

Proper Oats was born from a love of real, nourishing food, leading a healthy lifestyle and my mission to help make peoples’ life healthier, tastier, and easier.

This is something I personally help others with too.

We’ve all got to start somewhere…

After years of yo-yo dieting and hating P.E at school I didn’t find fitness until my late twenties. I joined a health club for my daughter to have swimming lessons. Whilst she was

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busy having fun I ventured into the gym. It was incredibly daunting at first. I had no idea where to start, so after an introduction from the gym staff, looking up exercises online and asking for help with machines I took the plunge and started exercising myself there 3 times a week. I combined this with a spin class and treadmill sessions for my cardio. My love for fitness & nutrition grew from there.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle has truly changed my life. It has challenged me, taught me dedication, willpower and what you can achieve when you really work hard. It’s shown me what I’m really capable of.

My physique is a bi product of all of this.

Competing is an extreme and I don’t walk around stage lean for more than a few weeks of the year. I prefer my body outside of this time. Of course, I love being in shape, but I love the process and journey even more.

We all have an increasingly demanding lifestyle, especially women with the pressure we face and put on ourselves to be & ‘have it all’.

Lockdown has undoubtedly added the pressures of juggling childcare whilst working from home. Not to mention the uncertainty and us all being couped up inside four walls.

It’s now more important than ever that we do what we can to look after our mental and physical wellbeing. Especially with the pandemic I’ve personally found that focussing on what I can control helps me to stay positive. My habits are what I can control.

Healthy habits The power is in your daily routine. Your daily routine and good habits are the foundation of a healthy, happy lifestyle. They also have the added bonus of giving you stability in these uncertain times.

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before we’ve even begun. Even when I’m preparing for competitions which is on the extreme end, I don’t use the term diet. Eating well, nourishing your body is a choice and develops into a lifestyle, which is one of the most crucial healthy habits you can work on.

Meal prep This is what I find really makes the difference. It takes away choice & temptation therefore requires less willpower. Initially it can be time consuming (until you get into the habit) but you pick up and develop tips and tricks such as batch cooking, tray baking your proteins (chicken, fish for example) and veggies. Ultimately preparing ahead keeps you on track to nourish your body & mind and helps you feel great.

Mind Having a positive mindset takes practice. I’d suggest starting with writing down 3 things you’re grateful for each morning. I’ve found that journaling really helps too.

Move & enjoy it Especially now we don’t have access to our usual gym routine/classes etc it’s even more important that we all still move & enjoy it. Whether it’s weight training from home (grabs water bottles & bags for life as weights) online yoga/fitness classes, dancing, cycling, jogging or even venturing outside in the fresh air for a daily walk you can still stay active Let’s not get in to ‘diet’ talk. Its negative, restrictive connotations mean we’re at risk of setting ourselves up to fail

Self care You time. ‘Put your own oxygen mask on first’. It’s not selfish to carve out some much needed you time in your week. Quite the opposite because when you look after yourself, you’re in a much better position both physically & mentally to be able to look after others.

Soul We need to remember to be kind to ourselves. Exactly how we are to our loved ones. Beating yourself up for what you have or haven’t done isn’t going to help and you don’t deserve it.

You are doing an amazing job, yes you!

We all start somewhere. And wherever you are right now in your journey is ok. Each day is a chance to start over.

Taking action is key, even small steps will mean you continue to make progress.

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Packing a dream to UK success When Turkish Yogi Ebru Evrim moved from Istanbul to the UK five years ago, she packed with her a dream to create a wellbeing brand in the UK like no other. Her motto, to leave something good behind.

With fun colours and gorgeous patterns, all made with quality luxe fabric, the collection includes super flattering and bum sculpting leggings, easy to wear sports bras, comfy hoodie tops and cute vests.

TopicUK’s business executive Mandy Taylor received a pair of sculpting leggings and can confirm that they are superb quality, comfortable and very stylish, “I wear them all the time,” she confirmed, “they are perfect for my daily walks and for working at home.”

Made for every kind of movement, from walking the dog to capoeira and yoga or stay at home style at its best. Complimenting this business is Ebru’s second business, when she isn’t designing, Ebru is teaching at her Yorkshire-based Pilates and Yoga studio, doing workshops and retreats in UK and overseas.

Ebru fulfilled that dream launching her de-activewear collection, which is both unique and vibrant.

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Ebru’s yoga journey started with learning how to meditate at a Raj yoga practice in Istanbul in 2007. Some years passed and in 2016 Ebru completed her 200hour intensive teacher training course in Ashtanga Vinyasa/Hatha Yoga with Lalit Kumari in India. Her early classical Pilates teaching experience was consolidated with

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scientific Polestar Mat and Comprehensive Pilates teacher training. She completed Relax and Renew restorative teacher training with Judith Lasater, who did extensive study with B. K. S. Iyengar in India and the United States in 2018.

It’s clear to see that since arriving in the region, Ebru has made a positive contribution to healthy living in the wider area after teaching 600 people in three years. She now employees two full time people and works with more than 15 local freelancers. Ebru Evrim Yoga Pilates and activewear studio is the first boutique Studio to bring this trio to North Yorkshire.

Recognising the many health benefits of Yoga and also its role in preventing injury, Ebru saw that by blending a scientific Polestar Pilates training into Yoga and Pilates classes, the chances of injury Ebru has always had a keen eye for fashion, having managed a beauty salon could be minimised, and health benefits maximised. “They are perfect for my daily in Istanbul that interacted Her passion is in the study walks and for working at with every aspect of the f a s h i o n w o r l d f ro m of the balance between home...” the physical, mental and Mandy Taylor TopicUK and YBW creation to catwalk, so to compliment her business, spiritual aspects of the human body as it relates to everyday modern lives. set about designing, producing and promoting her own activewear.

She began to teach ashtanga yoga and Pilates mat as a freelancer in village halls and other local venues It doesn’t matter your age or level of fitness, Ebru in Upper Wharfedale in North Yorkshire. When offers a wonderful variety of Yoga and Pilates she moved to the countryside the challenge was classes in a brand-new studio to suit every taste. the language, culture and adaptation to area as a Turkish person. Despite the challenges she never gave up her dream of spreading wellbeing aspects If you would like to book a class or ask for of Yoga and Pilates and her passion for fashion. advice, visit www.ebruevrim.com

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Keep YSP your special place If you love YSP and would like to support our work, here are a few ways in which you can: Make a donation Adopt a tree Become a YSP Friend Join the Walk of Art 2

Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton, Wakefield, WF4 4LG ysp.org.uk/supportus

Henry Moore, Large Spindle Piece, 1974. Courtesy the Henry Moore Foundation.

Photo © Jonty Wilde, courtesy Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Registered charity 1067908.

Exercising at home ...

Whilst in Lockdown 3, the gyms are shut, the weather isn’t on our side and we’re home schooling. All these factors are making it tougher to stay on top of our health and fitness.

By Adam Batchelor-personal trainer

Add in a lack of motivation, focus and direction and a possible lack of space, time and equipment and you’ve got a recipe for a distinct lack of enthusiasm to take care of yourself. Yet now is the time to be doing just that – self care – for both physical and mental health and well being. Help is at hand. Below, I’ve listed 3 different ‘at home’ total body circuits.

Circuit 1. Bodyweight 1.

2.

3.

4.

Dead Bugs – 10-20 Reps Air Squats – 12-15 Reps Plank With Shoulder Taps – 10-20 Reps Sprinting On The Spot – 30 Secs

Bodyweight circuit-so no equipment needed.

Mastering how to use and move your body should be a fundamental requirement of any health and fitness program.

The exercises listed are to be performed in order.

We start with Dead Bugs to engage the core muscles, scalable by the number of reps you perform. The body can only be as strong as its weakest link, which for most people is the core.

This will strengthen and tone your core and promote coordination and stability.

Air Squats – will act as a pulse raiser and get all the major muscles in your lower body working. Aim to squat through a 90 degree range of motion. TIP- if you’re struggling for squat depth, try raising your heels on a couple of inch thick hard back books.

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Plank with shoulder taps – more core recruitment, will also help work muscles in your back, chest, shoulders and arms, and promote hip stability. TIP – aim to keep your hips stable and avoid ‘rocking’ side to side.

Sprinting on the spot - a classic interval technique to raise your heart rate to improve fat burning and fitness.

Can be regressed to marching on the spot if impact is an issue.

TIP- try ‘pumping’ the air using opposite arm and leg for the best sprinting technique!

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Circuit 2. Resistance Bands 1.

2.

3.

4.

Reverse Crunch – 12 Reps Deadlift 10-15 Reps Bent Over Row- 10-15 Reps Thrusters – 10-15 Reps

Resistance band circuit – resistance bands are cheap, versatile, portable, and promote fantastic muscle stimulus whilst being kind on your joints and minimizing injury risk. They make a great addition to your exercise routine no matter what your ability or goal.

As before, we start with a core exercise- Reverse crunches. This variant hits lots of muscles very effectively. Can be scaled by how far you extend your arms and legs and by how tight you have band tension.

Deadlift – widely regarded as the best total body exercise you can do, this variant is kind to your joints and allows you to master technique.

TIP- stand sideways on to a mirror – you can keep an eye on how flat you keep your back!

Bent over row – great for improving posture and strengthening and toning your back and arms. TIP- keep your elbows in tight as you row the band towards your sternum.

Thrusters – A great all in one movement that will challenge your entire body and raise your heart rate. To regress- trap the band under one foot instead of two to reduce the tension on the band. TIP- use the momentum from the squat to help drive the band up overhead.

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Circuit 3. Dumbbells 1.

2.

3.

4.

L – Sit 8-12 Reps Lunge To Press 8-20 Reps Front Squat – 10-20 Reps Renegade Row – 10-20 Reps

Dumbbell circuit – the meat and potatoes of gym kit! Anything from a pair of 4kg dumbbells and upwards are hugely beneficial. Ultra versatile and provide so many benefits the list would be endless.

L sits – a challenging core exercise derived from a pilates exercise. Promotes great core control and strength and posture. Regress by bending one or both knees at a 45 degree angle.

TIP- keep your arms straight as you lift up for maximum benefit.

Lunge to press – a great multi-joint compound exercise using both lower and upper body muscles and will elevate heart rate. TIP – keep shoulders back and avoid leaning forward at all times.

One round of any of these circuits will provide a multitude of health benefits. Start steady and build up gradually. Your fitness journey should be sustainable and attainable! Aim to rest for 60120 secs between rounds and aim to build up to 3 rounds of the circuit.

Celebrate the small wins and stay consistent!

For further information or to find out how I can help YOU achieve your health and fitness goals visit www.adambatchelorfitnesscoach.co.uk Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

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Bernadette Gledhill Photographers: Roth Read Photography

Each edition, Yorkshire Businesswoman catches up with a Yorkshire Businesswoman to find out what she has in her wardrobe. This issue we catch up with fashion blogger Bernadette Gledhill.

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I have loved the introduction of zoom meetings this past year, certainly to wave across the screen and see my colleagues which also inspired me to rotate great tops, even if they are worn with your favourite jeans and comfy cashmere socks!

As more people are now working from home and commuting far less to meetings it feels as though a traditional business suit has almost become redundant but of course it can be styled in a completely different way.

Wardrobe planning can be quite daunting, and I have many friends that absolutely hate the thought of it! I can honestly say that my if my wardrobe is not well organised I feel fraught, so it’s just easier I am quite lucky in my profession that I get the chance to wear a mix of styles as each day can be very different. I could be working backstage or in a studio for an entire day, so casuals and warm sweaters are much more appropriate. If I do need a business, look I prefer to mix things up so that I achieve a more original style and it doesn’t look too formal.

The one message I have received from all my friends over the past few months is how do I escape from exercise wear and joggers every day?

I think that during the first weeks of lockdown in 2020 we possibly all felt this. However, I am a great believer from a confidence point of view that if you feel good it shows.

I have worked from home for around 15 years, so I feel as though I have finally mastered the art of it. I do remember when I started out though that I had to create a new plan. If I began the day as though I was leaving the house, I would have a quick shower, add light make up and dress in a casual stylish way then I felt I performed in a more business-like mode.

Outfits CASUAL, RELAXED Satin Combat Trousers & Soft Knitwear - Zara Shoes - Moda In Pelle Necklace - Save The Queen MEETING TIME Leather Jacket M & S Collection T-Shirt - Uniqlo Skirt - John Lewis Shoes - Gucci

These are also a few ideas that you may find useful: Wear a great sweater with jeans and add a pair of bling shoes, a statement piece of jewellery or an incredible bag.

Just choose one!!

Choose a classic day dress but add a stylish scarf or statement piece of jewellery and throw over a leather or denim jacket.

Accessories are absolutely key for me to add an individual style to each outfit. I love scarves, jewellery, bags and shoes.

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However, they do need to be visible or in a place that you can access easily otherwise you may not be inspired to use them.

It is so easy to get caught in a style rut. It happens to us all. This does not necessarily just mean clothes but can cover everything from hair styling, make

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up to the way we wear our clothes. Its maybe a good idea every few years to just tweak not in a dramatic way but to chat to your hair stylist to give you a different look or colour and speak to a make-up advisor to update your make up.

Honestly a different lipstick alone can change your entire look.

The big style change for me over the past 10 months has been make-up. I have had several conversations with colleagues and friends, and we all agree that our skins have never looked so good. In addition, it could also be through finding time for the daily walk!

I actually became a fan of Trinny cosmetics through watching her videos during lockdown. I have found many of the products to be a less is more approach and certainly a style that will now remain with me. I have always enjoyed through our style and confidence training courses sharing tips and advice so listed below are some of my lockdown top finds for hair, skin care and make up to achieve a natural fresh minimal healthy look.

•

Hair:

Olaplex No 3 pre hair wash conditioner

Outfits

•

TRAVEL TIME (facing) Black High waisted Trouser - James Steward Designer, Wetherby Black Polo - Reiss Cream Cardigan - Zara Suede Boots Harveys Of Halifax Bag - Prada CLASSIC TRANSITIONAL TROUSER SUIT Blazer & Trousers - Hobbs Shirt & Polo - John Lewis Tan Leather Boots Harveys Of Halifax Tan Leather Bag Hobbs Scarf - Hermes

Skincare:

Clinique, Take the Day Off cleanser and my favourite toner of 40 years plus which is pure Rose Water diluted.

Trinny-BFF Cream & Miracle Blur •

Make up:

Trinny - Just a Touch, T Tones for eyes, lips and cheek

Happy styling Bernadette x www.bernadettegledhill.com Instagram - bcg2m Yo r k s h i r e B u s i n e s sWo m a n

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Rachel Peru Photographers: Roth Read Photography

Like most women my shopping habits have dramatically changed during the pandemic and I’ve been shopping inside my own wardrobe instead of buying new. Whilst this fits in with my desire to create a more sustainable wardrobe, I am missing the opportunity to try new looks and wander around the great cities we have in Yorkshire looking to discover hidden independent gems. Here’s a look at some of my favourite items from inside my wardrobe.

I live in trousers and two pieces for work as I find as a curvier, bigger busted woman, well fitted dresses can often be a real struggle to find. I’m a size 14 bottom and 16 top so wearing trouser suits that I can mix and match the sizes, have become my wardrobe basics.

I’m a huge fan of wearing jumpsuits because they offer so much versatility. I can wear a smart jumpsuit like this Label Mix outfit with heels during the day and then add some sporty trainers if I’m going out in the evening. I’m much prefer wearing flats but sometimes heels make such a difference to how you feel in an outfit. You will never fail with a pair of smart Black statement heels and these are my go-to pair. These shoes go everywhere with me when I’m modelling and have graced many catwalks because they are so comfortable.

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Outfits Striped Jumpsuit Next/Label Mix Shoes Ted Baker

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I’m fortunate that my work is based in a creative environment so wearing bold colours and standing out is normal. I actually saw this in the shop window in Los Angeles, but they didn’t have my size. I spent months waiting for it to come back in stock but sometimes you see something that you know you will wear time and time again and this suit hasn’t let me down. It can be easy to lose your personality in work clothes and I think it’s really important to find ways to show pieces of yourself, even if it’s with accessories or amazing shoes.

We all have that one favourite shop that we know we can rely on and Attic Womenswear in Ilkley is mine. I can always find something for every occasion and as my work wear can be little more relaxed this trouser and jumper outfit suits my daily life. I still like to feel smart and ‘put together’ even when I’m working from home. I’ve added the matching pale blue jacket that I found in a local charity shop a few years ago.

Don’t be afraid to mix secondhand pieces into your working wardrobe. If charity shops don’t work for you how about looking into pre-loved boutiques.

Pre-loved in Ilkley has an amazing array of designer labelled clothes, perfect for the working wardrobe and at half the price you’d pay on the high street. h t t p s : //w w w. fa ce b o o k .co m / prelovedilkey/

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Outfits Green striped trouser suit: Mango 2019 Polo: & Other Stories Boots: Donna Karan

Navy Blue trousers & jumper: Attic Womenswear Ilkley https://atticwomenswear.com Blazer: Charity shop Shoes: Jones Bootmakers

spent money on having it altered to fit my body shape perfectly.

Finding a great local seamstress would be my number one wardrobe piece of advice as sometimes you can’t get the fit 100% right but a seamstress can adapt it for you to make it perfect. Especially when it comes to tailored work wear, don’t be afraid to make a few changes if it’s a piece you know you will wear time and time again.

A real nod to some of Yorkshire’s finest tailoring from times gone by as the John Collier label started life in Leeds in 1907 and continued to have factories in Yorkshire up until the 1970’s. It continued to become a well-known local and national concern and I bought this at a vintage fair. I love thinking about who might have worn it before me and what stories it could tell. The three-piece set gives me versatility too, it looks equally smart with a simple white shirt and the waistcoat.

I am keen to see what other nods to our rich tailored Yorkshire history is currently out there for womenswear.

I love the Hebden Bridge based b r a n d He b t r o t h a t p r o d u c e s menswear all manufactured in Britain and encouraging people to wear British made products again. https://hebtro.co/about/

We all have one item in our wardrobe that transforms how we feel when we’re wearing it. This outfit always makes me feel confident and ready to face the world. It’s actually a men’s 1970’s John Collier suit that I then

Outfits

Outfit: Vintage 1970’s John Collier suit Polo: & Other Stories Shoes: Mode N Pelle

I think it will be interesting to see what happens moving forward from Brexit. I’d love to see a flourish of smaller fashion independent brands building back up again in Yorkshire and I’m looking forward to doing some research and seeing what I can find once we can. All get out exploring again.

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Is it time to drop the stock?

Professional photographers and Yorkshire Businesswoman official partners Lincoln Roth and Perrin Read who specialise in portrait photography continue to share their advice with us:

T Getting Drawn In Are you having a coffee break reading your edition of Yorkshire Businesswoman magazine? Maybe you began by flicking through looking for a fascinating article to read.

Editors know that as we’re skimming through the pages, the creative, authentic, and intriguing images will draw us into their articles. Of course, the companies advertising in their magazines know this too.

Have you ever considered that appealing images will lead consumers into your own website? And subsequently, into your narrative, products, and services.

T Drop the Stock Firstly though, your website needs to stand head and shoulders above your competitors’. Which is easy to do when you drop the stock images and upload your own professionally taken images.

How often have the same professions uploaded the same kind of stock pictures? For instance, accountants are often portrayed with images such as a city scape, a handshake, soft focussed laptop, report and/or calculator, a piggy bank . . . and so on.

Quite often models depict staff holding meetings and presentations held in unfamiliar offices.

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T How to Stand Out in Your Crowd The key is to connect directly with your customers and welcome them into your world.

It can be as easy as being photographed in your place of work looking professional and smiling into the camera. Match in the colours of your brand, for instance through clothing or props in the scene, and the image will enhance your website.

T Tell me a Story Story telling is common in every culture, forming part of our lives from the cradle to the grave.

Stories become more relatable when we see ourselves within them, just as your target audience should be able to relate to your story.

This can be as simple as surrounding yourself with your products, displaying items that show what you do or even demonstrating your services.

Now your potential clients are getting to know you already, and not a false representation.

As photographers we love to hear your stories because those stories create our images.

We hope you now have some ideas for your own bespoke stock images.

Lincoln & Perrin Roth Read Photography

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It’s all Gua Sha to me!

Philippa Kaye

And now for something completely different Qigong and Gua sha. Recently I brought you online Ayurveda a 5000 year old system of natural medicine. It is something that has never really taken off in the UK which has always puzzled me, but it also requires a lot of investment of time.

But, I like about it is that it treats the cause, not the symptom.

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Recently, with a little prompt from a friend, I was asked to check out Katie Brindle and her Hayo’u Method. She thought it would appeal to me as it is also an ancient system of health and wellbeing which also focuses on preventative health and self-care but is quick, easy and effective! As the founder herself says, think brushing your teeth, we do that every day, it takes a couple of minutes and saves a lot of time, pain and grief. The Hayo’u Method does just that, just as quickly, easily, cheaply and effectively, and Gua Sha is brilliant for the symptoms associated with the menopause too! What with that and this being a female entrepreneur success story born out of 2020, how could I not? I was so inspired that I managed to arrange an interview with founder

Katie Brindle, acclaimed Chinese medicine practitioner and best-selling author, to discover more.

What was your journey into launching Hayo’uFit? I had been dreaming of launching online Qigong classes for a long time. So, when lockdown started, I decided to share my daily Qigong practice on Instagram. The response was amazing, people kept asking for more, and so, Hayo’uFit was born.

This wasn’t just an overnight success though, it’s been a 30 year journey, how did you discover the power of Gua Sha and Qi Gong and why are you a believer?

Hayo’u is the culmination of a journey I started in 1992. I was training as an opera singer, when

I had a car accident that gave me whiplash and left me unable to sing. A year later, I was still in constant pain. Because Western medicine wasn’t able to sort out the problem, I found myself drawn into the world of alternative therapies.

After much searching, Chinese Medicine finally nailed the issue once and for all. I was amazed by how, with the right kind of help and correct information, my body was able to heal itself. I decided to leave my job and start a degree in Five Element acupuncture and haven’t looked back.

Chinese Medicine changed my life exponentially for the better and provided the solution when nothing else could and that’s something I want to share with the world.

You had specific health issues related to your accident, but how can it help people struggling with more every day complaints?

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Qigong is brilliant if you are tired, lacking in energy, are out of shape or simply not feeling great. Qigong exercise leaves you feeling relaxed yet energised, rather than exhausted yet restless.

This is a practice designed to replenish rather than deplete your energy levels. Since lockdown, we’ve had hundreds join our revolution and the results have been staggering.

Your insta posts gained a great following during lockdown, what is it about this that is so instantly appealing?

It is an incredible self-care opportunity and its free and it works. Many people exercise to improve the way they look or perhaps improving the health of your heart and lungs, but Chinese medicine says that while aerobic exercise does work those organs, it simultaneously taxes them. Qigong, on the other hand, works the muscles and nourishes all of the organs – but, crucially, doesn’t strain them. It boosts your oxygen uptake and circulation, but while your body is relaxed. This builds your capacity to store and generate your reserves of qi. It’s different from our traditional thinking and it works.

The feedback from the hundreds of people who joined and tell me that it has transformed their lives, has reaffirmed that Chinese medicine, really does work at a fundamental level. I delight in that I have a chance and the ability to help people to master their health, from stress to the menopause.

It is truly an incredible feeling.

edged massage tool to improve circulation and addresses stagnant energy in the body or chi and deals with issues like chronic pain and the menopause.

Does a jam jar lid really work?

Yes, it really does! In ancient China they used all manner of implements for the technique, including coins and buffalo horn. The jam jar lid is pretty good, but I would say that our Hayo’u Body Restorer really is much more effective.

You mention that it can help reduce stress as well as be an effective tool for managing the menopause.

What are some other benefits of qigong?

Qigong has been shown in research studies to offer the following benefits: •

Reduces anxiety

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Reduces systemic inflammation

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Improves immune function

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Improves sleep quality

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Reduction in blood pressure

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Promotes relaxation

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Improves mood

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Pain reduction for Arthritis, neck pain and Fibromyalgia

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Improves cognitive function

What are your best award-winning products?

What is the history of Qi Gong and What is Gua Sha? Qigong is a fundamental pillar of Chinese medicine.

It is classed as a form of internal exercise. Internal exercise is any combination of slow, considered movements with breath and mental engagement, another example would be yoga. Qigong is, quite simply, the ultimate self-healing technique. By learning to manipulate qi around the body, you rejuvenate and energise, lower the heart rate and blood pressure and support the immune system.

Gua sha involves scraping your skin with a smooth

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https://hayoumethod.com/product/beautyrestorer/

The whole approach of Chinese medicine is that beauty is the exterior manifestation of interior health. The reason I love the Beauty Restorer is that it’s the first of its kind. It gives you radiant skin, but by working from the inside out – which is a massive sea change to the beauty industry.

I feel like for so long a large part of the beauty industry has played on insecurities. This is a oneoff purchase that offers you genuine beauty – and isn’t polluting the sea. I’m proud to be part of a

movement that is empowering women by making active choices – we need to buy products that are going to answer our wider environmental questions and allow us to reduce our carbon footprint.

Given that we are all busy ladies, many with the additional demands of families as well as running a business, how much time does this take? Can it easily be worked into a daily routine?

The beauty of this is that it can take as much or as little time as you like! So, all of our Hayo’u rituals can be effective in as little as one-minute a day. It was important to me to make these techniques as simple as brushing your teeth, in order to give people half a chance of actually making them a habit. But when we have more time, as many of us do during lockdown, they are there to enjoy for longer at a deeper level.

Which also goes for qigong!

If you are looking for the perfect exercise to do from home, have a look at www.hayoufit.com We have now launched subscriptions, which means that you can practice every single day for £8 a week!

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Makeup/ beauty bag favourites be absorbed transdermally on our In Conversation podcast and she explained that she had found a way to work it into this wonderful body butter. With its signature NEOM feel good fragrance and rich buttery texture, its my absolute go to when I’m tired and want to feel soothed.

We all have a make-up bag and our everyday favourites we couldn’t be without. Each edition we ask one of our readers to share with us some of their favourites. This edition, Yorkshire Businesswoman caught up with TV presenter and actress Natalie Anderson who shared with us some of the products she wouldn’t be without.

NEOM Great Day Magnesium Body Butter

I absolutely love this body butter! It has all of the sensory properties that you get with all NEOM products but also the added benefit of containing magnesium which many of us are very deficient in. I spoke at length with NEOM founder Nicola Elliot about the fact the magnesium is one of the only minerals that can

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Max Factor 2000 Calorie Mascara

I swear by this mascara, I’ve been using it for years! From my first TV roles back when I was just starting out to now as a busy working mum.

Its glossy texture and volumising brush mean I always immediately get thicker lashes from the first application and so my eyes look brighter and bigger, definitely much needed during this new lockdown! .It is also one of the only mascaras that doesn’t drop during the day leading to the dreaded panda eye effect and at just £9.99 its a steal compared to some of the luxury brands!

Q&A Super Food Facial Oil

I really love using a facial oil before I go to bed as my skin always feels amazing the next day. Ive tried quite a few organic ones and although I love them all this is definitely one of my favourites. Packed with

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antioxidants and rich in vitamins A,C,E & F it helps to make my complexion look bright and clear which as I’m approaching 40 really helps me to feel confident if I want to go make up free.

No.7 Concealer

Along with the Max Factor mascara Ive been using this concealer for years. Ive tried others but I ALWAYS come back to this! It’s my absolute saviour as naturally I suffer from dark circles as the pigment around my eyes can tend to be a bit darker as I have olive skin and so even if Ive had a full nights sleep I can still look tired…unless I have applied this concealer. It’s so light in its texture that it doesn’t drag my eyes down during the day and and because its reflective it makes them look brighter and fresh. Its a god send!

Chanel Coco Noir Eau de Parfum

I am such a Chanel girl, I think I own nearly every single fragrance!

It might have something to do with the fact that I worked on the beauty counters for them for a couple of years whilst I was training and can honestly it was one of my favourite jobs. Whilst in that job I learnt all about the history of Chanel and the importance of fragrance layering, I also learned how each fragrance’s evolution had a special meaning to Gabrielle Chanel. First of all I fell in love with ‘Coco’ and its rich, musky tones but then along came ‘Coco Noir’ and I was hooked. My Husband and I were in New York when it was first launched and I just absolutely fell in love with it.

Now it’s my go to fragrance when I want to feel really special and glamorous.

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handbag for that. It’s a gorgeous Lulu Guinness Pollyanna bag.

It’s so nice I have it in black as well, but red is my favourite colour so this one gets an outing more. Believe it or not, I’ve just given my handbag a clear out and reduced its contents to the bare essentials.

“I always carry business cards – you never know if you’ll meet Steven Spielberg on a train.

“My phone is always with me.

How did we ever manage without them?

“The inhaler – I’m asthmatic and though I rarely need to use it, when I need it – I really need it.

What’s in my handbag This is a new feature for Yorkshire Businesswoman where we ask a Yorkshire businesswoman what’s in her handbag. What we carry in our bags tells us a lot about the lady that carries it. In our first edition we asked author and businesswoman Milly Johnson what she carries in her bag.

“Sadly, every handbag now has to include the staple mask and hand sanitiser doesn’t it? But there’s plenty of room in my

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“My purse is only small because these days it’s all cards isn’t it?

But I always have an emergency £20 pound note in it (plus two ibuprofen and a disposable plastic glove!)

“I know there’s a notes app on the phone but I’m old school and like to scribble so a pen and a notebook is an essential – and I love nice stationery. Any pen that doesn’t write nicely goes in the bin.

“In the make-up department, a magnified mirror, a red lipstick and a perfume atomiser – I do love a squirt of Guerlain Insolence which I’ve worn it for years and it suits me. And tissues – nothing worse than having to go to a loo to find no loo roll.

“My other half bought me a

magnifying loupe which also goes with me everywhere. We go to a lot of antiques fairs and this gets a lot of usage. It also has special lights on it as well so you can check out the quality of diamonds etc (not that I do this on a regular basis) “And my invaluable snowflake, which has 18 different functions and I’ve used it more than I thought I ever would. I’ve since

bought the whole family one of these.

“And lastly, because my bag is enormous, I often carry a paperback in case I have to wait anywhere and need to pass the time. I love the Kindle app on my phone, and it gets a lot of use, but I do prefer to feel a book in my hands. At the moment, I’m reading one of my own – My One True North, which came

out last year. Not because I’m vain, but I’m writing a few extra chapters for a ‘special’ and I just need to check on the storyline for continuity purposes.”

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Reaching your potential Growing up, Jayne Little had very little interest in school and had no idea what she wanted to do when she left with just four GCSEs. It was only later in life that she found passion and focus that she decided to return to education, attending the University of Leeds part-time to study teaching. “It was a challenge at the time, juggling work, being a parent and studying, but it was well worth it,” she explained. “I don’t think it’s ever too late to learn something new, change a career or begin a new adventure.”

When she was 17, Jayne moved to Zurich and took a job as a nanny, “an impromptu decision after a spat with my parents,” she laughed, before spending a couple of years working in bars in Greece before joining an airline as cabin crew.

“After ten years as cabin crew, sometimes ‘imposter syndrome’ would come knocking, for example when giving boardroom talks on the subjects of gender balance and unconscious bias, I would occasionally worry that someone would jump out of the cupboard and shout ‘she shouldn’t be talking about this, she should be offering you tea or coffee’,” she laughed.

“I have learned to manage that ‘imposter syndrome’

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when it rears its ugly head, but know it is a real issue for many women I work with.”

In 2006 Jayne decided to start her own business. “It basically began on my kitchen table and today with lots of dedication and hard work, we are one of the leading providers of equality, diversity and including training in STEM. Skills 4 specialises in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) where women account for only 23% of the workforce and construction (13%), one of the most male dominated sectors in the UK, but things are improving. We deliver award-winning career development programmes for women enabling them to reach their potential which is good for women, for employers and for the UK” she continued, “as STEM is one of the key sectors influencing our economy. There is a lot of interest in and support for gender balance now, it’s a great time to be a woman in business.

“I am lucky as there is no such thing as a typical day, I think it’s like that when you run your own business, one of the things I love about it. Starting a business from scratch lends itself

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Fact File Children: I have two wonderful children, Layla (12) and Harry (10) What car do you drive?: Land Rover Discovery Sport, great for the Yorkshire winters!

What do you do in your leisure time?: I thrive on a change of scene, whether it’s a day out to the dales or coast, or a holiday somewhere warm.

Where is your favourite restaurant? ‘Harry’s’ in Whitby.

Where is your favourite holiday destination?: I travelled to amazing places when I was Cabin Crew, but I really love Greece and the laid-back life there.

Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire?

We are spoilt for choice in Yorkshire, but I love Whitby.

What couldn’t you live without?: Metaphorically, my backbone

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to women as we are skilled multitaskers and are generally prepared to roll up our sleeves and get stuck into anything.”

So, what are Jayne’s plans for the future of her business? “Skills 4 purpose is to shape a fairer world, this is my passion, so I am planning to continue leading and growing the business. I have learned however, not to let my goals compromise my personal values or family life. I remember one year I missed my daughters sports day as I had an ‘important meeting’, to this day I regret not being there to watch her win her race and I can’t for the life of me recall what that ‘important meeting’ was or even with whom.

“I think one of the most important things we teach women on our training programmes and would say to any woman is ‘know your worth’. Too often women underestimate their worth in both their personal and professional lives. Something I have learned and if I could go back, tell my younger self is that being selfish is something most women, including me, recoil from, but it is important to take time for me and put myself nearer to the top of my list.”

The power of us We believe that when businesses work together, we can achieve amazing things. Together, we have that power; the power to change the status quo; the power to create a better future for yourbelieve business, employees and your customers.

We thatyour when businesses work together, we can achieve amazing things. Together, we have that power; the power to change the status quo; the power to create a better future for Change rarely happens in isolation, businesses work together, anything is possible. your business, your employees and but yourwhen customers.

Just imagine what we could do together.

Change rarely happens in isolation, but when businesses work together, anything is possible.

Just imagine what we could do together.

Integrated Marketing Integrated Marketing fantasticmedia.co.uk

0113 246 4425

fantasticmedia.co.uk

0113 246 4425

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Modest business attire & how to style.

By: Nadeya Hussain

Women in many cultures and faith groups want the combination of modesty and being fashionable.

They want to stay with the mainstream fashion trends. Here is your guide to trendy business attires, and how to look chic and stylish whilst being modest appropriate for our ladies out there.

What is modesty, and why is it important for certain cultures?

M

odesty is more of a lifestyle, it falls under your appearance, manners, and your character presented. For this specifically, we’ll be looking at modesty in your appearance, such as fashion. The term modest fashion can be interpreted in multiple ways, as it involves different things for different religious or cultural groups.

Propriety in dress, speech, or conduct....

The definition and understanding of modesty is:

It’s hard to define where this word explicitly comes from. The virtue of modesty can apply to both men and women. It is essential to many women worldwide, as it may be part of their culture, beliefs, religion or background. Modest fashion is for people who choose to show less and want

to feel more relaxed in clothing. It doesn’t have to be for religious purposes as it could merely be for style or comfort.

The clothing can include hijabs, dresses, trousers and many more pieces. In the Islamic culture, the hijab is used to show modesty which you can then further co-ordinate the rest of your outfits with to show elegance and style. Modesty is emphasised in this culture which I will be further exploring.

Many people have assumptions and interpretations of modesty, because they are presented as almost oppressing in many western media cultures. The

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rules are open to interpretations, but it isn’t holding women back but allowing them to express themself.

The hijab is an example in Islam that Muslim women wear to cover their hair. It is an act that gives them virtue and power in their faith. It accentuates their beauty.

a longline blazer and cardigan is a challenge itself.

Women who dress in a certain way need to adapt to fit workwear requirements, which is sometimes tricky. You wouldn’t see a woman in a hijab, wearing a short sleeve/ low neckline top, so it’s finding the right combination to fit the dress code. However, more covered looks are increasingly becoming popular in fashion due to the rapidly changing fashion industry allowing business wear to be more suitable for all women.

Although fashion trends have made it more difficult, as everyone wants to stay on the current trends, high street brands have provided modest clothing lines that allow women with more attire options, perfect for work and streetwear. With empowering influencers on social media who are strong businesswomen promoting modest fashion and posting campaigns around the topic, the industry is rising with brands following the trends.

Modesty isn’t always easy, especially in the modern fashion industry. It’s difficult for women to find clothes that suit their requirements and aren’t figure-hugging.

When wearing a hijab, you have to assure you meet the religious needs, hence why it’s hard to find clothing that checks all the boxes and still looks chic at the same time. Women struggle with clothes being too tight and showing their body shape, with it also being too loose and looking frumpy and unfashionable.

Fashion designers and retail brands such as H&M, Zara, Primark and online retailers have released a specific fashion line which is classy, trendy and perfect for coverage of the body. They have acknowledged the growth in this fashion industry and catered to their needs. Not only that, but H&M introduced the first Hijabi model, Mariah Idrissi in their ad campaigns.

A reminder, modest fashion doesn’t mean sacrificing style; it’s simply clothing covering the body. The array of modest fashion is endless and is versatile and easy to style.

Workwear Adding that struggle, to then fitting workwear requirements and applying it to the office dress code.

Wearing an outfit that is hijab friendly is difficult in this westernised culture and has impacted UK women’s working lives.

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How to style: Hijab/modest friendly office looks By: Nadeya Hussain -University of Huddersfield student

The internet has sourced many fashionable solutions for modesty requirements, especially through Instagram pages. With hijabi influencers showing the different ways you can wear clothing pieces. With millions of people showing fashion trends, you can style anything in whatever way you desire.

There’s different types of hijabs and different styles of hijabs you can wear. You have your, Chiffon, Silk and Jersey materials. You can style these in a way where if your outfit is too low cut, it can cover the neckline making your outfits more modest friendly. It is also a perfect finishing accessory as you could choose a block colour or a printed style.

The essentials of a business casual modest wardrobe include: lots of long sleeve blouses, cardigans, trousers, skirts, and blazers with some key accessories completing the look. These key pieces styled with those who want to wear a hijab will complement each other nicely.

Blouse Black Hijab: Timeless colour. We can’t go wrong with a black hijab, you can style it in many different ways to give it a different look each time.

Camel Hijab: This colour is a must-have in every hijabi’s wardrobe. If you’re afraid to switch up from black, this would be the next best neutral colour for you. It can be worn with any light and dark outfit.

Brown Hijab: If black is too basic for you, try a stoney brown. Not only is it an aesthetically pleasing colour, but looks great on all skin tones.

Blush Hijab: A lightweight colour that looks astonishing on our women of colour as it complements their skin tone beautifully. A trendy colour that can easily be styled and incorporated with any outfit.

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The right style of blouse can make your outfit complete. An oversized blouse with the right bottom choice can make you look sophisticated and sleek. Try tucking it in for a different look. Remember, just because it’s oversized, doesn’t mean it’ll be frumpy or slouchy, as long as you style it with the right accessories, e.g., a belt.

Blazer A blazer is a key clothing piece that you can style into business formal to daytime/nightout wear. It’s a timeless and chic item every wardrobe needs. Blazers can make any outfit into a power suit.

Style a black blazer, with a blouse that may have a pop of colour. Or switch it around and wear a blazer colour of your choice paired with black trousers and a white shirt. A bright colour blazer can really make you

stand out and can help you explore your colour palette.

Style it with your favourite accessories and the hijab colour of your choice. Hint: neutral colours usually go well with any outfit.

Classic Cardigan

A cardigan can make any outfit complete, especially if

you feel like your outfit is showing too much of your body shape. A maxi or midi style cardigan wrapped around your outfit = outfit complete.

Trousers & Skirts.

It’s time to mix the office fashion style up with some classy bottoms. You can stay up to date with the trendy looks with classic office wear bottoms from loose-fitted to wide and straight leg trousers. It makes a perfect conservative outfit. You don’t always have to wear a solid black colour, add a little bit of brightness with block colours and ones with different textures. It’s foolproof.

If you’re feeling slightly innovative, pair your outfit with a skirt that’s perfect to your length of choice. Skirts can vary from pencil to midi length. If the chosen skirt is too short, pair it with thick denier tights.

The look is perfect and will make you look classy like you’re ready to be a boss woman. Style it with a blazer and a long sleeve top and pair it with a chiffon or jersey hijab and you’re all set.

You can make any outfit into a classy business formal. Add some classic court or strappy heels with minimal jewellery.

Change it up with your hijab, you can go from a traditional style to a turban look. With fashion, you have no limits.

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Effortless hairstyles to look like you made an effort & extra-nourishing tips

By: Nadeya Hussain -University of Huddersfield student

Hair can be difficult to work with, especially when it comes to styling it the way you like it. It doesn’t matter if you have long or short hair, we still want it to look like we made an effort. Besides, we know a bad hair day can lead to a bad mood day.

We can’t help but let our hair and fashion style affect the way we feel. So, here we’re going to make sure it’s a good hair day, every day. We’ve rounded up a few styles, as well as tips for caring for your hair.

Not everyone likes their hair up, and not everyone likes their hair down. For those who love their long locks and want to show it off but keep it out of the way, this is the one for you!

The classic French braid look, a look everyone woman can easily style. Although they do look intimidating, once you know how to do it, you won’t stop wearing it.

This one is a half-French braid look which keeps the front hair out of your face and leaves the rest of your hair out.

This, of course, requires more effort so here’s a quick overview on how to achieve this look!

So, grab your comb, and your hair ties, and let’s get braiding.

Prep your hair by removing any knots and grab any texturizing spray, so your braids have something to grip on to. Part your hair in the middle from the top, of the forehead down, and then again from the top of your ear to the other

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ear. This will have divided your hair in half and two sections.

Start by braiding one side of the hair, making sure you’re braiding it backwards. (To learn how to braid, watch a quick YouTube video!)

Repeat on the other side and tie them both in place in whatever position you like. Place any grip pins for any hair that’s decided to escape.

Now all that’s left to do is to give your hair a spritz of hairspray to give it a flawless, lasting finish! Feel free to pull out any side pieces to frame your face.

For my ladies who want their hair entirely out of their way, continue your half braid and complete it until you get to the end. Two looks, one technique. If you do it tight enough, it can last upto two days.

A classic hair look that is sleek and screams classic is a messy bun. If complicated hair tutorials aren’t for you, then this is the one.

If you have short or medium-length hair, this is an effortless look you can do within a few minutes, and you can be out the door looking your best with minimal effort. Place your hair in a ponytail in whatever position you like, grab your hair and twist it whilst wrapping it around the ponytail and secure it with pins. You can make it tight or as loose as you like depending on if you’re going for a classic office look or for an online Zoom meeting that’s more casual.

Three looks, great for any occasion.

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Let’s get your hair nourished and looking it’s best!

By: Nadeya Hussain -University of Huddersfield student

So, now we have a few styles you could try here are a few maintenance tips to keep your hair looking it’s best to give it a sleek lasting finish you all want and to give your hair a lift that everybody will notice.

1

Massage your scalp often to promote hair growth and increase blood circulation.

A quick massage whilst you’re in the shower or the morning will show you a difference in your hair’s growth.

If you’re feeling lazy, get a silicone scalp massager which helps the stimulation and does the job for you! Best of both worlds.

2

Mask your hair! A good mask can give your hair lots of moisture that it’s been begging for! There are many affordable ones which do magic! Garnier Ultimate Blends Banana Hair Food Hair Mask has 5-star ratings! The Body Shop Banana masks also do wonders!

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Rinse your hair with cold water after you’ve washed your conditioner out, which will close the cuticles and pores in the scalp leaving your hair nice and healthy. Hot water can make your hair weak, whilst cold locks in the moisture!

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Invest in a microfiber hair towel. Unlike your regular towel draining the moisture, this is gentle and leaves your hair damp enough to style.

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Rice Water. You may or not have heard of this one…but it’s a classic secret trick that has helped hair for generations! Way before masks and chemical treatments began. It strengthens the strands, stimulates their growth, removes dandruff, gives volume and gives It a shiny appearance due to its rich vitamins and antioxidant properties.

Rinse a half cup of uncooked rice, add two to three cups of water, and ferment the rice by leaving it to soak in the water.

Strain the rice from the water and let the rice water out for 24 to 48 hours to ferment. It may have an odour, but that’s how you know you’ve done it right. Make sure the container you use has a tight seal for it to ferment or it won’t work the same.Enjoy treating your hair with luxury and strength!

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Hannah Turlington Hannah Turlington is a printmaker, who lives and runs her business from Thornton Le Dale nestled between Pickering and Scarborough in North Yorkshire on the edge of the beautiful North Yorkshire moors. She specialises in telling stories with her art.

She lives with Dominic, her husband of 19-years and two children, a son aged 13 and a daughter 12.

When Hannah left school, she attended the University of Bradford where she studied archaeology for three years. Following that, she went on to complete a PGCE in primary teaching, which led to a postgraduate in special education needs and a Master of Education.

Hannah then undertook a further post graduate course in autism and communication.

“Before I had my children and whilst I was working full time, I enrolled in a College evening course and over 3 years, did print making courses, gaining a BETEC in design crafts. This was what I really wanted to do,” she explained. “Being creative was my passion and still is. I need a little creativity in my life every day.”

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Her first paid role was working as a waitress in a hotel in Malton, “a real shock for me as I was painfully shy,” she said. “When I was growing up, I wanted to be a fashion designer and would spend hours drawing outfits. As I got older this changed and I wanted to be a surface pattern and textile designer as I love colour, shape and patterns and one of my favourite pastimes was to spend an hour or two in wallpaper shops flicking through the sample books,” she laughed.

However, it wasn’t to be, and Hannah went into teaching, spending 20 years in primary and secondary schools, focusing on children with special educational needs.

Whilst working and still looking for something creative, Hannah started creating Lino prints six years ago, exploring the dreams she had when she was young. What

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started as a hobby became an obsession and it quickly developed into a small business. “I began by selling my work at Hovingham Village Market once a month,” she explained. “These were hand-printed cards, notebooks and bags. It was always nerve wracking sharing my work with potential customers, and the stories behind it, but thoroughly enjoyable. After a couple of years, I began delivering workshops and continue doing that now. I teach people the skills to create bespoke homewares and prints, as well as giving them skills to continue doing it. I have developed my business into four distinct areas: exhibition work; workshops; designs and products, commissions and collaborations,” she continued. “The challenge for me has been developing my business and my style whilst working full time.” enjoying So, what does a typical day look like for Hannah? “A typical day would be a mix of creativity, designing new work, connecting with people, virtually or face-to-face and

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most importantly, getting out into nature and looking for inspiration.

“I like to start my day writing my journal, followed by a run or a jog, depending on the weather, then enjoying a glass of green juice and a coffee. I find that if you start the day with a routine then everything works that little bit better. When I know I will be in the studio all day, I write myself

own retail space in an artist’s community, develop a new range using my illustrations for Christmas 2021 along with a spring / summer range for 2022.”

Hannah also connects with people on a monthly basis through her Print Club subscription. Here subscribers resonate with her distinctive, highly detailed style that connects them with nature and tells the stories of the changing seasons.

a list so I can set myself up for the week.

My problem is I try and do too much so this way I can schedule the correct amount of time for each job.

“Ideas are constantly buzzing around in my head,” she continued “but key things I would like to plan for this year are to illustrate mini books for children using especially carved lino cut images, open my

So, if she was starting out again, what advice would she give to her younger self ?

“My advice would be to follow your dream rather than waiting until your late 30s to start something you love like me. However, that said, with age comes wisdom, patience and reflection so it’s finding a balance.

There are times when I wish I hadn’t rushed decisions and spent so much money on things, but ultimately those mistakes have made me the businesswoman, printmaker, designer and teacher that I am today,” she concluded.

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Valentine’s Dayhow it all began February 14 this year may be somewhat different to previous years, but no doubt we will find a way to shower those we love with symbols of affection. It may be chocolates, flowers, a romantic meal at home, and of course a Valentine’s Day card.

To mark this popular event this year we set out to discover where the tradition originated.

Valentine’s Day has its origins in ancient Rome Valentine’s Day appears to date back as far as Roman times when celebrations took place on the 12, 13 and 15 February. Termed Luprcalia this took the form of a wild pagan festival whereby eligible young females waited in line to be slapped with animal skins to increase their fertility.

Valentine Day – Christianity’s version Moving on to around AD 496 Pope Gelasius declared St Valentine’s Day to be a Christian feast day which was probably invented to take over from the previous Roman pagan festival day. All pagan festivals had been banned by this time, so this was essentially a compromise to enable people to continue to enjoy a wild get together at this time of year.

Valentine’s day becomes a symbol of romantic love

Mid- February was considered to be the time There have also been a couple of Christian in the year when birds started seeking out a martyrs with the name Valentine. One mate. This was described by Geoffrey Chaucer was Valentine of Rome who, in the third who in the 14th century talked of a ‘Parlement century AD was arrested on the orders of of Foules’ (Parliament of Fowls) He wrote Emperor Claudius for giving aid to prisoners. “For this was on St Valentine’s Day when According to popular myth while in jail every fowl cometh here to choose his mate”. he fell in love with the jailor’s daughter, Chaucer wrote these words in reference to sending her a note ‘from your Valentine’.

Richard II’s engagement to Anne of Bohemia.

However, in another version of the story In 1400 the French made St Valentine’s Day Claudius is said to have banned young men the day they opened a “High Court of Love” from marrying to make them better soldiers intended to deal with all matters of the heart – Valentine is believed to have flouted the – from marriage contracts to divorces and rules by carrying out weddings. He died on infidelity. Charles, Duke of Orleans (it had 14 February for his commitment to joining to be a Frenchman!) wrote the first officially young lovers in matrimony – which then recorded Valentine’s note to his wife whilst became known as Valentine’s Day. imprisoned in the Tower of London (having

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been captured at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415).

The greeting can still be seen today, as it is included in the manuscript collection in the British Library.

Valentine’s Day part of the national consciousness Fast forward two hundred plus years and we find that Valentine’s Day has become part of the national consciousness. Even William Shakespeare mentions it in Hamlet when Ophelia proclaims, “Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s Day/All the morning betimes/And I a maid at your window to be your Valentine”.

In the mid-18th century love notes become popular as forerunners to the Valentine’s Day cards, we see today, early ones made of paper and lace.

York Castle Museum has in their collection

what is believed to be the oldest printed Valentine’s Day card in existence. Printed in London in 1797, it is hand coloured (since full colour printing didn’t exist in the 18th century) and features elaborate floral patterns, cupids, doves, and a lace effect created by piercing the paper. A verse trails around the edge of the floral pattern: Since on this ever-Happy day, All Nature's full of Love and Play. Yet harmless still if my design, ‘Tis but to be your Valentine.

When the postal service became more generally used by the 19th century Valentine’s Day cards became so popular they started to be mass-produced. But it was in 1913 that the mass marketing of Valentine’s Day began in earnest with Hallmark Cards producing their first sugar coated card that year.

Now that’s the history covered, for those who wish to treat their loved one to a romantic cocktail. Here’s a recipe for you to try.

Ingredients • • • • •

Ice cubes 160g frozen summer fruit mix 50ml gin 300ml raspberry and rose lemonade, chilled ½ lemon, juiced, plus extra slices to garnish

Method Divide ice cubes and frozen fruit between 2 tall glasses.

Pour 25ml of gin into each glass and top up with the raspberry and rose lemonade (approximately 150ml each). Squeeze over the lemon juice and use a long spoon or skewer to swirl the cocktail.

Garnish with a slice of lemon and serve immediately.

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UK’s Top Restaurant Dishes Re-Created in New Recipe Book

Souped Up:

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Virtual assistant

expands in face of changing workforce A North Yorkshire based virtual assistant has expanded her team after securing a number of new client contracts last year.

Jen Workman of Business Owl, is now working with two associates - including one who specialises in transcription.

It comes at a time when businesses have been forced to become more agile and think creatively about how they work following the pandemic.

Jen has noticed an increased need for transcription services by those wanting notes typing up following virtual meetings, as well as by law firms. During the first lockdown she also noticed an increased willingness among business leaders to outsource key services as they seek to be more efficient and create a more flexible workforce.

The lockdown and restrictions placed on businesses as a result of the pandemic has resulted in organisations rethinking their processes and how they improve efficiency. Findings by Deloitte show firms are particularly re-examining how to complete ’non-core functions’ - this is where the appetite for outsourcing to specialist companies or freelancers comes in.

Jen, who has over 20 years combined experience working as a legal executive and executive PA, feels this could be the shape of things to come and feels

businesses like hers are well placed to plug the gap.

She said: “I’ve been encouraging business owners to use lockdown to their advantage.

By taking a step back, we’ve been able to assess workflows and put systems and processes in place to make businesses more efficient. Not everything has to be done by the business owner or by an employee. By defining the key parts of the process which can be better taken care of by myself and the team, we’re helping businesses to remain viable through the pandemic and beyond.

“I’m aware that for small business owners, working with a virtual assistant for the first time can seem daunting. However in my experience, clients quickly feel the benefit of having a professional on hand to lighten the load, and often say they wish they had taken the plunge sooner”.

In addition to increasing her capacity, Jen is celebrating recently receiving the Runnerup, North East England VA of the Year 2020 award, which she feels was a rewarding way to end 2020 given how challenging it was: “What better way to end a challenging year than with an award! Running a business from home can be isolating at the best of times and it’s great to be recognised for the standard of work and professionalism being achieved”.

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The problem with IT in the workplace…

By: Tim Guest - managing director Contedia - www.contedia.com

In the first issue of Yorkshire Businesswoman we wrote about a structured approach to adopting and using Office 365. In this issue we’re taking things back to basics to address a growing problem with IT in the workplace.

I love technology, and I live and breathe it in my role. My colleagues and I help to enable businesses with powerful solutions that make big differences.

However, I always try to be objective and logical in my appraisal of the equipment, software and services we propose. It can’t be assumed the right solution for one business is most suited to another.

Nor that every new business product or software brings with its practical benefit and should be bought in to.

There’s no doubt in my mind that the technology we’re seeing emerge year on year is enabling some amazing feats in business, engineering, science and so on. But, in my opinion, if there’s one big problem with IT for businesses that are keen to develop and grow, it is that there is too much of it available!

I genuinely think there are too many alternative software out there. Many variants that offer the same or similar features and tools. Too many unique new takes on existing products…which is a good thing in principle, but it leaves businesses unable to decipher what does what and to what end and benefit.

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And that’s if they’re even aware of the opportunities and competitive products available.

So, despite having more choice than ever before, and access to IT systems that could radically transform our businesses into something far more efficient, competitive and scalable, many are either simply missing out or, perhaps worse, adopting too many new ad-hoc systems and tools without proper planning, forethought and internal policy creation for their use, which, in itself, is a recipe for disaster.

For businesses who continue to do the same as they’ve always done, relying on the staple Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel as their ‘productivity’ tools, it really is time to look at the opportunities and systems that can transform your operations – if you don’t, you can be sure your competitors could very well be doing just that.

Conversely, though, if you’re struggling to realise any significant efficiency or improvement in your business processes but have adopted multiple

cutting-edge technologies in the last couple of years, from Office 365 to Zoom, Zoho, WhatsApp and so forth…stop! Stop your colleagues from using too many different systems without company policy, scattering your methods of communication and information, and take stock of what your business really needs.

Think about what works well in the business, regardless of the IT, and think about what isn’t working well, or those areas around which you have no real solution in place e.g. those important, yet inconsistent and unmanaged processes. Consider the ‘flow’ of information and activity within your business, from each person to the next, department to department. Think about where your key information and data is stored, how it is managed, how it used, and most importantly how it could or should be used.

In my experience, working with some wonderful businesses in a variety of industries, from the smallest of start-ups to SMEs at the very top of the category definition, with the right consideration, planning and advice, most can achieve some amazing

improvements in teamworking, collaboration, information storage, processing efficiency and consistency.

In practice, what this means to different businesses might be very different, but we all aspire to have well-run organisations, where things just work, and everyone knows not only what to do – the business’s KPAs and their own KPIs – but how best to do it.

In my opinion it’s down to management to remain aware of not only what the business needs to do to succeed, but open to and aware of what technologies exist to allow continued improvement and to address its challenges with the right technology.

I’ve been a repeat witness to the fact that when management really ‘talks’ to its staff – those at the very coalface of its day-to-day operations - the revelations in what could and should be done are staggering. What managers can do for their teams is to facilitate, encourage and allow change to happen. With the right goals and objectives in mind, marrying the technology to an accurate appreciation for what the business needs to succeed is a winning formula.

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KEEP UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST BUSINESS NEWS & UPDATES VIA WWW.WAKEFIELDFIRST.COM Wakefield First recognise that local businesses are facing a challenging & tough time as we all consider the effects of the new national restrictions announced by the Government.

The Wakefield First Business Support Team have been working to support & assist local businesses who are in need at this time & have received thousands of enquires since the national restrictions began.

At Wakefield First we want to help you look towards the future, providing help & support your business needs. We want to engage in conversation about how you can access new markets, secure finance into your business, innovate, review your supply chain & provide your team with the skills to grow.

We also appreciate that the coming weeks may result in your business being faced with making redundancies. Wakefield First can also provide support to you and your team during these times – we are here for you and are just a click of phone call away.

Take a look at our dedicated COVID-19 info page that will provide you with the answers to FAQ’s & key information relating to…   

Financial support via grants Cash Flow issues Self-Employed information & more

If you are a business looking for support visit: www.wakefieldfirst.com or call us on 01924 306630 - Things are tough for all right now, but together we can come through this.

Follow us: Twitter: @Wakefield First & LinkedIn search: Wakefield First

Are you waiting for glamorous hair?

By: Andrew Barton, Yorkshire Businesswoman resident hairstylist

There’s no doubt that a hair style can make a huge statement... placed at the nape of her neck. The hair look was symbolic as prairie girl effect hair is simple but at the same time a little wild and untamed and gave its nod to the history of the USA. JLO is never scared to make a hair statement wearing voluminous hair and a multitude of colours from bronzed to platinum opted for a dramatically long and full hair piece again symbolic the hair style screamed siren glamour and was power hair overload. No stranger to stealing the show with her statement looks this was classic Jen. The mane of hair was gently waved with the front pulled back to accentuate her high cheekbones. The look was glossy, glamorous and echoed a movie star red carpet appearance.

Throughout history hair styles have not only been a fashion trend from Farrah’s flick and Blondies bed head and Jenifer Aniston’s famous hair cut that drove millions of women to ask for the same style. But hair also tells a story about popular culture, rebellion, ritual and adulation.

It was no surprise to see hair statements at the President’s inauguration.

Lady GaGa known for her transformational statements wore hair loosely entwined crown braid. With its hidden meaning symbolising the work ethics of the prairie GaGa’s newly platinum hair was woven with thick black ribbon and to add a pretty touch to the low-key glam style two simple red flowers that matched her skirt were

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Jill Biden’s hair also had its fashion moment and with her now on the world stage will set its own trend, especially with woman her age. With more than a nod to Farrah’s famous flick Jill’s hair was blow-dry perfection combined with a chunky layered haircut and textured highlights.

We may be in lockdown right now, Andrew predicts that when salons return a trend sweeping the nation will be the return of the blow-dry and layered cuts. “I’ve been contacted by many of my Mayfair Salon clients asking me what style they can should have when we return to business telling me they are bored with unkept hair tied back and can’t wait for the time when they can have a new cut and colour and wear their hair more glamorously,” Andrew told us. www.headmasters.com/salons/mayfair

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Call 01977 602869 or email tim.guest@contedia.com

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