connected issue 92

INSPIRING SUCCESS

ISSUE 92

The official magazine for Chamber members

PLUS. . . ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE CHAMBER NETWORK

this issue

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Chief Executive’s comment

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Connect

CONTENTS

33 24 26-28

Protect Cambridge & South Cambs area news

Transform

30

Ely & East Cambs area news

10

Inform

31

Fenland area news

11

Marketing Insight

32

Huntingdonshire area news

12-13

Ask the Expert

33

Peterborough area news

14-15

HR update

34

Climate Change

16-17

Global news

35

Growth Works

18-19

Charity news

36

Smart Meter campaign

New members

39

Chamber training

8-9

20 22-23

Out & About

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Chamber events connected 3

welcome from the

EDITOR

Welcome ....

ISSUE 92 INSPIRING SUCCESS

The official magazine

for Chamber members

It’s been a pleasure to meet up with members at our recent face-to-face events.

Please turn to our centre page spread to see some photos.

Our HR & Recruitment Sector provide a recap of their most recent session. They are also joining forces with our Inspiring Women Sector group for an event on Banter v Bullying at Madingley Hall on 19 November.

Turn to our event pages for details.

PLUS. . . ALL THE LATEST

ER NETWORK

NEWS FROM THE CHAMB

Chief Executive Vic Annells Editor Sadie Parr

Details of our Christmas Lunch are also included this month. We hope you’ll be able to join us for this annual event at St John’s College in Cambridge.

Thank you for continuing to submit your content for the magazine, it is appreciated.

SADIE PARR s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Published and Printed by

www.xlpress.co.uk Design Helen Dwyer Advertising Sadie Parr s.parr@cambscci.co.uk Membership Team Bren Coleman 01223 209811 Chamber contact details Clifford House, 2 Station Yard, Oakington, Cambridge, CB24 3AH Tel 01223 237414 Email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk

• D IA RY DAT E S • OCT 2021

Visit www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk @CambsChamber Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce @CambsChamber

Views expressed in connected are not necessarily these of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/ or omissions. The editor reserves the right to make amendments without notification.

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NOV 2021

26

Customs Procedures and Documentation training course

2

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9

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Incoterms 2020 training course

Informal Networking Evening, Ely

Step by Step Understanding a Customs Declaration courses

Informal Networking Evening, Wyboston

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17

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Meet the Neighbours online event

19

Banter v Bullying, Cambridge

Maximise Your Membership, Cambridge

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Letters of Credit course

Informal Networking Evening, Peterborough

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Cambridge Quiz

Informal Networking Evening, Cambridge

comment from the

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Chief Executive’s comments Last month we took a positive step towards getting back to face-toface events with the re-start of our informal networking evenings that saw companies connecting face-to-face across the county.

This continued at our Business Showcase event on St Neots Market Square which was a great day and everyone I spoke with was feeling positive and upbeat with many ‘it’s so great to be back out’ comments. The resilience of the businesses in this area is something they should be proud of; we are extremely delighted to be part of this event with St Neots Town Council and Shifties. It was also a pleasure to visit each of the exhibitors and introduce them to Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, and Cllr Stephen Ferguson, Mayor of St Neots, so they could see the vibrancy of this market town. Photos from this event can be seen on our centre page spread.

We finished the month with a lunch event for South Cambridgeshire Businesses where we heard from Adele Gritten, Head of Economic Development & Commercial Investments at South Cambs District

Council, who advised on the work her team are doing and how to access support. Karen Cash, International Trade Team Leader at the Chamber, also spoke about the changes around importing and exporting and the services that the Chamber provide to support businesses with their international activity.

I look forward to meeting many more member companies as our events continue across the county.

If you want to see what is happening near you, please turn to page 41-42 or visit www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk If you have an event you think the Chamber should join in with please phone 01223 237414 or email chamber@cambscci.co.uk

VIC ANNELLS Chief Executive

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We provide Chamber members with many opportunities to widen their network of business contacts – building connections, creating opportunities and maximising the benefits of being part of Cambridgeshire’s most vibrant business network.

CONNECT

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER OFFERS

As part of your Chamber membership we give you to links with national companies providing business services at exclusive rates to Chamber members. Once of these links is with the Moneycorp for Chamber Foreign Exchange.

ARE YOU IMPORTING, EXPORTING, PAYING FOR A SERVICE ABROAD OR RECEIVING INTERNATIONAL FUNDING? MONEYCORP ARE HERE TO HELP

Chamber members can aceess: • Preferential exchange rates • Zero international payment fees* • Free FX audit • Multiple currency holding accounts when you open your moneycorp account • A dedicated account manager for expert market guidance and hedging strategy. *certain limits may apply

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Discover more about the range of benefits available to you as a Chamber member call 0808 163 5138 or visit www.moneycorp.com/chamberfx

network and

CONNECT

Promote your company through sponsorship Is your organisation looking to raise its profile, be at the forefront of a specialist audience or simply looking to sponsor a high profile event?

The Chamber are putting together their 2022 events calendar with a number of sponsorship opportunities available to suit your target audience, location or pocket. All sponsorship packages provide great publicity and exposure for an organisation through our event promotional channels with additional benefits specific to the event.

Interested in finding out more? Send an email to Sadie Parr, Head of Marketing & Events at s.parr@cambscci.co.uk.

BENEFITS OF BEING A SPONSOR

Events can provide companies with incredible opportunities to market their brand, reach new customers, improve their public perception and increase their sales. Through business sponsorship, you can provide attendees with a unique experience that fosters trust and credibility.

What is event sponsorship?

A business sponsorship is an organisation’s support of an event.

Organisations use sponsorships as a marketing tool so that they can gain a competitive advantage and reach business goals.

Sponsorship gives companies invaluable exposure by allowing them to reach and connect with quality audiences, which often results in business growth.

BENEFITS OF SPONSORING EVENTS

Becoming a sponsor has a number of advantages including: Increase return on investment Though they usually require some financial commitment, sponsorships provide businesses with excellent exposure, which typically results in a great return on investment (ROI).

Sponsorship roles are usually negotiable, meaning you can work out an agreement that gives your company the level of exposure you’re hoping for.

Generate leads Brand loyalty is largely dependent on emotional connections.

By sponsoring events, you can gain exposure to prospective customers and highlight the human side of your company.

Additionally, when a representative of your company attends the events you sponsor, you can learn valuable information about your customers, develop a mailing list and promote your services or products.

Boost brand visibility Sponsorships can increase brand recognition before, during and after the actual event by giving your company exposure to new audiences. This often happens through mentions in the press or social media and event advertising. You can take advantage of this exposure by offering attendees free branded materials through promotional giveaways.

Showcase a service or product Events provide a great setting for launching feature updates or new products. You can increase your traffic by promoting launches and other incentives, like giveaways, on social media before the event.

Gain a competitive advantage When you sponsor an event, you automatically gain an advantage over your absent direct competitors.

Interact with prospects In-person interactions can help you develop a connection between your company and its target audience. Engage with prospective customers by providing demos or branded merchandise.

Build business relationships Sponsoring an event can help your company make connections with non-competing businesses, giving you opportunities for collaboration in the future.

Expand content strategy Sponsorships can provide a great source of new material for a company’s content strategy. By promoting your involvement in an event or activity, you can drive traffic from the event and increase your engagement. A great way to do this is by creating content themes and hashtags.

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Stay up to date with what’s happening at the Chamber by following us on social media: @CambsChamber

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

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As a Chamber member you have the power to influence key decision makers and play a leading role in tackling the issues that are preventing your business from reaching its potential, while an experienced team of lobbyists represents your interests in Whitehall.

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JOIN A CHAMBER COMMITTEE AND HAVE YOUR SAY We’re looking for new representation on our local Chamber and Sector committees.

Local Chambers: • Cambridge & South Cambs • Ely & East Cambs • Fenland • Huntingdonshire • Peterborough & Stamford.

The local Chamber committees help us to understand what is happening in the local area and help up to lobby local MPs on matters of economic interest.

You can share with us, and help us to tackle, local issues that are preventing your business from reaching its potential.

If you would like to join a local Chamber committee, or have a local issue you would like the committee to consider, please contact Laura Ruaux at l.ruaux@cambscci.co.uk

Sector groups: • Construction • Health & Social Care • HR & Recruitment • ICT • Inspiring Women • International • Learning & Skills.

These sector groups help us to ensure we are providing information and events that are relevant to our members.

To join a Sector committee or suggest a sector we should be representing, please email Zoe McCabe Brennan at z.mccabebrennan@cambscci.co.uk

BCC calls for summit to resolve supply chain crunch Responding to the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) survey on business conditions, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the BCC, said: “This data backs up our own findings that the supply chain has been facing persistent challenges for the last few months. It is no surprise that more than one in three trading businesses have experienced problems in sourcing materials, goods and services at home, or had to change suppliers.

“This is further strong evidence that the UK Government should convene a summit with key business organisations and firms to consider the short and long-term solutions. The supply chain disruption must not be allowed to worsen in the run up to Christmas.”

The ONS is the executive office of the UK Statistics Authority. It is the UK’s largest independent producer of official statistics and the recognised national statistical institute of the UK.

“Over the last 18 months, our own research has also illustrated the unprecedented impacts on revenue, cash flow and international trade.

“As recently as Q2 2021, we found that nearly three in four exporters reported no sales growth.

“We also discovered that 82 per cent of construction sector firms that attempted to recruit in that quarter said they faced recruitment difficulties – the highest level on record.

“Around half of construction sector firms also cited ‘inflation’ as more of an issue to their business than the previous quarter.

“Other issues picked up included commodity shortages, skills shortages, new costs to international trade, and insecurity of supply chains.

“The ONS data shows Brexit continues to be a major factor too, with companies experiencing challenges on both imports and exports, issues with customs duties and rising transport costs.

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the power to

TRANSFORM

AGM NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the eighteenth Annual General Meeting of the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be held at the Old Bridge Hotel Huntingdon on Thursday 25th November 2021 at 9.30am for transaction of the following business: Ordinary Resolutions: • Approval of the report of the Directors and the financial statements for the year ended 31st March 2021 • Re-election of Directors; In accordance with Article 54 of the Articles of Association of the Company, Josephine Evans, Brian Jones, Shaun Hindle and Stuart Searle who were elected as Directors by members at the November 2018 Annual General Meeting offer themselves for re-election for a further three-year period until the November 2024 Annual General Meeting.

• Election of Director; Harvey Bibby who was co-opted to the Board of Directors in September 2021 offers himself for election as a Director for an initial three year period until the November 2024 Annual General Meeting.

• Re-appointment of Azets Audit Services Limited as auditors of the company.

• Authorising the Directors to determine the auditors’ remuneration.

Special Resolution; THAT the Articles of Association of the Company be amended as follows: 1) Addition to Article 19 – General Meetings of Members: Hybrid meetings Nothing in the Articles prevents a general meeting being held either as a general meeting held and conducted by physical attendance by Members at a particular place (a physical meeting) or a general meeting held and conducted by both physical attendance by Members who attend and participate by electronic means without needing to be in physical attendance at that place (a ‘hybrid meeting’).

The Board shall in its discretion determine whether a general meeting is to be held as a physical meeting or a hybrid meeting.

2) Article 44 – Board Membership - revised as follows: ‘The Board shall consist of: a) The Chair who shall be elected by the Board from their number. b) The Chief Executive. c) Five individuals who are nominated annually by Ely, Fenland, Huntingdonshire, Cambridge, and Peterborough and Stamford Chambers of Commerce.

d) Three individuals nominated by the various sectors of the Chamber. e) Up to five individuals nominated by two Members prior to the Annual General Meeting

3) Article 45 – Board Meetings - additional clause: ‘All or any of the Members of the Board or all or any Members of any Committee may participate in a meeting of the Board or that Committee by means of conference telephone or any communication equipment or electronic communication which allows all persons participating in the meeting to hear each other. A person so participating shall be deemed to be present at the meeting and shall be entitled to vote or be counted in a quorum accordingly.

Decisions or resolutions of the Board may also be made or effected by a resolution in writing.’

4) Article 57 – Chief Executive - an additional sentence stating: ‘The Chief Executive when a Director is excluded from retirement and re-election provisions.’

5) Article 74 – Minutes - additional clause: ‘A resolution in writing signed by respectively all the Directors or all Members of any Committee who are entitled to receive notice of a meeting of the Board or of such Committee shall be as valid and effectual as if it had been passed as a duly convened and constituted meeting of the Board or such Committee.’

6) Article 77 – Accounts - additional clause: ‘At the Annual General Meeting each year the Board shall lay before the meeting a proper income and expenditure account for the previous financial year together with a proper balance sheet for the same period.’

The Directors Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2021 are available on the members’ section of the Chamber website.

A proxy form can be downloaded from the members’ section of the website; this must be returned by email or post to the registered office, 48 hours before the meeting.

By order of the Board Michael Tolond Company Secretary October 2021 Registered office: Clifford House, 2 Station Yard, Oakington, Cambridge CB24 3AH

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Chamber membership provides access to key information, expert advice and legal protection, enabling you to stay informed, legally compliant and free to focus on what you do best – building your business.

Clarity for job shortage sponsorship with new Immigration Rules changes Sponsoring overseas employees is currently being considered by some employers with numerous job vacancies.

While there are rules and regulations surrounding sponsorship, a new statement of changes published by the government does provide some clarity for those considering this option.

The proposed changes to the Immigration Rules shows some of the concessions introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic will now be incorporated.

Julie Moktadir, Head of Immigration at Stone King, highlighted the key changes and said they will be welcomed by immigration lawyers and employers.

She said: “The change to the settlement rules is for those who applied in-country to the Skilled Worker route from 24 January 2020 – 30 June 2021.

“This means that, for those who were able to start work whilst awaiting a decision on their application, the rules will allow those with successful applications to count the time period that they were waiting for a decision towards their continuous residence.”

The concessions were previously just guidance however they have now been incorporated into the Immigration Rules through these statement of changes.

“This development will also be well received by so many migrants who have been restricted from travel or progressing with their lives due to the pandemic,” added Julie.

“Calculating periods of continuous residence is often stressful and sometimes challenging for migrants. For example, an individual may have come to the UK as a student and completed their course of study. They may have been unable to leave the UK and subsequently have been living and working in the UK. They would thereafter have made an application to remain in the UK as a skilled worker.

“Previously this period of residence would not have counted towards their continuous residence (five years is required) for the purposes of settling in the UK. These changes now do allow this period of residence to be counted which is a welcome change.”

Ransomware – how to avoid it and protect yourself We often hear about ransomware from colleagues and in the media, but what is it?

Ransomware is a type of harmful software Cyber Criminals use to stop you accessing your own data. Cyber Criminals will threaten to publish your personal data (in many cases publicly) and to gain access again, you will need to pay their ransom.

The most common ransomware attack is through a download via an email attachment. Once the software enters your network, the download launches the ransomware program which attacks your system. Then it will replicate itself, search through your documents and encrypt the contents so that you cannot access them.

There are many steps you can take to protect your data; here are just three of them.

Firstly, ensure you have good anti-virus software on your device and that it is up to date. Secondly, keep good backups of your data in three different places. Thirdly, do not open any email attachments that look suspicious.

These are just a few precautions you can take to protect your company’s data.

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If you are in need of IT support, please email ask@cambridgesupport.com call 01223 901 900 or visit www.cambridgesupport.com

insight from

SARAH WEST

Using LinkedIn to promote your business LinkedIn was once simply a way to publish your CV online. Now it’s an essential way of communicating and networking with other businesses and professionals.

Sarah West of B2B experts Full Mix Marketing looks at ways businesses can use LinkedIn to promote what they do:

WHY IS LINKEDIN IMPORTANT?

Whilst other platforms are focused on what we do with our home or leisure time, LinkedIn is firmly focused on what we do for work. It’s social media for the 9-to-5 and that makes it fertile ground for marketing.

Users of LinkedIn are varied but it is popular with office-based workers and those who consider themselves career-builders or professionals.

Those most active on LinkedIn are often decision-makers or influencers. For most companies who work business-to-business, they are their ideal target audience.

INDIVIDUAL OR COMPANY?

There are broadly two ways to post on LinkedIn; as an individual or as a company.

Establishing a company profile allows you to brand it to represent your business and then post appropriate updates. These posts will organically go into the news feed of those following your company.

As an individual, you can create your own posts – or share your company’s – so they are seen by your personal following.

WHAT SHOULD YOU POST ON LINKEDIN?

Engaging content is critical. The more people who read, like, comment or share your posts, the further they will spread.

The most successful social media posts typically report on something which has ‘happened’. These might include new customers, case studies, complete projects, new products or services, new staff, achievements, award wins, events, charity involvement, press releases, blogs or any other developments.

If you’ve run out of news to report, engaging posts can also be created by sharing updates or articles published by others. By commenting upon them you can demonstrate your expertise and leadership.

‘TO SELL OR NOT TO SELL’

All posts need to be accompanied by an image and genuine pictures are most effective. Those taken landscape and wide typically display best.

Remember, the images you post reflect your business, so ensure they are well taken and communicate the right qualities.

HOW CAN YOU ENSURE MORE PEOPLE SEE YOUR COMPANY’S POSTS?

If a user likes or shares your company’s post, it is more likely to appear in the news feed of their own connections. So, ask your colleagues to regularly like and share your company’s posts.

Key members of your team can grow their connections by proactively asking individuals within target organisations to connect with them. Not long ago, company profiles could not invite connections, so this was the best way to attract new followers. However, once connected, individuals can now directly invite contacts to follow your company page!

IS ADVERTISING WORTH IT?

As social media has matured, so the level of free exposure has declined.

Unfortunately, regular posts are unlikely to display to users other than your existing followers or those connections closest to you and your colleagues.

In relative terms, LinkedIn is an expensive platform to advertise on but this needs to be considered in context.

For example, Facebook advertising is a relatively low-cost way to reach a wide audience when promoting something of modest value - like a restaurant meal.

On LinkedIn, you’re more likely to be promoting a high value service or product to key decision-makers in large or established businesses. The costs-per-click may be much higher - but so is the potential return.

GET THE RIGHT STRATEGY!

LinkedIn can be very effective marketing for businesses. Success is dependent on the content you post, so it’s important to have suitable commitment and opportunities. Make sure you understand the requirements and set realistic expectations.

More help can be found at www.fullmixmarketing.co.uk

The temptation is to use LinkedIn simply as a place to advertise what you do. But how often do you read blatant salesy posts from other companies?

Whilst sales messages have their place - and are useful to maintain regular posting - they are less engaging than genuine updates.

As above, the greatest results are typically achieved by posting interesting updates and establishing your company as leaders. Like most marketing, when customers are ready to buy it is your company’s name which will come to mind!

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU POST?

There is no limit to how frequently you can post. However, LinkedIn’s own algorithm controls how prominently they appear in your follower’s feeds.

Once a week is the minimum needed but two or three times is best.

As LinkedIn is a professional network it is most effective to post within office hours, particularly just before or after lunch.

A PICTURE SPEAKS A THOUSAND WORDS!

Let’s face it, social media is a visual medium – it’s the images which accompany posts which encourage users to read further. connected 11

ask the

EXPERT

A changing property landscape for landlords Partner and resident property expert at George Hay Chartered Accountants, Toni Hunter, runs through some of the recent property tax changes affecting landlords and what they might expect from the upcoming Budget , and touches on key considerations for first-time investors.

How has the property tax landscape changed in the past two years or so, for UK investors and landlords?

UK property investors and landlords will have been impacted by a number of important tax changes taking effect between April 2019 and the present day. 2021/22 is the first tax year for which you cannot deduct mortgage expenses from rental income, with landlords receiving a 20 per cent tax credit on interest payments instead.

In addition, since April 2020, Private Residence Relief has been restricted to nine months, and UK residents disposing of UK residential property have been required to report taxable gains and pay the estimated Capital Gains Tax (CGT) within 30 days of the completion of the transaction.

As for what’s to come, the rate of Corporation Tax is set to increase to 25 per cent in 2023, for companies with profits exceeding £250,000, whilst a tapered rate will be introduced for those with profits exceeding £50,000, up to £250,000. This will impact UK resident and non-UK resident companies with an interest in UK property.

A Budget and Spending Review has been announced for 27 October, what can landlords expect?

It is fair to say that all crystal balls stopped working in March 2020.

We are still waiting to hear the results of Capital Gains Tax reforms and are braced for increased tax rates and reducing reliefs for those who do not occupy the property they own.

The “Build Back Better” programme promises focus on infrastructure but fails to mention the substantial housing shortage nor the disparity between wages and rent in certain parts of the country. In 12 connected

Cambridgeshire yields are relatively strong and gains are steady, so despite the heavy taxation, property can make a good investment if part of a long term strategy.

What advice do you have for first-time property investors, and buy-to-let landlords?

Research, research, research! The property market is extremely changeable and the ‘goalposts’ in respect of property taxation vulnerable to interference from the Government. Know the risks, ensure you comprehend the level of commitment required (including a “rainy day” fund to cover unexpected repairs or vacant periods), and have a plan – for example, what you can invest, how you will maximise your return and manage your portfolio, and who you will turn to for reliable, professional advice.

To find out more about how we can support you with your plans for property investment, contact us on 01480 426500.

ask the

EXPERT

The benefits of radio advertising With a wider range of options than ever before, it can be difficult to know what advertising solution best suits your business. Daniel Fox, Operations Manager at Star Radio, explains how radio can help grow your business and make your brand famous.

What is Star Radio?

Star Radio is an independently owned and operated radio station broadcasting to all of Cambridgeshire, with a target demographic of 35-54 year olds. Our listeners are loyal and passionate people who share our love of life in Cambridgeshire, and our love of great music!

Why should I consider radio?

Radio delivers an average ROI of £7.70 for every £1 spent, according to research

by Radiocentre. Apart from Television (which is hugely expensive) there is nothing that comes close. Moreover, radio reaches a wide audience (90% of the UK population every week), sparks an emotional response and creates fame for your business. We reach people who are doing other things; nobody’s reading the newspaper while they drive to work, they’re not on Facebook and they’re not clicking banner advertising. But they are listening to us! Radio campaigns can also be planned and produced relatively quickly; in fact it’s not uncommon for

us to be able to create a fantastic advert within 24 hours.

What are my options?

We’ve all heard the typical 30 second radio ‘spot’ - and they are extremely effective for the majority of people who work with us. We offer many other opportunities too, including longer-form ‘advertorial’ campaigns, which really help clients to showcase their products and services to tens of thousands of future customers. Want to be heard outside of a commercial break? Your business could sponsor one of our shows or key information features such as Traffic and Travel or Weather. If you need to boost awareness or run a call-to-action campaign, we can offer major on-air promotions, which directly engage the presenters with your product or service within the editorial environment. Need a great promo video? We can provide high quality visual content, including overhead shots captured by drone.

Radio advertising is expensive, right?

I think this is one of the greatest myths ever told. Not only does radio offer a tremendous return on investment - but it also represents excellent value for money. We also offer special discounts to Chamber of Commerce members, so please drop me a line if you’d like to find out more.

What has happened to radio listening habits during COVID? As habits changed last year, and more people began working from home, there was an immediate leap in radio listening as people sought to find the companionship they missed by not being in an office environment. Research showed that 38 per cent of commercial radio listeners started listening for an extra one hour and 45 minutes every day!

Here at Star Radio, we enjoyed a 400 per cent increase in time spent listening via connected devices (March 2020-March 2021) and that increased audience has been retained. All of this helps us to deliver great results for the businesses and brands who trust Star Radio to deliver them results.

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HR UPDATE

Why is it important to have those difficult conversations with staff?

Communication is a fundamental element of any good working relationship. However, even for those of us that find communication easy, there are undoubtedly topics that we are reluctant or apprehensive about raising.

There are the usual ones like poor performance, a disciplinary allegation or a potential redundancy situation.

However, there are also the more unusual, like complaints about attitude, clothing and even personal hygiene.

How do you even start to tell ‘Mike’ in accounts that a colleague has said they don’t want to sit next to him because he has bad breath? This is the challenge we tacked in our latest HR Bitesize webinar for the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce. Thankfully, no matter how difficult the topic, a similar approach can give anyone the tools to feel empowered and confident to tackle whatever is thrown at them. We broke the session down into the key elements of WHY it’s important to have these conversations, no matter how hard you initially find them and the HOW to actually have them.

Rebecca Ryan rebecca.ryan@leedsday.co.uk 01480 442040 14 connected

It’s human nature to be averse to conflict and, where possible, avoid it. However, burying your head in the sand and ignoring the issue rarely works in the businesses favour.

Any issues not dealt with tend to get worse, often fracturing working relationships and reducing both staff morale and productivity. Increased absenteeism and staff turnover may follow, which in turn negatively impacts the business in terms of additional, and potentially unnecessary, time and cost. Stress levels may also rise, which could manifest in a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This, and the failure to deal with these issues, could potentially result in claims against the business.

Dealing with the issues immediately from the outset offers an opportunity to resolve workplace conflicts quickly. This helps improve working relationships, increase staff morale and productivity, retention of staff and, importantly, set a tone for the business in terms of its values and expectations. In the current climate, where recruitment is proving challenging for many organisations, this is vital.

Nicola Cockerill nicola.cockerill@buckles-solicitors.co.uk 01733 888925

HR Bitesize

How to prepare for Difficult Conversations 2nd September 2021

Set YOUR intention This is the part of preparation that is about you.

Be clear on WHY you are having the conversation.

What do you need to have CHANGE as a result what ACTION do you need?

What don't you know and what QUESTIONS do you need to ask?

Don't be afraid to NOTE some bullet points or write a script or - it will help keep your focus on the conversation at hand.

Think about the environment for the conversation - WHERE and WHEN.

For me, investing time and energy to create a culture of feedback will help support any difficult conversations that are needed.

In addition, it will also build trust and psychological safety within an organisation.

Regular feedback plays an important role in stopping issues before they go too far, and helps create an environment where people feel secure to seek input from others, rather than relying on corrective guidance.

Feedback, however, is a tool for growth and it’s completely up to the individual recipient as to how they wish to take their feedback gift forward.

By contrast, with other types of difficult conversation, there is usually a need for the recipient to make a change or to perform an action. Whether it’s behavioural or situational, from the perspective of the person initiating the conversation, something needs to happen as a result.

In the infographic I outline the five key areas I shared for handling a difficult conversation.

• Set your intention • Listen to understand • Consider your response • Summarise • Document it If you would like to know more about how I can support your organisation, visit my website for more information.

Katie Allen Consultant and Coach, www.katiallenconsulting.com

Listen

Once you have explained your situation, stop. Allow the other person time to formulate their response.

Be patient. Remember that you will have had time to prepare for this conversation, but this may be the first time they have thought or spoken about it.

Listen to understand. Make sure you're not only hearing what you want to hear, or listening only to respond. Be curious!

Consider your response If you have truly listened to the other person it's possible you may feel differently than you intended. That's ok!

If you're original plan still stands - great, go for it.

If you learned something new and want to change the plan, share that too.

The best solutions will come from flexibility and curiosity, rather than rigidity and assumptions.

Summarise (in the room) We're human! We understand things through a filter of our own beliefs and assumptions.

Summarising the conversation is a great way to check understanding from both sides, and address any misunderstandings with minimum fuss.

Summarise actions and follow up dates too, this will create accountability and support the timeline for change.

Document it!

There was a reason you needed this conversation in the first place. Documenting it will give you a written summary of the changes or actions required, and when they need to be made by.

This will also help in follow up conversations.

It will also provide a record that the conversation took place, in case you need to take any further, more formal steps.

EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION CONSULTANT

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EXECUTIVE COACH

WW W. KA TIEA LLENCONSULTING. COM

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We’re your gateway to international trade, providing a unique combination of expert knowledge, essential documentation and the business connections needed to capitalise on new market opportunities overseas and succeed in a global marketplace.

Customs Declarations Services Since 1 January 2021, UK companies trading with the EU are required to complete Customs Declarations whether you are exporting to or importing from the EU27.

ChamberCustoms is a customs intermediary with direct links to all sea, air, rail, road ports and terminals in the UK. We are ready to help you keep control while we do the hard stuff, and always acting in your best interests every step of the way.

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce delivers customs agent services for UK importers and exporters, of all sizes, in every region of the United Kingdom.

With our extensive knowledge, reputation and first-class service in facilitating international trade, we can take the hassle out of your hands when it comes to exporting and importing goods.

The service is offered direct to UK businesses and through UK freight forwarders, ensuring that customs clearance is accurate, timely and avoids additional costs through delays or errors.

With direct links to the HMRC Customs handling system and all inventory linked ports, we can ensure that your goods, no matter where they enter or leave the UK, will be cleared for onward transportation smoothly. We can help you keep your time sensitive supply chains, moving efficiently and economically.

We offer: • A high level of compliance and assurance for customers • Confidence on tariff and data entry to remove fiscal risk; backed by the technical expertise • A wealth of international trade experience and expertise.

Don’t just take our word for it, listen to what our customers have said: “We have been using Chamber Customs Service for all of our import declarations since Brexit and have found them to be extremely helpful with all aspects of the import process. As we have multiple imports arriving in quick succession their efficiency and fast turnaround is essential for our business to keep our services flowing!”

Scott Hutchings Sales Office Manager, Headland “We have been using the ChamberCustoms Services since launch and now arrange all our customs declarations through ChamberCustoms. We have found the service to be consistently excellent with fast turnaround times and responsive support when needed. The attention to detail associated with arranging customs declarations through ChamberCustoms is second to

none. So, if you are looking for a service provider to handle your customs declarations we have no hesitation in recommending ChamberCustoms services.”

Chris Willers MIEx Managing Director, Access to Export “We have used the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce for many years to provide certificates of origin for our exports.

They were always very knowledgeable and helpful. When all our EU exports required export declarations after Brexit, the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce provided some incredibly useful training courses on our responsibilities in advance.

They were naturally, therefore, our first choice for making our export declarations thereafter. They’ve continued to be incredibly helpful and knowledgeable in making our export declarations, and their attention to detail is superb. Subsequently, virtually all of our EU exports have made it out of the UK without problems.

The small number that have been detained have been down to problems with the paperwork of our consignees, or their shipping agents. I can wholeheartedly recommend the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce for superb guidance and quick service in making export declarations.”

James Williams Director, Michael Williams Engineering Ltd INTERESTED IN USING OUR CUSTOMS AGENT SERVICES? Contact the International Trade team on 01223 237414 or email customsdeclarations@cambscci.co.uk and a member of the team will provide you with all the information to get you started.

New Export Regulations for Egypt A new fast, secure and cost-effective procedure of submitting your shipping documentation to Egypt has being issued by the Egyptian Government from 1 October 2021.

Egypt’s Single Windows Platform, ‘Nafeza’, will be used to fulfil all regulatory requirements related to the release of goods at Egyptian Customs. Nafeza’s service provider, CargoX, requires all UK exporters to be registered in order to submit documents.

Since Friday1 October 2021, these regulations are the only legal method of exporting products to Egypt via sea freight.

For more information on IPAFFS or shipping to Egypt please contact our International Trade Team on 01223 237414 or email internationaltrade@cambscci.co.uk.

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extend your

GLOBAL REACH

Import of products, animals, food and feed system (IPAFFS) When will I need an Export Health Certificate?

Animal products being imported from the European Union into Great Britain will not require a certified Export Health Certificate to accompany the consignment until 1 July 2022.

Further information about requirements from July 2022 can be found on gov.uk Where can I view the Export Health Certificates?

EHCs are issued by the competent authority in the exporting country, based on the requirements outlined in the model Export Health Certificates. The EHC is issued to the exporter based in the European Union (EU), who then provides the importer with an electronic copy to upload onto the notification in IPAFFS before the consignment arrives into Great Britain.

From 1 July 2022, will my animal products need to enter via a point of entry with a Border Control Post?

Yes, from July 2022 your animal products consignment will need to enter Great Britain via Border Control Post that is designated to receive your type of goods.

Does the delay apply to animal by-products (ABP) as well as animal products for human consumption?

Yes, products of animal origin (POAO) for human consumption and ABP not for human consumption are included in these new arrangements. Both POAO and ABP consignments will require pre-notification from January 2022 and an EHC from 1 July 2022.

From July 2022, consignments will be subject to documentary, ID and Physical Checks.

Further information about requirements from January and July 2022 can be found on gov.uk How does the delay impact Prohibited and Restricted (P&R) goods?

Businesses can continue to import P&R goods from the EU into Great Britain until 31 December 2021. Further information can be found on gov.uk How and where will I need to pre-notify my goods from 1 January 2022?

IPAFFS is the import of products, animals, food and feed system (IPAFFS) and is the system used to notify the arrival of imports of live animals, animal products and high-risk food and feed not of animal origin.

Consignments of EU origin and/or third country that have been cleared for free circulation in the EU can continue to transit through Great Britain as they do today.

From 1 January 2022, animal products transiting through Great Britain will need to be pre-notified via IPAFFS before they enter Great Britain. When these goods leave Great Britain, you will also need to notify authorities that the goods are leaving the country.

Additionally, from 1 July 2022, EU origin consignments transiting through Great Britain will require a certified EHC and must enter and exit through a point of entry with an appropriately designated Border Control Post.

My composite product is exempt from certification, will I need to pre-notify its arrival into Great Britain?

No, if your product meets the requirements for exemption from Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) controls you do not need to pre-notify authorities of its arrival.

Does the delay remove any controls from products under safeguard measures?

No, products being imported under safeguard measures must continue to follow existing requirements and controls.

Import requirements are already in place for a small number of POAO subject to safeguard measures.

Emergency safeguard action can be taken at very short notice to prohibit or restrict the importation of certain products from certain countries following an outbreak of disease or a public health issue (such as avian or swine flu). Information on the latest updates concerning disease outbreaks which may affect imports into the UK can be found on gov.uk POAO subject to safeguard measures are required to be prenotified in advance of arrival using IPAFFS and all goods must be accompanied by an Export Health Certificate.

The GB importer will also need to supply the EU exporter/ Certifying Officer (usually an Official Veterinarian) with the unique notification number (UNN) that is produced when the importer notifies the UK’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) about the import.

The exporter must add the UNN to the Export Health Certificate. If the safeguard measure is in place due to a new or emerging disease outbreak, and the commodity code is not available in IPAFFS, there may be other steps traders need to take to pre-notify.

It is the responsibility of the GB importer (or a representative acting on their behalf ) to register for IPAFFS to pre-notify the relevant authority of the goods’ arrival. If an EHC is required for the commodity, the EU exporter should provide the GB importer with an electronic copy of the EHC and the GB importer must upload this on to the notification in IPAFFS.

Does this impact on the introduction of the new EHCs for goods exported to the EU or moved to NI from Great Britain as part of the Animal Health Regulation?

How do these delays impact my goods that are transiting through Great Britain?

The changes in this communication relate to goods being imported from the EU into Great Britain only.

No, Animal Health Regulations EHCs apply to goods being exported from GB to the EU or goods moving from GB to NI only.

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chamber supports

CHARITY

Inflatable 5K for NHS Charity Head to Toe Date: Saturday 13 November Location: East Of England Showground, Oundle Road, Peterborough, PE2 6XE Ticket Price: Free Minimum Sponsorship: £100

Why not take part in the UK’s biggest and best Inflatable 5k obstacle course and raise money to help the NHS at the same time? Take part with friends, as an individual or as a teambuilding event for your company.

This event has just gotten even BIGGER Bouncier and Better now with 26 humongous obstacles! With the new addition of ‘The Demon’ there is plenty to fun to be had!

Our NEW two x 2.5k lap course means LESS Running and MORE Obstacles! You will tackle 26 gigantic obstacles.

Warning: These events may cause participants a great deal of fun excitement and in most cases laughter!

Sign up here: https://www.cpft.nhs.uk/inflatable-5k

Help raise £20,000 for Arthur Rank Arthur Rank Hospice Charity is excited to announce that their annual Festive Run, sponsored by Price Bailey Ely and Busy Bee Recruitment, is now open for registrations! Runners, fancy-dress lovers and teams of families and friends are being invited to limber up, pull on their best Christmas-themed fancy dress and run 5 or 10km in their chosen location on Sunday 28 November.

The jolly event, which welcomes in the start of the festive season, has raised a magnificent £138,500 since it began in 2010. Last year five hundred runners took part in their own hometown or chosen location, raising an astonishing £22,000 - a record-high!

The Charity’s Events Team had explored whether a physical event might be possible this year but - with so much continued uncertainty in the approach to winter and the safety of all those involved being of paramount importance – the decision was reached for the Festive Run to remain remote for 2021.

As always, the Charity is seeing this as an opportunity rather than a set back! Part of the charm of the event taking place remotely is that people get a good excuse to sprinkle a touch of Christmas magic around the places they live.

Angeline Liles, Events Officer at the Charity, explains: “We received such brilliant feedback after last year’s event. People all over Cambridgeshire (and further afield) dressed up as fairies, reindeers, elves, puddings and Christmas trees and pounded their local pavements in support of Hospice care!

“It just goes to show the power of community: a few hundred people sign up to be part of the festive fun and tell their friends and families about it. That results in thousands of pounds being raised for our essential front-line services, which are then provided back to our community: a gift that makes the biggest difference!”

New for 2021, is the addition of a 10km option, so participants can now choose to do a longer route or stick to the traditional 5km distance.

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While festive fancy dress is not obligatory, there will be some extra motivation to get creative with the tinsel and glitter, as the Charity will be awarding prizes for best adult, child and group fancy dress.

Those taking part will be invited to post their photos in a digital album and share their seasonal efforts on social media using #ARHCfestiverun.

Registration is £10 for adults and £5 for children (under 16) and keen Festive Runners (and walkers!) can now sign up at arhc.org.uk/festiverun. Everyone who registers before 21 November will receive a specially designed runner pack including a Santa hat, runner number, fundraising tips and treats to keep the energy levels up!

chamber supports

CHARITY

Double celebration for EACH Just being nominated represented a huge achievement and is testament to the success of the charity’s retail arm, especially in a challenging climate during the pandemic.

EACH Director of Retail Ian Nicolson said: “We were absolutely thrilled to win this very prestigious award.”

The award category was for a social enterprise or charity that has ‘significantly improved its income from commercial activities in recent years’. EACH has developed a thriving retail sector which is an essential funding stream to keep care services running. From 14 shops in 2014, the charity now has 44 across East Anglia and in 2019, EACH was recorded as the secondfastest growing retailer in the annual Charity Shops Survey.

East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) has been awarded the internationally-recognised Investors in People (IIP) accreditation and won a coveted charity award.

The charity has received ‘We invest in people’ accreditation, recognising its principles and practices around supporting employees are in place.

The assessment follows an employee survey, a review of processes and practices and extended consultation with employees and volunteers.

EACH Chief Executive Phil Gormley said: “It’s great news and I’d like to say a huge thank you for everyone’s contribution and dedication to the first part of this key programme. It’s a big achievement for the organisation.

“It recognises a lot of hard work done by colleagues across the organisation, investments made over a number of years and, at the crux of it, means colleagues are involved in supporting each other and doing their best to make working at EACH better.”

The charity has also scooped a prestigious Third Sector Enterprise Award. This recognises the meteoric rise of its retail performance.

The ceremony took place in London on Friday 17 September and the proud EACH team was represented by Sarah Throssell, EACH Head of Central Operations, and representatives from the retail team.

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Would you like to become a Chamber member?

Get in touch today to find out the many benefits.

Tel: 01223 237414 Email: enquiries@cambscci.co.uk

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Do you know everything that is included in your Chamber membership?

You have access to a wide range of benefits and opportunities that enable you to promote your company and generate new business Get in touch today and arrange for someone in the membership team to give you an overview of the benfits available to everyone within your company

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ARE Y OU A PA RE NT C ARER ?

Y O UR EMP LOYEE S JUST M IG H T B E !

LE T'S WORK TO GETHE R Family Voice Peterborough supports and empowers parents and carers of children and young people with disabilities. We can help you identify and support carers within your organisation.

We couldn't do it without the help of businesses like yours. Become a corporate partner today.

Corporate partners have helped us in many different ways. Visit www.familyvoice.org/corporate-partnership to find out how we can work together.

Call us

Email us

01733 685510 office@familyvoice.org

Tag us

As Peterborough's Designated Parent Carer Forum, we: - participate in service delivery and host informative events for parent carers in Peterborough - work in co-production with service providers on behalf of parent carers to shape local services according to need - help parents engage with professionals across Health, Education and Social Care.

Registered Charity No. 1171389 (CIO)

Find us

Visit us

Facebook: www.familyvoice.org/ Goldhay @fvpcommunity Community corporate-partnership Centre Instagram: @family.voice PE2 5QP

chamber

OUT & ABOUT

Celebrating 60 years in business Karen Cash, International Trade Team Leader at the Chamber, was invited to The Blayson Group Limited in Waterbeach to celebrate their 60 year anniversary.

Karen is pictured with Ron Williams, Chairman of The Blayson Group Limited.

Face-to-face networking Our informal networking evening re-started in September across the county and we were delighted with the number of delegates attending. We look forward to meeting more companies over the coming months.

Thank you to our host venues The Priory Centre in St Neots, Poets House in Ely, Cambridge FA in Histon and Brightfield Business Hub in Peterborough.

Photo Credit: Headshots & Beyond

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chamber

OUT & ABOUT

Success at St Neots Showcase More than 30 organisations came together in St Neots Market Square last month to showcase and celebrate the power of community in business.

St Neots Business Showcase was organised collaboratively by St Neots Town Council, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce and Shifties to provide a unique platform for local businesses to connect, celebrate success and strength beyond Covid.

Exhibitors were visited by the Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, Dr Nik Johnson, Cllr Stephen Ferguson, Mayor of St Neots, Vic Annells, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, and Alex Hughes, founder of Shifties.

Photo Credit: Jason Whittingham

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To access these services please visit the protection page on the Chamber website or call our membership team on 01223 237414.

how to

PROTECT

PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS WITH CHAMBER FOUR SERVICES As a Chamber member you have access to Chamber Four Services, provided by Quest.

This covers HR, Legal, H&S and Tax. You have unlimited access to advice lines with HR and Legal available 365 days a year, website access to 750+ free downloadable template documents and a knowledge hub loaded with free information plus legal expenses insurance.

If you don’t know your log-in details to access this service, please give the team a call on 01223 237414.

Read one of their informative articles below, advising on how you establish the date for continuity of employment.

WHEN DOES CONTINUITY OF EMPLOYMENT START?

Upon a successful recruitment process, an offer of employment and contract of employment is released to the nominated candidate. It is made clear within the documents of when the continuous employment will start. The candidate is then required to accept the role and begin on the stated date.

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Under section 211(1)(a) of the Employment Rights Act 1996, the period of continuous employment “begins with the day on which the employee starts work.” This is seen as the start date under a contract of employment.

However, some companies may engage with the new employee sooner rather than later in an attempt to avoid wasting time on their first day, for example setting up computer logins, mobile phones, inductions, uniform orders. The new employee may also be asked to come into work to get such matters sorted earlier. This then poses the question, if new starters start to engage with the employer earlier, does this trigger a new start date?

In the case of O’Sullivan v DSM Demolition Ltd, O’Sullivan made an unfair dismissal claim. According to his contract of employment, his employment was less than two years’ service but O’Sullivan claimed that he had in fact started work unofficially one week earlier at the request of his employer hence bringing his service to two years.

As a rule, any employee with over two years’ service can make an employment

tribunal claim. The tribunal considered the circumstances and his claim and confirmed that the contractual date was correct therefore unfair dismissal did not apply.

We can all learn from this case study as not all ‘one size fits all’ and different tribunal panels may think differently. It is best not to take advantage of inviting new employees in before their start date as it may lead to ambiguity to when their actual start date was and if during this time they were working.

For many, it would be helpful if the employee could have access to the work system before hand and any reading materials for information purposes. Should the new employer wish to do this, it is important that the employer sends written confirmation to the new starter that this is for information purposes and this does not constitute work.

The article is for general information purposes only and should you require any further assistance on the matter please do not hesitate to call our advice-line team on 01455 852028.

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Do you have come exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page?

Get in touch. Tel: 01223 237424 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Cambridge wins major international events bringing £1.5 million to local economy Meet Cambridge, founded and funded by the Cambridge Colleges, has supported three local organising committees through the services of its Conference Ambassador Programme to win bids against stiff competition from other international destinations.

The association congresses are global events, which rotate between countries, often following a strict selection process.

Following Cambridge’s success against Shanghai, the 16th Symposium of the International Neurotrauma Society – NeuroTrauma 2024 – will bring around 700 leading scientists from around the world to the city in August/September 2024. This meeting is considered the ‘Olympics’ of Neurotrauma and it is the first time the six-day event has been held in the UK. The second event is for The International Association of Music Libraries (IAML), which is organising a five-day event in July/ August 2023 to be attended by 400 delegates and including plenary sessions and social activities.

IAML encourages and promotes the activities of music libraries, archives and documentation centres to facilitate projects in music bibliography, music documentation and music library and information science at national and international levels.

The third successful bid is the International Organization For the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IOIBD) which will take place over four days in early 2023. With 115 delegates, the event will comprise plenary sessions and a gala dinner.

Meet Cambridge assisted with venue-finding and site visits, as well as providing options for a local PCO. Judith Sloane, Head of Meet Cambridge said: “It is such welcome news that Cambridge has been selected for these high-profile international events against stiff global competition. Not only does it reinforce our city’s continuing appeal to associations,

it also signals confidence in a return to in-person meetings following the pandemic.

“Cambridge’s unique scientific and academic clusters offer outstanding opportunities for collaboration and knowledge transfer; the impact of these events and the legacies that they will produce will have long reaching effects across the world, I’m certain. We are looking forward to welcoming the delegates over the next couple of years.

“In total these three events will bring around 1,200 delegates here, staying for an average of five days with sessions and accommodation spread across both Colleges and hotels.

We estimate that these congresses will have an economic impact of around £1.5 million for the city, in terms of spend on accommodation, meals, tours and shopping.

Cambridge Science Centre welcome MP, Daniel Zeichner The team at Cambridge Science Centre were delighted to welcome MP, Daniel Zeichner and his colleagues to the Centre. Daniel explored the exhibits and joined a session entitled ‘Built for Speed’ where communicators and visitors explored how machines work, why some go faster than others and how we build machines for speed.

When asked about his visit, Daniel commented: “It is wonderful to see the Cambridge Science Centre open for family and schools visits once again. Cambridge is one of Europe’s most significant centres 26 connected

for science-based research and enterprise and so empowering future generations to pursue STEM subjects is absolutely critical to maintaining the region’s - and nation’s - position at the forefront of scientific enquiry and academic excellence.

“Cambridge Science Centre do such great work in laying the foundations for science learning for our young people, and this is seen in the impact it has made on over 300,000 children that have been through its doors. The Centre offers a safe space for children to explore, have a go and get involved

with all things science, and I commend them for everything they are doing.”

CEO, Helen Slaski said: “It was a great pleasure to welcome Daniel and team to our Centre. He shares our passion to reach new audiences and inspire children from our City and beyond with the excitement and fun STEM brings. Our team have worked exceptionally hard to reach children during the recent pandemic through various mediums and we will continue to do this as we start to return to ‘normal’.”

news from

CAMBRIDGE & SOUTH CAMBS AREA

DOMINO SAYS THANK YOU AS MEMBER OF STAFF RETIRES AFTER 40 YEARS’ SERVICE Kenn Martin is leaving Domino Printing after working in a variety of roles, ranging from a Service Engineer to his last position as Senior Software Engineer.

He joined the company in September 1981 and recalls that in the first month four ink jet printers were produced and installed. As Test, Installation and Service Engineer his work was very varied, often involving impromptu European travel, going there and back in a day to service customers’ machines.

Kenn then moved from Service to Software Development, with responsibility for writing software to make the printer more user friendly, incorporating features gained from his experience installing machines.

He later set-up the first email server in Domino and when it was installed on people’s PCs, the usual response was ‘Why do we need that, we have the orange internal circulation envelopes?’ His last role was in Management Information Systems.

Kenn says: “How things have changed during my time with the company! Over the years, Domino has been like an extended family to me, and I will miss everyone in my retirement. Although most of us have been working from home there has always been a warm welcome whenever I have been into the office.”

Robert Pulford, CEO added: “We wish Kenn a long and happy retirement and thank him for his loyal service with us. During his time here he has seen so many changes as the business has developed and diversified and as with other long-serving members of staff, we are extremely grateful for his valuable input on our journey.”

First European Graduate Hotels® properties open doors in Cambridge and Oxford Graduate Hotels®, a collection of handcrafted hotels in university-anchored cities across the US, has debuted its firstever set of hotels in Europe in the British university towns of Cambridge and Oxford. Graduate Cambridge and The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels have officially opened their doors for overnight stays with food and beverage outlets to follow later this month.

Inspired by the world-famous academic reputation and unique traditions of the cities and universities, both Graduate Hotels properties offer design rooted in storytelling, distinct food and beverage experiences and a range of programming and

events with local partners hosted year round. Crafted for local neighbours and students, regional alums and weekenders and international travellers alike, Graduate Cambridge and The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels both seek to celebrate the dynamic communities they are positioned within.

“Our team is humbled to be launching the Graduate Hotels brand in two of the most historic and prestigious university communities in the world,” said Ben Weprin, Graduate Hotels founder and CEO. “The legacies that these iconic destinations represent drive the ethos of what inspires us to create memorable spaces to be enjoyed for generations to come.

We look forward to welcoming global travellers for a uniquely Graduate experience in these centuries old, one-of-a-kind cities.”

Graduate Hotels has partnered with restaurant developer, White Rabbit Projects, to launch all food and beverage outlets at Graduate Cambridge and The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels.

Graduate Cambridge is positioned along the idyllic banks of the River Cam, the 148-room Graduate Cambridge is surrounded by the University of Cambridge, within walking distance of several colleges, and a stone’s throw from the city’s best restaurants, bars and shops. The hotel has undergone a complete interior renovation that includes all rooms, common spaces, fitness club and pool. A ground floor conversion has seen the addition of a café and bar, as well as the renovation of the full-service restaurant.

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Do you have come exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page?

Get in touch. Tel: 01223 237424 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

Cambridge Regional College is awarded Catering College of the Year for second consecutive year At a live ceremony in London, Cambridge Regional College received the exciting news that they had been awarded Catering College of the Year at the Public Sector Catering Awards 2021, one year after accepting the same award in a lockdown virtual ceremony.

Graham Taylor said: “It is a huge honour to receive this award for the second year running, particularly after such a challenging year. The national lockdown put a strain on the service industries however through innovative delivery and strong collaboration we have been able to provide the best possible experience to our students. We are delighted that this has been recognised, and we are looking ahead to the coming year where we expect to

provide even greater opportunities to our learners as our campus café and restaurant re-open to the public.”

The Public Sector Catering Awards celebrate organisations working in public sector catering, allocating awards across 18 categories. Cambridge Regional College featured as one of three UK colleges to be shortlisted for Catering College of the Year, alongside Edinburgh College and Eastleigh College.

Michelle Dowse, Deputy Principal, said: “A key priority for CRC is to ensure that our students are life, work and career ready. Our commercial catering outlets, a restaurant and a café, enable our students to hone their skills learned in lessons, so that they are equipped with

the skills, knowledge and behaviours that employers want. The collaborative working between our curriculum and commercial teams certainly pays dividends for the students and employers in the region and we are thrilled to have been recognised again for our work to enhance employability skills.”

Cambridge appoints new Chief Operating Officer

Stone King accredited as Living Wage employer

The Cambridge Building Society has appointed Lucy Crumplin as its new Chief Operating Officer and member of the Board.

Lucy joined The Cambridge in November 2019 to lead the society’s Human Resource department as Head of People before becoming interim COO in April 2020. She was confirmed in the position this summer following approval by the financial regulators.

“I found a team I loved and a society with a real energy, sense of purpose and ambition, and was delighted to take on the role of Chief Operating Officer,” said Lucy.

“Just one of the nice things about The Cambridge is the potential to develop your career in ways you might not have imagined on your first day here.”

Lucy has responsibility for ensuring the organisation has everything in place to grow the business.

CEO, Peter Burrows, said: “Lucy is a pleasure to work with and makes a real impact. She has been instrumental in attracting team members with outstanding customer service skills, and implementing safe and effective IT.” Lucy has also developed the society’s various customer channels, which include 12 branches in and around Cambridge, its customer contact centre, online banking and the mobile app, and its head office in Newmarket Road.

Law firm Stone King LLP is now a real Living Wage accredited employer.

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The voluntary commitment ensures that Stone King employees will earn no less than a living wage based on the actual cost of living. The hourly rate is higher than that of the government national living wage which is based on median wages.

Commenting on real Living Wage accreditation which is a voluntary benchmark for employers, Stone King Managing Partner, Steven Greenwood said: “Across all roles, Stone King team members work incredibly hard to serve the needs of our clients.

Taking the decision to become a real Living Wage accredited employer reflects just how seriously we take our duty as a responsible employer that cares about the well-being of the people who make Stone King one of the UK’s top law firms.”

Plans are also in place to ensure that all Stone King’s third partycontracted staff are paid the real Living Wage.

Laura Gardiner, Director, Living Wage Foundation which announces the hourly rate as part of the annual Living Wage Week said: “We’re delighted that Stone King has joined the movement of over 7,000 responsible employers across the UK who voluntarily commit to go further than the government minimum to make sure all their staff earn enough to live on.”

The current UK real Living Wage hourly rates which are independently calculated annually by the Resolution Foundation are £9.50 per hour and £10.85 for London to reflect the higher costs of living in the capital.

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Alington Road, Little Barford, St. Neots, PE19 6WE t: 01480 474787 e: sales@xlpress.co.uk w: www.xlpress.co.uk

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ELY AREA

Do you have come exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page?

Get in touch. Tel: 01223 237424 email: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

King’s Ely teacher becomes President of the Geographical Association A teacher at King’s Ely has started his year as President of the Geographical Association (GA).

Alan Parkinson, who is Head of Geography at King’s Ely Junior, was Vice President of the GA last year, and became 2021-22 President on 1 September.

Alan, who lives in Norfolk and who has been teaching at King’s Ely for eight years, previously worked for the GA as Secondary Curriculum Development Leader for three years, and also served on the Secondary Phase Committee for 14 years. He has contributed the Webwatch column to the GA Magazine for a similar amount of time, and written articles for all the GA’s journals.

Speaking about his Presidency, Alan said: “I’ve always had this feeling that I might end up as President one day, although it’s rare for a teacher to do the job while actively teaching too - the last time that happened was in 2004. I feel enormously proud to be representing our members around the world and influencing some of the work the Association does to advocate for Geography to policy makers

and communicate the vital importance of the subject in explaining our world particularly given the summer of extreme weather we have experienced. The final strand of our work is empowering teachers to become curriculum makers and improve their practice. Of the 106 Presidents to date since 1893, I am the first to have previously worked for the GA as well, which gives me a great insight into the tremendous efforts made by the GA’s staff in Sheffield to support members in the way that they do. I’m excited to have already been invited to events in numerous countries, and to be able to visit our GA Branches around the country in the coming year.”

Alan has taught Geography in schools for almost 30 years and has written and edited numerous textbooks and children’s books.

He is a Chartered Geographer, is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, and has won numerous awards for his writing, innovative teaching, and support of other colleagues. Along with Daniel Raven Ellison, Alan was the co-founder of Mission:Explore.

He is a Primary Geography Champion and Consultant to the GA.

The GA is the leading subject association for teachers of Geography. As a registered charity, it aims to further geographical knowledge and understanding through education with its current mission of ‘connecting teachers and inspiring quality Geography’.

You’re hired! Red Shoes Accounting recruits three trainees Red Shoes Accounting Services in Littleport has added three new trainees to their team as part of the firm’s ongoing commitment to skills training and development for young people.

Cezary Karwoski-Budd follows on from Leicester University as a Trainee Accountant with Red Shoes Accounting Services, studying for his Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Level 4 qualification. Cezary is currently involved in software training for all aspects of the company’s accountancy services, including Corporation Tax, Year End Accounts and Self Assessment Tax Returns.

Evie Heading joins the team as an Apprentice Accountant, studying for her AAT Level 2 and 3 qualification, also with First Intuition. Evie’s role includes admin support and the client onboarding process to progress through to technical accountancy 30 connected

training with her apprenticeship.

Learning through a mix of practical on-the-job training, while also working towards their formal AAT qualifications with First Intuition, the apprentices will experience first-hand the roles of a busy accountancy practice.

Sam Spibey, an undergraduate at Nottingham Trent University, studying for a BA (Joint Hons) Business Management with Accounting & Finance has secured a six month work placement with Red Shoes Accounting. Sam is supporting the accounts team and assisting with tax return administration to gain valuable experience for his degree.

Victoria Cooper, Principal Accountant at Red Shoes Accounting, says: “Cezary, Evie and Sam have made a real contribution to the company already and we’re looking forward to seeing how they continue to develop. They

will be presented with day-to-day accounting tasks to help them develop their skills, and will be mentored and supported by the Red Shoes Accounting team.

“We have always recognised the benefits that apprentices bring, and encouraging new recruits into the sector is needed now more than ever as the industry tackles a skills shortage exacerbated by the pandemic.”

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FENLAND AREA

Contractors uncover ‘hidden treasure’ during March rail station redevelopment Contractors carrying out improvements at March rail station have unearthed an ancient ticket ledger from when the station first opened over 130 years ago.

The ledger, dated April 1885, contains carefully hand-written entries of all the passenger luggage and parcels sent from the station, providing a unique record of daily life in the area in Victorian times.

Contractors working on the ceiling in one of the old buildings discovered the ledger when they removed some rotten woodwork and it fell through from the disused loft space. They also found another ledger, a series of British Rail Red Star consignment notes, and a record card, dating from 1989, three small log books from the 1800s, a Victorian Great Eastern Railway sack, and documents over 100 years old detailing goods trains passing through the station with records of the

signal boxes contacted by telegraph and the confirmation records.

Greater Anglia plans to display the ledger – known in the 1800s as a ‘Day Book’ in the new station buildings once the redevelopment work is complete.

Area Customer Service Manager, Anita Stuart, commented: “We couldn’t believe it when the contractor showed us the ledger.

It was like finding hidden treasure!

“It’s lovely to have uncovered this link to the past as we take March station forward to become a station fit for the needs of rail travellers now and in the future.”

Local historian and Board Member of the Railway Heritage Designation Advisory Board, Mike Lamport, commented: “These fascinating items all reflect the pivotal nature of March station to the area, having as it did the authority of senior staff based there, along with a loco shed and

sidings from which managers could draw locomotives and rolling stock from to run special services as demand arose.”

March station is currently undergoing work to remodel the entire station with the creation of an open-plan ticket hall and waiting area, accessible modern toilet facilities, retail outlets, and an upgraded and extended car park at the station.

The major upgrade is part of a multi-million pound regeneration of Fenland’s railway stations which is pushing forward with major improvement works on the rail line between Ely and Peterborough.

The programme is being delivered through Fenland District Council’s Railway Station Masterplans project, with a £9.5million package of funding from the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, chaired by Mayor Dr Nik Johnson, and support from Greater Anglia. connected 31

news from

HUNTINGDONSHIRE AREA

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Wyboston Lakes Resort shortlisted for Covid Response Awards Wyboston Lakes Resort, the awardwinning conference, training, and leisure venue in Bedfordshire, has been selected as a finalist in the category for ‘Best Covid Response in Hospitality’ at the Covid Response Awards 2021.

The awards aim to celebrate and pay tribute to businesses that have shown impressive displays of resilience, initiative, enterprise, and fortitude in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the first lockdown Wyboston Lakes Resort swiftly launched a Safe Events Plan, established a robust Covid-Secure Policy, and remained open during the pandemic, providing essential training to several organisations including the NHS, helping to

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support NHS workers in their efforts against the pandemic.

Wyboston Lakes Resort then led the way during the pandemic by becoming the first venue to receive the AIM Secure Accreditation from the Meetings Industry Association (MIA), which is awarded to meetings and events businesses that deliver first-class service, excellent facilities, and a strong commitment to upholding legal compliance and health and hygiene protocols. The venue was also one of the first to secure the ‘Safe, Clean and Legal’ accreditation from Quality in Tourism. The AA also approved the resort under its AA COVID-19 Confident accreditation scheme.

Notably, the UK government also selected Wyboston Lakes Resort to host a pilot event to test its Covid-Secure guidelines for venues.

Director of Marketing Louisa Watson said: “It’s a great achievement to be chosen as a finalist in the hospitality category alongside many strong contenders at the Covid Response Awards. This recognition is testament to our people who have shown great resilience, resourcefulness and tenacity during a challenging time.”

The winners will be announced at a lunchtime Awards Ceremony on Thursday 25 November in the new events space at The Kia Oval, London, the home of Surrey County Cricket Club.

Do you have come exciting news to shout about that could be featured on this page?

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news from

PETERBOROUGH AREA

Staff ‘take steps’ to raise £5000 in memory of colleague Kind-hearted staff at law firm Roythornes have raised an incredible £5,000 for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in memory of a colleague they lost to cancer and who was cared for at the Peterborough hospice.

Sarah Banner joined the firm’s private client team in November 2015 and soon made a positive impression with clients and staff alike. But she was diagnosed with a returning cancer in January 2019 and sadly passed away in January 2020.

Wanting to remember Sarah, and thank the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice team who looked after her, Roythornes launched Sarah’s Challenge – a series of individual and team challenges aimed at raising vital funds for the charity.

The challenges included members of staff setting walking, running and cycling challenges, including the firms Finance Director Sam Elkin, who ran four miles every four hours for 48 hours!

The final total was announced at the annual staff party, where Catherine Rickett of Roythornes presented Nilesh Patel, Senior Community Fundraiser for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice with a cheque for £5,000.

Speaking about Sarah’s Challenge, Vember Mortlock, Managing Director of Roythornes, said: “It’s been great to see how everyone in the firm has joined in. Sarah was a much-loved colleague and this is a fitting tribute to her and the many good friends she had at the firm.”

Nilesh Patel said: “We’re very grateful to the Roythornes team for their fantastic efforts in support of our hospice. It’s incredibly sad when a friend and fellow employee passes away. Fundraising in Sarah’s memory to help others is a wonderful gesture. The £5,000 raised will help to ensure we can keep offering our compassionate care and fill someone’s last days with love.”

The firm are now looking at other challenges for the forthcoming year – determined to continue fundraising for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in memory of a wonderful and much missed individual.

PAB Languages unveils new multilingual website Award-winning translation and localisation services company PAB Languages has unveiled a new multilingual website to showcase its translation, interpreting and localisation services.

The new website offers content to users in 10 different languages and is localised for clients based in Germany, Poland, and Portugal. As recommended by Google, PAB uses different URLs for each version of a page rather than using cookies or browser settings to adjust the content language on the page.

It reflects the global nature of PAB, which serves clients in the UK and Europe. Offering localisation, interpreting and translations services in more than 200 languages PAB has a team of professional translators, linguists, interpreters, and lecturers who come from all over the world.

Iwona Lebiedowicz of PAB Languages said: “We have significantly changed the structure of our UK website, created a new content to better articulate all the services that we offer our clients in the UK, and allow much more space for case studies and testimonials.

“Also, localising our website was crucial for overseas growth and new market penetration. We want to ensure that our diverse audiences can access information easily in their native languages.

“We are delighted with the result and hope that our existing and future clients find it informative, easy to navigate and convenient to use.

“Regardless of your business or industry, a website is often the first touchpoint between your prospects and your company, and you need to ensure your message is clearly understood by your visitors. Website content – and more importantly – localised content was just as important for PAB as user experience and design.”

The new website has been designed and developed

by Chesterfield-based digital growth agency Magnifica Technologies. connected 33

Greater Anglia joins national ‘We Mean Green’ campaign ahead of COP26 On World Car Free Day (22 September), the rail industry has launched a new campaign – ‘We Mean Green’ – to encourage more people and businesses to choose greener trains over congested roads.

In a report published earlier this month, the Rail Delivery Group estimated that a 20 per cent shift from rail to road would lead to an extra one million tonnes of CO2 emissions and 300 million hours stuck in traffic jams per year.

Greater Anglia, the train operator for the East of England, is supporting the campaign and will be encouraging people in the region to visit www.greateranglia.co.uk/GreenerAnglia and use the online carbon calculator to see how they can help to tackle climate change by switching from car to train for all or part of a journey.

net zero target. While rail accounts for 10 per cent of journeys, it is responsible for just one per cent of transport emissions.

We want to work with government to reform the rail industry including making fares much simpler so that trains are the more attractive option to driving or flying.”

With days until COP26, the UN climate summit (1–12 November 2021) in Glasgow, people will also see the iconic British Rail double arrow logo go green as rail companies bring home the message of how getting people and goods onto trains and off roads will help in the fight against climate change.

Posters will also be at stations, on board trains and across digital channels.

The new ‘We Mean Green’ campaign highlights how: • A single train removes up to 500 cars off our roads • E very freight train removes on average 76 lorries from our roads • L eaving your car at home and taking the train cuts carbon emissions by two thirds.

Last year figures revealed that Greater Anglia reduced its total carbon emissions by 11 per cent overall in 2019, put 67 per cent less waste into landfill and reduced hazardous waste by 50 per cent.

Greater Anglia’s Energy and Environment Manager, Stephanie Evans, said: “We’re delighted to be a part of this campaign which demonstrates the vital part rail can play in helping to tackle climate change.

“Our new trains have been designed to be more efficient and are built to higher emissions standards compared to our old ones which will help to make rail travel in East Anglia an even more environmentally friendly option.

“And not only is it greener than road transport, it’s also a much nicer way to travel and helps to reduce congestion and pollution in our towns, villages and tourist hotspots, which makes life better for everyone.”

Andy Bagnall, Director General at the Rail Delivery Group, said: “Train travel is more than a journey. By choosing to travel or transport goods by rail, people and businesses are on track to cut their carbon footprint so that together we achieve the

NET ZERO What is your company doing to fight Climate Change?

Share your story with us so we can promote via our website, social media channels and in connected.

Email p.davis@cambscci.co.uk 34 connected

At Growth Works, we’re always interested in learning more about the specific challenges businesses are facing when growing their business. So alongside robust national studies – the most recent published by the Scaleup Institute – we’ve been doing a little bit of our own ongoing research this year.

Our diagnostic data based on high growth and growth ambitious businesses across more than 20 different sectors in the region – in need of support - has so far revealed that sales and marketing strategy, access to growth finance and retaining the right people are leading barriers to their growth.

That’s interesting to us. Particularly as businesses are now operating in a post-lockdown, post-Brexit economy, these results tell us that businesses recognise their need to stay agile to an evolved (and unconfident) market, with heightened competition and a growing concern for accessing skilled talent.

Our new Autumn season of expert masterclasses and workshops, starting this October, will delve deep into these topics. They have been specifically designed so business leaders can take our expertise and insights straight back into their business to drive tangible results (and fast).

AN INTRODUCTION TO GROWTH COACHING

Are you dead set on growing your business even faster, but not sure how our fully funded services could make a difference? Here’s our roundup of everything you need to know (in a nutshell).

• What will you gain?

Having worked with over 22,000 business in the UK, we’ll give you tried and tested strategies, tools, and tactics that high performing businesses use to drive growth.

Whatever your growth focus, we will build our services around your specific goals and challenges. That includes our expert masterclasses to fill in skills or knowledge gaps, but also 1-to-1 strategic growth support.

• Can we give you money?

Yes. If you’re looking to invest in growing your business and creating new jobs, we can support eligible businesses with 50 per cent of that capital or revenue investment.

• How else will you help me?

You will receive nothing but personal, targeted and responsive support. Our team are entrepreneurs and senior business leaders who been there, done it and got the ‘High Growth’ t-shirt.

Your dedicated Growth Advisor will guide you every step of the way and support you with our Growth Works grant applications, help you exploit market opportunities and overcome barriers that get in the way.

• How much time will it take?

However much you want to invest in growing your business.

We work to suit you. We are fully flexible to your schedule. We’ll put aside about 12 hours of initial support, and together identify how and when you’d like to plan this time into your schedule.

• How much will it cost me?

Absolutely nothing.

READY TO ACCELERATE?

If you’re ready to get started (of if you still have questions about Growth Coaching) we’re ready to help. Simply complete an online diagnostic to tell us a bit more about your business and one of our Growth Advisors will follow up to guide you through next steps. www.growthworkscoaching.uk

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WORK SMARTER AND BE MORE PRODUCTIVE WITH A SMART METER Are you seeking smart solutions for your business? A smart meter could be just the ticket for you.

Smart meters are the new generation of gas and electricity meters which can be an invaluable asset for firms in Legal services, Accounting and bookkeeping, Marketing consultancy, Architecture, IT services, and more.

Businesses across Great Britain are already reaping the rewards by gaining better control of their energy bills. Are you ready to join them?

What can smart meters do for your business?

1. Provide accurate bills enabling better cashflow 2. Make your bills simpler saving time for other tasks 3. Help you to do your bit for the environment

SAY GOODBYE TO ESTIMATED BILLS AND HELLO TO YOUR NEW SMART METER Estimated bills can be inaccurate and inefficient which means that you might be overpaying for the services you are using. Stay in control, save money, and save time by only paying for the energy your business uses.

Save time for other tasks Your company is innovative, trusted, responsible, and engaged so you need business solutions which are the same. The key to greater

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productivity is to work smarter, not harder. With a smart meter, you can continue to do what you do best, while your smart meter provides accurate bills, without needing to provide manual meter readings. This saves precious time and energy to focus on your business priorities.

BY USING A SMART METER, YOUR BUSINESS CAN POSITIVELY CONTRIBUTE TO A CLEANER AND GREENER WORLD. From the moment your smart meter is installed, you are helping create a smart energy system which could ultimately help reduce our carbon emissions as a nation.

Businesses across Great Britain are working to positively contribute to a cleaner and greener world. Using a smart meter is a step in the right direction to help you cut down on energy waste and make your business more sustainable.

Firms with 10 employees or less could be eligible and installations can be arranged at a convenient time to ensure minimal interruption to your business and your clients.

Click here to find out more about what a smart meter can do for your business please visit: https://bit.ly/3gUVb9Y Contact your energy supplier or broker today and see if you are eligible.

Keep supporting your clients with Automatic Enrolment UPDATE FROM THE PENSIONS REGULATOR: NAVIGATING THE ROAD AHEAD As we steadily emerge from a tumultuous 18 months caused by the pandemic, we’re now taking stock of our new normal and the challenges ahead.

The Pensions Regulator (TPR), like all organisations, continue to contend with the ever-present uncertainty.

However, TPR remain focused on ensuring savers are at the heart of what they do.

TPR want to ensure that automatic enrolment remains a success. Since it started in 2012, AE has transformed retirement savings. More than 10 million people are now saving for the first time and have the opportunity to save for the retirement they want.

While we have all grappled with the immediate and evolving change over the past year and a half, it’s crucial we do not lose sight of the hard-won success of AE so that all savers remain protected now and in the future.

SAME STORM, DIFFERENT BOATS It has been said of the pandemic that while we’re all in the same storm, we are all in different boats. And this is no less true for businesses. TPR recognise that businesses have been impacted in a myriad of different ways and face unique challenges.

Many businesses will be changing how they operate in response to the pandemic. This could be to meet changing customer demand or in response to cashflow challenges.

This could mean firms having to downsize if demand has fallen, expand or reallocate resources and staff if some parts of the business have seen increased demand.

Whatever the situation a business finds itself in, TPR’s message to employers is simple: Do not neglect your workplace pensions duties as you adjust to the new normal.

Employers must continue to assess staff, carry out reenrolment duties and put new staff into a pension. The Pensions Regulator also urges start-up businesses now opening their doors, to make sure they enrol eligible staff into a pension and complete their declaration of compliance on time.

TPR have been consistently clear since the start of the pandemic that while the workplace has changed, workplace pensions duties have not. Automatic enrolment duties remain the same and must be fulfilled alongside all the other requirements for running a business. TPR wants to support businesses, but will take enforcement action where needed to ensure staff receive the pensions they are due.

Struggling employers should not put their head in the sand and risk enforcement action being taken against them.

In the first instance, they should speak to their pension provider – many will work with employers to set up a payment plan so that staff receive the correct contributions.

Inevitably and sadly, for some businesses the consequences of the pandemic will be too great, leading them to become insolvent. In these instances, TPR’s focus will be to work with insolvency practitioners and the Insolvency and Redundancy Payment Services so that staff do not miss out on their pensions.

Throughout the pandemic, TPR have monitored employer behaviour and despite the changing environment, compliance with the law has remained high. Employers have continued to do the right thing for their staff and have continued to make pensions contributions.

What is also clear is that despite financial pressures faced by individuals, staff have continued to save for their future retirement and opt-out levels have remained low. Workers continue to expect a pension as part of their jobs.

It’s important that employers carry out their re-enrolment responsibilities. Re-enrolment gives staff who originally opted out a fresh opportunity to start saving. It must be carried out every three years and employers should check their processes are up to date to ensure relevant staff are re-assessed and put into a pension if they are eligible.

We have all over-come great obstacles since March 2019 and there will be yet more testing times to come.

While we can expect more change, TPR’s commitment to workplace savers remains constant. TPR will continue to support employers to do the right thing so that staff receive the pensions they are due.

TPR recognises that some sectors are at greater risk of non-compliance than others. Most often, these are businesses that historically employ part time or seasonal staff with fluctuating earnings. These include food and accommodation, farming and wholesale and retail businesses. TPR are now looking at the unique challenges within these sectors so that they can best support them and ensure they have access to the information they need to avoid non-compliance.

MORE CHALLENGES AHEAD With the withdrawal of the government’s COVID-19 support for businesses, employers must continue to meet their Automatic Enrolment duties as normal. connected 37

How does your business complete customs declarations?

Ask us how we can help ease the stress of customs declarations for your imports and exports.

We can help you ensure your goods clear customs at entry points across the UK so there are no delays or extra charges.

Page 19 Customs advert.indd 1

Call t h Cham e Intern ber ationa l Trade Team to 01223 day on 23741 4 30/08/2021 16:19:40

The Chamber runs a rolling programme of training courses that culminate in the nationally-recognised Foundation Award in International Trade.

Our regular training courses provide the knowledge to assist with your international trade activities. Currently, all courses will take place online via Zoom.

Customs Procedures and Documentation

Tuesday 26 October It is vitally important that importers and exporters understand the information required to be submitted, fines and inspections are things that no company wants to endure. This sessions looks at the procedures required to deal with customs.

Incoterms 2020

Tuesday 2 November It is essential that businesses understand Incoterms® as their use is vital for the successful movement of goods between customers and suppliers around the world.

This session will explain Incoterms® and their importance in international trade contracts.

Step by Step Understanding a Customs Declaration

Tuesday 9 November The training course will highlight what you need to know to complete customs declarations accurately and efficiently for both the import and export of goods, including taking you through step-bystep guidance on completing the SAD C88 form.

Letters of Credit

Tuesday 23 November This workshop covers the five main types of payment for exports, from advance payment to open account, including Sight Documentary Collection, Term Documentary Collection and Documentary Letters of Credit. It includes the use of Bills of Exchange with and without documents. You will gain a better understanding of how important it is to get it right first time avoiding delayed payment of goods exported.

Inward and Outward Processing

Tuesday 7 December The course will cover special procedures and the benefits of using IP and OP in your compliance.

We will look at the impact of the EU Union Customs Code (UCC) on the application, the requirement for duty guarantees and administrative processes involved in managing IP. As well as reviewing the IP application form and the C99/ C&E812 suspension returns, we will also look at what internal processes are required.

chamber

TRAINING

Understanding Rules of Origin

Tuesday 14 December This course will explain all aspects of the Rules of Origin and Trade agreements and how to understand and comply with them to help companies be more competitive in export markets.

Rules of Origin are the major factor in FTA agreements and we will learn how this is calculated and the benefits of having UK Origin.

Full course details are available on our website www. cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk/ training All our training courses run from 10.00am-2.30pm.

Cost per course: £280.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £375.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

To register please visit our website, email s.parr@cambscci.co.uk or telephone 01223 237414.

New for 2022 - Unlocking the doors to Global Trade One-hour bitesize workshops looking at strategy, marketing, documentation and logistics.

Details coming soon – keep an eye on our website and weekly Global Update for details. connected 39

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Smaller quantities of brochures, newsletters, mailers, business cards are all produced to the highest quality on our digital presses.

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Alington Road, Little Barford, St. Neots, PE19 6WE t: 01480 474787 e: sales@xlpress.co.uk w: www.xlpress.co.uk

Many Chamber events are still being held online but we are working on a programme of face-to-face events to get our members connected again.

Please see our website for the most up-to-date event listing.

Informal Networking Evenings Our popular informal networking evenings attract businesses of all sizes from a wide range of industry sectors and, most importantly, they’re free to attend.

Take this opportunity to mingle with new business contacts, share knowledge and skills with like-minded professionals and catch up with familiar acquaintances.

Register your place via the Chamber website.

Monday 8 November – Poets House, Ely Wednesday 10 November – Wyboston Lakes Wednesday 17 November – Brightfield Business Hub, Peterborough Thursday 18 November – Downing College, Cambridge

Maximise Your Membership Wednesday 17 November, 9.30-11.30am DC Intelligence Ltd, 5100 Cambridge Research Park, Beach Drive, Waterbeach, Cambridge, CB25 9TL Did you know, there are more benefits to being a member at the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce than you probably realised?

On 17 November we will be holding a free, face-to-face event, where companies are invited to come and discover more about the numerous benefits of being a member of the Chamber.

You will have the chance to ask questions and hear from several service providers and specialist Chamber staff, who will be able to explain exactly what benefits a member is entitled to and how to make use of them.

We offer so much for your business - from networking events to business profile building, to free legal expenses insurance and discounted healthcare, there are plenty of reasons to join our network of businesses.

So, if you are interested in finding out why becoming a member of the Chamber is so beneficial for your business, or perhaps you want to gain more out of your membership, come along and join this event and find out how much we really offer.

Please register your place via the Chamber website or email Zoe McCabe Brennan, Events Co-ordinator, at z.mccabebrennan@cambscci.co.uk

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EVENTS

MEET MEMBERS FROM NEIGHBOURING CHAMBERS MEET THE NEIGHBOURS

Thursday 11 November, 10.00–11.30am Everybody needs good neighbours, so why not connect with them and explore the potential for cross-county collaborations!

Joining forces with neighbouring Chamber, East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, this structured networking session is designed to forge new business relationships across county boundaries and maximise your opportunity to build your network.

Open to Chamber members only; please register your place via the Chamber website.

NETWALKING In association with Living Sport, these events attract businesses of all sizes from a wide range of industry sectors and most importantly, they are free to attend.

Wednesday 1 December: Netwalking in Peterborough City walk to see the festive lights. Starting venue TBC Wednesday 8 December: Netwalking in Cambridge Our walk will start and finish at Metro Bank and be a circular route around central Cambridge.

Please register your place via the Chamber website. connected 41

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Many Chamber events are still being held online but we are working on a programme of face-to-face events to get our members connected again.

Please see our website for the most up-to-date event listing.

EVENTS Chamber Christmas Lunch Friday 14 December, 12.00-3.00pm St John’s College, Cambridge

Join us for our annual Christmas Lunch in the most magnificent Hall within the Colleges of Cambridge. The Great Hall is a splendid room housed in a 16th century building with an impressive hammerbeam roof and fine old linen fold panelling.

Not only will you enjoy a three-course festive menu, but you will also have the opportunity to make those final 2021 connections through networking with local businesses.

Enjoy some mulled wine or sparking elderflower on arrival before enjoying a fabulous three course meal in the beautiful surrounding of the Great Hall.

There will also be a speaker and a Christmas raffle in aid of our Charity of the Year, Anna’s Hope.

Don’t miss out and book your place now!

Cost: £50.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £60.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members There are sponsorship opportunities for this event!

If you are interested in sponsoring the drinks reception or being headline sponsor at this event please contact Zoe McCabe Brennan on 01223 237414 or email z.mccabebrennan@cambscci.co.uk for more details.

CAMBRIDGE QUIZ

Wednesday 24 November 6.00-10.00pm Cambridge United Football Club, Signature Suite, Newmarket Road, Cambridge, CB5 8LN Taking place in the city of excellence your team of four will be challenged with questions on culture, entertainment, food and drink, famous people, landmarks and sport as well as the popular picture round – there’s something for everyone!

Play your joker card on your round of choice and receive double points. You can earn extra rewards as spot prizes will be on offer for the most ingenious answer.

It’s great for networking, but even better for an office night out with the added bonus of a buffet before the winners are announced and the trophy is presented.

Places are limited, book now to avoid disappointment!

Cost: £ 20.00 (plus VAT) Chamber member, £30.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber member Save 10% when you book a team of four – email your team details to Zoe for the discount to be applied.

Chamber members can book online. For more information, or to book your team, please contact Zoe McCabe Brennan, Events Co-ordinator on 01223 237414 or email z.mccabebrennan@cambscci.co.uk including your company name, all delegate names and job titles, and a contact telephone number plus your team name.

Banter vs Bullying Friday 19 November, 10.00am-12.00pm Madingley Hall, Cambridge

Banter vs Bullying – where does one stop and the other begin?

When does the playful, friendly camaraderie inducing teasing found in many workplaces move to the hurtful intimidation of bullying? Is it possible to create a policy or rule book around what is acceptable as banter or does each workplace have its own definition of playful

teasing? Is it ever acceptable for bullying comments to be passed off as banter?

The Inspiring Women and the HR and Recruitment sector groups within the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce invite you to join an interactive panel discussion to discuss this topical subject.

The brunch event will be held at the stunning Madingley Hall in Cambridge and is open the Chamber members and non-members.

Tickets will be limited due to Covid restrictions and are available now via the Chamber website.

To speak with a member of the Chamber team regarding events and training, please contact Zoe McCabe Brennan, Events Co-ordinator, on 01223 237414 or email z.mccabebrennan@cambscci.co.uk 42 connected

KEEP CONNECTED #ChamberNetwork

CHAMBER MEMBERS SAVE 50% ON ADVERTISING RATES The official magazine for Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce members puts you in touch with people you want to do business with.

Content includes expert opinions, local business success stories, Chamber events and features key strands of Chamber membership – Connect, Export, Inform, Promote, Protect and Transform.

Our new rates are affordable for everyone.

CHAMBER RATE Quarter page £50.00 Half page £100.00 Full page £200.00 Back page £300.00 Inside front £300.00

NON-CHAMBER RATE Quarter page £100.00 Half page £200.00 Full page £400.00 Back page £600.00 Inside front £600.00

All prices are plus VAT Save 10% when you book 3 or more editions.

To place an advert please contact Sadie Parr: s.parr@cambscci.co.uk

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